Self-induced water intoxication treated with group psychotherapy.

The authors conducted a controlled, prospective 4-month study of 10 male inpatients with chronic schizophrenia and polydipsia. The five men who were treated with group psychotherapy drank significantly less fluid than the five men not given this therapy. The effect of group psychotherapy quickly dissipated in the follow-up period, indicating the need for ongoing treatment.

A survey of patient attitudes toward self-induced water intoxication.

Twenty male chronic schizophrenics suffering from self-induced water intoxication were administered a 15 item questionnaire to assess their understanding of and attitudes toward drinking fluids. Eighty-five percent stated they drank excessive amounts of fluids in order to feel better. These findings have implications for the treatment of patients with this disorder.