2020 Volume 46 Issue 2 Pages 79-88
Patients with chronic physical disorders suffer from various psychosocial issues. Disclosing a diagnosis or life expectancy contributes to hopelessness in patients with cancer. However, self-care or long-term sickness leads to fatigue or depression in patients with heart diseases or diabetes. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has some efficacy in psychological distress in patients with chronic physical disorders. CBT for patients with cancer includes Beck’s cognitive therapy, behavioral activation therapy, problem-solving therapy, or mindfulness cognitive therapy. On the other hand, CBT for patients with heart diseases or diabetes includes Beck’s cognitive therapy or behavioral therapy for a healthy lifestyle. Certified public psychologists (CPPs) are expected to provide psychological interventions including CBT for chronic physical disorders in the healthcare team. CPP should apply CBT to suit patients’ needs and issues related to chronic physical disorders. Behavioral consultation might be used effectively in the treatment of psychological distress as indirect CBT in the future.
