A Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) to Assess and Improve the Effectiveness of Post-deployment Screening for Mental Illness
Abstract
Baseline data collection in this cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) began in October 2011, using an offline computerized screening questionnaire to assess PTSD, depression, anxiety and alcohol misuse in troops returning from deployment to Afghanistan. The secondary aims are to assess the subsequent health-seeking behavior of those identified as cases in the screened group in comparison to the control group. To date (01 March 2012) we have screened 2,640 service personnel. The study cluster RCT design recruits subjects at platoon level (20-35 individuals) as the unit of randomization. There are 2 arms: a screening group and a control group. Both arms have completed the self-administered computerized assessment. Only the screening group will receive specific advice on help seeking related to the scores on the mental health measures. We expect that this cluster RCT will offer a robust assessment of the impact of screening using a computer-based tool on mental illness in the military.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA567246
Entities
People
- Roberto Rona
Organizations
- King's College London