Citation

Pfeiffer-Gerschel T, Niedermeier N, Hegerl U. MMW Fortschr. Med. 2006; 148(31-32): 22-5, 27.

Vernacular Title

Moderiertes Diskussionsforum zum Thema "Depression".

Affiliation

Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie der LMU München. tim.pfeschel@med.uni-meuncten.de

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Urban and Vogel)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16937872

Abstract

Five years ago, with the appearance on the internet of the competence network "Depression, Suicidality", a conducted discussion forum was established to serve as a platform for an internet-based self-help group. Today, the forum has more than 3,000 registered visitors, and is the largest virtual group concerned with depression in the German-speaking area. In comparison with a "real" self-help group, this virtual form offers specific possibilities to those concerned, such as, for example, 24-hour access to other sufferers. Admittedly, specific limitations must nevertheless be noted, which, among other things, have to do with the particular features of internet-based communication and the heterogeneity of the participants. Overall, this virtual self-help group represents a rational and useful addition to the existing possibilities for self help.

Language: de