Internet cognitive behavioral therapy improves depression in adults

SAN DIEGO — Cognitive behavioral therapy delivered via the internet improved depression in adults, according to a meta-analysis presented here, suggesting utility for individuals with limited access to in-person care.

“In 2014, it was estimated that 5.7 million adults in America had reported symptoms consistent with a depressive episode,” Charles Koransky, MD, a psychiatric resident at the University of Maryland Medical Center, said during a press briefing. “One of the ways to treat depression is through cognitive behavioral therapy. It has been shown that in-person therapy using CBT does reduce depressive symptoms. Some barriers to receiving that include lack of providers, time, cost, and stigma related to accessing mental health services. To overcome these barriers, CBT is being delivered over the internet through different types of ways.”

To determine efficacy of internet-delivered CBT (iCBT) for depressive symptoms in adults, researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials published from 2005 to 2015 that utilized iCBT among adults with depression.

Findings indicated iCBT was effective for reducing depressive symptoms. This effect was maintained for 6 months following therapy.

There were no statistically significant differences in depressive symptoms between iCBT programs in which the clinician participated or did not, according to researchers.

“Internet-based CBT leads to immediate and sustained reduction of depressive symptoms, which is consistent with meta-analyses in the past. We found that iCBT might be a good option for patients that are unable to access traditional face-to-face therapy,” Koransky said. “However, the results may not be generalizable, due to a few factors.”

Limitations included a female-to-male ratio larger than that of the general population, participants were recruited from advertisements and therefore may have been highly motivated to seek treatment, all studies were conducted in Australia or Europe, and iCBT programs were not uniform, according to Koransky. – by Amanda Oldt

Reference:

Koransky C, et al. Efficacy of cognitive behavior therapy delivered over the internet for depressive symptoms. Presented at: American Psychiatric Association Annual Meeting; May 20-24, 2017; San Diego.

Disclosure: Koransky reports no relevant financial disclosures.