Efficacy of Cognitive Behavior Therapy for the Treatment of Persistent Depressive Disorder with Early Onset

Abstract

Current case study describes the application of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) to a 21-year-old female client presenting with persistent depressive disorder with early onset. The client reported loss of interest in daily activities, inability to feel pleasure, disturbed social relationships, and emotional dysregulation. She attributed her difficulties to a toxic family environment characterized by parental conflict, emotional neglect, and critical feedback. Assessment using the Beck Depression Inventory revealed a score of 26 (moderate depression) at baseline. Treatment consisted of 16 sessions incorporating relaxation exercises, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, and assertiveness training. Session records, case formulation, and therapeutic techniques are presented to enable clinicians to replicate the treatment approach with similar presentations in the South Asian context. Post-treatment BDI score was 11 (minimal depression), representing a 57.7% improvement.