Research on Anxiety and Depression: Computer-Assisted Therapy

Research on Anxiety and Depression: Computer-Assisted Therapy

This study examines how online self-guided programs can improve mood and anxiety symptoms. These programs use exercises from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, which is an evidence-based treatment for depression and anxiety. The purpose of this study is to learn who will do best with the online format. Our aim is to learn for whom online self-guided interventions are most efficacious. This knowledge is important because it will help inform clinicians and patients about who might benefit from this type of intervention versus who would need the assistance of a therapist. More specifically, we hope to figure out who would benefit from solely an online intervention and who would benefit from an online intervention in addition to other treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Previous participation in the RAD study in our laboratory

RAD study inclusion criteria are:

• 18+ years of age
• Fluent and literate in English
• Can provide informed consent
• fMRI scanning eligibility, including no evidence of any form of metal embedded in the body (e.g., metal wires, nuts, bolts, screws, plates, sutures)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Anyone who has not already completed the RAD study will be excluded.

RAD study exclusion criteria are:

• Presence of suicidal ideations representing imminent risk
• General medical condition, disease, or neurological disorder that interferes with the assessments
• Mild traumatic brain injury (history of physical brain injury or blow to the head resulting in loss of consciousness greater than five minutes) and which could interfere with doing the assessments
• Severe impediment to vision, hearing and/or hand movement, likely to interfere with ability to complete the assessments
• Unable and/or unlikely to follow the study protocols
• Pregnant or breastfeeding