Efficiency of the De-stigmatization Program in Somatoform Disorders

Study Objective: To study the role of the psychoeducational program in coping with self-stigmatization in patients with somatoform disorders. Study Design: Observational emperical comparative clinical trial with two randomized groups with provisional and final examination. Materials and Methods. The study enrolled patients aged 20 to 45 years old who were hospitalised for a somatoform disorder for the first time. The study group comprised 60 patients, who attended a psychoeducational program in addition to psychopharmacological treatment. Controls were 60 patients treated only with medications. Patients’ status was evaluated using clinical, psychological and psychognostic methods. Study Results. After completion of the therapy, the difference in the degree of self-stigmatization and the level of knowledge about the mental disorder in the groups was statistically significant (p < 0.001). When groups were compared on a somatization scale, a statistically significant trend towards differences was noticed (0.05 ≤ p < 0.1). Conclusion. The psychoeducational program facilitates coping with ‘avoiding the psychiatrist’ behaviour, thus reducing the risk of disease chronization and helping prevent irreversible personality changes. Keywords: psychoeducation, de-stigmatization program, somatoform disorders, degree of self-stigmatization, level of knowledge about the mental disorder.