Indian Journal of Clinical Psychology

Somatic symptoms are one of the commonest reasons for doctor visit. In primary health care settings, at least one-third of the symptoms are medically unexplained and Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is considered as public health problem. Standard medical care has limited success in treating SSD and hence alternative treatments have been developed. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) has been found to be effective in the treatment of SSD. However, many patients do not show significant improvement with CBT. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as a transdiagnostic therapeutic approach has received considerable attention by clinicians and researchers in recent years. The present study examined the effectiveness of ACT in patients with SSD on global functioning, somatic symptoms, anxiety, depression, acceptance, mindfulness skills, and psychological well-being. A single case design study with assessment at baseline, post and 3 month follow-up was adopted. 5 patients with DSM-5 diagnosis of SSD underwent 8 weekly session of ACT. Results indicated that ACT was effective in improving global functioning, acceptance, mindfulness skills and psychological well-being and reducing somatic symptoms, depression and anxiety. At three months follow-up, depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms deteriorated for some patients. This preliminary study indicates that ACT is feasible and may be considered as an alternative treatment for patients with SSD in Indian setting.