An integrative online self-help program (Deprexis®) versus waitlist control for adults with depressive symptoms

INTERVENTION: The Deprexis® program consists of ten interactive modules, plus one introductory and one summary module, which can be completed at the users own speed and frequency during a period of nine weeks. The program focuses on changing unhelpful thoughts, increasing activities that convey a sense of mastery and pleasure, improving social skills, practicing relaxation exercises and increasing a sense of acceptance/mindfulness. The program is based on standard cognitive‐behavioural self‐help and psychotherapy treatment literature. The delivery of content is individualised to match users preferences and needs, based on their responses in an initial program module. The program does not permit users to enter text; instead, users navigate through the program by choosing from various response options that are continuously presented to them. The program is delivered via the internet and is protected by individually assigned passwords. The control group did not receive access to the program during the first nine weeks of the study (the waiting period for the control group). During this waiting period, they were permitted to continue whatever treatment they were receiving (e.g., psychotherapy, antidepressant medication or both). After the initial waiting period, the control group also received access to the Deprexis® program for a duration of nine weeks. Both groups were followed for six months after termination of program usage. CONDITION: Depressive symptoms ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders ; Depressive episode PRIMARY OUTCOME: Depressive symptom level, measured with the German version of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).; ; For both the initial treatment group and the control (delayed treatment) group, data were collected at baseline, 9 weeks and 18 weeks. Additionally, participants in the control group completed questionnaires 9 weeks after completing the program (for those in the initial treatment group, this 9‐week post‐treatment timepoint coincided with the 18‐week assessment point mentioned above). Both groups also completed questionnaires 6 months after their respective program usage termination. SECONDARY OUTCOME: 1. Work and Social Adjustment Scale (German translation); 2. Subjective usefulness of the program, as measured by individually designed items; ; For both the initial treatment group and the control (delayed treatment) group, data were collected at baseline, 9 weeks and 18 weeks. Additionally, participants in the control group completed questionnaires 9 weeks after completing the program (for those in the initial treatment group, this 9‐week post‐treatment timepoint coincided with the 18‐week assessment point mentioned above). Both groups also completed questionnaires 6 months after their respective program usage termination. INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Aged 18 years or older, either sex 2. Indicate agreement with an electronic consent form