The current randomised controlled trial will examine whether the 8-week internet-based ACTION-MS online depression intervention is feasible, acceptable and effective in the treatment of mild to moderate levels of depressive symptoms in people with MS. We will also be looking at the cost-effectiveness of providing this online intervention as part of routine care for people with MS.

ACTION-MS online is an adapted version of the tailored face to face CBT based ACTION-MS intervention. A recent randomised controlled trial found that people newly diagnosed with MS experiencing mild to moderate levels of depressive symptoms who undertook the tailored ACTION-MS intervention reported significantly reduced depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, sleep difficulties, and pain and fatigue impact, and improvements in levels of attention and memory (see Kiropoulos et al., 2026).

• Aged 18 years and over.
• Diagnosed with MS.
• Individuals who are experiencing mild to moderate levels of depressive symptoms (as determined by a depression screening questionnaire we administer).

• Severe cognitive impairment.
• Unable to speak or read English.
• Acute organic brain syndrome (e.g., delirium).
• Serious psychological disorder (e.g., psychosis, bipolar disorder, current substance abuse disorder).
• Those assessed as being severely depressed.
• Those currently undertaking psychological treatment for depression and/or anxiety.

October 2026.

For more information please contact the team at this email: ACTION-Msonline@unimelb.edu.au

NSW, ACT, SA, VIC, QLD, WA, TAS/NT/NZ/Canada.

Yes

15/09/2026