Comparing Standard and Step-by-Step Treatments for Moderate Depression in Adults in General Practice

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of three different treatment approaches for adults aged 18 to 65 with moderate depression in general practice. The study aims to compare standard treatment by a general practitioner, standard treatment by a psychologist using cognitive behavioral therapy, and a structured step-by-step pharmacological treatment plan carried out by a general practitioner. This trial includes 171 participants and seeks to determine whether the structured step-by-step approach is more effective than the standard treatments. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups usual care by a general practitioner involving typical treatment methods, usual care by a psychologist providing cognitive behavioral therapy, or a general practitioner using an algorithm-based pharmacological plan with scheduled follow-ups at weeks 4, 8, and 12. This plan includes measurement-based care using rating scales to guide medication adjustments. Treatments last for 12 weeks, with assessments at regular intervals. During the study, participants will meet with project staff every four weeks to complete rating scales that monitor their depression progress, such as the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Additional assessments include suicide severity, major depression inventory, social performance, and cognitive testing at enrollment and treatment end. The main outcome measure is the change in depression severity over 12 weeks. Safety and adherence are monitored throughout the study period, which ends in June 2027.

Improving Treatment for Depression in General Practice Using a Step-by-Step Care Plan.