A blended digital therapy for depression in people with acquired brain injury: A feasibility and acceptability study

Depression following Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is common, persistent and debilitating, yet access to psychological treatment is limited. Digital therapies, provided alongside clinician support, may help overcome these barriers. This study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and potential benefits of a blended intervention for depression post-ABI, using a mixed-method approach. Individuals with ABI and depression were offered a 4-week intervention (MyACTION), delivered via a novel smartphone app, alongside weekly video therapy sessions. Measures of depression, anxiety, and self-efficacy were collected pre- and post-intervention. Feasibility was evaluated through recruitment, retention, engagement, and usability ratings. Acceptability was assessed via post-treatment interviews. Initial indication of benefit was evaluated through change in scores in outcome measures. Twenty-one individuals consented, 19 completed the intervention, and 18 completed post-intervention interviews. On average, 82% of daily app tasks were completed. Overall, the app received "good" usability ratings. Barriers and facilitators to engagement were (1) health status, (2) motivation, (3) perceived utility, (4) usability, (5) accessibility, and (6) timing. Reductions in depression and anxiety were observed post-intervention. MyACTION was feasible and acceptable for individuals with ABI and depression. High engagement and positive feedback suggest blended digital approaches may help increase access to psychological support in this population.