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Trials
Published in: Trials 1/2013

Open Access 01-12-2013 | Study protocol

The effects on depression of Internet-administered behavioural activation and physical exercise with treatment rationale and relapse prevention: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Authors: Per Carlbring, Philip Lindner, Christopher Martell, Peter Hassmén, Lars Forsberg, Lars Ström, Gerhard Andersson

Published in: Trials | Issue 1/2013

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Abstract

Background

Despite their potential as low-threshold, low-cost and high-flexibility treatments of depression, behavioural activation and physical exercise have not yet been directly compared. This study will examine the effects of these interventions, administered via the Internet. The added effect of providing a treatment rationale will also be studied, as well as a relapse prevention program featuring cognitive behavioural therapy components.

Methods/Design

This randomised controlled trial will include 500 participants meeting the diagnostic criteria for major depression, recruited in multiple cycles and randomised to either a waiting list control group with delayed treatment, or one of the four treatment groups: (1) physical exercise without a clear treatment rationale; (2) physical exercise with treatment rationale; (3) behavioural activation with treatment rationale; or (4) behavioural activation without a clear treatment rationale. Post treatment, half of the participants will be offered a relapse prevention program. Primary outcome measure will be the Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item. Secondary measures include diagnostic criteria for depression, as well as self-reported anxiety, physical activity and quality of life. Measurements - done via telephone and the Internet - will be collected pre-treatment, weekly during treatment period, immediately post treatment and then monthly during a 24-month follow-up period.

Discussion

The results of this study will constitute an important contribution to the body of knowledge of the respective interventions. Limitations are discussed.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01619930
Appendix
Available only for authorised users
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Metadata
Title
The effects on depression of Internet-administered behavioural activation and physical exercise with treatment rationale and relapse prevention: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors
Per Carlbring
Philip Lindner
Christopher Martell
Peter Hassmén
Lars Forsberg
Lars Ström
Gerhard Andersson
Publication date
01-12-2013
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Trials / Issue 1/2013
Electronic ISSN: 1745-6215
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1745-6215-14-35

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