Peer-Supported Problem-Solving May Help Older Rural Adults With Depression

What is it about?

Older adults who completed 12 weeks of self-guided problem-solving therapy (PST) supported by trained senior peer counselors had significant and lasting improvements in their depression scores. PST is a psychotherapy that teaches people to generate realistic solutions to life problems that contribute to depression. PST with a clinician should be considered a preferred treatment option when resources are available. However, self-guided-PST supported by trained senior peer counselors may be an appropriate and acceptable alternative for older adults who live in rural areas and experience barriers to access because of stigma, poor transportation options, or a lack of available clinicians and services.

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Why is it important?

Effective use of senior peer counselors to support evidence-based treatments has the potential to maintain the independence of rural older adults by improving their access to mental health services and using existing infrastructure and minimal community resources.