Computer-based treatment for comorbid depression and substance use problems: The SHADE project

  • Dr Frances Kay-Lambkin, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of Newcastle, Australia
  • A/Prof Amanda Baker, Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Australia
  • Prof Brian Kelly, Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health, Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Australia
  • Mr Terry Lewin, Centre for Brain and Mental Health Research, University of Newcastle, Australia
  • Prof Vaughan Carr, Schizophrenia Research Institute, Australia

    • Background: It is important to focus efforts on developing treatments that target comorbid depression and substance use comorbidity and that also address the important issue of treatment accessibility.
    Aims: To report on 12-month outcomes of the SHADE project (Self-Help for Alcohol/other drug use and DEpression).
    Method: 300 people with current depression and co-existing problematic use of substances were recruited from the general community. Following a comprehensive assessment, participants received a one-session brief intervention, and were subsequently randomised to one of three treatment conditions: 9 sessions of face-to-face SHADE therapy, 9 sessions of computerised SHADE therapy, or 9 sessions of supportive counselling. Blind follow-up interviews were conducted at post-treatment, 6- and 12-months.
    Results: Reductions in depression and substance use were evident at the post-treatment assessment. Improvements were maintained at 6- and 12-months in the two active SHADE therapy conditions.
    Conclusion: People with co-existing depression and substance use problems will attend a program of psychological treatment and report benefit from therapy that integrates depression and AOD-related strategies. Therapist assisted computerised treatment may help people to reduce levels of depression and AOD use. Further implications will be discussed.