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Screening test may reveal whether depressed patients will benefit from cognitive therapy

By Staff Writer

Many people who suffer from depression are referred to cognitive therapy. However, this type of treatment is not successful for everyone. Now, a new screening test that evaluates pupil size may reveal whether or not an individual will respond well to cognitive therapy, according to a recent study published in the journal General Psychiatry.

The researchers noted that this treatment method is only effective for about half of depressed patients. However, they said that the new preliminary test may be able to reduce the length of recovery time and healthcare costs for individuals whose screening results indicate that they should seek alternative treatments.

The scientists explained that the new preliminary test measures changes in a patient's pupil size when they read words that express certain emotions.

Cognitive therapy may be beneficial to young people who suffer from depression, since their brains are still in the process of development. Mental health professionals work with patients to modify negative or irrational thoughts or actions, which may lead to improvements in overall mood.

Troubled teens programs that are available at boarding schools may help adolescents who have been diagnosed with depression cope with the disorder.

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