Unlike psychophysiologic disorder Linda may be best managed with:
A. Medical regimen
B. Milieu therapy
C. Stress management techniques
D. Psychotherapy
Correct Answer: C. Stress management techniques
Stress management techniques are the best management of somatoform disorder because the disorder is related to stress and it does not have a medical basis. Specific techniques used include relaxation training, problem-solving, visualization, biofeedback, exercise, and breathing techniques. Such a multipronged approach may be exactly what is necessary in somatoform disorders.
Option A: This disorder is not supported by organic pathology so no medical regimen is required. Patients may find discussions regarding stress and coping strategies to be more palatable than confrontations about their deception or assertions that “it’s all in your head.” In cases where illness deception is potentially affected by stress, depression, or anxiety, both psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions may be warranted and helpful. Documentation of both true and falsified symptoms can be beneficial in justifying clinicians’ diagnosis and treatment, and in providing information to other providers who work with the deceptive patient.
Option B: Milieu therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves the use of therapeutic communities. Patients join a group of around 30, for between 9 and 18 months. During their stay, patients are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves and the others within the unit, based upon a hierarchy of collective consequences.
Option D: Psychotherapy may be used as therapeutic modalities but it is not the best. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a way to help people with a broad variety of mental illnesses and emotional difficulties. Psychotherapy can help eliminate or control troubling symptoms so a person can function better and can increase well-being and healing.