Pretreatment attrition and dropout in an outpatient clinic for anxiety disorders

Treatment attrition represents a considerable problem for efficient delivery of care for mental disorders. The present study examined rates and predictors of pretreatment attrition and dropout from outpatient treatment for anxiety disorders.

The influence of clinical, demographic, clinician and system variables on pretreatment attrition (treatment refusal or non-attendance) and dropout were analysed in a consecutive sample of 731 clients treated at an anxiety disorders clinic in Sydney.

Pretreatment attrition was common (30.4%) but dropout once clients had commenced treatment was rare (10.3%). Milder pretreatment symptoms were associated with treatment dropout and comorbid depression or depressive symptoms were associated with higher probability of both pretreatment attrition and dropout. Demographic, clinician and system influences were present but less important.

Targeting of individuals with comorbid anxiety and depression may reduce treatment attrition rates among individuals with anxiety disorders presenting for treatment.