The Challenge
Adolescent depression and anxiety symptoms are widespread in sub-Saharan African countries. However, treatment options are scarce and stigma often discourages help-seeking.
The Solution
Brief, computerized single-session interventions (SSIs) that contain empirically supported stigma-reducing elements may provide a solution to this issue, by expanding access to treatment.
The Study
We developed and evaluated an SSI specifically designed for Kenyan adolescents, called Shamiri-Digital (Shamiri means “thrive” in Kiswahili).
The Procedure
High school students were randomized to either Shamiri-Digital or a study-skills control intervention. Shamiri-Digital consisted of reading and writing activities about three concepts: growth mindset, gratitude, and value affirmation. Both interventions were delivered electronically in schools.
The Results
Compared to the control, Shamiri-Digital led to a greater reduction in adolescent depressive symptoms among the full sample and a subsample of youths with moderate to severe depression symptoms from baseline to a 2-week follow-up. The effects surpass the mean effects reported in meta-analyses of full-length, face-to-face psychotherapy for youth depression. However, there were no significant effects on anxiety symptoms, well-being, or happiness.
In Conclusion
This is the first report that a brief, computerized SSI may reduce depressive symptoms in adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Further trials with extended follow-ups will provide more insights into the strength and durability of these effects.
.jpeg)
