Abstract: Objective To explore the effect of early screening and psychotherapy on post stroke depression. Methods 80 patients with stroke at first onset were assessed with Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD-17). Patients with depression were divided into control group (n=21) and intervention group (n=21). Both groups received rehabilitation therapy and the intervention group received psychotherapy in addition. They were assessed with HAMD again 2 months after treatment. All of them were evaluated with modified Barthel index (MBI). Results 52.5% patients had post stroke depression. The score of HAMD-17 was lower in the intervention group than in the control group (P<0.01). There was no significant difference in MBI between 2 groups after treatment (P>0.05). Conclusion Early screening and psychotherapy can facilitate the recovery of patients with depression after stroke.

Key words: stroke, depression, psychological consultation, cognitive psychotherapy