Digital cognitive behavioral therapy for Chinese teens with depressive symptoms

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This single-center, two-arm, open-label randomized controlled trial enrolls Chinese adolescents aged 12–18 who score ≥28 on the CDRS-R. Participants are randomized to a 6-week digital cognitive behavioral therapy (DCBT) program or to the regular mental health curriculum delivered by school staff. Outcomes are measured at baseline, at 6 weeks (post-intervention), and at 18 weeks (3-month follow-up), with primary focus on DCBT effectiveness. Secondary outcomes include feasibility, self-reported depressive and anxiety severity, psychological resilience, and quality of life enjoyment and satisfaction.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 12 to 18 years;
2. Scored 28 or higher on the children's depression rating scale-revised (CDRS-R);
3. Have the ability to read and write in Chinese;
4. Participant and at least one of their guardians provided written consent;
5. Have access to mobile phone and internet.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. The researchers assessed that the adolescent's depressive symptoms were too severe to participate to CADS-D;
2. Scored 5 or higher on item 13 (suicidal ideation) on CDRS-R;
3. Participants who met diagnosis of other mental disorder except depression;
4. Severe physical illnesses or other physical disabilities that prevented the use of DCBT;
5. Within the past three months or currently undergoing any antidepressant treatment, including medication therapy, psychotherapy, and physical therapy;
6. Unavailability to follow up months after intervention.

Where it's running

• The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
  Chongqing, China Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Xinyu Zhou, Professor
• Email: zhouxinyu@cqmu.edu.cn
• Phone: 15823996993

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.