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Distress and anhedonia as predictors of depression treatment outcome: A secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial.

Author: CohenZachary D, DeRubeisRobert J, DunnBarnaby D, HollonSteven D, KhazanovGabriela K, XuColin

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Overview

This study looked at how two key symptoms of depression – feeling distressed and having difficulty experiencing pleasure – impacted treatment outcomes for people with recurrent or chronic depression. Higher levels of distress and anhedonia (lack of pleasure) at the start of treatment were associated with a longer time to recover. Adding cognitive therapy (CT) to antidepressant medication (ADM) was helpful for those with high levels of distress and anhedonia, but not for those with lower levels. Therefore, measuring distress and anhedonia before treatment might help identify patients who would benefit from CT in addition to ADM.
Paper Details　
Original Abstract of the Article :
Two core features of depression include depressed mood (heightened distress) and anhedonia (reduced pleasure). Despite their centrality to depression, studies have not examined their contribution to treatment outcomes in a randomized clinical trial providing mainstream treatments like antidepressant...See full text at original site
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引用元：
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31896529

データ提供：米国国立医学図書館（NLM）

Distress and Anhedonia: The Depressive Desert

The desert of depression is a harsh and unforgiving landscape. This study delves into the two key features of this mental health condition – distress and anhedonia – and their impact on treatment outcomes. Researchers investigated 433 individuals with recurrent/chronic major depressive disorder, examining the role of distress and anhedonia in predicting remission and recovery. The researchers found that higher levels of distress and anhedonia at the start of treatment were associated with longer times to remission and recovery. However, when factoring in treatment type – antidepressant medications (ADM) alone or ADM combined with cognitive therapy (CT) – distress emerged as a stronger predictor than anhedonia. Notably, the study also found that individuals with higher levels of distress and anhedonia benefitted more from receiving CT in addition to ADM.

The Oasis of Cognitive Therapy

This study's findings suggest that cognitive therapy might be a valuable tool for individuals with depression, especially those experiencing high levels of distress and anhedonia. Imagine a desert traveler suffering from exhaustion and dehydration – that's what high distress and anhedonia can be like in depression. Cognitive therapy, like a well-placed oasis, provides resources and coping mechanisms to navigate the challenges of this condition.

Health Guidance: Seeking Help

If you are struggling with depression, it is essential to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance and support to help you find the right path to recovery. Remember, you don't have to navigate the desert of depression alone.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

This research offers valuable insights into the complex world of depression, highlighting the importance of considering individual factors like distress and anhedonia when planning treatment. The study suggests that cognitive therapy can play a vital role in alleviating these symptoms, acting as a vital oasis in the desert of depression. Remember, seeking professional help and exploring different treatment options can make a world of difference.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2021-08-11
  2. Date Revised 2021-08-11
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

31896529

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

NIHMS1547874

Related Literature

Article Analysis
・Effective treatment of depression
SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

Positive IndicatorAn AI analysis index that serves as a benchmark for how positive the results of the study are. Note that it is a benchmark and requires careful interpretation and consideration of different perspectives.

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