The relationship between coping styles, depressive symptoms and somatic complaints among depressive inpatients

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between coping styles, depressive symptoms and somatic complaints among depressive inpatients. This cross-sectional study included 74 clinical inpatients being treated for depression at one of six psychiatric hospitals in Belgium. All participants completed a questionnaire containing the Utrecht Coping list, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Symptom Checklist. A significant positive association between depressive symptoms and somatic complaints was found. In addition, multiple regression analyses revealed that patients who use more effective problem-focused coping or emotion-focused coping styles experience less depressive symptoms. No significant relationship was found between coping and somatic complaints. In addition, coping did not influence the relationship between somatic complaints and depressive symptoms. Because effective coping styles are associated with less depressive symptoms among depressive patients, we conclude that treatment should also emphasise the use of effective problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. (Netherlands Journal of Psychology, 64, 78-86.)