Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a well-known
approach for treating anxiety and depression, which has
demonstrated effectiveness also for older adults.10
A systematic review of CBT for COPD patients with mild to
moderate anxiety or depression identified three randomized
controlled trials (RCT) and one non-randomized controlled
trial.11 Two RCTs demonstrated significant reductions of
anxiety or depression.12,13 However, these studies examined
the effect of CBT in combination with exercise training and
education. None of the reviewed studies selected specifi-
cally patients with clinically significant co-morbid anxiety or
depression. The overall conclusion of the review was that
there is scant evidence of the effectiveness of CBT for COPD
patients. Further studies addressing the effectiveness of
CBT for anxiety and depression in COPD patients are being
called for.