Gamification improves antidepressant effects of cognitive control training-A pilot trial

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Digital Therapeutics
• Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

• Computerized cognitive training shows promise for improving negative information processing and depressive symptoms.
• Challenges include impaired motivation, endurance, and accessibility in depressed individuals.
• The de:)press app integrates cognitive control training with gamification and information elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a gamified cognitive control training app (de:)press) compared to a non-gamified version in reducing depressive symptoms.
• To assess the feasibility and usability of the de:)press app as an intervention for depression.

Main Methods:

• A six-week randomized controlled trial involving 32 depressed participants.
• Participants received either de:)press or a non-gamified control intervention.
• Depression severity was measured using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) at baseline, during training, and at follow-up sessions.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed decreased depression severity.
• The de:)press group exhibited significantly lower MADRS scores at the primary endpoint (four weeks post-training).
• Usability was rated positively, and de:)press users maintained training frequency; no adverse effects were noted.

Conclusions:

• Gamification and information elements enhance the efficacy of cognitive control training for depressive symptoms.
• The de:)press app demonstrates feasibility and efficacy as an adjunctive treatment for depression.
• This pilot study supports the potential of digital interventions in mental healthcare.