Efficacy of a Functional Therapy Program for Depression and C-Reactive Protein: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Immunology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Depression is a global health issue linked to inflammation.
• Chronic low-grade inflammation and cell-mediated immunity are implicated in depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a structured functional therapy program for depressed mood.
• To determine if functional therapy reduces C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.

Main Methods:

• 28 outpatients with depressed mood received 20 individual functional therapy sessions.
• Collected data on depression, self-esteem, quality of life, and CRP levels at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months.
• CRP was measured using an immunoenzymatic method.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements observed in depression, self-esteem, and all quality of life dimensions (physical, psychological, social, environment).
• Statistically significant reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels post-treatment.
• Treatment benefits were maintained at the 6-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Functional therapy shows promise in treating depression.
• The therapy positively impacts psychological markers and inflammation-related markers like CRP.
• This suggests a potential role for functional therapy in managing the inflammatory aspects of depression.