BACP has issued a warning that the new guideline published by NICE on the treatment and management of depression in adults with chronic physical health problems could mean a narrowing of the options available to patients. All patients with long-term illnesses will be assessed for mental health problems under the new NICE guideline.
 
Depression can be up to three times more common in those suffering from chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. BACP Chair, Dr Lynne Gabriel said: ‘CBT can only benefit some 50 per cent of depressed patients.’