Psychological distress and coping in women married to men with a diagnosis of solvent-induced chronic toxic encephalopathy.

BACKGROUND

Solvent-induced chronic toxic encephalopathy (TE) is a slowly developing brain disorder associated with both a direct effect on the nervous system and as indirect experienced psychological distress. It can presumably also imply negative influence on the subject's social surroundings.

METHODS

Seventeen women married to men diagnosed with TE (WTE) and 51 referent women of the same age married to healthy husbands were examined. Symptoms, social network and coping style were measured by questionnaires.

RESULTS

The WTE reported slightly more psychological distress and fewer social contacts than did the referents. The WTE did not report affected stress management. Retired women in the WTE group accounted for most of the deviances from the referents.

CONCLUSIONS

The conclusion is that becoming a WTE does not necessarily imply more psychological distress, social isolation or poorer stress management capability if they continue with their work and social activities.