Public sector group treatment for severe personality disorder: a 12-month follow-up study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The results of an evaluation of an innovative pubic sector treatment program for patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) with a history of unsuccessful treatment attempts and severe self-harm are presented. METHOD: DSM-IV axis I and axis II diagnoses, psychiatric symptoms, patterns of self-harm, suicidality, coping styles, and quality of life were assessed for 27 women who completed a 6-month residential program. Pre- and post-treatment assessments and a 12-month follow-up were undertaken. RESULTS: At 12-month follow-up, significantly fewer participants met criteria for BPD. Significant post-treatment gains, including reduced levels of depression, anxiety and hopelessn..