After losing his wife to an accident in which he himself was injured, Wim Hof’s world began to spiral. Although the physical injuries were minor, Wim’s pain intensified despite a clean bill of health.
Somatic symptom disorder, or SSD, is a psychological condition in which an injured person, though physically healed, remains pain-stricken. The disorder often leads to debilitating weakness, stress, anxiety and depression.
Scott Venturo Rudakoff LLP in Calgary reports “astronomical” growth in the number of claimants who, after a minor injury, develop SSD. An SSD diagnosis precipitates grueling battles with insurance companies, while the likelihood of permanent disability looms large.
But such was not the case when the indomitable Wim Hof developed SSD.
Instead of succumbing to depression, the 59 year-old Dutchman embarked on an epic personal journey. Hof, better known as “The Iceman,” has attained two dozen world records by completing marvelous feats of physical endurance that would kill mere mortals—including summitting Mount Everest wearing only shorts. Researchers have since found that Hof is able to use his mind to induce a stress response that enables him to resist the effects of cold and pain.
To learn how Wim mastered his disability, visit below.
