Targeting depression before it starts: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of preventive interventions in young adults from randomized controlled trials.
Claudia Aymerich, Anna Peycheva, Dinda Harmanto et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effectiveness of psychosocial preventive interventions for major depressive disorder (MDD) in young adults aged 18-25. Analyzing 58 randomized controlled trials with 11,333 participants, the study found that these interventions significantly reduced depressive symptoms at post-test (g = -0.52) and suggested a reduction in MDD onset risk (RR = 0.77).
Key findings
- Psychosocial interventions reduced depressive symptoms at post-test (g = -0.52; p < 0.01).
- Interventions showed significant heterogeneity in symptom reduction (I² = 93.0%).
- Pooled effects indicated a reduction in MDD onset risk (RR = 0.77; p < 0.01).
- Most studies had a high risk of bias, with 92.8% rated as such.
Why it matters
Understanding the effectiveness of preventive interventions in young adults is crucial, as this age group is at high risk for developing major depressive disorder. Effective early interventions could mitigate the onset of depression and improve long-term mental health outcomes.
What to keep in mind
The study noted a high risk of bias in the included trials and limited data on long-term effects.