A community-based psychoeducational group approach to hypochondriasis

Background. This open trial investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of a cognitive-educational approach to hypochondriasis in a self-referred community sample. Method: Twenty-seven of 43 interested applicants fulfilled DSM-criteria for hypochondriasis and resembled a hypochondriacal reference group according to the Groningen Illness Attitude Scale. Subjects participated in small groups for six 2-hour sessions aimed at educating them about hypochondriasis. Results: The results showed that the 21 completers improved between pre-and post-test on parameters for hypochondriasis and depression, and that this improvement was maintained at 4 weeks and 6 months follow-up. Six subjects dropped out for various reasons, showing no decrease in relevant variables. Conclusion: Hypochondriacal subjects can be reached outside mental health settings, and a psycho-educational group approach may be an acceptable and effective method to reduce hypochondriacal psychopathology. Copyright (C) 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel.