P02-347 - Therapeutic Processes in Family Groups for Hospitalized Patients with Major Depression: A Phenomenological Study

IntroductionFamily-based interventions have shown to be effective in the treatment of major depression. In a recent RCT, systemic family groups led to significantly higher rates of treatment responders and higher rates of patients no longer using antidepressant medication at 15 months follow-up compared to standard care.ObjectivesIn order to better understand the underlying mechanisms of change, helpful treatment experiences of depressive patients and their partners in the family groups were explored.Methods34 depressive patients and their partners were asked to fill out an open-ended questionnaire investigating helpful experiences during treatment at the end of a 6 bi-weekly group session cycle. Responses were analyzed using the interpretative phenomenological approach (IPA) by three different researchers.ResultsTen recurring themes were reported as helpful by both the depressed patients and their partners:(1)Presence,(2)Cohesion,(3)Support,(4)Openness,(5)Discussion,(6)Self revelation,(7)Insight,(8)Progress,(9)Observational experiences and(10)Guidance from therapist.ConclusionsThe results of this study help to get insights in the therapeutic factors, which should be emphasized in family groups.