Internet Support Groups for Depression: A 1-Year Prospective Cohort Study

• DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.159.12.2062
• Publication Date: 2002-11-25T22:22:47Z
• Authors: Thomas K. Houston; Lisa A. Cooper; Daniel E. Ford
• Keywords: Depression

This study described the characteristics of users Internet-based depression support groups and assessed whether use predicts change in symptoms social support.Users (N=103) these were recruited into cohort followed prospectively. Demographic characteristics, group use, care, score on Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D Scale) by Internet survey at baseline, 6 months, 12 months.Users' demographic included median age 40 years, 78.6% women, 56.3% unmarried. Most (86.4%) currently depressed >22). Over 50% participants heavily used (5 or more hours 2 weeks), 37.9% preferred online communication to face-to-face counseling. scores low, compared with those from other studies primary care patients depression. The overall follow-up rate was 81.6% months. During follow-up, 72.6% responders still participated group; 81.0% receiving care. Heavy likely have resolution < =22) during than less frequent users, after adjustment age, gender, employment, baseline CES-D logistic regression. did not follow-up.Users had high severity scores, socially isolated, perceived considerable benefit group. warrant continued research regarding supplementation