Implementation of a Self-Help Depression Program Among Orthopedic Patients

Implementation of a Self-Help Depression Program Among Orthopedic Patients

The proposed study addresses the potential utility of providing an accessible self-help intervention for patients in a medical setting with an estimated diagnosis of MDD. Specifically, the study will explore whether a) such an intervention can be effectively implemented in a primary care setting and b) patients originally seeking medical attention for an orthopedic problem will be willing to seek psychological treatment and, c) improvement in depression symptoms will lead to improvement in upper and lower extremity functioning.

The present project will be an open-label trial to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a self-help intervention among a sample of orthopedic patients. In addition to monitoring the effectiveness of the Deprexis program on depressive symptoms, the proposed project will assess whether a reduction in depressive symptoms will be associated with improvement on patient reported orthopedic impairment. The investigators will enroll 50 adults and the participants will be given the opportunity to participate in 8 weeks of the web-based online Deprexis program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All patients older than 18 years who present to a surgeon with an upper or lower extremity injury or disability at a participating center (see attached list)
• A level of clinical depression more than minimal symptoms as defined by a score ≥ 10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)
• Willing and able to provide informed consent and comply with the protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

• Injury or illness best treated with prompt surgery