AO3 of CBT for depression

Does it work?

• effective in stopping mild depression develop into severe depression

• Most effective psych treatment for moderate depression develop into depression

• CBT is more effective when being used in combination with antidepressants

Fennell

CBT is an effective treatment but best when combined with drugs

Shear et al

Found CBT can be highly effective in changing the behaviour of 90% of people

Werson et al

74 studies reviewed and found CBT was significantly better than no treatment

• Who is it best and worst for?

• those who have developed good problem solving skills

  • Elkin et al → more irrational the thinking the more resistant to change, CBT less effective

  • CBT doesn’t work if you’re not open to help

• Why does NHS like it so much?

• long term benefits as you learn skills

• Cheaper than drugs

• Focused and effective

Is all CBT equally good?

• depends massively on therapist

• 15% of variance in the effectiveness of the therapist

What does CBT ignore?

• ignores biology

• Drug treatments are regarded as essential