Which statement corresponds to criterion A of the DSM-5-TR Somatic Symptom Disorder?

• A. One or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or disruptive.
• B. Symptoms must be persistent for at least 6 months.
• C. Symptoms are not better explained by another medical condition.
• D. Symptoms are always neurological in nature.

Answer: (A)

The main idea being tested is recognizing that the first criterion for Somatic Symptom Disorder is the presence of at least one somatic symptom that is distressing or disruptive to daily life. This criterion centers on the impact the symptom has on the person, not how long it lasts or whether another medical condition is present.

So, the correct statement says there is one or more somatic symptoms that are distressing or disruptive. That captures the essential starting point of the diagnosis: a real physical symptom that causes marked distress or impairment, which then leads to the disproportionate thoughts, feelings, or behaviors described in the subsequent criteria.

The other statements refer to aspects that come later or are inaccurate for this disorder: duration of symptoms (being persistent for six months) corresponds to a later criterion about persistence; saying the symptoms aren’t explained by another medical condition touches on differential diagnosis rather than the initial criterion; and claiming the symptoms are always neurological ignores the fact that somatic symptoms can involve many bodily systems (pain, fatigue, GI symptoms, etc.).