Prognosis and duration
Conversion disorder
Most people with a conversion disorder of recent onset recover quickly. However, if the condition persists for more than a year it is likely to last for many years.
Initially therefore, a short term award of 2 years should be considered.
Thereafter, an indefinite award should be considered.
All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.
| Impairment | Award period |
|---|---|
|
Conversion disorder |
First award period - 2 year award Further award period - indefinite |
Somatisation disorder
People with somatisation disorder are usually chronically ill for the majority of their lives. They rarely make a full recovery but can make a partial recovery. The degree of disability varies from person to person, insofar as some are able to work but others are chair or bed bound and completely dependent.
Initially therefore, a short term award of 2 years should be considered.
Thereafter, an indefinite award should be considered.
| Impairment | Award period |
|---|---|
|
Somatisation disorder |
First award period - 2 year award Further award period - indefinite |
Hypochondriasis
Primary hypochondriasis follows a chronic fluctuating course. Treatment may help reduce symptoms but it is rarely curative.
Initially therefore, a short term award of 2 years should be considered.
Thereafter, an indefinite award should be considered.
Hypochondriasis may be secondary to another disorder such as depression, in which case it may be relieved by treatment of the depression. The prognosis is determined by the primary disorder. For such cases please refer to the guidance on prognosis for the primary disorder.
| Impairment | Award period |
|---|---|
|
Hypochondriasis |
First award period - 2 year award Further award period - indefinite |
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
BDD usually begins in adolescence and follows a fluctuating chronic course. A majority of people improve over time but cure is unusual.
Initially therefore, a short term award of 2 years should be considered.
Thereafter an indefinite award should be considered.
| Impairment | Award period |
|---|---|
|
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) |
First award period - 2 year award Further award period - indefinite |
Pain disorder
The prognosis of pain disorder is uncertain. Many people with pain disorder are unwilling to accept treatment or are considered unsuitable. However, treatment can result in a sustained improvement.
Initially therefore, a short term award of 2 years should be considered.
Thereafter an indefinite award should be considered.
| Impairment | Award period |
|---|---|
|
Pain disorder |
First award period - 2 year award Further award period - indefinite |
All information must be taken into account when considering the duration of disabling effects and the duration of disabling effects must be based on the particular circumstances of the individual claimant.
Amended May 2009
