A pilot study to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a community based physical activity intervention (involving internet, telephone, and pedometer support), integrated with medication and mood management for depressed patients

ObjectiveTo assess the feasibility and acceptability of a multi-component intervention to treat depression in primary care.MethodsA single group prospective design was used to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week intervention combining antidepressant medication, brief behavioral counseling and physical activity (PA) promotion, and also associated changes in depression and various self-reported measures. A sample of adults with mild-to-moderate major depression and willingness to take antidepressant medication were recruited through local primary care clinics. A Research Nurse Practitioner (RNP) prescribed the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, escitalopram (10–20 mg), and provided brief weekly counseling. In addition participants received a pedometer, printed materials, and weekly emails addressing behavioral skills to increase their physical activity. Participants' depressive symptoms, quality of life and PA attitudes were surveyed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks. At week 12 they also reported their satisfaction with the study components.ResultsOf the 36 participants recruited, 64% of participants completed measures at week 12, 30% completed all 12 counseling sessions and 60% responded to half the emails. By week 12, participants reduced their depressive symptom scores (by 4.7; p < .001), improved their quality of life scores (by 9.7; p < .001) and increased their daily step counts (by 2449.2; p < .03). Of the 23 who responded, over 70% thought the pedometer, calls and print materials helped improve their mood. Those who completed more counseling were more likely to reduce their depressive symptoms at week 12 (r = −.46; p < .05).ConclusionThis pilot study demonstrated the feasibility and acceptability of a multi-component intervention to reduce depressive symptoms in a sample of mild-to-moderately depressed adults.