Efficacy of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-Based Online Self-Help Group for Depression and Suicide Ideation:...

Despite the high prevalence of depressive disorders, access to effective treatment remains limited due to financial, geographic, and social barriers. Online self-help groups offer a promising and scalable form of peer-based support beyond traditional clinical settings. Integrating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques such as cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation into self-help groups may enhance their effectiveness.

This study evaluated the efficacy of a cognitive behavioral therapy-based online self-help group (COS) that integrates structured CBT techniques with peer-led group support as a low-intensity intervention for individuals with depressive symptoms. A randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing COS with a CBT-based mobile application was conducted. Additionally, a separately recruited waitlist control group was included as a supplementary comparison condition.

Participants were recruited online. After eligibility screening via a structured clinical interview, participants were randomly assigned to a COS group (n=79) or a CBT-based mobile application group (n=39). An additional waitlist control group (n=48) was recruited separately during the second phase of the study. The COS intervention involved 7 videoconferencing sessions that incorporated peer-led group discussions, sharing lived experiences, and core CBT techniques such as cognitive restructuring. The primary outcome measure was depressive symptoms, assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the secondary outcome was suicidal ideation, estimated using the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, measured at baseline, postintervention, and 3-month follow-up. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate group × time interaction effects. Reliable change indices were also calculated to assess clinical significance. All statistical tests were 2-tailed.

Among participants assigned to the COS group, 61% (48/79) completed all 7 sessions, and 84% (66/79) attended 5 or more sessions. A significant time × group interaction was observed for depressive symptoms (F4,288.47=7.23, P<.001). The COS group exhibited a substantial reduction in depressive symptoms from baseline to postintervention (t285.76=10.77, two-tailed; P<.001), with a large within-group effect size (d=1.38); this improvement was maintained at the 3-month follow-up. Suicidal ideation also significantly decreased in the COS group (t277.11=4.55, two-tailed; P<.001), with sustained effects at follow-up. Clinically meaningful improvement in depressive symptoms, as defined by the reliable change index, was observed in 75% (56/75) of COS participants. While both the COS and app-based CBT groups achieved comparable reductions in depressive symptoms, only the COS group demonstrated a significant reduction in suicidal ideation.

This RCT provides evidence that a structured, CBT-informed online self-help group can reduce depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation. The COS program offers a scalable, accessible alternative to traditional therapy, particularly in settings with limited access to mental health professionals.