The sessions are divided into three phases, each with distinct objectives:

• Initial Phase: This phase focuses on creating initial bonds between group members and building rapport with one another so women feel comfortable sharing personal information and discussing the reasons for their depression.

• Middle Phase: This phase ensures that all members are actively engaged and helping each other by making suggestions regarding one another’s problems. This is also the phase where important progress is made for members to fully understand all the symptoms and triggers of depression.

• Termination Phase: This phase focuses on preparing members to end formal sessions. Members are reminded to continually identify their own triggers of depression in the future and what they should do to respond. Individual action plans are created and reviewed.