Background of the Study
Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting individuals' emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. Group therapy, a structured form of psychotherapy where individuals with similar issues interact under the guidance of a therapist, has been recognized as an effective treatment modality for depression. It fosters peer support, reduces isolation, and enhances coping mechanisms (Jones et al., 2023).
In Nigeria, where stigma around mental health persists, group therapy offers a platform for shared experiences, reducing the barriers to seeking help. At Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, group therapy has been employed to varying extents in managing depression. However, its effectiveness in this context remains under-researched. This study evaluates the role of group therapy in improving clinical outcomes for depression patients.
Statement of the Problem
Depression management in Nigeria faces challenges such as limited access to specialized care, stigma, and low treatment adherence. While group therapy offers a cost-effective and socially inclusive intervention, its effectiveness in managing depression at Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, has not been systematically evaluated.
Without empirical evidence, the potential benefits of group therapy may remain untapped, limiting its adoption in mental health practices. This study investigates the effectiveness of group therapy in improving treatment outcomes for depression patients, contributing to evidence-based mental health interventions.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the impact of group therapy on depressive symptoms among patients.
2. To evaluate the effect of group therapy on patients’ treatment adherence.
3. To explore patients’ perceptions of group therapy as a treatment modality.
Research Questions
1. How does group therapy influence depressive symptoms among patients?
2. What is the effect of group therapy on treatment adherence?
3. How do patients perceive group therapy as part of their treatment?
Research Hypotheses
1. Group therapy significantly reduces depressive symptoms among patients.
2. Group therapy enhances treatment adherence in depression management.
3. Patients have positive perceptions of group therapy as a treatment approach.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on patients diagnosed with depression participating in group therapy at Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Maiduguri, between 2023 and 2025. Limitations include variability in group dynamics and potential biases in patients' self-reported experiences.
Definitions of Terms
• Group Therapy: A psychotherapeutic approach where individuals with similar mental health conditions interact under a therapist's guidance.
• Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and impaired daily functioning.
• Treatment Adherence: The degree to which patients consistently follow their prescribed therapeutic regimen.
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