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Memory reshaping for depression (MemReD)

Overview

We are seeking study participants with depression to compare online psychological treatments.

The aim is to compare standard computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a novel remote psychological treatment for depression which consists of four video/phone sessions with a psychologist and a web-based app to help people reshape their personal memories in a way previously shown to be beneficial for depression.

What will it involve?

Use either a standard computerised CBT or the novel programme we have developed via a tablet/phone with a web browser over 8 weeks and take part in two assessment sessions via a video or phone call.

Who are we looking to recruit?

  • You need to currently have significant levels of depression
  • have no history of bipolar or psychotic disorders
  • be 18 years or older
  • not currently be at high suicide risk

Rewards and expenses

Computerised CBT was shown to be effective previously. Elements used in the novel treatment were previously shown to be beneficial, but we do not know whether the programme as a whole is helpful. It is mainly you who will benefit the progress of depression research. You can make an important contribution to developing better treatments. However, we can pay a lump sum compensation in shopping vouchers as a token of our gratitude.

Interested in taking part in this study?

Fill in this form.

Planned end date

31 Oct 2028 11:11

Conditions

Depression

People types

Adult 18+

Inclusion Criteria

  • Patient Health Questionnaire(PHQ)-9 scores ≥10 (i.e. caseness definition used in NHS -Improved access to psychological treatment (IAPT) services).
  • aged ≥18 years
  • able to understand written materials, this is essential for the scientific quality of the study, because in order to feedback on the design of our novel webpage and our video based sessions, we require good understanding of the written materials which at this stage of the research we are only able to provide in English with translations into other languages planned should our project be successful and allow us to obtain further funding.
  • major depressive disorder (structured interview for DSM-5)

Exclusion Criteria

  • previously tried computerised CBT
  • high suicide risk (MINI suicidality screen)
  • current self-harm with injuries (within last 6 months, self-report)
  • medication changed in last 6 weeks including dose changes (self-report)
  • ongoing psychotherapy (self-report)
  • past violence in last 6 months (self-report)
  • current aggression (on our screening or pre-screening assessments)
  • current psychotic symptoms (on our screening or pre-screening assessments)
  • history of schizophreniform symptoms (on our screening or pre-screening assessments using previously validated screening questions)
  • bipolar disorder (including otherwise specified, structured interview for DSM-5 or pre-screening assessment)
  • current mixed episode (structured interview for DSM-5)
  • no personal smartphone or tablet with internet access
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