To run group counselling, the intervention group was divided into two smaller groups, each attending two sessions for 1.5 - 2 hours. These sessions were conducted by a psychiatric nurse and focused on stress management, problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies, social support and motivation. Group discussion/reflection based on live patients’ experiences, role playing, and question and answer techniques were used for making patients aware of their own and others coping strategies and problem solving techniques. Muscle relaxation exercise was practiced in the group and a muscle relaxation audiotape was given to the patients for stress management. Patients were contacted by phone to facilitate their continuous involvement in the intervention. The empowerment program was offered only to the intervention group and the control group received the usual treatment provided in the setting.