Problem-solving therapy is best for people who are:
- Struggling with practical, everyday problems
-
- Those who are overwhelmed by things like financial issues, relationship conflicts, work stress, and health challenges.
- If depression or anxiety is mainly fueled by life problems, PST is a strong fit.
- For example, a person feeling stuck after a divorce or losing a job.
- Dealing with mild to moderate depression
-
- PST is very beneficial when depression isn’t too severe or psychotic.
- People with low motivation, negative thinking, and avoidance patterns benefit because PST teaches them to act step-by-step.
- Studies indicate that PST trims down depressive symptoms extensively in mild-to-moderate cases.
- Facing new life transitions or stressors
-
- Moving, graduating, career changes, parenting challenges, and chronic illness diagnosis can all trigger emotional tension.
- PST helps to adapt better by breaking down consuming changes into solvable pieces.
- Motivated to take action (even if just a little)
-
- PST requires active participation, such as brainstorming and trying small solutions.
- Even if someone feels down, as long as they’re willing to try small steps, PST can build momentum.
- Able to engage cognitively
-
- People who can think through problems, weigh options, and make decisions will get the most out of PST.
- It’s less about intense emotional insight and more about practical thinking.
- Older adults and caregivers
-
- PST is extremely effective in older populations and caregivers (like those caring for dementia patients).
- It’s frequently recommended as a first-line treatment for late-life depression because it improves both mood and daily functioning.
Good candidates for PST are people who:
- Feel stuck by real-world problems.
- Have mild to moderate depression or anxiety.
- Are willing to take slight actionable steps.
- Can work through simple problem-solving tasks.
- Want a practical, skills-based approach instead of profound emotional analysis.
