Peer-led intervention for individuals with major depression: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial...

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Clinical Psychology
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of global disability.
• The Recovery Model promotes peer support for MDD self-management and improved quality of life.
• Existing peer-led interventions show promise but require further research due to methodological limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an adjuvant peer-led intervention for reducing depressive symptoms in MDD patients.
• To compare the impact of peer support versus a mobile health (mHealth) application on depression.
• To assess the intervention's effects on quality of life and healthy habits in primary care mental health settings.

Main Methods:

• A controlled, parallel, randomized clinical trial involving 70 MDD patients.
• Intervention group: 6 weeks of nurse-supervised peer-led sessions.
• Control group: 6 weeks of a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based mHealth application.
• Outcomes measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 6/12 months post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The study hypothesizes a significant reduction in Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) scores in the peer-led group compared to the mHealth group.
• Anticipated improvements include reduced depressive symptoms, enhanced quality of life, and better adherence to healthy habits.
• The primary outcome is the change in BDI-II scores, with secondary outcomes assessing treatment adherence, lifestyle factors, and well-being.

Conclusions:

• Peer-led interventions offer a feasible and effective approach to managing depression in primary care.
• This trial aims to provide evidence for the efficacy of peer support in improving depressive symptom reduction and patient autonomy.
• Findings are expected to inform clinical practice, promoting self-management and recovery for individuals with MDD.