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Psychotherapy and PsychosomaticsSpecial Article
Psychother Psychosom 2000;69:205–215
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read more Subcription rates Select * The final prices may differ from the prices shown due to specifics of VAT rules. Article / Publication DetailsFirst-Page Preview Published online: June 13, 2000 Number of Print Pages: 11 ISSN:
0033-3190 (Print) For additional information: https://www.karger.com/PPS AbstractObjective: Few treatments for somatization have been proven effective. In the past decade, however, clinical trials of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) have been promising. Our aim was to critically review and synthesize the evidence from these trials. Methods: A search of the Medline database from 1966 through July 1999 was conducted to identify controlled trials designed to evaluate the efficacy of CBT in patients with somatization or symptom syndromes. Results: A total of 31 controlled trials (29 randomized and 2 nonrandomized) were identified. Twenty-five studies targeted a specific syndrome (e.g. chronic fatigue, irritable bowel, pain) while 6 focused on more general somatization or hypochondriasis. Primary outcome assessment included physical symptoms, psychological distress and functional status in 28, 26 and 19 studies, respectively. Physical symptoms appeared the most responsive: CBT-treated patients improved more than control subjects in 71% of the studies and showed possibly greater improvement (i.e., a trend) in another 11% of the studies. A definite or possible advantage of CBT for reducing psychological distress was demonstrated in only 38 and 8% of studies, and for improving functional status in 47 and 26%. Group therapy and interventions as brief as 5 sessions proved efficacious. Benefits were sustained for up to 12 months. Conclusion: CBT can be an effective treatment for patients with somatization or symptom syndromes. Benefits can occur whether or not psychological distress is ameliorated. Since chronic symptoms are exceptionally common and most studies were conducted in referral populations, the optimal sequencing of CBT in treating primary care patients and the identification of those most likely to accept and respond to therapy should be further evaluated. © 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel References
Article / Publication DetailsFirst-Page Preview Published online: June 13, 2000 Number of Print Pages: 11 ISSN: 0033-3190 (Print) For additional information: https://www.karger.com/PPS Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. How does CBT help somatic symptom disorder?Because physical symptoms can be related to psychological distress and a high level of health anxiety, psychotherapy — specifically, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — can help improve physical symptoms. CBT can help you: Examine and adapt your beliefs and expectations about health and physical symptoms.
What is the most effective treatment for somatization disorder?Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the best-studied and most effective treatment for somatoform disorders.
What is the treatment of somatization?Numerous studies have found that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective at treating somatization. CBT focuses on helping people identify automatic negative thoughts. It then teaches people how to combat these thoughts with less self-defeating messages.
How can therapists treat somatoform disorder?Natural treatment for somatoform disorder can include stress management and relaxation techniques, regular physical activity, socialization opportunities and avoiding substance use. Other common alternative therapies for somatoform disorders include hypnotherapy, relaxation techniques and somatic experiencing.
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