Improvement of coping abilities in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective study.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To evaluate a novel specific psychological intervention aimed at improving coping in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

34 community living SLE patients were recruited for the study. Intervention was undertaken in groups of up to eight patients and in two blocks over six months each. Eight patients were enrolled as a waiting list group. The 18 group sessions focused on information about the disease and specific problems of SLE patients, combining psychoeducative and psychotherapeutic elements. Psychological and medical evaluations were conducted at baseline and after three, six, and 12 months, using validated instruments.

Results

The 34 SLE patients (91% female, mean age 42 years) improved significantly over a six month period on most

SUBMITTER: Haupt M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1755287 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature