Addie Weaver’s Research Offers Rural Residents Virtual Treatment for Depression During Pandemic

Assistant Professor Addie Weaver recently started a pilot program to increase access to depression treatment in rural communities, which often lack mental health professionals, as part of her National Institute of Mental Health-funded Career Development Award. She collaborated with pastors and human service providers from Hillsdale, Michigan to develop an evidence-based, computer-assisted depression treatment program, Raising Our Spirits Together. The computer-assisted program, based on cognitive behavioral therapy, was designed to be delivered in small groups in rural churches, with local pastors serving as facilitators.

As the project was launching, Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered a “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order to fight the spread of the coronavirus. It was no longer feasible to meet in person for small group sessions at the church. Weaver and her partners had already identified a group of people who needed depression treatment and were concerned about their symptoms worsening due to the additional stresses of social distancing and isolation. 

After talking with the pastors and group members, Weaver and her research team retooled the treatment program and now offer Raising Our Spirits Together remotely. Weaver, the pastors, and group members gather online once a week to complete the treatment program. Group members have shared how meaningful it is to continue treatment, stay connected with one another, and to learn new skills and tools to help them manage their depression during this difficult time. 

Team members include Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs and Howard V. Brabson Collegiate Professor of Social Work Joseph Himle, Professor Andrew Grogan-Kaylor, Project Coordinator Caroline Landry, Community Research Coordinator Jeffery Johnson, and MSW student Trevor Buys. 

By developing solutions during this rapidly changing time, Weaver and her team are providing crucial mental health support to rural community members.