Personal Goals as Moderators of a Cognitive-Behavioural Intervention for Depressive Symptoms in College Students

The objective of this pilot study was to assess the effects of the indicated level of a multilevel preventive program on depressive symptoms and to examine personal goals appraisal as a moderating factor among college students aged between 16 and 29 years old with depressive symptoms. Students were screened for anxious and depressive symptoms in the beginning of their semester. Those who scored higher than the cut-off score were invited to be part of the intervention group. A comparison group was formed with students who did not wish to participate with the intervention group. Thirty-six students were included in the analyses. Both groups completed pre-test, post-test, and follow-up questionnaires. Results indicated a reduction in depressive symptoms at post-test and these gains were maintained three months later. Students in the intervention group with a more positive appraisal of their academic and career goals showed fewer depressive symptoms than students in the intervention group with a less positive appraisal of these goals. Limitations and implications for further implementation are discussed.