Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy for subthreshold depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Mental Health
• Psychiatry
• Digital Therapeutics

Background:

• Subthreshold depression significantly impacts well-being and functioning.
• It is a known predictor of major depressive disorder.
• Internet-based cognitive behavioural treatments (iCBTs) are utilized to alleviate these symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the evidence on the efficacy of iCBT programs for subthreshold depression.
• To assess the impact of iCBT on depressive symptoms in this population.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
• Searched databases (Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, etc.) for articles from January 2005 to July 2016.
• Included RCTs comparing iCBT with control groups for subthreshold depression.

Main Results:

• Eight RCTs involving ten articles were analyzed.
• iCBT programs demonstrated superior short-term efficacy compared to non-active control groups (SMD = -0.28, CI [-0.42, -0.14]).
• Evidence regarding the long-term efficacy of iCBT remains insufficient.

Conclusions:

• iCBT interventions show significant short-term effectiveness for subthreshold depressive symptoms.
• The long-term efficacy of iCBT for subthreshold depression requires further investigation.
• This review highlights the potential of iCBT while underscoring the need for extended follow-up studies.