Cognitive Behaviour Therapy in the Treatment of Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)

Estimates indicate that approximately 20 to 30 percent of patients who are seen in epilepsy centers actually suffer from PNES as opposed to epilepsy. Patients who suffer from PNES often exhibit a higher incidence of symptoms such as anxiety and depression than patients with epilepsy, along with a reduced quality of life due to the effect of the seizures themselves. It is recognized, however, that conditions such as anxiety and depression often respond well to CBT. To date, treatment trials for PNES are few, despite the disabling nature of the disorder. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral intervention in the treatment of PNES. Our primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of CBT in reducing seizure frequency. The study adopted a two-group comparison with pre and post assessment design. Sample: The sample consisted of 50 patients sub sequentially allotted to the Cognitive Behavior Therapy (n=30) and waiting control (n=20) groups. Along with the socto-demographic sheet seizure diary to record the frequency of seizure episodes, Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating scale (HDARS) tools were administered. The CBT group provided comprehensive cognitive behaviour therapy and the waiting control group provided only standard medical care. In this small clinical trial, treatment with the CBT for PNES appears to be a beneficial approach in helping patients with PNES reduce their seizure frequency, anxiety and depressive symptoms compared to standard medical care.