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A Randomized Controlled Trial of Group-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder
Sang Won Lee1,2, Ho Seok Seo2, Mina Choi3
1Department of Psychiatry, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea.
Psychiatry Investigation
|November 23, 2025
Summary
Group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (GACT) significantly improved depression symptoms, rumination, and experiential avoidance in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) patients. GACT shows promise as an effective group intervention for depression recovery.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a widespread and disabling mental health condition.
- Effective and accessible treatments are crucial for managing MDD.
- Group-based interventions may offer a scalable approach to psychological treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a Group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (GACT) program for MDD.
- To assess the effectiveness of GACT compared to a waitlist control.
- To identify factors associated with depression recovery in Korean MDD patients.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial was conducted with individuals diagnosed with MDD (aged 18-40).
- Fifty-nine participants were randomized into either the GACT or waitlist control (WLC) group.
- Fifty participants completed the study, with 27 in the GACT group and 23 in the WLC group.
Main Results:
- The GACT group showed significant reductions in depression symptoms (CES-D), rumination (RRS-R), and experiential avoidance (AAQ-II).
- Improvements in cognitive fusion (CFQ) were also observed in the GACT group.
- Enhanced psychological flexibility, indicated by AAQ-II scores, was linked to reduced depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- An 8-week GACT program positively impacts depressive symptoms and psychological processes in MDD patients.
- GACT is a promising group intervention for depression, potentially reducing the need for individual therapy.
- This study supports GACT as a viable treatment option for Major Depressive Disorder.
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