Providing Rapid Help for Mental Strain at the Workplace: Psychosomatic Consultation in the Workplace

Abstract

Psychosomatic consultation in the workplace (PSIW) is an offer for employees who are under mental and psychosomatic strain. Core elements are early diagnosis and short-term psychotherapy with the aim of improving the care for mentally stressed employees. This article provides a characterization of patients and presents initial data on the effects of short-term psychotherapy. From 05/2016 to 12/2019, basic data were collected from all employees seeking help. Socio-demographic data, previous treatments, work ability, depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), somatic symptoms (PHQ-15), assessment of psychological state and attitudes towards treatment options were collected by self-report before and (if applicable) after a short-term intervention. A total of 672 employees from 20 companies (49% male) were mostly referred to PSIW by the company physician. Adjustment disorders and depressive disorders each accounted for almost one-third of diagnoses. A quarter of the employees presenting at PSIW were on sick leave at the time of referral. The most frequent recommendations were short-term intervention at PSIW, followed by outpatient psychotherapy. A total of 343 (51%) employees completed the questionnaires, of which 187 (55%) of them received short-term psychotherapy. The symptoms improved significantly across all scales. Satisfaction with PSIW was very high. PSIW is an innovative care concept in the work context, which is well accepted and effective in various sectors. Close cooperation with company stakeholders such as occupational health physicians is important for a successful outcome.