Psychodynamic Interventions for Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review.
Torelli Alessandro1, Mesce Martina1, Cavicchioli Marco1
1Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University ofRome, Italy.
Clinical Neuropsychiatry
|July 1, 2026
Summary
Psychodynamic interventions show preliminary benefits for fibromyalgia (FM), potentially reducing pain, anxiety, and depression. However, more rigorous research is needed due to limited evidence and study heterogeneity.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition impacting quality of life.
- Psychological distress is a key feature of FM.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy is well-studied, but psychodynamic interventions are underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review psychodynamic interventions for FM.
- To assess their impact on clinical and psychological outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of PsycINFO, Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science.
- Included six studies on various psychodynamic approaches.
- Evaluated outcomes like pain, anxiety, depression, and quality of life.
Main Results:
- Preliminary evidence suggests benefits for psychodynamic interventions.
- Observed reductions in pain, anxiety, and depression.
- Improvements in emotional functioning and quality of life were noted.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence is insufficient for definitive recommendations.
- Substantial heterogeneity and risk of bias limit conclusions.
- Further methodologically rigorous research is required.
