Effects of Guided Imagery-Supported Psychoeducation on Self-Esteem, Perceived Stress, and Depressive Symptoms in Patients with Depression: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Depression is a common mental disorder associated with elevated perceived stress and low self-esteem, adversely affecting functioning and quality of life. Although guided imagery is a promising intervention for reducing depressive symptoms, evidence regarding its use with psychoeducation remains limited. This randomized controlled study examined the effects of guided imagery-supported psychoeducation on depressive symptoms, self-esteem, and perceived stress in individuals with depression. Sixty psychiatric outpatients were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 30) or a control group (n = 30). The experimental group received guided imagery-supported psychoeducation, while the control group received routine treatment. Data were collected using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Following the intervention, PSS scores decreased from 39.6 ± 6.74 to 22.0 ± 6.35 and BDI scores from 29.3 ± 8.5 to 12.63 ± 7.48 in the experimental group. Two-way mixed ANOVA revealed significant group × time interactions for perceived stress (F = 33.69, p < 0.01, ηp2=0.367) and depressive symptoms (F = 2.03, p < 0.01, ηp2=0.342). No significant interaction was found for self-esteem (F = 1.237, p > 0.05, ηp2=0.021). Findings suggest that guided imagery-supported psychoeducation may reduce depressive symptoms and perceived stress. This study adds evidence on combining guided imagery and psychoeducation in depression and highlights its potential value in psychiatric nursing practice.