Comparing the Effect of Cognitive Therapy and Spiritual Therapy on Depression between Iranian Students Residing in Iran and India.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Cognitive therapy is a well accepted treatment option for patients suffering from depressive disorders. Spiritual well-being is a central component of psychological health. Objectives: The main objective of the study is to compare the effect of cognitive and spiritual therapy on depression between Iranian Students residing in Iran and India. Methods: 64 female students ranging in the age of 18 to 45 years were selected from counselling centres from India and Iran. 32 students having higher depressive scores were administered cognitive therapy and spiritual therapy using a purposive random sampling technique. Pre and post treatment assessments of depression scores was done using Beck’s Depressing Inventory. Results: Our findings indicated that spiritual therapy is more effective than cognitive therapy in Iranian female students residing in India and Iran. Conclusion: Culture plays a significant role in treatment options that the patient chooses and accepts.