Synergizing resilience theory and satir model in nursing: A holistic intervention for adolescent depression

Adolescent depression is a growing global health concern requiring effective, multidimensional interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a holistic nursing intervention that integrates resilience theory with the Satir model for reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing psychological well-being in adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at the inpatient psychiatric unit of The First Hospital of Hebei Medical University from February 2022 to March 2023. A total of 192 adolescents diagnosed with MDD were recruited and randomly allocated (1:1 ratio) to either the research group (n = 96) or the control group (n = 96). The control group received routine nursing care, including standard psychoeducation and supportive counseling. The research group received an additional 15-session integrated intervention program (2 h/session) during hospitalization, followed by a 3-month post-discharge follow-up. The intervention synergized resilience theory (focusing on building internal strengths like self-efficacy) with Satir model techniques (addressing family dynamics and communication stances). Primary outcomes were depressive symptoms assessed by HAMD-17, MADRS, and BDI scales. Secondary outcomes included psychological resilience, self-esteem, coping styles, and medication compliance. Data were analyzed using mixed-model ANOVAs.

Of the 192 participants, 182 (94.8%) completed the study (n = 91 per group). Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. Post-intervention, the research group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in depressive scores compared to the control group (e.g., HAMD-17: 8.93 ± 2.58 vs. 13.29 ± 2.87, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.60). Furthermore, the research group showed significantly higher improvements in resilience, self-esteem, positive coping styles, and medication compliance (p < 0.05 for all interactions).

The integration of resilience theory and the Satir model in nursing practice effectively alleviates depressive symptoms and promotes positive psychological adaptation in adolescents with MDD. This holistic approach offers a promising, evidence-based strategy for adolescent mental health care.