ABSTRACT
Occasionally patients become fearful of recovery and this can impede progress. The research evidence would back this up, and it is sometimes called secondary gain. Factors that might show it is present are as follows: symptoms don’t seem as severe as described, family are very attentive, history of dependent traits, financial benefits and confusing history. This topic needs to be brought up sensitively in the context of a good therapeutic relationship, and could be formulated. Suggestions are made as to how to introduce the topic and deal with it, with some case examples. A maintaining progress (or relapse prevention) plan should be done with all patients.
