An Online Self-help Intervention for Prevention of Depression in Primary Care

Depression is a common condition and is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Preventing or delaying the onset of depression is an important way to reduce the burden of depression. Some research suggests online methods may be effective in preventing depression, but to date, few studies have looked at the application of these methods in the UK. This study aims to assess the effects of an online self-help intervention (Moodbuster) on preventing depression in a primary care population, who are experiencing mild-moderate symptoms of depression, but do not meet the threshold for diagnosis. A randomised control design with a six-month and nine-month follow up will be used to compare Moodbuster to a wait-listed control group. Then, a qualitative process evaluation will be used to understand the barriers and facilitators of implementing the intervention. Eligible participants in Greater Manchester (individuals with mild to moderate symptoms of depression, who do not have a diagnosis of major depressive disorder and have access to the internet) will take part in a 6-week online self-help programme, accompanied by three telephone calls with a trained researcher to support them in their use of the programme. Researchers will follow-up with participants six and nine months after starting the programme to measure depression, anxiety, quality of life, and use of services. The process evaluation will involve qualitative interviews with participants and focus groups with practitioners who referred individuals to the study. This study will assess the effects of Moodbuster on preventing depression and barriers and facilitators of implementing such an intervention in a UK primary care population. It is hypothesised that the intervention group will display reduced depression symptoms and incidence, reduced service use, and improved quality of life, and the intervention will be acceptable to a UK primary care population.