Minimal-contact psychotherapy for sub-threshold depression in primary care - Randomised trial

Background Sub-threshold depression is a prognostic variable for major depression. Interventions in subthreshold depression may prevent the onset of new cases of major depression. Aims To examine the effects of minimal-contact psychotherapy in primary care patients with sub-threshold depression on the onset of major depression, on the reduction in depressive symptoms and on health-related quality of life. Method We conducted a randomised trial in primary care, in which patients screened for sub-threshold depression were randomly assigned to minimal-contact psychotherapy (n=107) or to usual care (n=109). Results One year after baseline, the incidence of major depressive disorder was found to be significantly lower in the psychotherapy group (12%) than in those receiving usual care (18%). Small but significant effects were also found on depressive symptoms and on aspects of health-related quality of life. Conclusions Primary care patients with sub-threshold depression can benefit from minimal-contact psychotherapy Declaration of interest None. Funding detailed in Acknowledgements.