Beyond medications: a multifaceted approach to alleviating comorbid anxiety and depression in clinical settings.
Comorbid anxiety and depression are prevalent and can complicate treatment, sometimes making it resistant to pharmacological approaches. While treatments including physical activity, a good diet, psychoeducation, and social support have demonstrated beneficial impacts, existing research frequently looks at these conditions independently. In a clinical context, this study by Svensén et al. (2024) sought to examine the long-term effects of a comprehensive treatment strategy for individuals with co-occurring depression and anxiety. Eighty inpatients (15 men, 65 women) aged 23-65 years, receiving psychiatric care in a Norwegian clinic, participated in this longitudinal study. The treatment provided was personalized and focused on addressing anxiety and depression, incorporating pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy (individual and group-based). Other elements were social support through contact with family members and authorities, psychoeducation, physical exercise, and a good diet. The Beck Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory were used to evaluate anxiety and depression at three different points in time: baseline, after therapy, and three months following treatment. Three months after therapy, compared to the baseline, the number of patients with mild anxiety and depression increased significantly, according to the results. The person-centered, comprehensive treatment led to more patients achieving lower levels of both anxiety and depression three months after treatment. The authors recommend that clinics treating patients with comorbid anxiety and depression integrate physical activity, nutrition guidance, social support, and psychoeducation into their traditional treatment plans. To investigate further therapy options for comorbid sadness and anxiety, more study is required. [NPID: Depression, anxiety, comorbidity, treatment, physical activity, healthy diet, patient education, social support]
Year: 2024
