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Cognitive therapy for depression with individuals with intellectual disabilities
W R Lindsay1, L Howells, D Pitcaithly
1Head of Clinical Psychology Services (Learning Disabilities & Child Health), Strathmartine Hospital, Dundee, UK.
The British Journal of Medical Psychology
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) was adapted for individuals with intellectual disabilities to treat depression. Simplified CBT elements proved effective in two case studies, showing improvements in depressive feelings and suicidal thoughts.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Intellectual Disability Research
Background:
- Growing research interest in psychopathology within intellectual disability populations, specifically depression.
- Existing gap in treatment research for depression among individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for depression.
- To report on the adaptation and clinical application of CBT for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing cognitive behaviour therapy for depression.
- Adaptation of CBT principles for individuals with mild intellectual disability.
- Illustration of clinical applications through two case studies.
Main Results:
- Maintained and simplified all core elements of CBT for depression.
- Both subjects successfully monitored depressive feelings; one monitored suicidal thoughts.
- Observed improvements in depressive symptoms via the Zung Depression Inventory and daily mood monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Adapted cognitive behaviour therapy is a viable treatment for depression in individuals with mild intellectual disability.
- Simplified CBT interventions can be effectively implemented in this client group.
- Further research into CBT for depression in intellectual disability is warranted.