From Struggle to Relief: Qualitative Accounts of Symptom Reduction in Mixed Anxiety and Depression after Three Months of CBT

Abstract

The present study qualitatively explores the therapeutic experiences of patients with Mixed Anxiety and Depression (MAD) following three months of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a specific focus on symptom reduction related to depression and anxiety. Mixed Anxiety and Depression is a common and disabling mental health condition that significantly affects individuals' quality of life. Although Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been well-documented as an effective treatment for these disorders, there remains limited understanding of patients' subjective experiences and perceptions of symptom changes throughout the therapy process. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 25 participants diagnosed with F41.2 Mixed Anxiety and Depressive Disorder, aged 18-35, who underwent three months of CBT. Using purposive sampling, participants were selected based on inclusion criteria, excluding those with co-occurring mental or physical disorders, or those currently undergoing other therapies. The interviews focused on the participants’ experiences with the therapy, particularly the reduction of depression and anxiety symptoms. Thematic analysis, following the guidelines outlined by Braun and Clarke (2006), was employed to identify key themes and sub-themes from the data. The analysis revealed several crucial insights: participants reported significant reductions in depressive symptoms, primarily through enhanced social engagement, cognitive restructuring, and changes in negative thought patterns. Anxiety levels also decreased as a result of cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation, leading to better emotional regulation. Participants highlighted improvements in emotional well-being, interpersonal relationships, and overall life satisfaction. This study contributes to the limited qualitative literature on CBT for MAD, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms of symptom reduction. It has important implications for clinical practice, suggesting that CBT can be an effective treatment for MAD, and that understanding the subjective experiences of patients can help clinicians tailor interventions for optimal outcomes.