The sequential combination of cognitive behavioral treatment and well-being therapy in cyclothymic disorder

Background: There is a lack of controlled studies of psychological treatment of cyclothymic disorder. The aim of this investigation was to examine the benefits of the sequential combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and well-being therapy (WBT) compared to clinical management (CM) in DSM-IV cyclothymic disorder.

Methods: Sixty-two patients with DSM-IV cyclothymic disorder were randomly assigned to CBT/WBT (n = 31) or CM (n = 31). Both CBT/WBT and CM consisted of ten 45-min sessions every other week. An independent blind evaluator assessed the patients before treatment, after therapy, and at 1- and 2-year follow-ups. The outcomes included total score of the change version of the Clinical Interview for Depression, and the Mania Scale. All analyses were performed on an intent-to-treat basis.

Results: Significant differences were found in all outcome measures, with greater improvements after treatment in the CBT/WBT group compared to the CM group. Therapeutic gains were maintained at 1- and 2-year follow-ups.

Conclusions: A sequential combination of CBT and WBT, which addresses both polarities of mood swings and comorbid anxiety, was found to yield significant and persistent benefits in cyclothymic disorder.