NCT05082181 · NYU Langone Health
Telephone-Based Support Programs for People With Epilepsy
What this study is about
This is a two-treatment group$1 randomly assigned controlled trial to compare telephone-based depression self-management (UPLIFT) to telephone-based support groups (BOOST). A sample of 120 English- and Spanish-speaking people with epilepsy (PWE) with elevated depressive symptoms will be enrolled.
View original scientific description
This is a two-arm randomized controlled trial to compare telephone-based depression self-management (UPLIFT) to telephone-based support groups (BOOST). A sample of 120 English- and Spanish-speaking people with epilepsy (PWE) with elevated depressive symptoms will be enrolled. Both interventions are 8-week programs delivered in one-hour weekly sessions to groups of about 6 participants. Changes in depressive symptoms, quality of life and seizures will be assessed over 12 months. The trial will also examine mediators and moderators of treatment effects.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
UPLIFT (Using Practice and Learning to Increase Favorable Thoughts)
UPLIFT is an 8-week program that combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques and is delivered to small groups of participants by phone. Each weekly session is 1 hour long and is comprised of a check-in period, teaching on the week's topic, group discussion, a skill-building exercise, and a home practice assignment. CBT-related skills include thought monitoring, identifying cognitive distortions, problem identification, goal setting, and identifying supports. Relaxation exercises are also used for coping and to facilitate awareness of the body. Mindfulness activities include attention to breath, sights and sounds and other meditations. Audio guides are provided for home practice of mindfulness exercises.
BEHAVIORAL
BOOST (Bringing Out Our Strength Together)
BOOST is a telephone-based support program delivered in 8 weekly group sessions. Each weekly session is 1 hour long and is comprised of a check-in period, introduction of the week's topic, and group discussion. Weekly BOOST session topics include: (1) personal experience of epilepsy; (2) personal experience of mood problems (depression, anxiety, stress); (3) seizure triggers; (4) concerns related to epilepsy treatment (e.g., medication adherence, side effects); (5) changes in seizures over time; (6) the impact of behavior (e.g., sleep, substance use) on seizures; (7) social relationships and epilepsy; and (8) review of the BOOST experience.
Primary outcome measures
Presence of clinically significant depressive symptoms
Time frame: Baseline Visit
The primary outcome is a dichotomous measure of depressive symptoms based on a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score of \<5 versus ≥5. The PHQ-9 assesses depressive symptoms in the past two weeks. Total scores range from 0-27 with recommended cutoffs for mild (5-9), moderate (10-14), moderately severe (15-19) and severe (≥20) depressive symptoms. A PHQ-9 score of \<5 indicates absence of clinically significant depressive symptoms.
Presence of clinically significant depressive symptoms
Time frame: 3 month visit
The primary outcome is a dichotomous measure of depressive symptoms based on a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score of \<5 versus ≥5. The PHQ-9 assesses depressive symptoms in the past two weeks. Total scores range from 0-27 with recommended cutoffs for mild (5-9), moderate (10-14), moderately severe (15-19) and severe (≥20) depressive symptoms. A PHQ-9 score of \<5 indicates absence of clinically significant depressive symptoms.
Presence of clinically significant depressive symptoms
Time frame: 6 month visit
The primary outcome is a dichotomous measure of depressive symptoms based on a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score of \<5 versus ≥5. The PHQ-9 assesses depressive symptoms in the past two weeks. Total scores range from 0-27 with recommended cutoffs for mild (5-9), moderate (10-14), moderately severe (15-19) and severe (≥20) depressive symptoms. A PHQ-9 score of \<5 indicates absence of clinically significant depressive symptoms.
Presence of clinically significant depressive symptoms
Time frame: 12 month visit
The primary outcome is a dichotomous measure of depressive symptoms based on a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) score of \<5 versus ≥5. The PHQ-9 assesses depressive symptoms in the past two weeks. Total scores range from 0-27 with recommended cutoffs for mild (5-9), moderate (10-14), moderately severe (15-19) and severe (≥20) depressive symptoms. A PHQ-9 score of \<5 indicates absence of clinically significant depressive symptoms.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- adult (≥18 years of age);
- diagnosed with epilepsy for at least one year;
- fluent in English or Spanish;
- elevated depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score ≥10);
- willing to participate in audiotaped group telephone sessions
Exclusion criteria
- severe depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥20);
- active suicidal ideation (PHQ-9 item #9 ≥1 or otherwise reported during screening);
- active psychotic disorder (psychiatric diagnosis or antipsychotic medications in the EHR);
- significant cognitive impairment (indicated in EHR or evident during screening)
Where
- New York, New York
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations