Changes after multicomponent group-based treatment in patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms

Abstract

ABSTRACT Psychological treatments for patients with medically unexplained physical symptoms (MUPS) reduce somatic symptom severity only moderately. However, patients may profit from changes other than that of symptom reduction. The aim of the present study was to capture the changes that patients with MUPS experience after a multicomponent group-based treatment. Semistructured interviews with 30 patients with MUPS were undertaken after the treatment. Thematic analysis was used to identify the changes the patients reported. The changes included developing a different view of their somatic symptoms, learning how to fulfill their needs, modifying their lifestyle, and becoming open to painful experiences. The patients also noted changes in their somatic symptoms and their quality of life. Multicomponent treatment helps patients with MUPS achieve a variety of changes that reach beyond physical symptoms reduction. Patients’ symptoms often worsen after a return to normal life, which calls for continual care.