Prevention based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has proven to be the most effective way to prevent depression. This is a form of therapy that focuses on changing thoughts and behavior, and consequently feelings as well. It is often used to reduce and prevent low mood among young people, and has also been shown to genuinely work for many of them.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
In collaboration with Utrecht University, the Trimbos Institute is conducting research into the effective components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in the prevention of depression among young people. Specifically, the effects of behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, problem-solving, and relaxation are being examined. The study also investigates whether the order in which these components are offered makes a difference.
Experiment at 11 secondary schools
The Trimbos Institute is conducting research through an experiment at 11 secondary schools in the Netherlands. A total of 256 young people are taking part, all of whom are following a preventive CBT training program in which the components are offered in different orders. This research provides insight into how CBT works in preventing depression among young people, so that interventions can be improved and personalized.
Read here for more information about the approach.
GGD GHOR Netherlands, the Trimbos Institute, and the Netherlands Center for Youth Health jointly developed the Wegwijzer Rondom Jong to make depression among secondary school students a topic of discussion. Read the article about it here.