Cognitive-behavioral group therapy for depression in adolescents with diabetes: a pilot study

Abstract

"The purpose of this study is to adapt and pilot test a group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) model which hasbeen proven to be effective in treating depression in Puerto Rican adolescents, to treat depressive symptoms andimprove glycemic control in adolescents with diabetes. Eleven adolescents aged 13-16 participated in a 12 session groupCBT intervention. Indicators of outcome effects (depressive and anxious symptomatology, self-esteem, hopelessness,diabetes self-efficacy, self-care and glycemic control) were assessed pre and post therapy using self-report instrumentsand a measure of glycosilated hemoglobin. Depressive symptomatology, self-concept and diabetes self-efficacysignificantly improved after the intervention, and reductions in anxious symptoms and hopelessness were also observed.There were no significant changes in glycemic control or self-care behaviors. The findings of this pilot study suggest thatgroup CBT is a feasible intervention for adolescents with diabetes and depressive symptomatology. However, furtherresearch is needed in developing interventions that improve self-care and glycemic control."