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Espinosa V, Valiente RM, García-Escalera J, Chorot P, Arnáez S, Schmitt JC, Sandín B. Efficacy of a transdiagnostic internet-based program for adolescents with emotional disorders: A randomized controlled trial. Behav Res Ther 2024; 179:104560. [PMID: 38744141 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2024.104560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Adolescents (UP-A) is a well-established transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral therapy (T-CBT) intervention. The aim of the present study was to examine the efficacy of the program Learn to Manage your Emotions [Aprende a Manejar tus Emociones] (AMtE), a self-applied transdiagnostic internet-delivered program based on the Spanish version of the UP-A. This is the first transdiagnostic internet-based program designed for the treatment of emotional disorders in adolescents. METHOD A sample of Spanish adolescents with a primary diagnosis of an anxiety and/or depressive disorder (n = 58; age range = 12-18 years; 78.3% girls; 90% Caucasian) were randomly allocated to receive AMtE (n = 28) or the UP-A via videocall (n = 30). Pre-treatment, post-treatment and 3-month follow-up data were collected using self-reports and clinician-rated measures of anxiety, depression, positive and negative affect, anxiety sensitivity and emotional avoidance. RESULTS Based on generalized estimating equations (GEE) models, both intervention programs were effective in significantly reducing self-reported anxiety and depressive disorder symptoms and clinician-rated severity of anxiety and depression, as well as self-reported transdiagnostic outcome variables. CONCLUSIONS Data provide empirical support for the efficacy of AMtE as a transdiagnostic online CBT treatment for anxiety and depressive disorders in adolescents. No marked nor consistent differences were observed between the UP-A and AMtE, highlighting the potential usefulness of the online self-administered AMtE program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Espinosa
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa M Valiente
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia García-Escalera
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Chorot
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Sandra Arnáez
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia C Schmitt
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Bonifacio Sandín
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), 28040, Madrid, Spain
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Poetar CR, Dobrean A, Andersson G. Preliminary efficacy of a transdiagnostic parent-led internet-delivered intervention for children with anxiety and depressive symptoms: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:31. [PMID: 38448874 PMCID: PMC10918968 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00721-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is extensive research indicating that transdiagnostic interventions are effective for adults and children with anxiety and depressive disorders; however, limited research has been conducted on the efficacy of such programs targeting parents of children with anxiety and depressive symptoms delivered via the Internet. This study aims to investigate the preliminary efficacy of a transdiagnostic Internet-delivered intervention for Romanian parents of children with elevated anxiety and depressive symptoms. METHODS We conducted a single-blinded pilot randomized controlled trial. Forty-two parents of children with anxiety and depressive symptoms (Mage = 39.79, 78.6% women) from Romania were randomly assigned to one of the two groups, to ParentKIT, an Internet-delivered intervention based on Rational Emotive and Behavioral Therapy (n = 21), or to a delayed treatment condition (waitlist group) (n = 21). ParentKIT consisted of a brief transdiagnostic intervention delivered through nine modules with therapist guidance. RESULTS A significant Group by Time effect was found for child emotional problems as reported by parents (Cohen's d = - 0.85) and for parental self-efficacy (Cohen's d = 0.71). CONCLUSION A transdiagnostic Internet-delivered intervention addressed to parents of children with elevated anxiety and depressive symptoms is a promising approach. Future research should include blind assessments as well as multiple outcome assessors and investigate the long-term efficacy of the intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05341297.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costina-Ruxandra Poetar
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Anca Dobrean
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ho TQA, Le LKD, Engel L, Le N, Melvin G, Le HND, Mihalopoulos C. Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with web-based mental health interventions in young people: a systematic review. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02386-x. [PMID: 38356043 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02386-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Many young people (YP) are diagnosed with mental illnesses and require support. Web-based mental health interventions (W-MHIs) have been increasingly utilized by YP, healthcare providers, and parents due to reasons including convenience and anonymity. W-MHIs are effective in improving mental health in YP. However, real-world engagement with W-MHIs remains low. Therefore, understanding barriers/facilitators of user engagement with W-MHIs is necessary to promote W-MHIs and help users gain optimal benefits through higher engagement. This review aims to identify barriers/facilitators of user engagement with W-MHIs in YP aged 10-24 years. A systematic search of five databases for English language, peer-reviewed publications was conducted between January 2010 and February 2023. Studies examining factors influencing user engagement with W-MHIs, described as barriers or facilitators, were included. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A narrative synthesis was performed. Of 4088 articles identified, 69 studies were included. Barriers/facilitators were reported by young people (63 studies), providers (17 studies), and parents/caregivers (8 studies). YP perceived that usefulness and connectedness were the most common facilitators, whereas low-perceived need was the most reported barrier. Both providers and parents reported that perceived usefulness for YP was the most common facilitator, whereas concerns about program effectiveness and privacy were noted as barriers. This review found that program- and individual-related factors were important determinants of engagement with W-MHIs. This review provides guidance on the future design and development of new interventions, narrowing the gap between existing W-MHIs and unmet needs of users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Quynh Anh Ho
- Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Long Khanh-Dao Le
- Monash University Health Economics Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lidia Engel
- Monash University Health Economics Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ngoc Le
- Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Glenn Melvin
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ha N D Le
- Deakin Health Economics, School of Health and Social Development, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cathrine Mihalopoulos
- Monash University Health Economics Group, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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van Doorn M, Monsanto A, Wang CL, Verfaillie SCJ, van Amelsvoort TAMJ, Popma A, Jaspers MWM, Öry F, Alvarez-Jimenez M, Gleeson JF, Nieman DH. The Effects of a Digital, Transdiagnostic, Clinically and Peer-Moderated Treatment Platform for Young People With Emerging Mental Health Complaints: Repeated Measures Within-Subjects Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e50636. [PMID: 38090802 PMCID: PMC10753424 DOI: 10.2196/50636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To address the growing prevalence of youth mental health problems, early intervention is crucial to minimize individual, societal, and economic impacts. Indicative prevention aims to target emerging mental health complaints before the onset of a full-blown disorder. When intervening at this early stage, individuals are more responsive to treatment, resulting in cost-effective outcomes. The Moderated Online Social Therapy platform, which was successfully implemented and proven effective in Australia, is a digital, peer- and clinically moderated treatment platform designed for young people. The Netherlands was the first country outside Australia to implement this platform, under the name Engage Young People Early (ENYOY). It has the potential to reduce the likelihood of young people developing serious mental health disorders. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the effects on young people using the ENYOY-platform in relation to psychological distress, psychosocial functioning, and positive health parameters. METHODS Dutch-speaking young people with emerging mental health complaints (N=131) participated in the ENYOY-platform for 6 months in a repeated measures within-subjects study. Psychological distress, psychosocial functioning, and positive health parameters were assessed at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months. Repeated measures ANOVA was conducted and adjusted for age, sex, therapy, and community activity. The Reliable Change Index and Clinically Significant Index were computed to compare the baseline with the 6- and 12-month measurements. The missing data rate was 22.54% and the dropout rate 62.6% (82/131). RESULTS The primary analysis (77/131, 58.8%) showed that psychological distress decreased and psychosocial functioning improved over time with large effect sizes (P<.001 in both cases; ηp2=0.239 and 0.318, respectively) independent of age (P=.76 for psychological distress and P=.48 for psychosocial functioning), sex (P=.24 and P=.88, respectively), therapy activity (P=.49 and P=.80, respectively), or community activity (P=.59 and P=.48, respectively). Similarly, secondary analyses (51/131, 38.9%) showed significant effects of time on the quality of life, well-being, and meaningfulness positive health parameters (P<.05; ηp2=0.062, 0.140, and 0.121, respectively). Improvements in all outcome measures were found between baseline and 3 and 6 months (P≤.001-.01; d=0.23-0.62) and sustained at follow-up (P=.18-.97; d=0.01-0.16). The Reliable Change Index indicated psychological distress improvements in 38% (39/102) of cases, no change in 54.9% (56/102) of cases, and worsening in 5.9% (6/102) of cases. Regarding psychosocial functioning, the percentages were 50% (51/102), 43.1% (44/102), and 6.9% (7/102), respectively. The Clinically Significant Index demonstrated clinically significant changes in 75.5% (77/102) of cases for distress and 89.2% (91/102) for functioning. CONCLUSIONS This trial demonstrated that the ENYOY-platform holds promise as a transdiagnostic intervention for addressing emerging mental health complaints among young people in the Netherlands and laid the groundwork for further clinical research. It would be of great relevance to expand the population on and service delivery of the platform. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s12888-021-03315-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilon van Doorn
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anne Monsanto
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Antes, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Chen Lu Wang
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sander C J Verfaillie
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
- GGZ inGeest Specialized Mental Health Care, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Arne Popma
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Monique W M Jaspers
- Department of Medical Informatics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Mario Alvarez-Jimenez
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Orygen, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John F Gleeson
- Healthy Brain and Mind Research Centre and School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dorien H Nieman
- Amsterdam University Medical Centers (Location AMC), Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Prior K, Salemink E, Piggott M, Manning V, Wiers RW, Teachman BA, Teesson M, Baillie AJ, Mahoney A, McLellan L, Newton NC, Stapinski LA. Web-Based Cognitive Bias Modification Program for Young People With Social Anxiety and Hazardous Alcohol Use: Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Efficacy Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e46008. [PMID: 37878363 PMCID: PMC10632924 DOI: 10.2196/46008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interpretation bias modification (IBM) and approach bias modification (ApBM) cognitive retraining interventions can be efficacious adjunctive treatments for improving social anxiety and alcohol use problems. However, previous trials have not examined the combination of these interventions in a young, comorbid sample. OBJECTIVE This study aims to describe the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a web-based IBM+ApBM program for young adults with social anxiety and hazardous alcohol use ("Re-Train Your Brain") when delivered in conjunction with treatment as usual (TAU). METHODS The study involved a 3-arm randomized controlled pilot trial in which treatment-seeking young adults (aged 18-30 y) with co-occurring social anxiety and hazardous alcohol use were randomized to receive (1) the "integrated" Re-Train Your Brain program, where each session included both IBM and ApBM (50:50 ratio), plus TAU (35/100, 35%); (2) the "alternating" Re-Train Your Brain program, where each session focused on IBM or ApBM in an alternating pattern, plus TAU (32/100, 32%); or (3) TAU only (33/100, 33%). Primary outcomes included feasibility and acceptability, and secondary efficacy outcomes included changes in cognitive biases, social anxiety symptoms, and alcohol use. Assessments were conducted at baseline, after the intervention period (6 weeks after baseline), and 12 weeks after baseline. RESULTS Both Re-Train Your Brain program formats were feasible and acceptable for young adults. When coupled with TAU, both integrated and alternating programs resulted in greater self-reported improvements than TAU only in anxiety interpretation biases (at the 6-week follow-up; Cohen d=0.80 and Cohen d=0.89) and comorbid interpretation biases (at the 12-week follow-up; Cohen d=1.53 and Cohen d=1.67). In addition, the alternating group reported larger improvements over the control group in generalized social anxiety symptoms (at the 12-week follow-up; Cohen d=0.83) and alcohol cravings (at the 6-week follow-up; Cohen d=0.81). There were null effects on all other variables and no differences between the intervention groups in efficacy outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Should these findings be replicated in a larger randomized controlled trial, Re-Train Your Brain has the potential to be a scalable, low-cost, and non-labor-intensive adjunct intervention for targeting interpretation and comorbidity biases as well as generalized anxiety and alcohol-related outcomes in the real world. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12620001273976; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=364131. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/28667.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Prior
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Elske Salemink
- Experimental Psychopathology Lab, Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Monique Piggott
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Victoria Manning
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Reinout W Wiers
- Addiction Development and Psychopathology (ADAPT)-lab, Department of Psychology, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bethany A Teachman
- Department of Psychology, School of Arts and Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Maree Teesson
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Andrew J Baillie
- Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison Mahoney
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent's Public Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lauren McLellan
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola C Newton
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Lexine A Stapinski
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Orgilés M, Morales A, Fernández-Martínez I, Méndez X, Espada JP. Effectiveness of a transdiagnostic computerized self-applied program targeting children with emotional problems: A randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2023; 338:155-162. [PMID: 37271291 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Super Skills for Life (SSL) is an eight-session transdiagnostic program based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), aimed at the indicated prevention of childhood emotional problems, which has been implemented with positive short- and long-term results. The present study aimed to examine the effects of a self-applied computerized program based on SSL that maintains the same objectives and contents as the face-to-face program. METHODS In this randomized controlled study, 75 children (49.3 % female) aged 8-12 years (Mage = 9.45, SD = 1.31), selected for exhibiting emotional symptoms, were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 35) or the waiting list control (WLC) group (n = 40). Pre- and post-intervention data were collected through self-reports and the report of parents who completed parallel versions of the same measures of emotional and behavioral problems. RESULTS Overall, compared to the WLC group, the intervention group showed positive effects on targeted emotional symptomatology in the short term. Based on parents' reports, a significant reduction was found in outcomes such as anxiety, depression, emotional symptoms, and internalizing problems, while self-reported results were similar except for anxiety. In addition, a positive impact was found on symptoms related to other types of difficulties (e.g., externalizing problems and general difficulties measured). LIMITATIONS Small sample size, non-inclusion of follow-up assessment and other informants (e.g., teachers). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, this research provides novel and promising data on the self-applied computerized adapted version of the SSL program, within a multi-informant approach, suggesting that it may be a useful tool for the indicated prevention of childhood emotional problems.
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The Development and Usability of a Mobile App for Parents of Children with ADHD. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10010164. [PMID: 36670714 PMCID: PMC9857426 DOI: 10.3390/children10010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent mental health problems in children. Behavioral parent training (BPT) is the first-line treatment recommended by clinical guidelines; however, parental dropout is high. Mobile apps could be used as an adjunct to BPT in order to increase treatment adherence, homework compliance, and parental engagement. In this paper, we describe the development process of a mobile app for parents of children with ADHD. METHODS We conducted a study to investigate parents' perceived usability of the ADHD Coping Card. RESULTS The mobile app developed has a high usability. Future improvements in the app were suggested by parents. CONCLUSIONS Given the increasing importance of digital mental health interventions in psychotherapy, it is important that future research is conducted with a higher number of participants to investigate the key factors implicated in choosing such an intervention in the future, both by parents and by mental health specialists. A mobile app can be used as an add-on in psychotherapy with parents of children with ADHD. Digital health interventions could help surpass gaps in treatment access for child mental health problems.
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Păsărelu CR, David D, Dobrean A, Noje A, Roxana Ș, Predescu E. ADHDCoach-a virtual clinic for parents of children with ADHD: Development and usability study. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231161963. [PMID: 36923370 PMCID: PMC10009016 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231161963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common mental health problems in childhood. Despite the fact that evidence-based treatments exist, behavioral parent training programs are the gold standard in the care of children with ADHD, a significant percentage of parents of children with ADHD do not access such interventions. Internet-delivered interventions are effective for a range of mental health problems, however, there is limited research conducted on the efficacy of such interventions in the treatment of ADHD. Objective: The aim of this study is to present the development and feasibility of an Internet-delivered intervention for parents of children with ADHD. Methods: The intervention was based on Behavioral Parent Training and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Participants were mental health specialists (N = 16) and parents of children diagnosed with ADHD (N = 24). Results: Our results indicated high usability and parental satisfaction with the intervention. Conclusion: In conclusion, an Internet-delivered intervention addressed to parents of children diagnosed with ADHD is a promising approach. Future research should investigate the efficacy of this Internet-delivered intervention in a randomized controlled trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costina-Ruxandra Păsărelu
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Daniel David
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Anca Dobrean
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.,The International Institute for the Advanced Studies of Psychotherapy and Applied Mental Health, Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Noje
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Șipoș Roxana
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
| | - Elena Predescu
- Department of Neuroscience, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacology, Cluj Napoca, Romania
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Grudin R, Ahlen J, Mataix-Cols D, Lenhard F, Henje E, Månsson C, Sahlin H, Beckman M, Serlachius E, Vigerland S. Therapist-guided and self-guided internet-delivered behavioural activation for adolescents with depression: a randomised feasibility trial. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066357. [PMID: 36572500 PMCID: PMC9806095 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Access to effective treatments for adolescents with depression needs to improve. Few studies have evaluated behavioural activation (BA) for adolescent depression, and none remotely delivered BA. This study explored the feasibility and acceptability of therapist-guided and self-guided internet-delivered BA (I-BA) in preparation for a future randomised controlled trial (RCT). DESIGN A single-blinded randomised controlled feasibility trial. SETTING A specialist outpatient clinic in Sweden. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-two adolescents with mild-to-moderate major depression, aged 13-17 years. INTERVENTIONS Ten weeks of therapist-guided I-BA or self-guided I-BA, or treatment as usual (TAU). Both versions of I-BA included parental support. TAU included referral to usual care within child and youth psychiatry or primary care. OUTCOMES Feasibility measures included study take-up, participant retention, acceptability, safety and satisfaction. The primary outcome measure was the blinded assessor-rated Children's Depression Rating Scale, Revised. The primary endpoint was the 3-month follow-up. RESULTS 154 adolescents were screened and 32 were randomised to therapist-guided I-BA (n=11), self-guided I-BA (n=10) or TAU (n=11). Participant retention was acceptable, with two drop-outs in TAU. Most participants in TAU had been offered interventions by the primary endpoint. The mean number of completed chapters (total of 8) for adolescents was 7.5 in therapist-guided I-BA and 5.4 in self-guided I-BA. No serious adverse events were recorded. Satisfaction was acceptable in both I-BA groups. Following an intent-to-treat approach, the linear mixed-effects model revealed that both therapist-guided and self-guided I-BA (Cohen's d=2.43 and 2.23, respectively), but not TAU (Cohen's d=0.95), showed statistically significant changes on the primary outcome measure with large within-group effect sizes. CONCLUSIONS Both therapist-guided and self-guided I-BA are acceptable and potentially efficacious treatments for adolescents with depression. It is feasible to conduct a large-scale RCT to establish the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of I-BA versus TAU. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04117789).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Grudin
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Ahlen
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- The Centre for Epidemiology and Community Medicine, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Mataix-Cols
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fabian Lenhard
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Henje
- Department of Clinical Science, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Umeå Universitet, Umea, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Månsson
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Hanna Sahlin
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Beckman
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Serlachius
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Sarah Vigerland
- Centre for Psychiatry Research,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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Internet-based emotion-regulation training added to CBT in adolescents with depressive and anxiety disorders: A pilot randomized controlled trial to examine feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness. Internet Interv 2022; 31:100596. [PMID: 36545446 PMCID: PMC9760653 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunctional emotion regulation (ER) is associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents. This pilot study aimed to examine the acceptability and feasibility of a guided internet-based emotion regulation training (ERT) added to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Furthermore, we aimed to examine the feasibility of the randomized study design and to provide a first estimate of the effectiveness of CBT + ERT compared with CBT alone in adolescents with depressive or anxiety disorders. METHODS In a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a parallel group design, 39 patients (13-18 years) with depressive or anxiety disorder were assigned to CBT + ERT (n = 21) or CBT (n = 18). Assessments at baseline, three-months and six-months follow-up included treatment adherence, satisfaction, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and ER strategies. RESULTS Adherence to ERT was 66.5 %, and treatment satisfaction was adequate. 76.5 % of eligible patients participated in the study. Linear mixed-model analyses showed significantly reduced anxiety symptoms (p = .003), depressive symptoms (p = .017), and maladaptive ER (p = .014), and enhanced adaptive ER (p = .008) at six months follow-up in the CBT + ERT group compared to controls. LIMITATIONS The sample size was small, and results regarding effectiveness remain preliminary. Data-collection took place during COVID-19, which may have influenced the results. CONCLUSIONS Both the intervention and the study design were found to be feasible. In a larger RCT, however, improvement of recruitment strategy is necessary. Preliminary results indicate potential effectiveness in decreasing anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation in adolescents. The next step should be the development of an improved internet-based ERT and its evaluation in a larger RCT. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registered on January 14th, 2020 in The Netherlands Trial Register (NL8304).
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Prevention of Depression and Anxiety in Subclinical Adolescents: Effects of a Transdiagnostic Internet-Delivered CBT Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095365. [PMID: 35564759 PMCID: PMC9101842 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Anxiety and depressive symptoms are common problems in adolescence that could be addressed by means of preventive interventions. Even though transdiagnostic cognitive behavior therapy (T-CBT) is potentially an ideal strategy to deal with anxiety and depression, it has rarely been used for preventive purposes. In addition, so far, no study has used internet-delivered T-CBT to prevent anxiety and depression in adolescents. This study aimed to examine the utility of AMTE, an internet-delivered T-CBT program, for the indicated prevention of anxiety and depression in adolescents. AMTE was applied to 30 adolescents (56.7% females, age range = 12–18 years, Mage = 14.00, SDage = 1.89) who showed subclinical symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Participants were assessed at pre- and post-treatment and follow-up (3 months). We found that after the program, the symptoms of self-reported anxiety and depression, clinician-rated symptom severity, and self-reported and parent-reported severity of the main problems had significantly improved. In addition, there were significant improvements in anxiety sensitivity and emotional avoidance. Finally, we found high feasibility and acceptability of the program. AMTE is feasible and potentially effective for the indicated prevention of anxiety and depression as well as of clinical transdiagnostic factors, in adolescents.
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