Cognitive-behavioural intervention in deliberate self-harm.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to find the efficacy of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) in the management of deliberate self-harm (DSH) patients. METHOD: The experimental group (n=20) was given 10 sessions of CBT. CBT included cognitive methods, behavioural methods, problem-solving skills training and behavioural counselling to significant others. The control group (n=20) was given routine medical treatment. Post-assessment was done for both groups at the end of 3 months. RESULTS: The analysis of pre-post-assessment revealed that only the experimental group showed significant improvement on all the variables, except on impulsivity. CONCLUSION: CBT was effective in the management of DSH patients.