Demystifying Dhat Syndrome: A Two-Session Therapy Proposal

Abstract

Dhat syndrome is a common semen-loss related physical and psychological distress usually reported by young males. The treatment mainly centres around nonpharmacological strategies such as psychoeducation. Most of the patients present as outpatients to alternative medicine or nonpsychiatry branches and treatment is usually not delivered. Some of the reasons may include perceived need for longer duration of sessions with the patient, available literature with complex psychiatric jargon and barriers to treatment due to stigma attached to psychiatry. This article presents a two session therapy proposal for Dhat syndrome that could be useful as a brief intervention over tele-consultations, and in consultation liaison clinics by nonpsychiatrists as well.