e-Learning for Anxiety and Depression

Overseen By Ayers

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: McMaster University

Disqualifiers: Lives outside Canada, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: 4 weeks

125 Participants Needed

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

In this proposal, the investigators plan to study the impact of In this proposal, we plan to study the impact of e-learning on mental health literacy and stigma related to anxiety and depression. Participants will be randomized to one of four groups - Depression e-Learning A, Depression e-Learning B, Anxiety e-Learning A, and Anxiety e-Learning B. All participants will be given access to all e-learning at the conclusion of the study.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What data supports the effectiveness of the e-Learning treatment for anxiety and depression?

Research shows that online resources can effectively support the management of anxiety and depression by providing high-quality information and interventions. Additionally, eHealth-based cognitive behavioral therapy has been found to reduce depression and anxiety severity, suggesting that similar online treatments could be beneficial. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Is e-Learning for Anxiety and Depression safe for humans?

The research articles provided do not contain specific safety data for e-Learning programs for anxiety and depression, but they do suggest that multimedia educational programs are generally well-received and can reduce anxiety and depression in various medical settings. ^{6 7 8 9 10}

How does the e-Learning treatment for anxiety and depression differ from other treatments?

The e-Learning treatment for anxiety and depression is unique because it offers an accessible, low-cost, and globally scalable option through online platforms, which can be used as a first step in a stepped-care approach. Unlike traditional face-to-face therapy, it requires minimal clinician time and can be self-guided, making it a flexible option for many people. ^{1 11 12 13 14}

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals over 45 living in Canada who are comfortable with email and the internet, have high-speed internet access, and a good command of English. It's aimed at those experiencing depression or anxiety.

Inclusion Criteria

I live in Canada.

I speak and understand English well.

I am 45 years old or older.

Timeline

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

1-2 weeks

Treatment

Participants are randomized to one of four e-learning groups focusing on mental health literacy and stigma related to anxiety and depression

4 weeks

Online participation

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for changes in mental health literacy and stigma after the e-learning intervention

4 weeks

Treatment Details

Interventions

• Anxiety e-Learning A
• Anxiety e-Learning B
• Depression e-Learning A
• Depression e-Learning B

Trial Overview The study examines the effectiveness of four e-learning programs designed to improve mental health literacy and reduce stigma around depression and anxiety. Participants will be randomly assigned to one program but will get access to all after the study ends.

Participant Groups

Group I: Depression e-Learning B Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Group II: Depression e-Learning A Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Group III: Anxiety e-Learning B Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Group IV: Anxiety e-Learning A Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

McMaster University

Lead Sponsor

Trials

936

Recruited

2,630,000+

Findings from Research

E-health resources for anxiety and depression in Australia provide valuable information, management interventions, and peer support, which can complement traditional psychological services.

Research shows that online symptom prevention and management programs are effective for adults, and early evaluations for children and adolescents are promising, highlighting the potential of these resources in clinical practice.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Anxiety and depression - online resources and management tools. Reynolds, J., Griffiths, K., Christensen, H.[2011]

An interactive online education program for oncology staff improved communication and confidence in screening for anxiety and depression, but actual uptake was low at only 7% during the trial, indicating challenges in real-world implementation.

Despite the training being well-received in pilot tests, factors like competing demands and the online format hindered participation, suggesting that a combination of training methods may be necessary to enhance engagement and effectiveness.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Development, acceptability and uptake of an on-line communication skills education program targeting challenging conversations for oncology health professionals related to identifying and responding to anxiety and depression. Shaw, J., Allison, K., Cuddy, J., et al.[2022]

References

1. Australia pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Anxiety and depression - online resources and management tools. [2011]

2. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Development, acceptability and uptake of an on-line communication skills education program targeting challenging conversations for oncology health professionals related to identifying and responding to anxiety and depression. [2022]

3. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effectiveness of eHealth-based cognitive behavioural therapy on depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. [2022]

4. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Treating patients for comorbid depression, anxiety disorders, and somatic illnesses. [2006]

5. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Use of the internet to assist in the treatment of depression and anxiety: a systematic review. [2022]

6. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Effect on Anxiety and Satisfaction of Video-Assisted Education Given Before an ERCP Procedure. [2023]

7. China (Republic : 1949- ) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Exploring the self-learning experiences of patients with depression participating in a multimedia education program. [2019]

8. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effects of multimedia nursing education on disease-related depression and anxiety in patients staying in a coronary intensive care unit. [2022]

9. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A pilot study on development and feasibility of the 'MyEducation: CABG application' for patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. [2022]

10. Netherlands pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Social anxiety in E-Learning: Scale validation and socio-demographic correlation study. [2022]

11. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

eHealth interventions for the prevention of depression and anxiety in the general population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. [2022]

12. Australia pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Is internet treatment for depressive and anxiety disorders ready for prime time? [2020]

13. England pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The GET READY relapse prevention programme for anxiety and depression: a mixed-methods study protocol. [2023]

14. United States pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Improving adherence and clinical outcomes in self-guided internet treatment for anxiety and depression: randomised controlled trial. [2022]