A case report revealing great efficacy in a breast cancer patient with depression not in agreement with antidepressant treatment

Abstract

Behavioral Activation Therapy (BAT) has been reported to be effective in cancer patients with depression. However, it is unknown whether it is beneficial in cancer patients who do not agree with treatment using antidepressants. BAT could be an important psychological treatment in this population since it encourages patients to value themselves. For this reason, we report a case in which BAT was effective in a breast cancer patient with depression. A BAT program consisting of eight sessions was initiated for a breast cancer patient with depression. At the beginning of the program, her depression was considered to be moderately severe based on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD). However, she achieved remission by the end of the program without antidepressants and began to live independently. This case suggests that BAT can be adapted particularly well to this population, and it will lead to patients living more independent and active lives after their cancer diagnosis.