Coping with fear of long-term complications in diabetes mellitus: a model clinical program

Preliminary results are reported on the efficacy of a behaviorally oriented group therapy (n = 17) intended to improve coping with fear of long-term complications in patients with diabetes mellitus. Treatment consisted of exposure in imagination, relaxation training and analysis of dysfunctional health beliefs. Pre-, posttreatment and 3-month follow-up measure showed significant improvements regarding fear, acceptance of chronic disease and work. The usefulness of such a treatment program and the necessarity for further research is discussed.