PACEPRO is a pilot study, funded by Forest Laboratories, Inc. evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of a program designed to reduce depression in adults (aged 25 – 65 years) with mild-to-moderate depression. Intervention elements include cognitive behavioral therapy and structured lifestyle improvement aimed a promoting regular physical activity.

The 12-week PACEPRO study includes:

•Lexapro, an antidepressant medicine

•A pedometer and physical activity promotion via email

•Mood management skills training

•Weekly personalized support from a family nurse practitioner

Recruitment is through physician referrals, flyers, radio and newspaper advertisements, and the Internet. Eligible subjects must have an elevated PHQ-9 depression score within the mild-to-moderate range. The main outcome measure will be PHQ-9 depression score change. Changes in physical activity patterns as measured by self-report and objective physical activity monitoring will also be evaluated.  Since this is a feasibility and acceptability study, descriptive data such as recruitment statistics, drop-out rate, adherence to each component of the study, and subjects' evaluation of the program components will be analyzed in detail.