The Effects of Online Self-management Interventions for Patients With Mood Disorders: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: Self-management has become important as a complementary approach to the recovery of patients with mood disorders, and the need for a remote intervention program has been revealed in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: The aim of this review is to systematically review the studies for evidence on the effects of online self-management interventions based on cognitive behavioral therapy or psychoeducation for patients with mood disorders and to verify the statistical significance of the effectiveness of the interventions. Methods: A comprehensive literature search will be conducted using a search strategy in nine electronic bibliographic databases and will include all randomized controlled trial studies conducted up through December 2021. In addition, unpublished dissertations will be reviewed to minimize publication bias and to include a wider range of research. All steps in selecting the final studies to be included in the review will be performed independently by two researchers, and any discrepancies will be resolved through discussion. Results: Institutional review board approval was not required because this study was not conducted on people. Systematic literature searches, data extraction, narrative synthesis, meta-analysis, and final writing of the systematic review and meta-analysis are expected to be completed by 2023. Conclusions: This systematic review will provide a rationale for the development of web-based or online self-management interventions for the recovery of patients with mood disorders and will be used as a clinically meaningful reference in terms of mental health management.