Ask questions Quote by Per Dalén
““It must be noted that there is no proof that it is justified to apply the label somatisation to such conditions as chronic fatigue syndrome and several more illnesses that established medicine has so for failed to explain scientifically. ……Don't hesitate to ask questions about scientific evidence behind this talk about somatisation. Be persistent, because a diagnosis of somatisation is definitely not an innocuous label. It will close various doors and lead (to) treatments that usually get nowhere.””
About This Quote
Source Conference Talk: Medical Sociology Symposium, 2019
He warns that labeling conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome as somatisation can close doors to proper treatment and perpetuate stigma.
In simple terms: Labeling as somatisation can hinder care and stigmatize patients.
Key Takeaway
Question diagnoses and seek evidence‑based explanations.
Themes
healthcare
stigma
diagnosis
patient advocacy
Mood
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
advocacy
When to use this quote
- patient consultations
- medical education
- policy development
- research funding
Key Concepts
medical sociology
psychosomatic medicine
clinical practice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can clinicians balance psychological and physiological aspects?
- What evidence is needed to reclassify such conditions?
A Different Perspective
Changing entrenched diagnostic habits is challenging.
