Improving Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder by Reducing Distressing Negative Future Mental Images

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new therapy approach for adults with major depressive disorder MDD, focusing on reducing distressing future-oriented negative mental images that may contribute to depression. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to assess the acceptability and feasibility of adding future-oriented imagery rescripting therapy to usual treatment. The study will also estimate how much this approach might reduce depressive symptoms to plan a larger follow-up trial. Participants will receive Treatment as Usual TAU, which includes psychotherapy andor medication. Half of the participants will also have 3 to 5 weekly sessions of future-oriented imagery rescripting, where they learn to change distressing mental images of catastrophic future events into less upsetting ones. The study uses a mixed factorial design with assessments at baseline, post-treatment, and three months follow-up. During the study, participants will complete questionnaires assessing depression severity and treatment satisfaction at several time points over 18 weeks. Researchers will monitor recruitment rates, dropout, and any serious adverse events to evaluate feasibility. The primary outcomes include depressive symptoms measured by the Beck Depression Inventory and Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale, along with treatment satisfaction. Participants will receive a reimbursement after completing the follow-up assessment.

Improving Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder by Reducing Negative Future-Oriented Mental Imagery