DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY IN SEVERE OBESITY IN ADULTS: COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY CONTRIBUTIONS

Abstract

Obesity has reached epidemic proportions, affecting more than one billion individuals, both adults and children. Obese individuals may have anxiety and/or depression as comorbidities. Strategies aimed at changing lifestyle are important for improving their quality of life, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy being considered the gold standard for treatment of obese individuals. Objective: To identify the effects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in reducing symptoms of Depression and Anxiety in Severe Obesity in Adults. Method: Integrative review with research in indexed databases: Pubmed, SciELO, Lilacs and BVS-saúde, using Desc/Mesh descriptors and eligibility criteria. Results: Nine articles met the objective of this research, showing a decrease in symptoms of anxiety and depression. The use of CBT techniques such as psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation and mindfulness, together with nutrition and physical education, have proven effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, making it difficult to specifically understand the action of CBT on the observed psychopathologies. Conclusion: There is a need for more studies that address different levels of obesity, focusing on different comorbidities.