Single day intervention (SDI) for depression: An exploratory pilot study to establish acceptability, feasibility, and explore symptom change

Abstract

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by significant alterations in mood, cognition, motivation, and behavior that yield suffering and disruption in daily functioning. Current depression treatments are often not fully effective and can be time intensive and costly. It is therefore critical to identify and refine effective treatments for MDD. In this exploratory pilot study, we present the findings of a single-day intervention (SDI) for treating depression termed the Carolina Accelerated Recovery from Depression (CARED) protocol, which we designed to complement future neurostimulation augmentation. The study was preregistered (NCT06590038), and focused on feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcome data. The psychotherapy intervention of CARED consists of principles and elements of behavioral activation and acceptance and commitment therapy to target low mood, anhedonia, and psychological rigidity. Ten adult participants with current MDD were recruited from the community to pilot the CARED psychotherapy protocol and provide feedback. Participants also completed symptom measures at baseline and two weeks after the SDI. Results indicate that overall, participants reported positive experiences with the therapy experience. Descriptive patterns suggested that 6 of 10 participants with moderate-to-severe MDD showed reductions in BDI-II scores at two week follow up, while 9 of 10 participants reported satisfaction with the intervention and willingness to return, and no adverse events were reported. While preliminary, these results support the CARED SDI as a feasible and well-tolerated platform for investigation in a larger controlled trial augmented with noninvasive brain stimulation.