New online 'Behavioral Vaccine' aims to stop teen depression before it starts

NCT ID NCT05203198

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests a self-guided online program called CATCH-IT, designed to prevent depression in teenagers who are at risk. Researchers are working with 400 teens aged 13-18 across four health systems to find the best way to deliver this program in primary care. The goal is to see if this low-cost, technology-based approach can reduce depressive symptoms and prevent full-blown depressive episodes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

CATCH-IT (Competent Adulthood Transition with Cognitive-Behavioral, Humanistic and Interpersonal Training) - a self-directed, technology-based depression prevention program for adolescents and parents

What this could lead to

If successful, this could provide an effective, scalable strategy to prevent depression in teenagers, reducing the burden of mental illness.

What could go wrong

This is an optimization study, not a final test of effectiveness. The program is self-directed, so engagement may vary, and results may not apply to all teens or healthcare settings.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression mental disorder depressive disorder prevention target

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Advocate Aurora Health

    Park Ridge, Illinois, 60068, United States

  • Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

    Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

  • Northshore University HealthSystem

    Glenview, Illinois, 60026, United States

  • UI Health

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

  • UT Southwestern Medical Center

    Dallas, Texas, 75390, United States

  • University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital

    Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States