What is the term for physical expression of anxiety by an individual, which can manifest as nausea or headaches?

The term that describes the physical expression of anxiety, which can manifest as symptoms such as nausea or headaches, is somatization. Somatization is the psychological process through which emotional distress is expressed as physical symptoms. Individuals experiencing anxiety may unconsciously transform their emotional pain into physical sensations, which can result in various bodily complaints without a direct medical explanation.

This phenomenon highlights the connection between the mind and body, illustrating how psychological conditions can lead to real and distressing physical symptoms. Understanding somatization is crucial for mental health professionals, as it emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to treatment, considering both the psychological and physical health of the individual. It plays a significant role in diagnosis, wherein addressing the underlying psychological factors can help alleviate the physical symptoms experienced by the individual.