British scientists have observed that augmented depression therapy promotes feelings of well-being while reducing disease-related symptoms in depressed patients.
- Anhedonia results in an inability to feel pleasure. This is one of the most common symptoms of major depression.
- In case of depression, cognitive-behavioral therapies are usually put in place.
- Augmented therapy for depression is a potential alternative to cognitive-behavioral therapy, according to British researchers.
Depression is mainly characterized by mood disturbances. Anhedonia, or an inability to experience pleasure, is one of the most common symptoms of major depression. As part of the treatment of psychic suffering, cognitive-behavioral therapies are generally carried out.
Augmented depression therapy improves patient well-being
In a study published in the journal Lancet EClinical Medicineresearchers from the University of Exeter (United Kingdom) have observed that augmented therapy for depression could be a potential alternative to cognitive and behavioral therapy.
To reach this conclusion, the scientists organized a clinical trial including 82 adults with moderate to severe depression and features of anhedonia. Participants were randomly assigned to 20 individual sessions of augmented depression therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Their progress was assessed at the start of the research, as well as six, twelve and eighteen months after the end of the trial.
Augmented depression therapy places as much emphasis on improving well-being as it does on reducing depressive symptoms. “As part of this care, we encourage patients to take a new perspective on their difficulties, in order to learn how to live well with a depressed mood. The main objective is to help them identify what is important to them in key areas of life, take steps to live a life consistent with these values, seize opportunities and manage challenges, so that they can experience well-being and pleasure”explained Barney Dunn, lead author of the study and professor of clinical psychology at the University of Exeter.
Augmented therapy for depression: “I learned to appreciate the finer things in life”
According to the results, augmented depression therapy would be more likely to increase feelings of well-being and reduce depression at the end of treatment, compared to cognitive behavioral therapy. Katie, a patient suffering from severe depression, observed in particular the positive effects of this new therapeutic approach. “Previously, my treatment had always focused on eliminating the symptoms of mental illness. Augmented depression therapy changed my perspective and helped me take steps to improve my well-being, while allowing me to be more authentic and act in a way that was more in line with my values. . This support helps me make decisions that feel right to me and gives me an identity outside of mental illness, which is great. I’ve learned to appreciate the finer things in life that make me happy, even when I’m having a tough week. It really changed things for me.”she described.
