Problem Management Plus (PM+) in Chile: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of a Psychological Transdiagnostic Intervention Delivered in Primary Health Care

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF CHILE · May 15, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a program called Problem Management Plus (PM+) to see if it can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in adults attending a primary health care center in Chile. The trial will compare two groups: one that receives the PM+ program and another that receives standard care. Researchers want to find out how well the PM+ program works and if it is acceptable for patients, as well as how easy it is to implement in the health care setting.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have symptoms of depression or anxiety. They should live in the area where the study is being conducted and be part of the selected health care facilities. However, those who are at immediate risk of suicide, have severe psychiatric disorders, or are facing serious personal safety issues will not be eligible. If you join the study, you can expect to either receive the PM+ program or the usual care provided at the health center. The trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to gather important information that could help improve mental health support in primary care settings.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals over 18 years old.
• • Diagnosed with or presenting depressive and/or anxiety symptoms (through screening).
• • Residents of the selected study region.
• • Part of the population enrolled and validated in the pilot primary health care facilities.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Suicidal risk requiring immediate or urgent referral to care services.
• • Suffering from severe psychiatric disorders or substance use disorders.
• • Being in situations of declared risk that require protection (e.g., domestic violence).
• • Moderate or severe disability.
• • Incapacitating medical illnesses.
• • Receiving other mental health treatments that could lead to over-intervention.