The Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Depression and Low Self-Esteem in the Context of Pediatric Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME): A Case Study

Review: How has cognitive behaviour therapy been adapted for adolescents with comorbid depression and chronic illness? A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Depression becomes increasingly common in adolescence. Around 10%-20% of adolescents have a chronic illness, and they are more likely to experience depression. There is emerging evidence for cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) interventions to treat depression in adolescents with chronic illnesses, yet no review has been undertaken of how these CBT interventions are delivered in practice.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review to summarise how CBT has been delivered in adolescents with chronic illness and depression. We included studies that evaluated CBT aimed at treating depression/depressive symptoms in adolescents with chronic illness. Searches were carried out across Embase and PsycNET.

RESULTS

Twelve studies met our inclusion criteria. These included diabetes (n = 3), inflammatory bowel disease (n = 3), polycystic ovary syndrome (n = 2), chronic headache (n = 1), chronic pain (n = 1), chronic fatigue syndrome (n = 1) and Fanconi anaemia (n = 1). Adaptations made to the delivery of CBT included cognitive restructuring of illness-related thoughts, behavioural activation balancing illness-related and enjoyable activities, psychoeducation of the comorbidity and link between the chronic illness and depression, relationship building, skill building and parental or familial involvement. CBT was typically delivered by trained professionals with expertise in working with adolescents, who worked under supervision.

CONCLUSIONS

CBT for depression is commonly adapted for this population, and the nature of cognitions and behaviours targeted in CBT may typically depend on how the chronic illness presents. There is relatively little evidence to date, and a need for more research into the efficacy and effectiveness of treatments for adolescent depression in this vulnerable population specifically.

Same, Same But Different? Cognitive Behavioural Treatment Approaches for Paediatric CFS/ME and Depression

BACKGROUND

Approximately one in three children and young people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS/ME) also have probable depression. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) has a growing evidence base as an effective treatment approach for CFS/ME and for depression in this population.

AIMS

Given the high degree of co-morbidity, this discussion paper aims to compare and contrast CBT for CFS/ME and CBT for depression in children and young people.

METHOD

The existing literature on CBT for depression and CBT for CFS/ME, in relation to children and young people was reviewed.

RESULTS

Whilst there are commonalities to both treatments, the cognitive behavioural model of CFS/ME maintenance includes different factors and has a different emphasis to the cognitive behavioural model of depression, resulting in different intervention targets and strategies in a different sequence.

CONCLUSIONS

A collaborative, formulation-driven approach to intervention should inform the intervention targets and treatment strategies.