Dhat Syndrome Presenting as Secondary Depression in a Patient With Mild Intellectual Disability

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Cultural Psychiatry

Background:

• Dhat syndrome is a culture-bound condition characterized by anxiety over perceived excessive semen loss.
• This belief is rooted in cultural and societal notions linking semen loss to illness.

Observation:

• A 34-year-old male with mild intellectual disability presented with depressive symptoms.
• Detailed exploration revealed the presence of Dhat syndrome, complicated by the patient's cognitive impairment.

Findings:

• The patient received a successful treatment regimen combining Manualised Individual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (M-iCBT) and pharmacotherapy.
• Effective psychopathology elicitation and psychotherapy were achieved despite the patient's intellectual disability.

Implications:

• This case underscores the necessity of inquiring about sexual history in patients with intellectual disabilities.
• Screening for culture-bound syndromes like Dhat syndrome is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in this population.