Self-help epilepsy groups: an evaluation of effect on depression and schizophrenia

The general prevalence of depression and schizophrenia was determined in a random outpatient population (n = 67) of refractory epileptic patients by Minnesota Multiphasic Personality inventory (MMPI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Of those patients 25% showed scores of moderate or severe depression. Self-help group intervention modifies significantly (p < 0.001) general mean depression rates, especially dystimia. Male and female differences emerged in our study for previous prevalence and pattern of recovery.