Conversion Therapy is not 'just in your head' — it produces measurable physical symptoms through well-understood neurobiological pathways.
Why Conversion Therapy Causes Physical Symptoms
The brain and body are not separate systems. Conversion Therapy activates:
- The HPA axis: releasing cortisol that affects virtually every body system
- The autonomic nervous system: creating the physical experience of threat
- Inflammatory pathways: affecting immune function and tissue health
- The enteric nervous system (gut-brain axis): digestive symptoms common in conversion therapy
Common Physical Symptoms of Conversion Therapy
- Muscle tension, headaches, and chronic pain patterns
- Digestive symptoms: IBS, nausea, appetite changes
- Sleep disruption and fatigue
- Cardiovascular: heart palpitations, elevated blood pressure over time
- Immune effects: increased susceptibility to illness
When Physical Symptoms Are Primarily Conversion Therapy
Physical symptoms from conversion therapy are real, not imaginary. But they're best treated by addressing conversion therapy directly, alongside symptomatic relief when needed.