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Computerized CBT for adolescent depression ("Stressbusters") and its initial evaluation through an extended case
Paul Abeles1, Chrissie Verduyn, Alexander Robinson
1Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospital NHS Trust, UK. paul.abeles@cmmc.nhs.uk
Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy
|April 15, 2009
Summary
Stressbusters, a computer program for adolescent depression, significantly reduced depressive disorders post-treatment. These positive outcomes for youth mental health were sustained at follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Digital Health
Background:
- "Stressbusters" is an interactive computer software program.
- It is based on a clinically effective face-to-face Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) protocol.
- Designed for adolescents (12-16 years) with mild to moderate depression, comprising eight 45-minute sessions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical efficacy of the "Stressbusters" computer software program.
- To assess its effectiveness as a form of Computer-Assisted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT) for adolescents with depression.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-three adolescents (aged 12-16) with depressive symptoms were recruited from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
- Participants received the "Stressbusters" treatment, with session range from 1 to 8 (mode 8 sessions).
Main Results:
- Initially, 95% met diagnostic criteria for a depressive disorder (mean MFQ score 35.48). Post-treatment, this reduced to 22% (mean MFQ score 20.32), maintained at 3-month follow-up.
- Significant improvements observed in adolescent global functioning (CGAS), anxiety (RCMAS), depressive cognitions (ATQ, CTI-C), and emotional/behavioral difficulties (SDQ).
Conclusions:
- "Stressbusters" shows promising preliminary data for clinical efficacy.
- It is a potentially valid form of Computer-Assisted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CCBT) for adolescents experiencing depression.
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