| Abstract [eng] |
Internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs with therapist support are known to be an effective tool in the treatment of depression of varying severity, but their long-term effectiveness has not been widely studied. This master’s thesis examines the long-term effectiveness of internet-based CBT for depressed older people. The study included 84 participants aged 60 to 83 years (M = 67.55, SD = 5.94), the majority of whom were women (97.6%). The selection of participants took place through various media channels in an attempt to reach specific audiences and through mental health centers in Lithuania. The following instruments were used in the study: PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire), GDS-15 (Geriatric Depression Scale), WHO-5 (World Health Organization Well-Being Index), GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire). A longitudinal randomized controlled trial was conducted in four phases with 3 months and 12 months follow-up. The results show that the impact of the internet-based CBT program remains significant a year after completion and that the number of depression cases has decreased significantly (64%). These are promising results in the field of internet-based treatments for depression, but further research is needed. |
