The effect of salutogenic treatment principles on coping with mental health problems A randomised controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
Although the theory of salutogenesis provides generic understanding of how coping may be created, this theoretical perspective has not been explored sufficiently within research among people suffering from mental health problems. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of talk-therapy groups based on salutogenic treatment principles on coping with mental health problems.


METHODS
In an experimental design, the participants (residents in the community) were randomly allocated to a coping-enhancing experimental group (n=59) and a control group (n=47) receiving standard care. Coping was measured using the sense of coherence (SOC) questionnaire.


RESULTS
Coping improved significantly in the experiment group (+6 points) compared with the control group (-2 points). The manageability component contributed most to this improvement.


CONCLUSIONS
Talk-therapy groups based on salutogenic treatment principles improve coping among people with mental health problems.


CONCLUSIONS
Talk-therapy groups based on salutogenic treatment principles may be helpful in increasing coping in the recovery process among people with mental health problems and seem to be applicable to people with various mental health problems.
Langeland
Eva
E
Bergen University College, Department of Health and Social Research, Haugeveien 28, N-5005 Bergen, Norway. eva.langeland@hib.no
Riise
Trond
T
Hanestad
Berit R
BR
Nortvedt
Monica W
MW
Kristoffersen
Kjell
K
Wahl
Astrid K
AK
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D009664:Norway; D010686:Philosophy, Medical; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012649:Self Concept; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires