Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for DepressionDepression typically leads to a reduction in social and other rewarding activities. The less we do, the more our self-confidence reduces, making it even harder to engage in previously fulfilling activities. This can lead to self-criticism as our opinion of ourselves, others and the world in general becomes increasingly negatively biased. As a consequence our mood deteriorates yet further making it even harder to get going and improve our situation. This self-defeating cycle may initially be tackled with CBT by clarifying the relationship between our activity levels and mood and seeking to change this in ways that can be helpful. Addressing thinking distortions and altered perceptions arising from depressed mood is also a key feature of CBT for depression. This may be achieved through learning to identify and challenge thoughts that are unfairly biased as a result of our depressed outlook but which are nevertheless powerful maintaining factors in feeding our depression. Long-held beliefs and assumptions that we hold about ourselves can also be responsible for making us vulnerable to depression. Where this is the case, CBT works to positively influence these factors in an attempt to assist speedy recovery from a depressive episode and also to reduce risk of future relapse. There has been a great deal of research carried out over the past 30 years that demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in successfully tackling depression. Depression
Depression can be triggered by a variety of obvious stresses occurring within our lives. Alternatively, it can appear to develop out of the blue, with no warning. Depression is, sadly, very common. Studies carried out indicate that up to 25% of women and 10% of men are likely to experience an episode of depression during their lifetime. For many sufferers, there is an increased likelihood of depression occurring more than once. Developing skills in reducing this risk of relapse, and of limiting any episodes that do occur, is therefore extremely important. If you are depressed, you will probably notice a number of changes in your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and behaviour. Main features may include:
Depression is often accompanied by anxiety making getting on with day to day tasks even more difficult. Fortunately, depression is a very treatable condition. Recovery can be achieved through both pharmacological (anti-depressant medication) and psychological treatments. CBT is listed within the National Institute for Clinical Excellence Guidelines for Depression (2004) as the psychological treatment of choice for moderate to severe depression. |
Conditions We Treatrecommended reading
Overcoming Depression: A Self-Help Guide using Cognitive Behavioural Techniques (2000) by Paul Gilbert. Published by Constable and Robinson Ltd. More Info
the therapists
Dr Tim Sweeney Postgraduate Diploma (Cognitive Therapy), BSc (Hons), Specialist Practitioner - Mental Health, BA (Hons), Diploma in Nursing - Mental Health... Read More |
