In interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for depression, after identifying unresolved grief, what will be the focus of the next treatment phase?

In interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for depression, once unresolved grief has been identified, the treatment typically shifts its focus toward helping the patient find new activities that can offset their sense of loss. This approach is vital because it encourages the individual to engage in life more fully, promoting social connections and positive experiences that can help mitigate feelings of sadness associated with their grief.

By exploring new activities, the therapist guides the patient to rediscover interests and joys that may have diminished due to their loss. This engagement not only helps in building a supportive social network but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and renewal, ultimately leading to improvements in mood and overall psychological well-being. This phase is designed to empower patients, encouraging them to move forward while still honoring their grief, thereby integrating their loss into their ongoing lived experience.

In the context of IPT, this focus on activity and engagement is essential for fostering resilience and helping individuals develop a more fulfilling life in the aftermath of their grief.