CBT alters brain structure in depression

CBT may alter brain structure and boost grey matter in depressed individuals.

Why it matters

  • CBT can change brain structure, providing a biological basis for its effectiveness.
  • Offers hope for more effective treatments for depression.

By the numbers

  • Study involved 30 depressed participants and 30 healthy controls.
  • 20 therapy sessions conducted.
  • 63% of patients showed significant symptom reduction.

The big picture

  • Findings suggest CBT could have lasting effects on brain structure, potentially improving long-term outcomes for depression.

What they're saying

  • Study has sparked interest in personal experiences with CBT.

Caveats

  • Small study size; more research needed.
  • Findings should be interpreted with caution due to study limitations.

What’s next

  • Larger studies to confirm results.
  • Further research into long-term effects of CBT on brain structure.
Source
Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg & University of Münster