Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Essay Example

adults in the population and the negative impact of untreated depression. Various factors such as limited social, financial, health, and occupational resources, as well as mobility difficulties, loss of meaningful roles, loss of loved ones, and real-life challenges, pose a threat to the well-being, self-esteem, and adaptive capacities of individuals (Setter ; Hammer, 1983). The text also highlights cognitive-behavioral therapy (CB) as an effective evidence-based treatment for depression (Butler, Chapman, Forman ; Beck, 2006).

The goal of the therapy is to alter negative outlooks associated with depression and assist troubled people in differentiating between despair and an authentic acknowledgment of their constraints. The emphasis lies on tackling present issues and cultivating capabilities, making it notably beneficial for senior citizens. This holds particularly true for those skeptical or resistant to psychotherapy due to skepticism towards psychological practices (Setter et al., 1983). Contradicting common misconceptions, depression is not a typical part of growing old. It can be successfully treated in about 65% - 75% of older patients (Alehouses, Kits, ; Reynolds, 2001).

According to Alehouses et al. (2001), when depression is not treated, it can impede recovery and potentially exacerbate the outcome of other ailments. Cognitive behavior therapy acknowledges that older individuals' beliefs regarding the causes of their depression should be given more consideration compared to other age groups. This is because elderly patients often adopt a passive stance, where they are more inclined to wait for the doctor to cure them or fail to realize that their symptoms are indicative of common signs of depression (Coder, Broadly, & Nasty, 1996).

Elderly individuals often start treatment with the belief that they cannot change due to their

age. The objective is to teach them to relate negative views or factors that affect their mood to external, unstable, and specific causes. In contrast, they should attribute successful experiences to internal global factors (Coder et al., 1996). Modifying these perspectives can be difficult, particularly considering how long the individual has been depressed. It may be challenging for them to adopt a new outlook on themselves and the problems they face on a daily basis.

Thompson et al. proposed in 1986 to tackle these viewpoints head-on by offering help and elaborating on how thoughts influence mood. The objective of this method is to aid coping mechanisms and increase comprehension concerning cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and its significance in self-healing, challenging the idea that therapy by itself can heal patients. Nevertheless, it brings up a critical issue about the efficiency of this therapy, especially for elderly individuals, compared to drugs or alternative psychodrama therapies.

In 1987, Thompson, Gallagher and Befriending carried out a study to evaluate the viability of short-term psychotherapy as an alternative to pharmacological treatment for older individuals who might not be appropriate candidates for or derive advantages from medications. Given the elevated risk of health alterations and the plethora of diverse drugs available for multiple conditions, it could be impractical to incorporate medication in treating a psychological malady. The primary objective of their study was to juxtapose the efficacy of three concise psychotherapeutic methods in combating depression amongst senior patients.

To qualify for this study, an individual had to meet the following criteria:

• They must be at least 60 years old
• They must have a confirmed diagnosis of major depressive disorder
• Be either not currently on depression
  

medication or have been taking it consistently for no less than 3 months

The subject individuals were indiscriminately allotted to one of three scenarios: behavioural therapy, cognitive therapy, and rife psychodrama therapy. Regarding age, gender, intensity of depression severity, and symptom occurrence, they were alike. Regrettably, this study experienced some withdrawals with 14 patients discontinuing their treatment ahead of time. Among these 14 participants, dissatisfaction with the treatment led 8 patients to drop out.

The ultimate results indicate that there were no notable disparities in the outcomes of the three groups, including the count of affirmative feedback from those who showed improvement. Individuals who finished any of the trio treatments verified that their therapy experiences were indistinguishable. The study validated that psychotherapy can serve as a viable substitute for medication in treating depression among seniors. Nevertheless, numerous significant queries remain unresolved.

The effectiveness of the three treatments remains ambiguous due to the lack of significant disparity between them. The research indicates a need for further studies to ascertain the best therapy for different individuals. It further underscores the necessity to identify those who will gain most from treatment and determine if some may benefit more from one kind of therapy than another.

By taking into account the implications associated with these constructs, we can enhance the treatment process. This can lead to a quicker recovery and heightened comfort

and satisfaction for senior patients. Additionally, it may lower dropout rates and bolster coping strategies. A different study conducted by Marquette, Thompson, Riser, Holland, O'Hara, Kessler ; Thompson (2013) investigated how predictors in neurophysiology can impact the reaction to cognitive-behavioral therapy.

The research focused on investigating depression in the elderly. Sixty participants were involved in the study, consisting of 37 older women and 23 older men who were all aged 60 or more. Each participant was presently dealing with depression. The researchers carried out a therapeutic intervention named Positive Experience Project (PEP) over two to three months, employing cognitive-behavioral therapy strategies for a duration of 12 weeks.

The study encompassed a heterogeneous assortment of individuals varying in marital statuses and living conditions. The participants represented various ethnic groups such as Caucasians, African Americans, Asians, American Indians, and Hispanics. During the time of evaluation, these participants were either retired or jobless. Assessment methodologies comprised interviews conducted via the Mini-International Neuropsychiatry Interview approach, demographic information gathered through a survey coupled with multiple self-evaluation scales to gauge perceived levels of depression, personality traits and social support systems along with the impact of recent stress or stressful incidents.

A total of twelve cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions were conducted, with the objective of teaching skills like relaxation techniques, interpersonal communication abilities, behavioral engagement, and cognitive reorganization. The outcomes from the post-evaluation interview indicated that 67% of participants noted clinical improvements. Among these improved individuals, their diagnostic status decreased; in addition to this, complete remission was observed in twenty-nine participants. Yet, symptoms related to depressive disorder persisted among the remaining 33% attendees.

The findings indicate that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CB) is an effective

approach in managing depression. It diminishes depressive symptoms over multiple sessions and can even cure depression in certain scenarios. Nevertheless, it should be highlighted that approximately 33% of the subjects did not exhibit any improvement. This implies the need for further research to refine and enhance CB's effectiveness. Efforts must be concentrated on reducing the 33% who do not exhibit a favorable response, which may entail integrating another therapeutic method or identifying the most appropriate technique tailored to individual needs.

The study carried out by Has, Went, Quo, Line, Gong, Quo & Chin (2010) highlights conflicting perspectives. Their research focused on examining the effects of group therapy based on risk factors and cognitive-behavioral approaches on symptoms of depression as well as levels of cortical and inflammatory cytokines in the elderly. However, the scope of their study was restricted due to a small sample size consisting only 10 participants. Even though there was a successful reduction in depressive indications among older subjects through this study, it also showed that cognitive-behavioral therapy didn't lead to a drop in levels of cortical and inflammatory cytokines - an outcome which contradicts previous findings.

Although a small number of participants limits the data and conclusions, this study suggests the need for further research on the significance of group therapy for CB. Setter et al. (1983) also addresses issues in cognitive-behavioral group therapy, noting differences between age groups in education, cultural experiences, and cultural mores.

Personal debilities, such as hearing loss or memory difficulties, can limit understanding and necessitate a slower pace and potentially more repetition during a cognitive behavioral therapy (CB) session. Additionally, elders commonly hold the belief that it

is too late to change patterns or try new responses due to their age.

Older adults' quality of life can be considerably affected by stress, which may arise from events such as losing a spouse or friend, encountering health problems, and dealing with life's challenges. This situation could result in decreased self-confidence and diminished overall wellness, irrespective of an individual's coping abilities. The objective of cognitive-behavioral therapy is to help patients differentiate between depression symptoms and the acceptance of feasible limitations (Setter & Hammer, 1983).

Present studies suggest that this treatment has demonstrated efficacy. It might serve as a mechanism to assist the older population in diminishing their depressive signs, allowing them to take pleasure and find meaning in their twilight years. Nevertheless, specific constraints raise doubts about Cab's credibility. As such, additional investigation is required to determine if indeed cognitive-behavioral therapy is the best alternative for an individual.

Educating patients on depression, its manifestations, and the syndrome's effects is of utmost importance. This education provides them with a deeper insight into how they are affected by depression, the feelings it incites, and its root causes. This understanding is crucial for effective management of their condition. Hence, evaluation processes need to encompass various facets of depressive disorder (Setter & Hammer, 1983).

Group therapy effectiveness needs to take into account the impacts of varying ages and disparities. The study may prove difficult without considering patients' attributes, their cultural background, age, and intelligence in relation to others in the group (Setter ; Hammer, 1983). Scuppers (1998) notes that dropout rates are a significant measure of results and offer essential insights into why individuals might be unhappy with

therapy and its underlying causes.

By giving more emphasis to this approach, it is possible to eliminate or include elements that older adults may find undesirable or off-putting, while incorporating recommendations that they may consider more advantageous. It is crucial to ask older adults for their input rather than making assumptions. Moreover, additional research is necessary in situations where treatment is unsuccessful in order to comprehend and identify effective alternatives for these individuals (Thompson et al., 1987). It is essential for everyone to have the chance to improve, and if suitable treatments are not available, they are left feeling hopeless.

According to Marquette et al. (2013), therapists who treat elderly individuals with depression need to consider emotional and social supports, as well as personality factors. These factors impact the client's response to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CB). If these factors are lacking, therapists can focus on improving them as part of the treatment goal. Additionally, the study indicates that certain factors may necessitate adjustments or alternative forms of treatment.

Laid (2010) emphasizes the significance of psychotherapy practitioners and highlights that cognitive behavioral therapy (CB) for older adults is distinct from its traditional application. This implies that therapists must possess knowledge about age-related changes and adjust their approach accordingly. Additionally, Laid (2010) proposes that, to maximize the benefits of CB, the therapy model should adapt to fit the individual rather than expecting the person to change. This ensures that individuals receive the necessary support for efficient recovery.

The text emphasizes that negative attitudes towards aging are formed early in life and are influenced by media and the people around us, which later become self-stereotypes. When clients exhibit

various issues and a decreased quality of life, it is often perceived as aging being undesirable and may limit available psychological treatment options. If therapists recognize their clients' negative attitudes, it is crucial for them to address this issue as it can hinder progress towards a positive outcome in therapy.

According to Laid (2010), comprehending an individual's inner experience and level of belief is crucial for effective treatment and achieving positive outcomes.