Tijdschrift voor psychiatrie
-
Research has shown that the first months after discharge from psychiatric inpatient care is a high risk period for suicide. However, there has been very little research into the prevention policies that mental health care centres pursue in order to reduce this risk. ⋯ Only half of the mental health institutions employed a preventive policy with regard to post-discharge suicide. So far, the possibilities for prevention have not been fully utilised.
-
In connection with recent articles about guidelines for dealing with persons attempting suicide, we investigated the quality and continuity of aftercare provided for patients admitted to a mental institution because they have attempted to commit suicide. 25% of patients received no aftercare at all. For most of the others aftercare began within two weeks; 50% of these patients were still receiving care nine months later. Follow-up studies are needed so that we can find out whether the absence of aftercare can cause problems for patients admitted to an institution because they have threatened to commit suicide.
-
Review Case Reports
[Autism and catatonia: successful treatment using lorazepam. A case study].
A 24-year-old man who was mentally retarded and had an autistic disorder, developed mutism and motor symptoms. He was diagnosed with catatonia and was treated successfully with lorazepam. Additionally, we review the literature about the diagnosis and treatment of catatonia in patients with autism; in such cases accurate diagnosis is vital but is complicated by overlapping symptoms.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
[Rational Rehabilitation in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A pilot study].
In a randomised controlled study, a type of cognitive behavior therapy known as Rational Rehabilitation proved effective in the treatment of patients with chronic mental symptoms. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a serious illness that occurs frequently and can last for many years. Rational Rehabilitation may also be an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder. ⋯ A controlled study of the effect of Rational Rehabilitation in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder seems justified.