[Psychoeducation and family-related counselling in the treatment of depression]

Abstract

By now psychoeducation is also recommended for the treatment of depression, due to data showing high acceptance and efficacy regarding a broad range of clinical variables. The impact of family-involvement by groups for relatives is not sufficiently studied yet, but findings concerning other severe mental diseases suggest positive effects. Self help groups are of high importance for the patients' relatives, who often need advice and support.