Overview
CADS-D aimes to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of a newly DCBT program for Chinese adolescents with depressive symptoms.
Description
CADS-D is a single-center, two-arm, open-label randomized controlled trial. The trial targeted 12-18 years adolescents with depressive symptoms. Intervention group receives the digital cognitive behavioral therapy (DCBT) program for 6 weeks, while the control group receives the regular mental health curriculum provided by school staff for 6 weeks. Assessments are conducted at three time points: baseline, post-intervention (6 weeks), and at 3 months follow-up (18 weeks). The primary outcome is the effectiveness of DCBT. Secondary outcomes include the feasibility of DCBT, self-reported depressive severity, anxiety severity, psychological resilience, and the quality of life enjoyment and satisfaction.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age 12 to 18 years;
- Scored 28 or higher on the children's depression rating scale-revised (CDRS-R);
- Have the ability to read and write in Chinese;
- Participant and at least one of their guardians provided written consent;
- Have access to mobile phone and internet.
Exclusion Criteria:
- The researchers assessed that the adolescent's depressive symptoms were too severe to participate to CADS-D;
- Scored 5 or higher on item 13 (suicidal ideation) on CDRS-R;
- Participants who met diagnosis of other mental disorder except depression;
- Severe physical illnesses or other physical disabilities that prevented the use of DCBT;
- Within the past three months or currently undergoing any antidepressant treatment, including medication therapy, psychotherapy, and physical therapy;
- Unavailability to follow up months after intervention.