'Befriending' reduces depressive symptoms and distress

The low-key psychological intervention of ‘befriending’ can modestly reduce emotional distress and depressive symptoms, a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials has concluded. Benefits were identified in nine short-term studies and six long-term trials. “Further exploration of the active ingredients, appropriate target populations and optimal methods of delivery is required,” the analysis concluded. Befriending involved the establishment of a relationship which was initiated, supported and monitored by an agency, in which one or more of the parties was likely to benefit. The relationship should be non-judgmental, mutual and purposeful. A recent survey found that more than 500 charitable and voluntary sector organisations in the UK were offering some type of befriending program. “Emotional distress and depressive symptoms are common in the community,” the researchers said. Social support could improve affect the onset, course and outcome of depression. Befriending could extend the range of options for patients with mild depression and provide a less medicalised approach for people with emotional distress, the study authors wrote in the British Journal of Psychiatry. It might also have a useful preventive role, by avoiding progression to more severe illness in those who were distressed or mildly depressed. British Journal of Psychiatry 2010; 196: 96-101. http://bjp.rcpsych.org/cgi/content/abstract/196/2/96...