References 1. Weller, S. C., Baer, R. D., de Alba Garcia, J., & Rocha, A. (2008). Susto and nervios: Expressions for stress and depression. Culture, Medicine and Psychiatry, 32(3), 406-420. doi:10.1007/s11013-008-9101-7 (added by ce155576)
- The article compares two folk diagnoses, susto and nervios, and their relationship with stress and depression. The authors hypothesize that the folk illnesses have a stronger association with depressive symptoms and stress with nervios than with susto (1). The study took place in Guadalajara, Mexico. The word susto is translated to "fright" and the word nervios is translated to "nerves." Susto is linked to stress and nervios is linked to anxiety and depression (2).
Susto may be caused by a frightening experience, or a sudden surprise or schock, that leads to "loss of the soul." Symptoms include restless sleep, depression, and indifference to food, dress and personal hygiene (2). The ill person may become shakey, aggitated, and/or have bad dreams.Treatment is returning the soul to the body. Phsyicians are not sought at to treat susto; treatment is usually done at home. However, some Mexicans report that psychiatrists and herbalists may be helpful.
Nervios is different than susto in that it describes both an illness, a symptom, and a state of illness. Many may report high or low blood pressures, headaches, chest pains, and abdominal pains (3). Some also report having familial and other social issues. Home remedies, such as herbal teas, in combination with physician-prescribed medications, may be used to treat nervios (3).