None listed
Conditions
Brief summary
Using Randomised Controlled Trial methodology, this study investigates the effectiveness of a universal prevention intervention for depression in adolescents prior to the Higher School Certificate (HSC). Students in 30 schools across New South Wales (NSW) will be randomly allocated to receive an online, automated, preventative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program or an online control program focused on health and wellbeing. Students will participate in the intervention in February of Year 12, and will complete assessment measures pre- and post-intervention, approximately 6 months later (prior to the Trial HSC) and at 18-month follow-up. The primary outcome measure will be symptom levels of depression. Secondary outcomes include academic performance, incidence/recurrence of depression, suicidal ideation and behaviour. Cost effectiveness, as well as predictors of treatment response and adherence will also be measured. Additionally, the effect of the intervention on parental mental health and wellbeing will be examined.
Interventions
The experimental group will participate in the SPARX program, an online, interactive, fantasy game based on principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), designed to prevent and treat depression in young people. The gaming component allows the participant to choose an avatar and then undertake a number of skill-building challenges in the context of a fantasy world. This component is supplemented by direct instruction, education and activities (or homework) provided by a ‘guide’ avatar. SPAR
The experimental group will participate in the SPARX program, an online, interactive, fantasy game based on principles of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), designed to prevent and treat depression in young people. The gaming component allows the participant to choose an avatar and then undertake a number of skill-building challenges in the context of a fantasy world. This component is supplemented by direct instruction, education and activities (or homework) provided by a ‘guide’ avatar. SPARX consists of seven modules (levels) which cover: finding hope, being active, dealing with emotions, problem solving, recognizing and challenging unhelpful thought and bringing it altogether. SPARX is delivered via the internet in school classrooms over the course of 5 weeks. Participants spend approximately 30-40 mins on the program per week.
Sponsors
Prof Helen Christensen
Study design
Allocation
Randomised controlled trial
Primary purpose
Prevention
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
All
Age
15 Years to 20 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes
Inclusion criteria
Students in their final year of high school at participating schools. Students and their parents must provide consent to participate.
Exclusion criteria
Nil
Outcome results
None listed