Effects of a supportive German online program for people with depression or adjustment

Mise à jour : Il y a 4 ans
Référence : ISRCTN02446836

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Background and study aims Mental illness and behavioral disorders are a major cause of disability and incapacity of work. Scientific studies revealed that the average waiting time from diagnosis to admission to treatment is about five months. Psychological counseling over the internet has the potential to bridge this waiting time. Online applications are characterized by an easy access and the possibility of anonymous usage and could fill supply gaps in underserved regions. The aim of this study is to find out how well a supportive German online program for people with depression or adjustment disorder works in order to alleviate (improve) symptoms and reduce the number of sick days. Considering the rising expenditures of the German health care system for mental disorders, this research project could dedicate important findings for an alternative support system for people suffering from depression or adjustment disorders. Who can participate? Women and men between 18 and 65 years with mild to moderate depression or adjustment disorder who are insured by the commercial insurance KKH in Germany. What does the study involve? The individualized self-help-program will be compared to online available weekly information texts on depression and health. Participants will receive a personal pseudonymized [process of replacing personally identifiable data with a pseudonym, in order to address privacy concerns] code and are randomly assigned to one of the two groups. Over a period of 12 months beginning in January 2013, online surveys on the health status of the study participants will be conducted at five different times. The online questionnaire is based on standardized diagnostic instruments and was developed in-house. Outcome measures include the alleviation of symptoms and a reduction of sick days. Furthermore, the use of medical care as well as aspects of self-efficacy and the quality of life will be obtained. Analyses will be carried out including anonymized secondary data/routine records of the KKH insurance company. What are the possible benefits and risks of participating? The individualized self-help-program is an additive offer of support beyond basic and customary care and may help participants to better manage their symptoms. Participants will be able to use the usually fee-based online program for free. Those who are randomized to the control group with the online offered information texts will have the opportunity to use the individualized self-help program free of cost once the study is completed. A negative impact on the health of participants is not expected but cannot be ruled out on a case-by-case basis. It will be recalled that participating in the study cannot replace medical consultations or a therapy. Participants will be reminded to use medical and therapeutic services when needed. Where is the study run from? The study is carried out by the Leuphana University Lueneburg. When is the study starting and how long is it expected to run for? The study started in January 2013 and will run for 12 months followed by analyses. Who is funding the study? The study is funded by the federal state of Lower Saxony, the European Regional Development Fund. Who is the main contact? Dr. Joern Moock , Supervisory project coordinator [email protected]


Critère d'inclusion

  • Mild depressive episode, Moderate depressive episode, Recurrent depressive disorder, current episode mild, Recurrent depressive disorder, current episode moderate, Dysthymia, Adjustment disorders

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