PT Journal AU Ebert, DD Lehr, D Boß, L Riper, H Cuijpers, P Andersson, G Thiart, H Heber, E Berking, M TI Efficacy of an internet-based problem-solving training for teachers: results of a randomized controlled trial SO Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health PD 11VL PY 2014 BP 582 EP 596 IS 6 DI 10.5271/sjweh.3449 WP https://www.sjweh.fi/show_abstract.php?abstract_id=3449 DE depression; depressive symptom; internet-based; mental health; occupational health; randomized controlled trial; RCT; teacher; training; web-based SN 0355-3140 AB '

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OBJECTIVE ': 'The primary purpose of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the efficacy of internet-based problem-solving training (iPST) for employees in the educational sector (teachers) with depressive symptoms. The results of training were compared to those of a waitlist control group (WLC).

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METHODS ': 'One-hundred and fifty teachers with elevated depressive symptoms (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, CES-D ≥16) were assigned to either the iPST or WLC group. The iPST consisted of five lessons, including problem-solving and rumination techniques. Symptoms were assessed before the intervention began and in follow-up assessments after seven weeks, three months, and six months. The primary outcome was depressive symptom severity (CES-D). Secondary outcomes included general and work-specific self-efficacy, perceived stress, pathological worries, burnout symptoms, general physical and mental health, and absenteeism.

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RESULTS ': 'iPST participants displayed a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptoms after the intervention (d=0.59, 95% CI 0.26–0.92), after three months (d=0.37, 95% CI 0.05–0.70) and after six months (d=0.38, 95% CI 0.05–0.70) compared to the control group. The iPST participants also displayed significantly higher improvements in secondary outcomes. However, workplace absenteeism was not significantly affected.

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CONCLUSION ': 'iPST is effective in reducing symptoms of depression among teachers. Disseminated on a large scale, iPST could contribute to reducing the burden of stress-related mental health problems among teachers. Future studies should evaluate iPST approaches for use in other working populations.

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