Web-Based Screening for Depression and Anxiety
Author Information
Author(s): Peter Farvolden, Carolina McBride, R Michael Bagby, Paula Ravitz
Primary Institution: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Hypothesis
The study aims to validate a web-based screening tool for major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders.
Conclusion
The Web-Based Depression and Anxiety Test is reliable for identifying patients with major depressive disorder and various anxiety disorders.
Supporting Evidence
- The WB-DAT showed good sensitivity and specificity for major depressive disorder and several anxiety disorders.
- Cohen's kappa for diagnostic agreement ranged from 0.57 to 0.70.
- The sensitivity for generalized anxiety disorder was lower but still acceptable at 0.63.
Takeaway
This study created a simple online test to help doctors find out if people have depression or anxiety, making it easier for them to get help.
Methodology
The WB-DAT was administered to 193 subjects who were then interviewed using the SCID-I/P to compare diagnostic data.
Potential Biases
Potential conflict of interest due to the author's consulting role with the test's developer.
Limitations
The study's sample size was relatively small, and results should be interpreted with caution.
Participant Demographics
79 men (40.9%) and 114 women (59.1%), average age 40.92 years.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website