Web-based Self-help Intervention Research Articles

Effectiveness of a Web-Based Cognitive Behavioral Self-Help Intervention for Binge Eating Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is one of the most frequent eating pathologies and imposes substantial emotional and physical distress, yet insufficient health care resources limit access to specialized treatment. Web-based self-help interventions emerge as a promising solution, offering more accessible care. To examine the effectiveness of a web-based cognitive behavioral self-help intervention for individuals with BED. This 2-arm, parallel-group randomized clinical trial conducted from January 15, 2021, to August 3, 2022, in Germany and other German-speaking countries enrolled patients aged 18 to 65 years who met the diagnostic criteria for BED (according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [Fifth Edition]). Data analysis occurred between January 27 and September 4, 2023, following our statistical analysis plan. Participants were randomized to a web-based self-help intervention or a waiting-list control condition. The primary outcome was a change in objective binge eating episodes from baseline to after treatment. Secondary outcomes included global eating pathology, clinical impairment, work capacity, well-being, comorbid psychopathology, self-esteem, and emotion regulation. A total of 1602 patients were screened, of whom 154 (mean [SD] age, 35.93 [10.59] years; 148 female [96.10%]) fulfilled the criteria for BED and were randomized (77 each to the intervention and control groups). The web-based intervention led to significant improvements in binge eating episodes (Cohen d, -0.79 [95% CI, -1.17 to -0.42]; P < .001), global eating psychopathology (Cohen d, -0.71 [95% CI, -1.07 to -0.35]; P < .001), weekly binge eating (Cohen d, -0.49 [95% CI, -0.74 to -0.24]; P < .001), clinical impairment (Cohen d, -0.75 [95% CI, -1.13 to -0.37]; P < .001), well-being (Cohen d, 0.38 [95% CI, 0.01 to 0.75]; P = .047), depression (Cohen d, -0.49 [95% CI, -0.86 to -0.12]; P = .01), anxiety (Cohen d, -0.37 [95% CI, -0.67 to -0.07]; P = .02), self-esteem (Cohen d, 0.36 [95% CI, 0.13 to 0.59]; P = .003), and emotion regulation (difficulties: Cohen d, -0.36 [95% CI, -0.65 to -0.07]; P = .01 and repertoire: Cohen d, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.19 to 0.84]; P = .003). In this randomized clinical trial of a web-based self-help intervention for patients with BED, the findings confirmed its effectiveness in reducing binge eating episodes and improving various mental health outcomes, highlighting a scalable solution to bridge the treatment gap for this condition. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04876183.

A Web-Based Intervention Based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Family Caregivers of People With Dementia: Mixed Methods Feasibility Study.

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), as an empirically based third-wave cognitive behavioral therapy, has shown promise in enhancing well-being and functioning across diverse populations. However, in the context of caregiving, the effect size of available ACT interventions remains at best moderate, sometimes accompanied by high dropout rates, highlighting the need for more effective and feasible intervention designs. The objective of our study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a fully online ACT program designed for family caregivers of people with dementia. This study aimed to boost psychological flexibility and support caregivers, enabling them to realize and prioritize their own life values alongside their caregiving responsibilities. A mixed methods feasibility study using an uncontrolled pretest-posttest design was conducted. This intervention included a 9-week web-based self-help program based on ACT incorporating collaborative goal setting and weekly web-based motivational coaching for family caregivers of people with dementia. This study involved 30 informal caregivers recruited through memory clinics and social media platforms in the Netherlands and received approval from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Maastricht University Medical Center+ (NL77389.068.21/metc21-029). A total of 24 caregivers completed the postintervention assessment, indicating a high adherence rate (24/29, 83%). Caregivers reported positive feedback regarding collaborative goal setting, but some found challenges in implementing new skills due to their own habitual responses or the unpredictable context of dementia caregiving. Personalizing the intervention based on individual value preferences was highlighted as beneficial. Compared to other web-based self-help ACT interventions for family caregivers, this intervention showed a high adherence and sufficient level of feasibility, which underscores the use of personalization in delivering web-based interventions. Moreover, the potential of this ACT-based intervention for family caregivers of people with dementia was demonstrated, suggesting that further research and a larger-scale controlled trial are warranted to validate its effectiveness. RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070499.

Using web-based, guided self-help to bridge the waiting time for face-to-face out-patient treatment for bulimic-spectrum disorders: randomised controlled trial.

Although effective treatments for bulimic-spectrum eating disorders exist, access is often delayed because of limited therapist availability and lengthy waiting lists. Web-based self-help interventions have the potential to bridge waiting times for face-to-face treatment and overcome existing treatment gaps. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a web-based guided self-help intervention (everyBody Plus) for patients with bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and other specified feeding and eating disorders who are waiting for out-patient treatment. A randomised controlled trial was conducted in Germany and the UK. A total of 343 patients were randomly assigned to the intervention 'everyBody Plus' or a waitlist control condition. The primary outcome was the number of weeks after randomisation until a patient achieved a clinically relevant improvement in core symptoms for the first time. Secondary outcomes included eating disorder attitudes and behaviours, and general psychopathology. At 6- and 12-month follow-up, the probability of being abstinent from core symptoms was significantly larger for the intervention group compared with the control group (hazard ratio: 1.997, 95% CI 1.09-3.65; P = 0.0249). The intervention group also showed larger improvements in eating disorder attitudes and behaviours, general psychopathology, anxiety, depression and quality of life, compared with the control group at most assessment points. Working alliance ratings with the online therapist were high. The self-help intervention everyBody Plus, delivered with relatively standardised online guidance, can help bridge treatment gaps for patients with bulimic-spectrum eating disorders, and achieve faster and greater reductions in core symptoms.

Evaluating the impact of motivational interviewing on engagement and outcomes in a web-based self-help intervention for gambling disorder: A randomised controlled trial

BackgroundSelf-paced internet interventions for gambling problems offer cost-effective, accessible, and private alternatives to traditional psychotherapy for a population that rarely seeks help. However, these interventions have been relatively slow to develop, evaluate, and deploy at scale relative to those for other addictive behaviors. Moreover, user engagement remains low despite the high interest. Motivational interviews have improved the effectiveness gambling bibliotherapy but have not been augmented with an analogous web-based self-guided program. ObjectivesThis trial aimed to replicate and extend prior work by translating a paperback workbook to the internet and pairing it with a single motivational interview. It was hypothesized that the motivational interview would enhance program engagement and gambling outcomes. MethodsA two-arm randomised controlled trial was conducted. Treatment-seeking Canadian adults recruited solely via social media received one year of access to a web-based self-guided program, either alone (N = 158) or in combination with a virtual motivational interview completed upon enrolment (N = 155). The program was based on principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Gambling severity, expenditures, frequency, and duration were assessed via online questionnaires at baseline and 3-, 6-, and 12-months post-baseline, along with secondary outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, nonspecific psychological distress, alcohol consumption). ResultsBaseline characteristics were indicative of severe gambling problems and concurrent mental health problems but not problematic alcohol consumption in this sample. Both treatment groups demonstrated roughly equal improvements across all gambling outcomes and most secondary outcomes over time, except alcohol consumption, which did not meaningfully change. Changes were most prominent by 3 months, followed by more gradual change by 6 and 12 months. Only 57 % of gamblers who were assigned to receive a motivational interview completed that interview. About 40 % of users did not complete any program modules and 11 % completed all four. No group differences in program engagement were observed, although the number of modules completed was associated with greater reductions in gambling behaviors in both groups. DiscussionThe problem of user engagement with web-based self-help programs remains. There is a dose-response relationship between engagement and outcomes when engagement is measured in terms of therapeutic content completed. ConclusionsThe addition of a motivational interview to a web-based self-help program for gambling problems was unsuccessful in improving engagement or outcomes. Future work should aim to make self-guided programs more engaging rather than solely making users more engaged. Trial registrationRegistered on 7 July 2020 (ISRCTN13009468).

Planning engagement with web resources to improve health habits among home-working employees

Abstract Background and objectives The increasing popularity of remote work makes the implementation of health promotion initiatives at the workplace challenging, particularly in bridging the gap between employees’ intentions to adopt healthier habits and their actual actions. Previous evidence suggests that action planning can foster the adoption of healthier behaviors. Therefore, we investigated action planning in the context of reducing sedentary behaviour and improving dietary quality for remote workers. Methods A mixed-methods investigation of a web-based self-help intervention featured a randomized planning trial, quantitative engagement measurements, and follow-up qualitative interviews with a participant subset. For one work week, participants received access to 2-minute workout videos to reduce sedentary time and a balanced meal approach with recipe cards for weekly lunches and dinners. The intervention group was given a motion plan and a meal plan to execute these actions, while the control group only obtained access to the resources. Results Having a motion plan proved more effective in increasing engagement with online resources compared to the condition with no plan. In the follow-up interviews, participants noted that the plan served as a reminder to engage with the resources and simplified adherence to the exercise and meal recommendations. Ease of use and the ability to incorporate exercises and meals around work tasks were crucial factors in promoting resource adoption, while time constraints and concerns about colleagues’ perceptions of taking breaks to utilize the resources hindered adoption. Participants’ self-efficacy correlated with overall resource use but not with plan adherence. Conclusions Incorporating plans (motion and meals) into online self-help resources could boost their adoption and improve lifestyles among remote workers. Key messages • Incorporating plans (motion and meals) into online self-help resources could boost their adoption and improve lifestyles among remote workers. • Ease of use and the ability to incorporate exercises and meals around work tasks were found to be facilitators of adoption.

Planning engagement with web resources to improve diet quality and break up sedentary time for home-working employees: A mixed methods study.

As home working becomes more common, employers may struggle to provide health promotion interventions that can successfully bridge the gap between employees' intentions to engage in healthier behaviors and actual action. Based on past evidence that action planning can successfully encourage the adoption of healthier behaviors, this mixed-methods study of a web-based self-help intervention incorporated a randomized planning trial that included quantitative measures of engagement and follow-up qualitative interviews with a subsample of participants. Participants either (a) selected a movement plan for incorporating a series of 2-min exercise videos into their work week to break up sedentary time and a balanced meal plan with recipe cards for a week's lunches and dinners or (b) received access to these resources without a plan. Selecting a movement plan was more effective at increasing engagement with the web resources compared to the no-plan condition. In the follow-up interviews, participants indicated that the plan helped to remind participants to engage with the resources and made it simpler for them to follow the guidance for exercises and meals. Ease of use and being able to fit exercises and meals around work tasks were key factors that facilitated uptake of the resources, while lack of time and worries about how colleagues would perceive them taking breaks to use the resources were barriers to uptake. Participants' self-efficacy was associated with general resource use but not plan adherence. Overall, including plans with online self-help resources could enhance their uptake. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Evaluation of a Web-Based Self-Help Intervention for Patients With Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a highly prevalent and severely distressing condition that can lead to functional impairments and is considered one of the most difficult anxiety disorders to treat. Following new technological developments, a highly structured cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach that has already shown success in face-to-face psychotherapy can be implemented: internet-delivered CBT (iCBT). There is now evidence for the efficacy of both guided and unguided iCBT interventions for GAD regarding symptom reduction. To establish the usefulness of such interventions, we plan to evaluate the efficacy of a web-based self-help program (Selfapy) for GAD in a relatively large sample. We aim to assess effects beyond symptom reduction, including effects on well-being, functioning, and mental health literacy, as well as the effect on health care burden, while testing the intervention in conditions comparable to routine care. Patients (n=156) who have been diagnosed with GAD, are aged between 18 and 65 years, have internet access, and have sufficient German language skills will be recruited for this study. The intervention group (n=78) will receive access to the 12-week self-help web-based program Selfapy. The waitlist control group (n=78) will receive no intervention in the context of the study. However, both groups will be allowed to access further health care services (eg, psychotherapy, medication), reflecting current routine care in Germany. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline (T1) and 6 weeks (T2) and 12 weeks (T3) after the start of the intervention. The primary outcome will be generalized anxiety symptoms and quality of life at T3. Additional outcomes include depression, work capacity, therapy-related expenses and burdens, health literacy, and negative effects. By May 2023, all participants had finished the trial and the report was being prepared for publication. Web-based interventions may be an important addition to the German health care system to reduce barriers to treatment access. Further, they may prove cost-effective for the treatment of GAD. Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien DRKS00023799; https://tinyurl.com/22bds38x. DERR1-10.2196/41440.

A Web-Based Stratified Stepped Care Platform for Mental Well-being (TourHeart+): User-Centered Research and Design.

Internet-based mental health interventions have been demonstrated to be effective in alleviating psychological distress and promoting mental well-being. However, real-world uptake and engagement of such interventions have been low. Rather than being stand-alone interventions, situating internet-based interventions under a stratified stepped care system can support users to continue with mental health practice and monitor their mental health status for timely services that are commensurate with their needs. A user-centered approach should be used in the development of such web-based platforms to understand the facilitators and barriers in user engagement to enhance platform uptake, usability, and adherence so it can support the users' continued adoption and practice of self-care for their mental health. The aim of this study was to describe the design process taken to develop a web-based stratified stepped care mental health platform, TourHeart+, using a user-centered approach that gathers target users' perceptions on mental self-care and feedback on the platform design and incorporates them into the design. The process involved a design workshop with the interdisciplinary development team, user interviews, and 2 usability testing sessions on the flow of registration and mental health assessment and the web-based self-help interventions of the platform. The data collected were summarized as descriptive statistics if appropriate and insights are extracted inductively. Qualitative data were extracted using a thematic coding approach. In the design workshop, the team generated empathy maps and point-of-view statements related to the possible mental health needs of target users. Four user personas and related processes in the mental health self-care journey were developed based on user interviews. Design considerations were derived based on the insights drawn from the personas and mental health self-care journey. Survey results from 104 users during usability testing showed that the overall experience during registration and mental health assessment was friendly, and they felt cared for, although no statistically significant differences on preference ratings were found between using a web-based questionnaire tool and through an interactive chatbot, except that chatbot format was deemed more interesting. Facilitators of and barriers to registering the platform and completing the mental health assessment were identified through user feedback during simulation with mock-ups. In the usability testing for guided self-help interventions, users expressed pain points in course adherence, and corresponding amendments were made in the flow and design of the web-based courses. The design process and findings presented in the study are important in developing a user-centric platform to optimize users' acceptance and usability of a web-based stratified stepped care platform with guided self-help interventions for mental well-being. Accounting for users' perceptions and needs toward mental health self-care and their experiences in the design process can enhance the usability of an evidence-based mental health platform on the web.

A Web-Based Self-help Intervention for Coping With the Loss of a Partner: Protocol for Randomized Controlled Trials in 3 Countries.

The death of a partner is a critical life event in later life, which requires grief work as well as the development of a new perspective for the future. Cognitive behavioral web-based self-help interventions for coping with prolonged grief have established their efficacy in decreasing symptoms of grief, depression, and loneliness. However, no study has tested the efficacy for reducing grief after losses occurring less than 6 months ago and the role of self-tailoring of the content. This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and acceptance of a web-based self-help intervention to support the grief process of older adults who have lost their partner. It will compare the outcomes, adherence, and working alliance in a standardized format with those in a self-tailored delivery format and investigate the effects of age, time since loss, and severity of grief at baseline as predictors. Focus groups to understand user experience and a cost-effectiveness analysis will complement the study. The study includes 3 different randomized control trials. The trial in Switzerland comprises a waitlist control group and 2 active arms consisting of 2 delivery formats, standardized and self-tailored. In the Netherlands and in Portugal, the trials follow a 2-arm design that will be, respectively, complemented with focus groups on technology acceptance and cost-effectiveness analysis. The main target group will consist of adults aged >60 years from the general population in Switzerland (n≥85), the Netherlands (n≥40), and Portugal (n≥80) who lost their partner and seek help for coping with grief symptoms, psychological distress, and adaptation problems in daily life. The trials will test the intervention's clinical efficacy for reducing grief (primary outcome) and depression symptoms and loneliness (secondary outcomes) after the intervention. Measurements will take place at baseline (week 0), after the intervention (week 10), and at follow-up (week 20). The trials started in March 2022 and are expected to end in December 2022 or when the needed sample size is achieved. The first results are expected by January 2023. The trials will provide insights into the efficacy and acceptance of a web-based self-help intervention among older adults who have recently lost a partner. Results will extend the knowledge on the role of self-tailoring, working alliance, and satisfaction in the effects of the intervention. Finally, the study will suggest adaptations to improve the acceptance of web-based self-help interventions for older mourners and explore the cost-effectiveness of this intervention. Limitations include a self-selective sample and the lack of cross-cultural comparisons. Switzerland: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05280041; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05280041; Portugal: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05156346; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05156346. PRR1-10.2196/37827.

Satisfaction and Acceptability Ratings of a Web-Based Self-help Intervention for Depression: Retrospective Cross-sectional Study From a Resource-Limited Country.

BackgroundWeb-based interventions are at an early stage in non–English-speaking low- and middle-income countries, where they remain scarce. Help for Depression (HDep) is one of the few unguided web-based interventions available in Latin America. The results of a use/usability analysis of the original version served as the basis for generating a more user-friendly second version.ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to explore participants’ satisfaction and acceptability for the second version of HDep.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional design was used. An email invitation to complete a web-based survey was sent to all people who accessed HDep in 2018. The questionnaire included satisfaction and acceptability scales and open-ended questions. Complete questionnaires were retrieved from 191 participants: 35.1% (67/191) from those who visited only the home page (home page users [HPUs]) and 6.47% (124/1916) from those who registered to use the program (program users [PUs]).ResultsIn all groups, users experienced high levels of depressive symptoms (189/191, 98.9%; Center for Epidemiological Studies Scale-Depression >16). Moderate levels of satisfaction (HPUs: mean 21.9, SD 6.7; PUs: mean 21.1, SD 5.8; range: 8-32) and acceptability (HPUs: mean 13.8, SD 3.9; PUs: mean 13.9, SD 3.2; range: 5-20) were found in both groups. Logistic regression analyses showed that among HPUs, women were more satisfied with HDep (odds ratio [OR] 3.4, 95% CI 1.1-10.0), whereas among PUs, older respondents (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.08), those with paid work (OR 3.1, 95% CI 2.4-7.6), those who had not been in therapy (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.09-5.98), and those who had not attempted suicide (OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.1-11.1) showed higher satisfaction. None of the sociodemographic/mental health variables distinguished the acceptability ratings among HPUs. Among PUs, those with paid work (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.1-5.5), those who had not been in therapy (OR 3.1, 95% CI 1.3-7.3), those without disability (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.3-6.6), and those who had not attempted suicide (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.0-6.6) showed higher acceptability.ConclusionsHDep has good levels of satisfaction and acceptability for approximately half of its users, and the information provided by respondents suggested feasible ways to remedy some of the deficiencies. This qualitative–quantitative study from a low- to middle-income, non–English-speaking country adds to existing knowledge regarding acceptance and satisfaction with web-based interventions for depression in resource-limited countries. This information is important for the creation and adaptation of web-based interventions in low- and middle-income countries, where access to treatment is a major concern, and web-based prevention and treatment programs can help deliver evidence-based alternatives. It is necessary to document the pitfalls, strengths, and challenges of such interventions in this context. Understanding how users perceive an intervention might suggest modifications to increase adherence.

Integrating a web-based intervention into routine care of binge-eating disorder: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAlthough binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating pathology and carries a high mental and physical burden, access to specialized treatment is limited due to patient-related barriers and insufficient healthcare resources. Integrating web-based self-help programs into clinical care for BED may address this treatment gap by making evidence-based eating disorder interventions more accessible. MethodsA two-armed randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based self-help intervention for BED in routine care settings. Patients aged 18–65 years fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for BED (N = 152) will be randomly allocated to (1) an intervention group receiving a 12-week web-based self-help program or (2) a waitlist control group with delayed access to the intervention. The primary outcome will be the number of binge eating episodes. Secondary outcomes include global eating pathology, functional impairments, work capacity, well-being, comorbid psychopathology, self-esteem, and emotion regulation abilities. Measurements will be conducted at baseline (study entrance), 6 weeks after baseline (mid-treatment), and 12 weeks after baseline (post-treatment). To capture outcomes and treatment mechanisms in real-time, traditional self-reports will be combined with weekly symptom monitoring and ecological momentary assessment. DiscussionEvaluating the effectiveness of web-based interventions is essential to overcome the treatment gap for patients with BED. When adequately integrated into standard care, these programs have the potential to alleviate the high burden of BED for individuals, their families, and society. Trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04876183, Identifier: NCT04876183 (registered on May 6th, 2021).

Applying a web-based self-help intervention for bulimia nervosa in routine care: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIndividuals with bulimia nervosa (BN) experience persistent episodes of binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behavior associated with impaired physical and mental health. Despite the existence of effective treatments, many individuals with BN remain untreated, leading to a high burden and an increased risk of chronicity. Web-based interventions may help facilitate access to evidence-based treatments for BN by reducing barriers to the health care system. MethodsThe present study will investigate the effectiveness of a web-based self-help intervention for BN in a two-armed randomized controlled trial. Individuals diagnosed with BN (N = 152) will be randomly assigned to either (1) an intervention group receiving a 12-week web-based intervention or (2) a waitlist control group with delayed access to the intervention. Further assessments will be scheduled 6 (mid-treatment) and 12 (post-treatment) weeks after baseline. Changes in the number of binge eating episodes and compensatory behaviors will be examined as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include global eating pathology, functional impairments, well-being, comorbid psychopathology, self-esteem, and emotion regulation abilities. DiscussionAdding web-based interventions into routine care is a promising approach to overcome the existing treatment gap for patients with BN. Therefore, the current study will test the effectiveness of a web-based intervention for BN under standard clinical care settings. Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, Identifier: NCT04876196 (registered on May 6th, 2021).

Web-based self-help intervention for partners of cancer patients based on acceptance and commitment therapy and self-compassion training: a randomized controlled trial with automated versus personal feedback

PurposeTo evaluate the effectiveness of two versions (personal or automated feedback) of a psychological Web-based self-help intervention targeting partners of cancer patients. The intervention was based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and self-compassion training. Participants’ adherence and their satisfaction were also studied.MethodsTwo hundred three partners of patients with heterogeneous entities of cancer were randomized into three conditions: personal feedback (PF) (n = 67), automated feedback (AF) (n = 70), or waiting list (WL) control (n = 66). Participants completed measures at baseline (T0) and post-intervention (T1; 3 months after baseline) to assess psychological distress (HADS; primary outcome), positive mental health, caregiver strain, general health (secondary outcomes), posttraumatic growth, resilience, self-compassion, psychological flexibility, sense of mastery, and relational communication style (process measures). Participants in the two experimental conditions also completed these measures at follow-up (T2; 6 months after baseline).ResultsThere was no significant difference in change in psychological distress, positive mental health, caregiver strain and general health from T0 to T1 for either of the experimental conditions compared with the WL-condition. However, when compared to a WL-condition, the PF-condition was effective in increasing psychological flexibility (effect size d = 0.49) and resilience (d = 0.12) and decreasing overprotection (d = 0.25), and the AF-condition was effective in reducing overprotection (d = 0.36) and improving protective buffering (d = 0.36). At follow-up, the PF-condition was more effective than the AF-condition for improving mental health (d = 0.36), psychological flexibility (d = 0.60), mastery (d = 0.48), and protective buffering (d = 0.24). Participants positively appreciated the intervention and 69% participants were adherent.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that a Web-based intervention based on ACT and self-compassion training with automated or personal feedback does not seem to improve psychological distress; however, it may have the potential to support partners of cancer patients to cope with the difficult situation they are facing. The condition with personal feedback seemed to be more beneficial.

Web-based Self-help Program for Adjustment Problems After an Accident (SelFIT): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BackgroundAccidents and the resulting injuries are among the world’s biggest health care issues, often causing long-term effects on psychological and physical health. With regard to psychological consequences, accidents can cause a wide range of burdens including adjustment problems. Although adjustment problems are among the most frequent mental health problems, there are few specific interventions available. The newly developed program SelFIT (German acronym: Selber wieder fit nach einem Unfall; “fit again after an accident”) aims to remedy this situation by offering a low-threshold, web-based self-help intervention for psychological distress after an accident.ObjectiveThe overall aim is to evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the SelFIT program plus care as usual (CAU) compared to only CAU. Furthermore, the program’s user-friendliness, acceptance, and adherence are assessed. We expect that the use of SelFIT will be associated with a greater reduction in psychological distress, greater improvement in mental and physical well-being, and greater cost-effectiveness compared to CAU.MethodsAdults (n=240) experiencing adjustment problems due to an accident they had between 2 weeks and 2 years before entering the study will be randomized into either the intervention or control group. Participants in the intervention group receive direct access to SelFIT. The control group receives access to the program after 12 weeks. There are 6 measurement points for both groups (baseline as well as after 4, 8, 12, 24, and 36 weeks). The main outcome is a reduction in anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms that indicate adjustment problems. Secondary outcomes include well-being, optimism, embitterment, self-esteem, self-efficacy, emotion regulation, pain, costs of health care consumption, and productivity loss, as well as the program’s adherence, acceptance, and user-friendliness.ResultsRecruitment began in December 2019 and will continue at least until January 2021, with the option to extend this for another 6 months until July 2021. As of July 2020, 324 people have shown interest in participating, and 48 people have given their informed consent.ConclusionsTo the best of our knowledge, this is the first study examining a web-based self-help program designed to treat adjustment problems resulting from an accident. If effective, the program could complement the still limited offerings for secondary and tertiary prevention of psychological distress after an accident.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT03785912; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03785912International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)DERR1-10.2196/21200

Effectiveness of a Guided Web-Based Self-help Intervention to Prevent Depression in Patients With Persistent Back Pain

Depression is a frequent comorbid condition in patients with persistent back pain and is associated with substantial adverse consequences, including the risk of developing opioid use disorders. Shifting the focus from depression treatment to preventing depression might be a viable way to reduce the disease burden. To evaluate the effectiveness of a web-based self-help intervention to reduce the incidence of major depressive episode (MDE) in patients with persistent back pain. Prevention of Depression in Back Pain Patients (PROD-BP) was a pragmatic, observer-blinded randomized clinical trial with a parallel design conducted in Germany. Eligible adults with a diagnosis of persistent back pain and subclinical depressive symptoms, but who were depression free, were recruited either on-site or after discharge from 82 orthopedic clinics between October 1, 2015, and July 31, 2017. All analyses were conducted according to the intention-to-treat principle from October 31, 2018, to April 30, 2019. The intervention group received an e-coach-guided, web-based self-help intervention that was based on cognitive behavioral therapy and tailored to the needs of patients with persistent back pain. The intervention included 6 obligatory modules and 3 optional modules to be completed by participants as well as feedback from e-coaches. Both the intervention and control groups had unrestricted access to treatment as usual. Primary outcome was time to onset of an MDE over a 12-month period as assessed by blinded diagnostic raters using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5. Secondary outcomes included depression severity, quality of life, pain intensity, pain-related disability, pain self-efficacy, work capacity, and user satisfaction assessed with a variety of instruments. A total of 295 participants (mean [SD] age, 52.8 [7.7] years; 184 women [62.4%]) were recruited and randomized to either the intervention group (n = 149) or control group (n = 146). The intervention reduced the risk of MDE onset by 52% (hazard ratio, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.28-0.81; P < .001). Twenty-one participants (14.1%) in the intervention group and 41 participants (28.1%) in the control group experienced an MDE over the 12-month period. The number needed to treat to prevent 1 new case of MDE was 2.84 (95% CI, 1.79-9.44). Results of this trial showed that among patients with persistent back pain, depression can be prevented by a guided web-based self-help intervention in addition to treatment as usual. This finding suggests that using a scalable digital approach to integrate psychological treatment into routine pain management is feasible. German Clinical Trials Register Identifier: DRKS00007960.

Efficacy of a web-based self-help tool to reduce problem gambling in Switzerland: study protocol of a two-armed randomised controlled trial

IntroductionThe past-year prevalence of problem gambling worldwide averages 2.3%. Switzerland exhibits a slightly lower past-year prevalence rate, of 1.1%, among adults. Only a minority of these adults attend outpatient treatment....

Improving the Course of Depressive Symptoms After Inpatient Psychotherapy Using Adjunct Web-Based Self-Help: Follow-Up Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

BackgroundWe recently showed in a randomized controlled trial that Web-based self-help as an adjunct improved the effectiveness of multimodal inpatient psychotherapy for depression.ObjectiveThe aims of this study were (1) to determine whether a Web-based self-help adjunctive to multimodal inpatient psychotherapeutic treatment could also improve the course of depressive symptoms and (2) to identify predictors of residual depressive symptoms at follow-up.MethodsOverall, 229 patients were randomized either to the Web-based self-help intervention group (Deprexis) or an active control group (Web-based information about depression and depressive symptoms) in addition to multimodal inpatient psychotherapy. Participants in both groups were able to access their respective Web-based programs for 12 weeks, which meant that they typically had access after discharge from the inpatient unit (mean hospitalization duration: 40 days, T1). Follow-up was performed 6 months after study intake (T3).ResultsAt follow-up, participants of the Web-based self-help group had considerably lower symptom load regarding depressive symptoms (d=0.58) and anxiety (d=0.46) as well as a better quality of life (d=0.43) and self-esteem (d=0.31) than participants of the control group. Nearly 3 times as many participants of the intervention group compared with the control group achieved remission in accordance with less deterioration. The number needed to treat based on the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) improved over time (T1: 7.84, T2: 7.09, and T3: 5.12). Significant outcome predictors were BDI at discharge and treatment group.ConclusionsWeb-based self-help as an add-on to multimodal inpatient psychotherapy improved the short-term course of depressive symptoms beyond termination. Residual symptoms at discharge from inpatient treatment and utilization of the Web-based self-help were the major predictors of depressive symptoms at follow-up. Challenges and barriers (eg, costs, therapists’ concerns, or technical barriers) of adding Web-based interventions to inpatient treatment have to be addressed.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02196896; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02196896.

Exploring Mediators of a Guided Web-Based Self-Help Intervention for People With HIV and Depressive Symptoms: Randomized Controlled Trial.

BackgroundCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is frequently used to treat depressive symptoms in people living with HIV. We developed an internet-based cognitive behavioral intervention for people with HIV and depressive symptoms, which was based on an effective self-help booklet. The Web-based intervention was previously found to be effective.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate potential mediators of the Web-based intervention.MethodsThis study was part of a randomized controlled trial, in which the intervention was compared with an attention-only waiting list control condition. Participants were 188 (97 in intervention group and 91 in control group) people with HIV and mild to moderate depressive symptoms recruited in HIV treatment centers in the Netherlands. A total of 22 participants (22/188, 11.7%) in the study were female and 166 (166/188, 88.3%) were male. The average age of the participants was 46.30 years (SD 10.63). The intervention comprised Web-based self-help CBT for 8 weeks, 1 to 2 hours a week, including minimal telephone support from a coach. The participants received Web-based questionnaires at pretest, 3 times during the intervention/or waiting period, and post intervention. The outcome was depressive symptoms. Factors tested as potential mediators were changes in behavioral activation, relaxation, the cognitive coping strategies catastrophizing and positive refocusing, goal re-engagement, and coping self-efficacy.ResultsUsing multilevel structural equation modeling, changes in behavioral activation (P=.006) and goal re-engagement (P=.009) were found to be significant mediators of the intervention effect. The mediation effect seemed to occur between weeks 3 and 5 for behavioral activation and weeks 1 and 3 for goal re-engagement. Using (bivariate) autoregressive latent trajectory analysis, we found a return effect (from the dependent variable to the mediator) for goal re-engagement but not for behavioral activation, which suggested that the mediation effect of changes in behavioral activation was stronger than that in goal re-engagement.ConclusionsThe results suggest that changes in behavioral activation and goal re-engagement may mediate the effect of the Web-based intervention for people with HIV and depressive symptoms. The results may lead to possible mechanisms of change of the intervention and improvement of therapy outcomes.Clinical TrialNetherlands Trial Register NTR5407; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/5298

Web-based self-help with and without chat counseling to reduce cocaine use in cocaine misusers: Results of a three-arm randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIn recent years, cocaine use has increased in many countries, but only a minority of users seek treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is seen as first-choice face-to-face treatment. However, a web-based intervention might serve as an alternative. AimsTo test the efficacy of a web-based self-help intervention, with and without chat counseling, grounded in CBT, at reducing cocaine use in cocaine misusers not in treatment for a substance use disorder. MethodsSubjects were randomly assigned to (1) a self-help intervention with chat support, (2) a self-help intervention without chat support, or (3) a waiting list control group. The fully-automated self-help program consisted of eight modules based on motivational interviewing, self-control practices and CBT. The primary outcome was the quantity of cocaine use per week. Secondary outcomes included frequency of cocaine and other substance use and mental health symptoms. Linear regression analysis was performed to investigate changes in primary and secondary outcomes. ResultsIn total, 416 users registered online for the trial, of whom 311 completed the baseline assessment. Participants were predominantly male (73%) and averaged 33 years old (SD = 7.6). Despite considerable efforts on our part, only 47 of 311 (15.1%) subjects completed the 6-month follow-up assessment. Frequency of cocaine use and severity of cocaine dependence decreased only in the intervention groups. No significant difference in the primary outcome was observed between the study arms, but several differences in secondary outcomes were observed by complete case analyses. ConclusionsMany cocaine misusers from the general population and not otherwise in treatment could be reached and decreased their cocaine use utilizing a CBT-based online intervention. However, due to the high percentage of dropouts and serious difficulties reaching subjects for follow-up assessments, no conclusions can be drawn regarding study arm differences. Implications for future studies are discussed.

Do Nonsuicidal Severely Depressed Individuals with Diabetes Profit from Internet-Based Guided Self-Help? Secondary Analyses of a Pragmatic Randomized Trial.

Introduction Diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2 are linked to higher prevalence and occurrences of depression. Internet-based depression- and diabetes-specific cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) can be effective in reducing depressive symptom severity and diabetes-related emotional distress. The aim of the study was to test whether disease-specific severity indicators moderate the treatment outcome in a 6-week minimally guided web-based self-help intervention on depression and diabetes (GET.ON Mood Enhancer Diabetes (GET.ON M.E.D.)) and to determine its effectiveness in a nonsuicidal severely depressed subgroup. Methods Randomized controlled trial- (RCT-) based data (N = 253) comparing GET.ON M.E.D. to an online psychoeducation control group was used to test disease-specific severity indicators as predictors/moderators of a treatment outcome. Changes in depressive symptom severity and treatment response were examined in a nonsuicidal severely depressed subgroup (CES − D > 40; N = 40). Results Major depressive disorder diagnosis at the baseline (pprf6 = 0.01), higher levels of depression (Beck Depression Inventory II; pprpo = 0.00; pprf6 = 0.00), and lower HbA1c (pprpo = 0.04) predicted changes in depressive symptoms. No severity indicator moderated the treatment outcome. Severely depressed participants in the intervention group showed a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptom severity (dprpo = 2.17, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.39-2.96) than the control condition (dprpo = 0.92; 95% CI: 0.001-1.83), with a between-group effect size of dprpo = 1.05 (95% CI: 0.11-1.98). Treatment response was seen in significantly more participants in the intervention (4/20; 20%) compared to the control group (0/20, 0%; χ2 (2)(N = 40) = 4.44; p < 0.02). At the 6-month follow-up, effects were maintained for depressive symptom reduction (dpr6f = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.19-1.61) but not treatment response. Conclusion Disease-specific severity indicators were not related to a differential effectiveness of guided self-help for depression and diabetes. Clinical meaningful effects were observed in nonsuicidal severely depressed individuals, who do not need to be excluded from web-based guided self-help. However, participants should be closely monitored and referred to other treatment modalities in case of nonresponse.