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A community-based psychoeducational group approach to hypochondriasis
1Department of Clinical Psychology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands. t.k.bouman@ppsw.rug.nl
Background:
This open trial investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of a cognitive-educational approach to hypochondriasis in a self-referred community sample.
Method:
Twenty-seven of 43 interested applicants fulfilled DSM-criteria for hypochondriasis and resembled a hypochondriacal reference group according to the Groningen Illness Attitude Scale. Subjects participated in small groups for six 2-hour sessions aimed at educating them about hypochondriasis.
Results:
The results showed that the 21 completers improved between pre- and post-test on parameters for hypochondriasis and depression, and that this improvement was maintained at 4 weeks and 6 months follow-up. Six subjects dropped out for various reasons, showing no decrease in relevant variables.
Conclusion:
Hypochondriacal subjects can be reached outside mental health settings, and a psychoeducational group approach may be an acceptable and effective method to reduce hypochondriacal psychopathology.