EFFECT OF SHORT TERM PSYCHOTHERAPY ON DEPRESSION IN POST MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION PATIENTS

Abstract

Objective: To measure the frequency of depression and assess the benefits ofshort termpsychotherapy on depression in post MI patients.

Methodology: This cross sectional study was conducted in Cardiologydepartment, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from August 2014 to February2015. Patients with depression were identified using Beck Depression Inventory(BDI) tool. The severity of depression was divided into mild, borderline, moderateand severe. Patients included in the study were divided into Treatment and Non-Treatment groups. Patients in the treatment group were called on weekly basisand administered three therapeutic sessions. The 1 session included problemidentification with HFD (Human Figure Drawing) and projective personality test. In2 session patients underwent relaxation and thought stopping techniques. The3 session included cognitive restructuring, reevaluation through BDI. Besidesthis patients were given specific therapy tailored according to their needs.Patients were reassessed for their depression level using BDI.

Results: A sample of 250 patients was recruited in the study. The frequency ofdepression was 42%. The mean age was 56.12 ±10.94 years. Males were 78%,Educated were 43%. Family history for CHD , Hypertension , Diabetes, Currentsmokers and past smokers were 54%, 81%, 39%, 14% and 25% respectively.Significant reduction in level of depression and BDI score after therapy was ( p0.0001) observed.

Conclusion: Psychotherapy is effective in reducing the level of depression inpatients with myocardial infarction.