The narrative approach as an effective single intervention in functional somatic symptoms in a multi-disciplinary referral clinic for primary care frequent attenders

Abstract

Mental health problems are underdiagnosed in general practice, primarily because they are often somatized and the patient reports only physical symptoms. These somatized symptoms are responsible for a large percentage of the frequent attenders in general practice. Palpitations are among those somatized symptoms. Here we present the theoretical background and the process of assessment and treatment of patients referred to a special counselling clinic for frequent attenders, through the report of a patient with palpitations. It illustrates the use of the narrative approach and the possible mode of action of this specific intervention. © The Author (2005). Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.