Long term effects of a cognitive-behavioural intervention in menopausal symptomatology: Results in a preliminary study

Abstract

Menopause is related to an important variety of physical, psychological and social symptoms, susceptible to be treated by means of cognitive-behavioral techniques. Twenty-eight women participated in a group intervention of eight two-hour weekly sessions directed at reducing depression, anxiety and related symptoms. Results were measured at end of treatment and at 6 months. The results show a significant reduction of most of the associated symptoms (including depression and anxiety) compared to base line as well as to the control group, and both in post-treatment and in follow up (being greater at this time than in post-treatment, for some symptoms). These last results are analysed. No other study offers a follow up as prolonged.