Cognitive-behavioral treatment of depressed affect among epileptics: preliminary findings.

Controlled study showed skills training for the management of depression in an epilepsy population to be effective. Cognitive-behavioral methods were utilized in a structured learning format with 13 clinically depressed epileptic "students." Significantly greater reductions in dysphoria/depression as measured by the Depression Adjective Checklist and the Generalized Contentment Scale occurred among Ss in the treatment group than among control group Ss. Significant decreases in anger and anxiety/stress and increases in social activities were noted on the Community Adjustment Questionnaire (CAQ). Similar trends were evident on the Beck Depression Inventory and the CAQ depression scale.