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Cognitive behavioural therapy for patients with electric sensitivity - a multidisciplinary approach in a controlled
L Hillert1, B Kolmodin Hedman, B F Dölling
1Environmental Illness Research Centre, Southern Division of Community Health, Huddinge, Sweden. lena.hillert@medhs.ki.se
Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics
|November 18, 1998
Summary
Cognitive behavioral therapy significantly reduced self-reported electric sensitivity and discomfort in patients. Early intervention with this therapy shows promise for managing this syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Electric sensitivity lacks diagnostic criteria and a clear cause.
- Patient suffering necessitates effective management strategies.
- Research is crucial for developing and validating treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for patients with electric sensitivity.
- To assess CBT's impact on symptoms, beliefs, and behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A controlled trial compared 10 patients receiving CBT as part of multidisciplinary treatment with 12 controls.
- Outcome measures included symptoms, beliefs, behavior, and biochemical stress markers.
- Data were collected pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at a 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- The CBT group reported significantly lower electric sensitivity at 6-month follow-up compared to controls.
- Significant reduction in self-rated discomfort from triggers was observed in the CBT group.
- Symptom indices decreased significantly over time; biochemical markers showed no systematic changes.
Conclusions:
- Early intervention, including cognitive behavioral therapy, may improve the prognosis for electric sensitivity.
- CBT can potentially reduce perceived hypersensitivity, offering implications for patient management.
- The study suggests a positive outlook for patients receiving timely and appropriate therapeutic interventions.