Veterans Social Program for Depression
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
VOICES Veterans Socials (VS) support Veterans in the community through weekly social groups. Veterans socials have the potential to improve social functioning, mental health symptoms, and create lasting social support. This project aims to evaluate and improve Veterans Socials to help older Veterans with depression by adapting materials, interviewing VS attendees, and collecting questionnaires. The goal is to improve the program based on the results for future use and research.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on social support rather than medication changes.
Is the Veterans Social Program for Depression safe for participants?
How is the Veterans Social Program for Depression treatment different from other treatments for depression?
The Veterans Social Program for Depression is unique because it focuses on increasing social connections and providing information about services through community-based events, rather than traditional medical or psychological treatments. This approach aims to reduce depression by enhancing social support and access to care, which is particularly beneficial for veterans who may experience social isolation.16789
What data supports the effectiveness of the Veterans Social Program for Depression treatment?
Research suggests that increasing social connections through programs like Veterans Socials can help reduce depressive symptoms and improve access to care among veterans. Studies have shown that social contact is significantly related to changes in depressive symptoms, highlighting the potential benefits of community-based social interventions.15101112
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jay Gorman, PsyD
Principal Investigator
VA Bedford HealthCare System, Bedford, MA
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older veterans who are experiencing depression, isolation, or loneliness. Participants must have a documented depressive disorder or score higher than 2 on the PHQ-2 and be able to give informed consent.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Interviews
13 participants engage in semi-structured interviews about barriers to social engagement and challenges around community-based activities
Treatment
20 participants engage in weekly 90-minute social groups for social engagement and support
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for social support and mental health outcomes after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Veterans Social
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
VA Office of Research and Development
Lead Sponsor