Songprakun, Williams and McCann, Terence (2012) Evaluation of a cognitive behavioural self-help manual for reducing depression: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 19 (7). pp. 647-653. ISSN 1351-0126 (print) 1365-2850 (online)

Abstract

The prevalence of depression is increasing in Thailand. We used a randomized controlled trial to examine the effectiveness of a self-help programme in reducing depression in people with depression in Chiang Mai Province in Thailand. Fifty-six individuals diagnosed with moderate depression participated. They were assigned randomly to an intervention (n= 27) or control (n= 29) group. The intervention group were given a self-help manual along with standard care and treatment, while the control group continued to receive standard care and treatment. Both groups were also given a short weekly telephone call. The findings showed statistically significant differences between the groups, and within the intervention group, in their depression levels. Between baseline and post-test, a sharp decrease in depression was evident in the intervention group, whereas the level of depression increased in the control group. Between post-test and follow-up, a decrease was apparent in depression in both groups. However, the intervention group showed a much lower level of depression than the control group. The results support the use of bibliotherapy as an adjunct to mental health nurses' and other professionals' work in caring for people with moderate depression in the community.

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