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Relationship between alexithymia and depression: A narrative review
Rajesh Sagar1, Shivangi Talwar1, Geetha Desai2
1Department of Psychiatry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Indian Journal of Psychiatry
|July 1, 2021
Summary
Alexithymia, the difficulty in experiencing and expressing feelings, is strongly linked to depression. Severity and gender impact this relationship, potentially affecting treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Humanities
Background:
- Alexithymia is characterized by difficulties in identifying, processing, and describing emotions.
- It is frequently observed in various medical and psychological conditions, influencing patient outcomes.
- Cultural factors may play a role in the manifestation and perception of alexithymia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between alexithymia and depression.
- To explore the influence of culture on the alexithymia-depression connection.
- To understand how these factors impact treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature search using keywords: depression, alexithymia, depression and alexithymia, Toronto Alexithymia Scale, assessing alexithymia and depression, alexithymia as a trait.
- Systematic review of existing studies.
Main Results:
- A significant correlation exists between alexithymia and depression.
- Depression severity is independently associated with alexithymia.
- Gender is also independently associated with alexithymia.
- These associations may negatively impact treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Alexithymia and depression are closely related conditions.
- Depression severity and gender are key factors influencing alexithymia.
- Addressing alexithymia is crucial for effective treatment of depression.
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