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Chapter 3.4 - Psychological and Social Treatment of Depression

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 April 2024

By
Stirling Moorey
Edited by
David Kingdon ,
Paul Rowlands  and
George Stein
David Kingdon
Affiliation:
University of Southampton
Paul Rowlands
Affiliation:
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS foundation Trust
George Stein
Affiliation:
Emeritus of the Princess Royal University Hospital
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Summary

Psychosocial intervention, in its broadest sense, is a vital component in the management of all types of depression, from mild depressive reactions to psychotic episodes. Even if pharmacological therapy or ECT is the main treatment, the way in which the clinician assesses, engages the patient, gives information about the illness and its treatment, and provides support contributes significantly to a successful outcome. In addition to this basic level of supportive work, many patients will benefit from more structured forms of psychotherapy. This chapter will consider the psychological and social therapies available for depression and the evidence for their effectiveness. Some general principles of psychological management for the depressed patient will be described.

Keywords

depressioncognitive therapypsychotherapyfamily therapypsychosocial interventionsocial therapy
Type
Chapter
Information
Seminars in General Adult Psychiatry , pp. 147 - 161
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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