Extract

Background and study aims Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide. The symptoms of depression can vary greatly from person to person, but generally include low mood, problems with sleeping and/or eating, and loss of interest in life. If a person experiences depression during adolescence, it can impact the rest of their life. Adolescent depression is often associated with mental health and social difficulties that often continue into adulthood, including higher social dysfunction, poorer academic performance, more physical ill health complaints and more completed suicides. The aim of this study is to assess the possibility of running a trial of a brief talking therapy in schools for adolescents with symptoms of depression. The study will take place in several secondary schools and sixth form colleges in the UK. Who can participate? Adolescents aged 16-18 who are showing signs of depression. What does the study involve? Participants are randomly allocated to one of two groups, who each receive a different type of talking therapy. Those in the first group receive an ‘imagery-based cognitive behavioural intervention’ and those in the second group receive ‘non-directive supportive therapy’. Both therapies involve three to four face to face sessions, lasting for up to 90 minutes. Participants in both groups are asked to complete three assessments: one before therapy, one after therapy and one three months later. Each assessment takes around an hour to complete. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? Both talking therapies are likely to have some benefit as both aim to reduce low mood and improve self-esteem. There are no known risks of taking part in the study. Where is the study run from? King's College London (UK) When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? April 2015 to May 2019 Who is funding the study? 1. Health Education England (UK) 2. National Institute for Health Research (UK) Who is the main contact? Dr Victoria Pile (public) [email protected]

Inclusion criteria

• depression

Links

• isrctn