Majör Depresyon Bozukluğunda Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi: Olgu Sunumu

The aim of this study is to reduce the depressive symptoms that emerged after the client was cheated on and ended her relationship, and to improve her quality of life. The client, a female university student, had been experiencing a depressed mood, feelings of worthlessness, loss of interest, and problems with sleep and appetite for the past six months. Based on these symptoms, she was considered to meet the criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, and the study was conducted in line with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Eight sessions were carried out using the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. During the treatment process, techniques such as the ABC model, homework assignments, relaxation techniques, and role-playing were utilized. Through cognitive techniques, the client's automatic thoughts—such as “I am worthless”—and her core belief, “I am not worthy of love,” were identified and restructured into more functional alternatives. Subsequently, behavioral techniques were employed, including relaxation exercises, to teach stress management strategies. As a result of these therapeutic interventions, the client's depressive symptoms decreased, and she showed positive progress. In conclusion, CBT-based interventions had a beneficial impact on the client’s psychological well-being. To prevent a relapse of depressive symptoms, it is recommended that the CBT process be continued systematically and with a goal-oriented approach. Keywords: Depressive Disorder, Major Depressive Disorder, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy