Developing and testing tele-support psychotherapy using mobile phones for depression among youth in Kampala district, Uganda: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

In the post-COVID-19 era, depressive disorders among youth have risen significantly, creating an urgent need for accessible, cost-effective mental health interventions. This study adapts Group Support Psychotherapy into Tele-Support Psychotherapy (TSP) via mobile phones. It aims to evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, effectiveness, and cost-efficiency in addressing mild to moderate depression among youth in central Uganda.

Methods and analysis

This study will use a mixed-methods approach, starting with a qualitative phase to adapt Group Support Psychotherapy into Tele-Support Psychotherapy (TSP) via mobile phones. Guided by ecological theories and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), focus group discussions and interviews with you

SUBMITTER: Nakimuli-Mpungu E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11876404 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature