Recently, news about the famous Chinese actress Zhao Lusi has become widely discussed both in China and Thailand. This came after she developed health issues during the filming of a drama, where she was unable to speak or walk. The symptoms shocked both the crew and fans worldwide, including doctors. At first, many were concerned that she might have had a stroke, but MRI scans showed no abnormalities. It was later revealed by Zhao herself that she had been experiencing chronic symptoms for several years due to accumulated stress, and she had been consulting a psychiatrist periodically. A medical certificate was provided, confirming that she was diagnosed with Conversion Disorder.

Personally, I really admire Zhao as an actress. She is beautiful, charming, and always appears bright and cheerful. Her acting skills are exceptional, and I follow almost all of her works. However, who could have imagined that someone who seems so perfect would face such immense stress and pressure?

This disorder may sound unfamiliar to many, right? It's true that Conversion Disorder is not widely known in Thai society because it's relatively rare. It is also one of the psychiatric conditions that psychiatrists like myself tend to avoid diagnosing directly if we are not completely sure or haven't observed the patient long enough, to prevent bias in treatment by other healthcare providers. Understanding this disorder is crucial because it helps us manage and assist patients effectively.

What is Conversion Disorder?

Conversion Disorder, where "conversion" refers to change, means the transformation of stress or emotional pressure into physical neurological symptoms. It is a mental health disorder where the patient exhibits physical symptoms such as seizures, paralysis, numbness, or loss of sensation, without any clear physical cause. This is similar to the case of Zhao Lusi.

These symptoms are not intentionally faked or done on purpose. The patient is often unaware that the symptoms stem from their mind, such as stress, pressure, or deeply accumulated emotional trauma.

Symptoms of Conversion Disorder:

1. Motor Symptoms: Weakness, seizures, or partial paralysis
2. Sensory Symptoms: Numbness, blindness, deafness, or loss of the sense of smell
3. Non-epileptic Seizures: Seizures without the typical signs of epilepsy, such as tongue biting or urination during the seizure.

What makes Conversion Disorder different is that these symptoms are not related to any anatomical system or medical condition that can be detected.

What causes Conversion Disorder?

1. Stress or pressure: For example, family problems, loss, or traumatic events that impact the mind.
2. Defense Mechanism of the mind: Such as turning emotional pain into physical symptoms.
3. Learning from experience: For example, mimicking the symptoms of someone close to you.

Diagnosis with Caution

Diagnosing Conversion Disorder is not a straightforward or basic task. Doctors must first rule out physical illnesses such as neurological diseases or stroke. This is done through detailed medical examinations, such as MRI scans and comprehensive neurological tests. The doctor will evaluate seizure activity, movement issues, and other physical symptoms thoroughly, as well as assess psychological factors to determine whether the symptoms may involve other co-occurring psychiatric disorders alongside Conversion Disorder.

Treatment: Healing from the Mind to the Body

1. Education and Understanding:
   Patients and their families need to understand that this condition stems from the mind, not from a serious physical illness.
2. Psychotherapy:
   Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help patients manage stress and pressure.
3. Support from Loved Ones:
   Understanding and encouragement from those around the patient play a crucial role in their recovery.

Precautions for Loved Ones:
Do not hastily judge that these symptoms are "faked," as patients themselves cannot control the symptoms and do not intend for them to occur. Showing understanding and encouraging them to seek treatment can help improve the situation.

The case of Zhao Lusi serves as an example that even individuals who appear strong and successful can face this issue. It highlights the importance of taking care of mental health just as much as physical health. I also want to offer my support for her recovery, hoping she regains her strength, enjoys meals, and returns to doing what she loves soon.

If, after reading this, you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms similar to Conversion Disorder, do not hesitate to consult a psychiatrist or specialist. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to helping the patient recover and lead a fulfilling life again.