Can online mindfulness or CBT ease pandemic depression and drug use?
NCT ID NCT04595084
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested two remotely delivered programs—mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy—against standard remote monitoring alone for reducing depression and substance use related to COVID-19 stress. 113 adults from a health system participated over 24 weeks. The goal was to see which approach best helped people cope with pandemic-related emotional and substance use challenges.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy
- What this could lead to
- If successful, these programs could offer effective remote options for managing depression and substance use triggered by major stressors like a pandemic.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed study without a placebo control, so results may not apply broadly. Benefits may be modest and depend on participant engagement.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Cambridge Health Alliance
Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02141, United States
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