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Predictors of efficacy in depression prevention programmes. Meta-analysis.
Eva Jané-Llopis1, Clemens Hosman, Rachel Jenkins
1Prevention Research Centre, Department of Clinical Psychology and Personality, Nijmegen University, The Netherlands. llopis@psych.kun.nl
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|November 5, 2003
Summary
Depression prevention programs can improve symptoms by 11%. Effective programs are multi-component, longer, and delivered by healthcare providers, with social support beneficial for older adults.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Mental Health
- Public Health
- Evidence-Based Practice
Background:
- Depression affects 340 million globally, incurring significant social and economic costs.
- High comorbidity rates underscore the need for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify predictors of effectiveness in depression prevention programs.
- Evaluate factors influencing program outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of 69 depression prevention programs.
- Analysis of effect sizes across various program characteristics and populations.
Main Results:
- A weighted mean effect size of 0.22 was observed, indicating program efficacy.
- Multi-component programs with longer sessions (>60 min), competence techniques, and high-quality research design showed larger effect sizes.
- Older adults benefited from social support, while behavioral methods were less effective or detrimental.
Conclusions:
- Prevention programs can achieve an 11% improvement in depressive symptoms.
- High-quality research design and detailed reporting are crucial for identifying effective prevention strategies.