What condition does susto describe in Mexican culture?

Susto is a culturally specific illness recognized in Mexican and some other Latin American cultures that is believed to result from a severe fright, shock, or trauma. This condition is often characterized by symptoms such as anxiety, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, and a general sense of malaise. The cultural understanding of susto reflects a holistic view of health, where emotional and spiritual well-being is closely intertwined with physical health.

This culturally context-based illness underscores the importance of recognizing how various cultures interpret health and illness, particularly in relation to emotional and psychological experiences. Unlike a simple cold from exposure, a viral infection, or a psychological disorder as understood in Western medicine, susto specifically links emotional distress caused by fright to physiological manifestations. Understanding susto also emphasizes the need for healthcare practitioners to be culturally competent and sensitive to traditional beliefs when providing care to patients from diverse backgrounds.