#68: Understanding Medically Unexplained Symptoms with Dr Hannah Sugarman

Have you ever experienced mysterious physical symptoms that doctors just can’t explain?

This week, I'm joined by Clinical Psychologist, Dr Hannah Sugarman. We unravel the complexities of medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). We demystify what these symptoms are, discuss the stigma and psychological impact around diagnoses like Functional Neurological Disorder and chronic pain, and explore how the mind and body are deeply connected, even when tests come back clear.

Highlights include:
8:46 Defining medically unexplained symptoms (MUS) and common presentations
15:09 The healthcare system's shortcomings
22:24 Trauma, stress and physical symptoms
28:42 Finding support and resources
33:25 Hope for managing symptoms

Want more?

Check out our exclusive mini interview with Hannah over on Substack

This week's guest:
Dr. Hannah Sugarman is a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience. From the beginning of her career, she’s been fascinated by how the brain influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Early on, much of her work focused on neuropsychology, supporting people with neurological conditions and brain injuries. Over time, her passion grew for understanding the complex and often misunderstood link between the mind and body, especially for those dealing with physical symptoms that don’t have clear medical explanations. In addition to her neuropsychology work with individuals, families, and professionals, Hannah works with individual adults experiencing mental health problems and medically unexplained symptoms in one to one therapy.

Hannah is currently in independent practice, working with clients remotely, in the community and in person at Central Health London. Hannah is passionate about supporting individuals who are dealing with symptoms that medical tests can’t seem to explain.

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The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.