Problem Solving Therapy for Depressed Patients

Abstract

In a recent study, depression showed a negative effect on diabetes management, and comorbid disease was shown to increase risk of depression. This article introduces a problem solving therapy (PST) that can be applied to patients with depression in clinical settings. PST is a psychosocial intervention designed to reinforce an individual's ability to effectively cope with the stress of daily life to lower physical and mental stress and reduce related difficulties. The therapy is conducted in the following sessions: 1, Selecting and Defining Problems; 2, Setting Goals; 3, Finding Solutions; 4, Examining the Pros and Cons of Each Solution; 5, Choosing the Best Solution; 6, Creating and Implementing an Action Plan; 7, Evaluating the Results. PST is useful for depressed patients as it can address various problems experienced in daily life, such as economic problems, interpersonal difficulties, and psychosocial conditions. In addition, because the problem-solving process occur in 5 to 7 stages, the intervention period is relatively short compared to psychological therapy or counseling such as psychoanalysis. As depression has a negative influence on diabetes management as well as treatment of diabetic patients, sensitive assessment and timely intervention are necessary.