Managing Chronic Illness — When It’s Not “All In Your Head”

Chronic symptoms. Normal test results. And the phrase no one wants to hear: “It’s all in your head.”In this episode of The Health Review, I’m joined by health psychologist and psychotherapist Dr Sula Windgassen, author of It's All In Your Body, to explore what’s really happening when symptoms like IBS, fatigue, chronic pain, bladder issues and burnout persist — even when doctors can’t find clear answers.Dr Sula shares her own experience of chronic health struggles that were dismissed, and explains how the nervous system, immune system and brain can become stuck in “threat mode.” We discuss:– Why symptoms can continue even when tests are normal– The science behind the mind–body connection– IBS, chronic fatigue and nervous system dysregulation– Trauma and burnout in the body– Why being told “it’s stress” can make things worse– How to work with your body rather than fight itThis is not just about positive thinking or overnight fixes. It’s about understanding symptoms through a biopsychosocial lens — and rebuilding trust with your body.If you’ve ever felt dismissed, stuck or frustrated by persistent symptoms, this conversation will resonate. Dr Sula's website & new book:https://www.healthpsychologist.co.uk/https://www.healthpsychologist.co.uk/itsallinyourbodyFollow The Health Review: https://www.instagram.com/the.health.review Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.