Socio-demographic profile and associated psychosocial stressors in patient with conversion disorder: An exploratory cross-sectional study

•Conversion disorder, historically intriguing and clinically challenging, presents a conundrum for neurologists and psychiatrists alike, potentially tracing its roots back to antiquity. Coined by Sigmund Freud, the term denotes an intricate interplay of unconscious conflicts, as outlined in the DSM-V, where somatic symptoms substitute suppressed ideas and manifests as symptoms mimicking neurological conditions but lacks neurological explanation upon examination.  Stress emerges as a pivotal factor in its onset, typically occurring in early adulthood post-stressful events, ranking as the second most common reason for neurology outpatient consultations. Characterized by a disruption in memory integration, identity awareness, and bodily control, conversion disorder exhibits varied clinical profiles influenced by cultural factors.  Primary and secondary gains, integral to its manifestation, offer insights into its etiology and presentation, often tied to socio-demographic factors and psychosocial stressors. This study seeks to unravel the socio-demographic factors and associated stressors in conversion disorder patients, particularly within the Indian cultural context, aiding psychiatrists in tailored interventions.