A Study of Mass Psychogenic Illness in a High School of West Bengal.

Twenty students were affected in an epidemic of mass psychogenic illness occured in a high school of West Bengal, India in 2004. Our objective was to study and find out any related cause which may help in spread of illness and various management issues. We isolated the patients in hospital wards and interviewed each, arranged a group discussion with students, guardians, teachers and local leaders to alleviate the anxiety. Social stress due to rapid urbanization, individual stressful factors were associated with the event. Proper knowledge of mass psychogenic illness and its management is must for both psychiatrists, and primary care physicians.