Improving treatment outcomes for depressed women : use of a self-help inventory in counselling settings

It is well established that women experience higher rates of depression than men. There is a widespread acceptance that an inclusive, multifactorial view is necessary to understand the etiology of depression for women. Despite this, translation of the biopsychosocial view into research design and treatment approaches is not commonplace. Much of the current research is limited by a biomedical approach with an emphasis on cognitive-behavioural treatment. Helen Vidler reports on a small study that attempts to address this 'no context' bias. Women were asked to identify factors they believed to be connected to, and that would help to alleviate, their depression. Findings of most interest were: recovery from depression was associated with reduced self-sacrifice and increased self-agency; 'not feeling in control of my life' was most significant in contributing to depression; 'being able to get support from people I trust' was most significant to alleviation of depression. The findings suggest that treatment is more effective when women are involved in initiating or making choices about treatment. The SHIFT-Depression Inventory was developed in conjunction with, and further refined as a product of, this study. It can be used as a valuable clinical tool that engages women in a process to identify and address the varied contextual factors operative for them in depression and recovery.