Behavioural Activation for depression in young people
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Perceptions and opinions on a computerised Behavioural Activation Programme for the treatment of depression in young people
IRAS ID
210240
Contact name
Lucy Tindall
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of York
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
Depression is currently the leading cause of illness and disability in young people with approximately 20% of adolescents having had at least one depressive episode by the age of 18. Despite the importance of young people experiencing depressive disorders receiving effective treatment to reduce negative symptoms and improve mood, only 35% actually seek help possibly due to factors associated with treatments (e.g. stigma, negative attitudes about help-seeking, accessibility, reluctance to engage one-to-one with a therapist, etc). To avoid some of these barriers, young people may be treated more effectively using computerised therapies which have increased availability and accessibility, reduced stigma and can be delivered in a format attractive to many young people.
One therapy that has demonstrated effectiveness in treating depression in adults is Behavioural Activation (BA) – a type of talking therapy focused on increasing activity. Although research supports its use with adults, little research has examined its use with young people.
To date no computerised versions of BA have been developed to treat young people with depression. The aim of this research is therefore to collect information regarding what individuals perceive to be the important components for inclusion in a computerised BA programme designed for young people experiencing depression.REC name
East Midlands - Leicester South Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EM/0420
Date of REC Opinion
23 Sep 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion