Online intervention for prevention of major depression in primary care
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Moodbuster, a minimally guided online self-help intervention for the prevention of depression in primary care - a randomised controlled trial with internal pilot\n
IRAS ID
237570
Contact name
Antonis Kousoulis
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Mental Health Foundation
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Depression is a common condition and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Preventing or delaying the onset of depression is an important way to reduce the burden of depression. Some research suggests that online methods may be effective in preventing depression, but to date, few studies have looked at the application of these methods in the UK. This study aims to assess the effects of an online intervention (Moodbuster) on preventing depression in a primary care population, who are experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of depression, but do not meet the threshold for diagnosis. A randomised controlled design with a six-week follow up will be used to compare Moodbuster to a wait-listed control group. Eligible participants in the UK (individuals with mild to moderate symptoms of depression, who do not have a diagnosis of depression, and have access to the internet) will take part in a six-week online minimally guided self-help programme. Researchers will follow-up with participants six weeks after starting the programme to measure depression, anxiety, quality of life, and use of services. [COVID-19 amendment - 15/04/2020] The mental health effects of COVID are expected to be substantial in the longer term; and may be persistent. In the current climate, we are offering an early psychological intervention in the form of a digital mental health solution which provides a safe, accessible method of supporting people who are experiencing worsening mental health. In the longer term, such access to preventive approaches is likely to reduce incident cases of mental illness likely to result from the pandemic.
REC name
North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0759
Date of REC Opinion
5 Dec 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion