Use of a support group for dermatologic patients.

Hospital nurses led weekly group sessions to provide dermatologic inpatients a supportive climate in which to share common concerns about skin disease and a forum for dissemination of dermatologic information. Session leaders kept a journal, noting themes and group dynamic patterns for each meeting. Participants also responded to a session evaluation questionnaire. Data from the journal and questionnaires were collected for one year to describe the issues and concerns raised in a support group for dermatologic patients and to assess the effectiveness of this approach in overall patient management. Three themes were consistently discussed: problems with stress, self-esteem, and social interaction; concerns with medical treatment; and coping with loss. Participants indicated that support and encouragement had been given and received. Need for a dermatologic patient support group was demonstrated. Location of such a group in an outpatient day-care setting was recommended.