Effectiveness of Behavioral Treatments for Obesity and Major Depression in Women

Over 2 years, this treatment involves a total of 26 group visits and 10 individual visits with a health education counselor. Group visits, led by a registered dietitian and a licensed exercise physiologist, will target diet and physical activity.

Behavior therapy for depression will be delivered by a trained behavior therapist. Participants receiving behavioral counseling will learn about depression, links between activity and mood, and will be asked to keep a diary of moods and activities.

Health education counseling will be delivered by a trained health education counselor. Participants receiving health education will learn about women's health topics and receive tips on staying healthy and preventing disease.