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

NCT ID NCT05203198

Ongoing Prevention Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

DEPRESSION MENTAL DISORDER IN ADOLESCENCE

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

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