One-day cognitive-behavioural therapy self-confidence workshops for people with depression: a randomised controlled trial

Linda Horrell, K Goldsmith, Andre Tylee, Ulrike Schmidt, Caroline Murphy, Eva-Maria Bonin, Jennifer Beecham, June Brown (2014)

British Journal of Psychiatry 204 3 222-233

https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.112.121855

Available online: 19 December 2013

Abstract
Background Despite its high prevalence, help-seeking for depression is low. Aims To assess the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of 1-day cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) self-confidence workshops in reducing depression. Anxiety, self-esteem, prognostic indicators as well as access were also assessed. Method An open randomised controlled trial (RCT) waiting list control design with 12-week follow-up was used (trial registration: ISRCTN26634837). A total of 459 adult participants with depression (Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores of 514) self-referred and 382 participants (83%) were followed up. Results At follow-up, experimental and control participants differed significantly on the BDI, with an effect size of 0.55. Anxiety and self-esteem also differed. Of those who participated, 25% were GP non-consulters and 32% were from Black and minority ethnic groups. Women benefited more than men on depression scores. The intervention has a 90% chance of being considered cost-effective if a depression-free day is valued at £14. Conclusions Self-confidence workshops appear promising in terms of clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and access by difficult-to-engage groups.