Abstract:
Introduction
Farmers in Australia face barriers in accessing psychological treatments for depression which may partly explain the elevated risk of suicide in this population. Behavioural Activation (BA) is a simple, evidence-based intervention to treat depression which is probably just as effective as a more complicated intervention Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Its simplicity makes it suitable for delivery by members of the farming community. Back on Track is a peer-led model of BA, co-designed with farming communities in, Victoria, Australia. In this model, peer workers—individuals with lived experience of farming life—deliver BA to farmers living with depression.
Aim
In this presentation we will report the feasibility of the RCT – Back on Track program – for farmers living with depression.
Method
We conducted a two-arm feasibility randomised controlled trial. Participants were randomised to either the Back on Track intervention or a control condition. The intervention group received BA sessions delivered by peer workers over a 10-week period. Data were collected at baseline, 10 weeks, and 26 weeks.
Results
We will report the recruitment and retention of the back on track workers participation in the trial. The number of participants – farmers – who consented to participate, completed baseline assessments, agreed to randomisation, commenced the intervention, and completed the follow-up measures will also be reported. In addition, we report the number of sessions in which satisfactory adherence to BA was observed.
Conclusion
The Back on Track model may enhance access to a BA for farmers experiencing depression. The model we will present may have relevance in communities in the UK which struggle to access low intensity psychosocial intervention.
Trial Registration
https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=387530&isReview=true