Effectiveness of Blended Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Versus Treatment as Usual for Depression in Routine Specialized Mental Healthcare: E-COMPARED Trial in the Netherlands

Abstract Background The general aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness blended Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (bCBT) as compared Treatment Usual (TAU) for depression in specialized routine mental healthcare Netherlands. We further explored a range secondary outcome variables, including quality life, clinical response, remission and reliable improvement, well deterioration potential negative effects treatment. Methods n = 103 patients with Major Depressive Disorder were recruited part E-COMPARED project, randomly allocated bCBT (n 53) or TAU 50). Measurements took place at baseline, 3-, 6- 12-months follow-up. analyzed using linear mixed-effects models repeated measures. Results symptoms significantly declined life improved over time both during No significant interaction between treatment group assessment point found. Likewise, there no differences two groups on outcomes. Patients following went from severe mild symptom severity, along large within-group effects. Conclusion Applying health care seems promising, but is relatively new form that still under development more research needed. Clinical Trial Registration Netherlands Trials Register NTR4962. Registered 5 January 2015.