A randomized placebo-controlled trial of a school-based depression prevention program

J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2004 May;43(5):538-47. doi: 10.1097/00004583-200405000-00007.

Abstract

Objective: To conduct a placebo-controlled study of the effectiveness of a universal school-based depression prevention program.

Method: Three hundred ninety-two students age 13 to 15 from two schools were randomized to intervention (RAP-Kiwi) and placebo programs run by teachers. RAP-Kiwi was an 11-session manual-based program derived from cognitive-behavioral therapy. The placebo was similar but with cognitive components removed. Outcomes were self-rated depression scales, the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale (RADS), and the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II). Follow-up was to 18 months. Analysis was done on an intent-to-treat basis.

Results: Immediately after the intervention, depression scores were reduced significantly more by RAP-Kiwi than by placebo, with a mean difference in change from baseline between groups of 1.5 on BDI-II (CI > 0.38, p =.01) and 2.24 on RADS (CI > 0.22, p =.04). Categorical analysis confirmed significant clinical benefit with an absolute risk reduction of 3% (95% CI, 1-11%, McNemar chi, p =.03), with the "number needed to treat" for short-term benefit of 33. Group differences in depression scores averaged across time to 18 months were significant on RADS but not on BDI-II. Retention rates were 91% at 6 months and 72% at 18 months.

Conclusions: The RAP-Kiwi program is a potentially effective public health measure. Confirmation of effectiveness measuring episodes of depressive illness and broader measures of adjustment is warranted.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Depression / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Preventive Health Services / organization & administration*
  • School Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Single-Blind Method
  • United States