IPT-based Group Intervention by Non-specialist for Improvement of Depressive Symptoms in Community Young Adults in Brazil

IPT-based Group Intervention by Non-specialist for Improvement of Depressive Symptoms in Community Young Adults in Brazil: a Randomized Clinical Trial

Major depressive disorder is a highly prevalent, recurrent, and debilitating disease, the third cause of years of lost life in the world, and it may be the most common disease in 2030, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Furthermore, it's also related to decreased quality of life and high mortality. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a first-line treatment and can also be used for the prevention of depression.

This randomized controlled clinical trial is planned to have 50 participants randomized between an interventional and a control group (waiting list). Our study covers young adults (18 to 24 years old) with depression. Participants will be invited by social media to undergo treatment in an IPT group. The intervention group will be separated into groups with up to 10 participants, with a weekly meeting for eight weeks. The intervention will focus on interpersonal relationships within the model of IPT and will be held by a university student and a doctor trained in IPT.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Young adults (between 18 and 24 years old)
• Young adults who work, live or study in Porto Alegre
• PHQ ≥ 5 - without suicide ideation

Exclusion Criteria:

• Maniac or hypomanic episode
• Psychotic Syndrome
• Substance Abuse
• Suicide Risk or Ideation