Cognitive behaviour therapy for the treatment of depression in individuals with brain injury

Abstract

This article focuses on depression and its psychological management following brain injury or stroke in the adult population. The presentation of depression in the context of brain injury is discussed and a summary of the psychosocial aetiological factors for the development of depression in this context is provided. The links between depression and neuropsychological functioning are explored and the significant impact of depression on neurorehabilitation outcome highlights the need for the development of effective interventions in this area. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is presented as a potentially suitable treatment: The model is described with ideas for the clinician on how to adapt the delivery of CBT for clients with neuropsychological impairment. To date, there have been a very small number of studies evaluating CBT for the treatment of depression in brain injury, however their results have been promising. It is concluded that further research is necessary.