Relevant Papers

Researchers based in the Department of Health Sciences at the University of York are conducting this work in partnership with Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust who are the sponsor for the study.  The Trial Managers at the University of York are responsible for running the study.  This research is part of a 4-year research project that has been organised by The Department of Health Sciences at the University of York and the NHS. It has been paid for by a research grant from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).  All research must be checked by a research ethics committee before it can go ahead.  This makes sure the research is safe and fair.  

Our treatment is based on Behavioural Activation (BA) which aims to improve people’s mood by encouraging them to take part in activities they may have stopped doing that they previously enjoyed, or which gave them a sense of achievement, or closeness to other people. Our BA is made up of 8 sessions each lasting around 40 minutes and delivered weekly, either in the clinic or online. The sessions help young people to identify activities that are meaningful and enjoyable and they are encouraged to take part in these activities, with the support of carers; young people aged 16 and over may sometimes prefer to nominate another adult for support. Young people will be shown how to set goals, use problem solving, learn methods to deal with stress and avoidance and will be taught what to do if they think they may have a relapse (i.e. are feeling better and then see symptoms return).  All BA sessions have been developed from previous BA therapies and through discussions with professionals, carers and young people.  

Psychoeducation (PE) for this study will be an online leaflet which aims to help young people understand what depression is, what they and others around them can do to help and signposting to support services. This will be distributed to every participant in the study.