 Depression Study
 What is the study about?
We are offering TREATMENT for depression as
part of a study examining risk of relapse in depression. In this study, we
are interested in determining what makes some people more vulnerable than others
to repeated bouts of depression. Cognitive therapy has emerged as one of the
most effective short-term psychological treatments for depression. Yet, even with
effective treatment, a number of patients remain at risk for a return of their depression
at some future point. Our research has concentrated on understanding the psychological
factors that might lead to such a relapse. Our past work has identified a particular
style of thinking that is especially active during temporary sad moods, and that
contributes to depressive relapse. The current study builds on these findings to
see what effects different treatments have on this thinking style.
 Who is running the study?
This study is funded by the Medical Research Council of
Canada. It is taking place at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Clarke
Site, Toronto, Canada. A team of established researchers, headed by Dr. Zindel
Segal, a nationally recognized researcher in mood disorders, is conducting the study
on risk of relapse in depression.
What treatments are available?
As part of the study we are offering either COGNITIVE
BEHAVIOUR THERAPY (CBT) or ANTIDEPRESSANT MEDICATION. You would
have a 50 percent chance of receiving one type of treatment over the other.
Both types of treatment have been shown to be effective
in treating depression.
If you are offered CBT, you would have one-hour weekly sessions
with one of the therapists on the unit for 18 to 20 weeks. There is no charge
for this treatment. If you are offer ed antidepressant
medication, you would be followed by one of the psychiatrists in the mood disorders
program for six months. The antidepressant medications used are not experimental
drugs. They would be one of the many federally approved antidepressants, chosen
with your specific needs in mind. After treatment has ended, we would monitor
your mood for 18 months.
What is CBT?
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy is an intensive
short-term psychological treatment that helps patients become aware of how attitudes,
beliefs, and thoughts produce and maintain depressed moods
What are the risks?
The risks in this study are minimal. There are certain side effects
associated with antidepressant medication that vary from person to person.
How do I get more information?
Please fill out our online form for more information and possible inclusion in
our study
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