[Behavior and cognitive therapies in depression]

Behavioural and cognitive therapeutic strategies follow a multidimensional pathogenetic model of depression. The different approaches are more successful when well planned and depend on the combination of various techniques. Their rationale is based on the common approach that the patient must be convinced that he is able to control his cognition, behaviour and, also, his depression. By training in skills he should be in the position of improving the quality of life and behavioural reactions thereby avoiding sinking into depression. Behavioural and cognitive methods are useful in increasing compliance with medical prescriptions; sometimes they prevent the premature termination of biological treatment when compliance is especially poor. Through cognitive-behavioural approaches the discussion on nosology and course of depression is enlarged. An episodic course of depression is usually characterized by an underlying anxiety state and loss of reinforcers; attention to these factors may lead to new therapeutic strategies.