OUR MODEL AT WORK

GROUP INTERPERSONAL PSYCHOTHERAPY TO TREAT DEPRESSION

StrongMinds treats depression using group interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT-G), delivered by lay counselors. This manualized, time-bound talk therapy model emphasizes relationships as the root of – and source of recovery for – depression. IPT-G is well-studied in low- and middle-income countries, and is recommended by the WHO as a first-line depression intervention in resource-poor settings.

Our group therapy is available in person or by phone. In groups, members find a safe space to open up with peers about their worries and struggles. Over 8-10 sessions, counselors guide structured discussions to help participants identify the underlying triggers of their depression and examine how their current relationships and their depression are linked. Together, they strategize solutions to their problems, learn coping mechanisms, practice interpersonal skills, and identify support structures that they can continue to lean on after therapy has ended.

Members work together to strategize solutions for overcoming their challenges, forming strong social bonds in the process. Since depression is episodic and recurrent throughout most people’s lives, these newly acquired skills have both immediate and long-term preventive impacts for the individual.

PHASES OF THERAPY

The sessions are divided into three phases, each with distinct objectives:

• Initial Phase: This phase focuses building trust and rapport among group members so they feel comfortable opening up with one another.
• Middle Phase: This phase ensures that all members are actively engaged in discussion and collective problem solving. Participants learn to fully understand the symptoms and triggers of depression.
• Termination Phase: By this stage, most participants have experienced a substantial reduction in the severity of their depression symptoms. As they prepare for the end of formal sessions, each will make a plan to identify and mitigate triggers in the future, so that they can prevent recurring depressive episodes.

SUSTAINABILITY AND SCALING

We achieve sustainability by identifying and training former clients and local health workers to facilitate StrongMinds therapy groups in their communities, spreading the seeds of good mental health widely. We also work with governments and NGOs to layer mental health services into existing livelihood, food security, healthcare, and education programs in order to scale our reach and enhance outcomes for program participants.

TRIGGERS OF DEPRESSION

IPT-g focuses on four key problem areas that can trigger depression.

• Grief over loss (sustained)
• Life changes (such as job loss, marriage, divorce, unwelcome diagnoses, becoming a parent, etc.)
• Unresolved conflict (among family members, friends, or work colleagues)
• Social isolation