Group psychotherapy for depression and stigma among family member of committed suicide persons

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the group psychotherapy on depression and stigma among family member of committed suicide persons.

Materials and methods Family members of committed suicide persons in Maechan hospital were randomly allocated into experimental and control group (n=15 per group). The control group received a usual care whereas the experimental group received the group supportive psychotherapy “Prakarn model” for 12 weeks. 9-questions diagnostic test for depression and Grief Experience Questionnaire: GEQ was applied to assess the level of depression and stigma. Descriptive statistics was used for general characteristics. Depression and stigma scores were compared among 3 periods, i.e., before and at 3^rd and 6^th month follow up respectively with repeated measure ANOVA.

Results After therapy finished, there were 11 persons in experimental group and 15 persons in the control group.  Most were female, primary education, agriculturalist. Mean age was 56.5 years in the experimental group and 55 years in the other. Before entering the therapy, the average level of depression and stigma scores in the experimental group was similar to that of the control group. The depression and stigma scores of the experimental group decreased over time. The depression and stigma scores of the control group decreased in 3^rd month follow-up and increased 6^th month follow-up. The experimental group tended to decrease depression and stigma score than the control group with significance.

Conclusion  The group psychotherapy reduced depression and stigma score and tended to decrease depression and stigma scores than the usual care.