Article
The mental situation of spouses of laryngectomees
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Published: | March 20, 2006 |
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Objectives: This study attempted to determine the mental situation of spouses of laryngectomees. Focus was the prevalence of mental disorders and the utilisation of psychotherapeutic treatment.
Subjects and Methods: 116 spouses of laryngectomees were interviewed in cross sectional study design. Structured clinical interviews (SCID) and standardized questionnaires (HADS) were used to assess spouses’ mental health. In addition status of received psychotherapeutic support (actual and in the past) was evaluated.
Results: 14% of the spouses were diagnosed with mental disorders. The most frequently occurring disorders were adjustment disorders (5%) followed by major depression (4%). In the past 20% of the spouses were in psychotherapeutic care, currently only 6% are in corresponding treatment.
Conclusion: Less than 50% of the spouses of laryngectomees patients suffering from mental illness receive appropriate psychotherapeutic treatment.