A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Applicability of Web-Based Interventions for Individuals with Depression and Quality of Life Impairment

Objective The purpose of this meta-analysis was to determine the applicability of web-based treatment programs for individuals with depression and quality of life impairments. Methods We conducted database and manual searches using imprecise search-term strategy and inclusion criteria. Research published from 2005 to December 2015 was included in this study. Upon review, a total of 12 published papers on web-based intervention for individuals with depression were assessed eligible for this meta-analysis. Effect sizes were estimated for depression and quality of life. Results The mean effect size of web-based treatment on depressive symptoms was 0.72. However, unlike the result showing medium to large effect size, the analysis on the quality of life did not yield adequate effects of web-based interventions. Conclusion Our results suggest robust benefits of employing web-based treatments for depressive symptoms. However, the adequacy of these relatively new intervention tools for individuals who suffer severe impairments of quality of life was found insufficient. The current study demonstrates the need to further develop web-based intervention techniques to improve overall functioning, as well as the clinical symptoms of patients with mental disorders.