The importance of teamwork in achieving optimal therapeutic results

Therapeutic discharge in the treatment of depression using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured process that must meet clear clinical criteria and an objective assessment of the patient's progress.

This moment does not represent the end of support, but rather the beginning of a crucial phase: relapse prevention. One of the most important criteria for considering discharge is that the person has managed to restore their functioning in daily life activities. In other words, they have regained their ability to work, study, socialize, or perform everyday tasks that were previously impossible due to their emotional state.

Another key criterion is that the person reports feeling significantly better, with a noticeable decrease in depressive symptoms, both cognitively and behaviorally and emotionally. CBT allows these advances to be evaluated through techniques such as self-reporting, follow-up scales, and direct observation of behavioral changes.

In addition, it is essential that the person has acquired sufficient tools to cope with adverse situations and has strengthened their support networks. Once discharged, the process continues with therapeutic follow-up, which seeks to consolidate the achievements made and prevent future relapses.

This follow-up is usually less frequent (for example, once a month or every two months), assessing the patient's stability and the continued application of the strategies learned in therapy. In terms of relapse prevention, various strategies are implemented within CBT.

One of the main ones is the identification of early warning signs, such as the return of automatic negative thoughts, social isolation, abandonment of pleasurable activities, or loss of appetite or sleep.

These signs must be recognized by the patient themselves, who has already been trained during therapy to observe and record their emotional and behavioral patterns.

Another fundamental tool is the use of cognitive records and an emotional thermometer, which allow the patient to monitor their emotional state and act in time when they detect an increase in distress. Cognitive restructuring techniques, problem solving, social skills, and emotional self-regulation are also reinforced.

Psychoeducation also plays an essential role in this phase, as it emphasizes that depression can relapse, which should not be interpreted as a failure. Rather, it should be seen as an opportunity to reinforce learning and reactivate treatment if necessary.

The patient should know that they can and should seek help when new difficulties arise. Finally, it is recommended to establish a personalized action plan for relapses, detailing the steps to follow if depressive symptoms reappear.

This includes emergency contacts, identification of trusted individuals, coping activities, and available institutional resources. Discharge from therapy should be a planned, consensual, and progressive process, ensuring that the patient leaves the therapeutic space feeling empowered, functional, and equipped with solid tools to maintain their psychological well-being over time.