On Track Program

On Track© is a correspondence-based treatment program for depression offered by Queensland University of Technology through research funding. The program aims to prevent depression relapse, promote physical health behaviours and support GPs in addressing these issues with their patients as a valuable adjunctive treatment.

On Track© has two primary segments with participants randomly assigned to one of these segments in the initial six month period and the other segment in the following six months:

1. Depression Prevention
Aims to minimise the frequency and severity of depression relapses.

2. Physical Health
Aims to improve exercise habits, diet, and address problem health behaviours (e.g., cigarettes, alcohol).

Participants receive regular letters over the 12 months of the program providing information and ideas on topics such as staying active, eating well, setting goals, and identifying thought patterns. Participants are asked to keep in regular contact with their GP, and the research team provides GPs with regular updates on patient’s progress.

GPs involved in the On Track© program are asked to read through an information sheet, and complete a GP Consent form, and a Patient Information form. GPs are also be asked to participate in a brief telephone interview in the initial phase of the program and at 6 and 12 months follow-up. GPs are asked to continue regular contact with their patients to discuss physical health and depression throughout the duration of the program.

Due to the end of funding, the On Track program is now closed to new referrals. If you would like to register interest in future trials, or would like to know more about supporting patients with depression, please e-mail us at ontrack@qut.edu.au or call 1300 300 164.