Psychiatric social work intervention with a person with severe depression based on cognitive behavioural case work approach: A case study

Background : Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a widely recognized and accepted approach of treatment for depression. Aim : To examine the application of case work based on a cognitive behavioural approach concerning working with a client experiencing severe depression. Methodology : The single-subject case study design was adopted. Based on the assessment, psychiatric social work intervention was provided to client and family members. Pre and post assessment was done to see the effectiveness of psychiatric social work intervention in person with depression. Assessments were done using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), Bradford Somatic Inventory (BSI), and Family Assessment Proforma. Results : Client’s level of understanding about the illness was improved and the depressive symptoms were significantly reduced along with somatic complaints. Conclusion : The outcome of the case study approves that the cases with depression can be effectively seen using cognitive behavioural case work approach along with pharmacological treatment. Keywords:  Depression, cognitive behaviour therapy, psychosocial, social work intervention