Background: An increasing number of adolescents report recurrent functional somatic symptoms. Some experience persistent symptoms and may receive functional somatic syndromes (FSS) diagnoses (i.e. symptoms not attributable to any known conventionally defined physical disease), characterised by severe disability and reduced quality of life. The aim of this study is to: 1. Develop an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based group intervention for adolescents with severe FSS (conceptualized as Bodily Distress Syndrome (BDS), see detailed description). 2. Examine the efficacy of group based ACT in adolescents (aged 15-19 years) with severe FSS. The ACT-based treatment, with 9 sessions of group therapy and one follow up meeting is compared to standard treatment/enhanced usual care, which is one single advisory consultation. The study includes approximately 120 patients.
Age range
15 Years – 19 Years
Sex
ALL
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The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Change in SF36 (Assessment of physical health)
Timeframe: At baseline (i.e. at clinical assessment) and 2, 4, 5½, 8 and 12 (primary endpoint) months after baseline.