Does Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures Disorder (PNES) Respond to Cognitive Behavior Therapy? A Preliminary Research
Keywords:
Non Epileptic seizures, CBT, PNESAbstract
Patients who suffer from PNES often exhibit a higher incidence of symptoms such as anxiety and depression than patients with epilepsy, along with a reduced quality of life due to the effect of the seizures themselves. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral intervention in the treatment of PNES. Our primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of CBT in reducing seizure frequency. The study adopted a two-group comparison with pre and post assessment design. Sample: The sample consisted of 50 patients sub sequentially allotted to the Cognitive Behavior Therapy (n=30) and waiting control (n=20) groups. Along with the socio-demographic sheet seizure diary to record the frequency of seizure episodes, Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating scale (HDARS) tools were administered. The CBT group provided comprehensive cognitive behaviour therapy and the waiting control group provided only standard medical care. Conclusion: In this small clinical trial, treatment with the CBT for PNES appears to be a beneficial approach in helping patients with PNES reduce their seizure frequency, anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to standard medical care.
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