Crohn's disease from the viewpoint of psychosomatic and behavioral medicine

In a group of patients suffering from Crohn's disease increased incidence of affective symptoms, mainly high degree of neurosis and depressions, was detected with the use of psychological methods. Social relations and status may influence the course of the disease. Social support, information on the disease and patients higher educational degree have positive effects on the acceptation and compliance of the disease. Surprisingly negatively is the disease influenced by stable partnership and parenthood. Affective symptoms can be managed with the use of psychological methods. We proved it on reconditioning stays with structured programme. Their application led to reduction of neurotic and depressive symptoms, improvement of physical condition, better ability to relax physically and emotionally, the ability to harmonize psychical and physical functions, to cope with stress and the patients have established social contacts with other persons suffering from the same disease with the aim to promote conscious care of one's own health condition. Psycho-educational programme is extraordinary important in new diagnosed patients, for their ability to cope with the disease, and as a help for their future life arrangement. The techniques used to deal with stress can be helpful for prolonging the remission period. It was confirmed that psychological methods may contribute to life quality improvement in Crohn's disease patients. Self-help activities in the form of clubs and reconditioning stays reveal as very useful. Psycho-social intervention should become a part of complex care of patients with Crohn's disease. (Tab. 1, Fig. 1, Ref. 22.)