MENTAL MEDICATION FOR YOUR “SICK” PATIENT

• Published in: California medicine Vol. 78; no. 3; pp. 204 - 207
• Main Author: LONG, J B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States BMJ Publishing Group LTD 01-03-1953
• Subjects: Humans; Male; Neurotic Disorders - therapy; Old Medline; Personality Disorders; Physicians; Psychotherapy; NEUROSES/therapy
• ISSN: 0008-1264; 2380-9949

Essential stages in a type of superficial psychotherapy that has been found to be generally effective in treating a patient with “normal” neurosis are: A complete medical health evaluation, achievement of the patient's confidence, a description of all findings and a convincing explanation of how certain symptoms may be caused by nervous tension, and appropriate medical treatment combined with encouragement, inspiration and common-sense advice. The “sick” patient should be convinced of the true cause of the symptoms that distress him, taught to recognize the neurotic basis of symptoms, and at times to accept and live with them. The fundamental ingredient of psychotherapy of this type is emphasis on developing a confident and purposeful way of life. Each patient should be encouraged to help himself in a determined effort to acquire peace and harmony both within himself and with his environment. Differences in personality and environment vary the treatment and advice best suited to each patient. A proper attitude by the physician is a major factor in the effectiveness of treatment.