Group interpersonal psychotherapy for depression in rural Uganda: 6-month outcomes

Abstract

BackgroundA randomised controlled trial comparing group interpersonal psychotherapy with treatment as usual among rural Ugandans meeting symptom and functional impairment criteria for DSM–IV major depressive disorder or sub-threshold disorder showed evidence of effectiveness immediately following the intervention.AimsTo assess the long-term effectiveness of this therapy over a subsequent 6-month period.MethodA follow-up study of trial participants was conducted in which the primary outcomes were depression diagnosis, depressive symptoms and functional impairment.ResultsAt 6 months, participants receiving the group interpersonal psychotherapy had mean depression symptom and functional impairment scores respectively 14.0 points (95% CI 12.2–15.8; P < 0.0001) and 5.0 points (95% CI 3.6–6.4; P < 0.0001) lower than the control group. Similarly, the rate of major depression among those in the treatment arm (11.7%) was significantly lower than that in the control arm (54.9%) (P < 0.0001).ConclusionsParticipation in a 16-week group interpersonal psychotherapy intervention continued to confer a substantial mental health benefit 6 months after conclusion of the formal intervention.