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Effect of acceptance and commitment therapy for depressive disorders: a meta-analysis
Bing Zhao1, Qian Wang2, Liping Wang1
1School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
Annals of General Psychiatry
|September 7, 2023
Summary
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) significantly reduces depressive symptoms and enhances psychological flexibility. This therapy demonstrates a lasting positive effect, proving particularly beneficial for Chinese patients with depressive disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Depressive disorders represent a significant global health burden.
- Effective therapeutic interventions are crucial for managing depressive symptoms and improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in treating patients diagnosed with depressive disorders.
- To assess ACT's impact on depressive symptom severity and psychological flexibility.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted.
- Eleven studies involving 962 patients were included after rigorous screening.
- Data analysis utilized the random-effects model and RevMan5.4 software, adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
Main Results:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in depressive symptoms (SMD = -1.05, P < 0.00001).
- ACT significantly improved psychological flexibility (MD = 4.84, P < 0.00001).
- The therapy also showed a robust maintenance effect on depressive symptoms (SMD = -0.70, P = 0.002).
Conclusions:
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an effective intervention for reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing psychological flexibility.
- ACT exhibits a beneficial maintenance effect for patients with depressive disorders.
- The findings suggest ACT may be particularly effective in Chinese patient populations, warranting further investigation.
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