German research reveals that cognitive behavioral therapy (TCC) changes regions related to emotions and improves the symptoms of depression
Researchers of Martin Luther University of Halle-Wittenberg (Mlu) and from Münster UniversityIn GermanyUnprecedented tests presented that psychotherapy can cause measurable changes in the brain structure, in particular cognitive behavioral therapy.
The study, published in the magazine Translational psychiatryThey analyzed 30 patients with acute depression subjected to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The approach helps identify negative thought models and replace them with more realistic and healthy ways to face emotions and behaviors.
Surprising results
After 20 therapy sessions, researchers observed significant improvements in symptoms and changes in areas relating to emotional processing. “The TCC leads to positive changes in thought models, emotions and behaviors. We suppose that this process is also linked to functional and structural changes in the brain. The effect has already been demonstrated with therapies involving drugs or electrostimulation, but has not yet been shown for psychotherapy in general.”states Ronny RedlichHead of the Department of Biological and Clinic of Mlu.
Of the 30 people treated, 19 no longer had acute depressive symptoms after therapy. In addition, for the first time, it was possible to document specific anatomical changes in the patient brain. “We have observed a significant increase in the volume of the gray substance in the left amigdala and in the previous hippocampus on the right”says the psychologist Esther ZwikyFrom Mlu.
Connection between brain and symptoms
The results showed a direct connection between brain changes and clinical improvement. Patients who showed greater growth in gray substances in the amygdala were precisely those who showed the highest reduction in emotional deregulation. Esther Zwiky explains that the magnetic resonances used in the study “provide information on the size, shape and position of the fabrics”, clearly allowing these transformations.
Psychotherapy changes the brain
The discovery opens a new horizon for science. Cognitive behavioral therapy was already known for its effectiveness. Now, for the first time, we have a reliable biomarker for the effect of psychotherapy on the brain structure. It is therefore underlined that each patient is unique: in some cases, drugs or electrostimulation can be more effective; In others, TCC is the most appropriate alternative.
Research strengthens what clinical practice has already shown: take care of the mind not only transforms thoughts and emotions – can literally rewrite the brain structure, opening the way to new treatments and more hope for those who face depression.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
