ADepT+ therapy for complex depression
This study is testing a new type of talking therapy called ADepT+ for people in Devon who have depression that's proven difficult to treat. This can happen when depression is combined with difficulties in managing emotions, relationships, or your sense of self, sometimes called 'complex depression'. Current NHS services might not always be set up to help with these specific needs. This small study will see how well ADepT+ therapy works and if people find it helpful. If it goes well, it could lead to a bigger study to help more people in the future. Participants will receive either their usual care or ADepT+ therapy alongside their usual care, and will share their experiences through questionnaires and interviews.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Some people experience depression along with other ongoing difficulties, such as managing relationships, understanding their own feelings, or having a clear sense of who they are. These additional struggles are sometimes called 'personality difficulties'. When depression and these other challenges happen together, it's often referred to as 'complex depression'. This type of depression can be particularly hard to treat with standard approaches.
Currently, it can be tricky for people with complex depression to get the right support. General NHS talking therapies might not always have therapists specially trained to help with these combined issues, and sometimes people are seen as too 'complex' for these services. On the other hand, they might not be considered 'severe enough' for specialist mental health services. This can leave people feeling stuck or without the specific help they need.
This study, called ADepT+, is looking at a new talking therapy designed to help people with complex depression. Its main goal is to see if this new therapy is practical and acceptable, and how it might work, so that we can plan a larger, more definitive study in the future. If successful, this research could pave the way for better support for people living with complex depression.
Key takeaways
- This study is for adults with 'complex depression' in Devon.
- It tests a new talking therapy called ADepT+.
- You might receive the new therapy or continue usual care, chosen randomly.
- Participation involves questionnaires and interviews over 20 months.
- The aim is to help plan better support for complex depression in the future.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, you need to be an adult aged 18 or over and have depression that's considered 'complex'. This means you experience depression along with difficulties in managing your relationships, emotions, or sense of self. You also need to be registered with a GP practice in Devon and feel comfortable completing questionnaires and speaking about your experiences in English.
There are also a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if you're already receiving another type of talking therapy, or if you have certain other conditions like a current substance dependence, schizophrenia, or a severe personality disorder that requires specialist care. The study also cannot include those with co-occurring difficulties that would make it unsafe to manage within a primary care setting.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have depression AND difficulties managing relationships, emotions, or your sense of self?
- Are you registered with a GP in Devon?
- Can you comfortably complete questionnaires and discuss your experiences in English?
- Are you currently NOT receiving another talking therapy?
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups. One group will continue with their usual medical care, and the other group will receive the new ADepT+ therapy in addition to their usual care. ADepT+ therapy involves up to 20 one-hour sessions over about 8 months, followed by up to 5 'booster' sessions in the next year to help maintain what you've learned.
Everyone in the study will fill out questionnaires and have an interview with a researcher at the start, then again after 8, 14, and 20 months. These will ask about your mood, symptoms, and any health services you've used. If you receive the ADepT+ therapy, you'll also complete short questionnaires after each session and can share written thoughts on your therapy experience. Some people receiving therapy might also be asked for a more in-depth interview about their experiences.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- University of ExeterApproximateExeter, United Kingdom
- Devon Partnership NHS TrustCity onlyExeter, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is 'complex depression'?
It's when you have depression along with ongoing difficulties managing relationships, emotions, or your sense of self.
What is ADepT+ therapy?
It's a new type of talking therapy that involves up to 20 weekly sessions and then booster sessions, designed to help with complex depression.
How long will the study last for me?
If you participate, you'll be followed for 20 months, completing questionnaires and interviews at the start, 8, 14, and 20 months.
Will I definitely get the new therapy if I join?
No, there's a 50% chance. Participants are randomly assigned to either receive the ADepT+ therapy or continue with their usual care.
Who is running this study?
The study is being run from the University of Exeter in the UK.
How to find out more
Laura Warbrick
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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