The Brain Stress Systems II: The Mind Level of Brain Operations

Abstract

In this chapter we continue our exploration of the neuro biology of functional somatic symptoms by considering the mind level of brain operations. Consciousness-the state of being aware, especially (for our purposes) of something within oneself-adds another dimen sion to the neurobiological systems that regulate body state. Among the objects of consciousness are feelings such as those pertaining to wellbeing and to disease: pain, nausea, malaise, and fatigue. These feelings are mental representations of body state, a gestaltlike summary that integrates information from all levels of body regulation and that reflects the sum and substance of the individual as a whole. Feelings are consequently the end result of myriad interrelated processes: homeo static information from the body itself (Chapters 6-10); spinal cord and implicit brain processes involved in both representing and regulating body state (Chapter 11); and-the subject of the present chapter-the 12 The Brain Stress Systems II: The Mind Level of Brain Operations