Psychosocial Depression Interventions for Dialysis Patients, With Attention to Latinos: A Scoping Review

Purpose: Depression is a common and debilitating condition that often goes undetected and untreated among people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). We conducted a scoping review to identify psychosocial depression interventions for adult dialysis patients and gaps in depression care, with particular attention to Latinos, a group disproportionately affected by ESRD in the United States. Methods: We searched electronic databases and grey literature sources for studies in English and Spanish. Results: We found 36 studies including cognitive behavioral, problem-solving, hope, psychoeducation, expressive writing, and physical activity interventions. Twelve studies (33%) were U.S.-based, while the rest were conducted elsewhere. U.S.-based studies involved mostly individual-format cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions carried out during dialysis. CBTs showed the most promising effect on depression in both randomized clinical and quasi-experimental studies. Among 22 randomized trials reviewed, 1 reported participants with Latino/Hispanic ethnicity. Conclusions: More intervention research is needed for depression treatment with ESRD patients, especially Latinos.