Collaborative stepped-care intervention for adults with mild to moderate depression
Official title: Effectiveness of a Collaborative Stepped-care Intervention for Adults Aged 45 and Above With Subthreshold Depressive Symptoms in the Primary Care Setting in Hong Kong
Run by The University of Hong Kong · NCT06658041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new team-based therapy approach to see if it helps adults over 45 with mild to moderate depression feel better and access mental health support more easily.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 45 Years to 59 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 352 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, HONG KONG) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 23, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 25, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06658041 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 45 years and above residing in Hong Kong with mild to moderately severe depressive symptoms.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe mental health conditions or imminent suicidal risk may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a collaborative stepped-care intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy for adults aged 45 and above with subthreshold depressive symptoms in a primary care setting. The intervention aims to improve accessibility to mental health services and reduce the burden of depression. Participants will be compared to propensity score-matched active controls to assess changes in depressive symptoms both immediately after the intervention and up to three months later. The approach builds on previous successful models implemented in Hong Kong for older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve mental health outcomes for adults experiencing mild to moderate depressive symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using similar collaborative stepped-care models have shown effectiveness, indicating potential for success in this expanded intervention.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Residing in Hong Kong; * Presenting mild to moderately severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 = 5-19); * Able to give informed consent to participate. Exclusion Criteria: * A known history of autism, intellectual disability, schizophrenia-spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, or dementia; * Imminent suicidal risk; * Difficulty in communication that would limit meaningful participation in psychological intervention.
Where it's running
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The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Terry YS Lum, Ph.D. — The University of Hong Kong
- Study coordinator: Stephanie MY Wong, Ph.D.
- Email: stephanie@myinwong.com
- Phone: +85290371111
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.