ADJUSTMENT REACTIONS - A LONG-TERM PROSPECTIVE AND RETROSPECTIVE FOLLOW-UP OF FORMER PATIENTS IN A CRISIS-INTERVENTION WARD

The results of a 5-year follow-up study of 76 patients in a crisis intervention ward who were suffering from an adjustment reaction (brief or prolonged depressive reaction) according to ICD-9 criteria indicate a rather favorable course and outcome using standardized instruments. Only 17% developed a chronic or severe course of primarily depressive symptoms and only 1 (2%) patient committed suicide after discharge, whereas 64% had a very favorable and 18% a favorable course and outcome. This result is reflected in a rather low use of psychiatric and psychotherapeutic outpatient services during the follow-up period.