Cognitive behavioural therapy for depression, anxiety and stress in caregivers of dementia patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: There is limited evidence for the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in managing psychological morbidities in caregivers of dementia patients. To evaluate changes in dementia caregivers' depression, anxiety, and stress following CBT. Also to assess quality of life, intervention adherence/satisfaction and therapy effectiveness using different formats, frequencies, and delivery methods. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Studies were identified through electronic bibliographic searches (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library) and from gray literature (Conference Proceedings Citation Index and clinicaltrials.gov). Data were pooled for meta-analysis. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies were included. Depression (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.47 to -0.21; p 8 sessions. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Group CBT provides small but significant benefits to caregivers' depression and stress. Therapy cost-effectiveness may be improved by limiting therapy to group formats and eight sessions.