Psychotherapy of Depression

Abstract

The depressive syndrome results from grief, guilt or shame. Typical cases are described to illustrate the appropriate psychotherapeutic approach in each situation. In grief- induced depression the physician becomes the mourning partner, encouraging expression of both love and anger involved in the relationship with the deceased. When guilt is the underlying cause, he adopts an attitude of firm authority, temporarily acting as the limit-setting disciplinary force. In depression resulting from shame, he lends support and warmth and helps to restore self-esteem.