A blended psychological intervention for depression after ABI
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A blended intervention for depression after acquired brain injury using a novel smartphone-based application: a feasibility and acceptability investigation.
IRAS ID
319270
Contact name
Sara Simblett
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
IoPPN, Kings College London University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 2 months, 1 days
Research summary
1.3 million people in the UK live with an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) as a result of experiencing a stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Up to 50% of individuals with ABI will experience depression. NICE guidelines recommend Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for depression after ABI. There is growing interest into increasing access to CBT through mHealth technology, including mobile applications.
Objective: Phase 1 of the study aims to investigate whether a blended intervention, using a novel smartphone-based application (app) alongside individual therapy sessions is acceptable and feasible for targeting depression after ABI. Phase 2 of the study aims to use qualitative interviews to better understand the participants’ experiences of using the mobile app intervention.
Methodology: We aim to recruit 20 individuals with ABI, who are experiencing mild-moderate symptoms of depression. They will complete outcome measures and cognitive tasks at the beginning of the study. They will then receive a four-week blended intervention using the CBT-based mobile app alongside weekly, 30-minute video or telephone sessions for therapeutic and technology support. They will then be asked to complete the same outcome measures as done at the beginning. Participants will then be invited to take part in a 60-minute interview about their experience of using the mobile app therapy.
Data Analysis: Change scores will be calculated from the data collected from Phase 1 of the study to investigate initial efficacy. Recruitment and dropout rates will help determine the feasibility of the blended analysis. In the 2nd Phase, qualitative data will be analysed following Ritchie and Lewis (2003)'s Framework Analysis.
Findings: Results from this study will help increase understanding into the use of mHealth technology in treating depression following ABI. If effective, it could increase access to psychological interventions for people with ABI. We hope to publish findings in a peer reviewed journal.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
23/WA/0127
Date of REC Opinion
16 May 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion