Overcoming Depression on the Internet: A Randomized Trial of a Self-Help Program
Author Information
Author(s): Greg Clarke, Donna Eubanks, Ed Reid, Chris Kelleher, Elizabeth O'Connor, Lynn L DeBar, Frances Lynch, Sonia Nunley, Christina Gullion
Primary Institution: Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research
Hypothesis
Methods to increase participant usage of the intervention, such as postcard or telephone reminders, might result in significant effects on depression.
Conclusion
The ODIN intervention showed a positive effect on reducing depression symptoms compared to the control group.
Supporting Evidence
- Intervention participants reported greater reductions in depression compared to the control group.
- 20% more intervention participants moved from the disordered to normal range on the CES-D.
- Follow-up completion rates were 64% at 5 weeks, 68% at 10 weeks, and 66% at 16 weeks.
Takeaway
This study tested an online program to help people with depression, and it found that reminders helped participants feel better.
Methodology
A three-arm randomized control trial with a usual treatment control group and two intervention groups receiving reminders through postcards or telephone calls.
Potential Biases
Participants lost to follow-up were slightly more depressed and older, which may limit confidence in the results.
Limitations
Low enrollment and follow-up completion rates, and a restricted number of outcome measures.
Participant Demographics
The sample was more likely to be female (77%) and older (64% were 45 years or older).
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.03
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 0.03–0.58
Statistical Significance
p = .03
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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