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Ruehlman L, Karoly P. A pilot test of Internet-delivered brief interactive training sessions for depression: Evaluating dropout, uptake, adherence, and outcome. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2131-2139. [PMID: 34469262 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1961781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Uptake, adherence, and dropout rates for Internet-based programs for depression are in need of improvement. Excessive user burden (eg, heavy content, extended duration) may undermine engagement and precipitate dropout. To address this problem, an alternative format was proposed: Brief Interactive Training Sessions (BITS). BITS target a narrow behavioral health skill and require 3-4 hours to complete. A depression-focused version of BITS that provides training in cognitive distortion/restructuring was tested. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-two depressed college students were randomly assigned to BITS or to a wait-list. METHODS Students competed pre-and post-test (7 week) assessments of depression and cognitive distortions. RESULTS Uptake rate was 83%. Among study completers, adherence was 96%. The dropout rate did not improve. Compared to the control group, the experimental group reported a significant reduction in depression and in cognitive distortions. CONCLUSIONS The BITS format is a promising vehicle for improving uptake and adherence while achieving positive clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Karoly
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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Sasseville M, LeBlanc A, Tchuente J, Boucher M, Dugas M, Gisèle M, Barony R, Chouinard MC, Beaulieu M, Beaudet N, Skidmore B, Cholette P, Aspiros C, Larouche A, Chabot G, Gagnon MP. The impact of technology systems and level of support in digital mental health interventions: a secondary meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2023; 12:78. [PMID: 37143171 PMCID: PMC10157597 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02241-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of people with a chronic disease (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, COPD) have more than one concurrent condition and are also at higher risk for developing comorbidities in mental health, including anxiety and depression. There is an urgent need for more relevant and accurate data on digital interventions in this area to prepare for an increase demand for mental health services. The aim of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis of the digital mental health interventions for people with comorbid physical and mental chronic diseases to compare the effect of technology systems and level of support. METHODS This secondary meta-analysis follows a rapid review of systematic reviews, a virtual workshop with knowledge users to identify research questions and a modified Delphi study to guide research methods: What types of digital health interventions (according to a recognized categorization) are the most effective for the management of concomitant mental health and chronic disease conditions in adults? We conducted a secondary analysis of the primary studies identified in the rapid review. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts and applied inclusion criteria: RCT design using a digital mental health intervention in a population of adults with another chronic condition, published after 2010 in French or English, and including an outcome measurement of anxiety or depression. RESULTS Seven hundred eight primary studies were extracted from the systematic reviews and 84 primary studies met the inclusion criteria Digital mental health interventions were significantly more effective than in-person care for both anxiety and depression outcomes. Online messaging was the most effective technology to improve anxiety and depression scores; however, all technology types were effective. Interventions partially supported by healthcare professionals were more effective than self-administered. CONCLUSIONS While our meta-analysis identifies digital intervention's characteristics are associated with better effectiveness, all technologies and levels of support could be used considering implementation context and population. TRIAL REGISTRATION The protocol for this review is registered in the National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools (NCCMT) COVID-19 Rapid Evidence Service (ID 75).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Sasseville
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada.
| | - Annie LeBlanc
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Jack Tchuente
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | | | - Michèle Dugas
- VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Nicolas Beaudet
- Université de Sherbrooke, Omnimed, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Becky Skidmore
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Pascale Cholette
- Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Capitale Nationale, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Christine Aspiros
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Alain Larouche
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Guylaine Chabot
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
| | - Marie-Pierre Gagnon
- Université Laval-VITAM Research Center on Sustainable Health, Quebec City, Canada
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Tao TJ, Lim TK, Yeung ETF, Liu H, Shris PB, Ma LKY, Lee TMC, Hou WK. Internet-based and mobile-based cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis. NPJ Digit Med 2023; 6:80. [PMID: 37117458 PMCID: PMC10141870 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-023-00809-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Positive adjustment to chronic diseases reduces psychiatric comorbidity and enhances quality of life. Very little is known about the benefit of internet-based and mobile-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (IM-CBT) on physical outcomes and its reciprocal interactions with psychiatric outcomes, the active therapeutic elements, and effect moderators among people with major chronic medical conditions. In this systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO: CRD42022265738), CINAHL of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science are systematically searched up to 1 June 2022, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IM-CBT against non-CBT control condition(s) among people with chronic disease(s). Primary outcomes include improvements in psychiatric symptoms (depressive, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, general psychological distress) from baseline to post-intervention and follow-ups. Secondary outcomes include improvements in physical distress (physical symptoms, functional impairment, self-rated ill health, objective physiological dysfunction). Among 44 RCTs (5077 patients with seven different chronic diseases), IM-CBT improves depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and general psychological distress at post-intervention and across follow-ups, and improves physical distress and functional impairment at post-intervention. Preliminary evidence suggests that behavioral modification and problem-solving could be necessary components to reduce psychiatric symptoms in IM-CBT, whereas cognitive restructuring, psychoeducation, and mindfulness elements relate to reduced physical distress. IM-CBT shows stronger benefits in chronic pain, cancer, arthritis, and cardiovascular disease, relative to other conditions. Changes in psychiatric symptoms and physical distress prospectively predict each other over time. IM-CBT is an effective intervention for comprehensive symptom management among people with chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Junchen Tao
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Teck Kuan Lim
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ernest Tsun Fung Yeung
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huinan Liu
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Special Education and Counselling, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Phoenix Bibha Shris
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lawrence Ka Yin Ma
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tatia Mei Chun Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Neuropsychology & Human Neuroscience, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wai Kai Hou
- Centre for Psychosocial Health, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Department of Psychology, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Børtveit L, Dechsling A, Sütterlin S, Nordgreen T, Nordahl-Hansen A. Guided Internet-Delivered Treatment for Depression: Scoping Review. JMIR Ment Health 2022; 9:e37342. [PMID: 36194467 PMCID: PMC9579933 DOI: 10.2196/37342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on guided internet-delivered treatment have demonstrated promising results for patients with depressive disorder. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to provide an overview of this research area and identify potential gaps in the research. METHODS In this scoping review, web-based databases were used to identify research papers published between 2010 and 2022 where guided internet-delivered treatment was administered to participants with depressive disorders, a standardized rating scale of depressive symptoms was used as the primary outcome measure, and the treatment was compared with a control condition. RESULTS A total of 111 studies were included, and an overview of the studies was provided. Several gaps in the research were identified regarding the design of the studies, treatments delivered, participant representation, and treatment completion. CONCLUSIONS This review provides a comprehensive overview of the research area, and several research gaps were identified. The use of other designs and active control conditions is recommended. Future studies should provide access to treatment manuals, and more replications should be conducted. Researchers should aim to include underrepresented populations and provide reports of comorbidities. Definitions of adequate dosage, reports of completion rates, and reasons for treatment dropout are recommended for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Børtveit
- Faculty of Health, Welfare and Organisation, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Behavioral Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anders Dechsling
- Department of Education, ICT, and Learning, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
| | - Stefan Sütterlin
- Faculty of Health, Welfare and Organisation, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway.,Faculty of Computer Science, Albstadt-Sigmaringen University, Sigmaringen, Germany
| | - Tine Nordgreen
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway.,Departement of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anders Nordahl-Hansen
- Department of Education, ICT, and Learning, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
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Shah A, Hussain-Shamsy N, Strudwick G, Sockalingam S, Nolan RP, Seto E. Digital Health Interventions for Depression and Anxiety Among People with Chronic Conditions: Scoping Review (Preprint). J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e38030. [PMID: 36155409 PMCID: PMC9555324 DOI: 10.2196/38030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic conditions are characterized by their long duration (≥1 year), need for ongoing medical attention, and limitations in activities of daily living. These can often co-occur with depression and anxiety as common and detrimental comorbidities among the growing population living with chronic conditions. Digital health interventions (DHIs) hold promise in overcoming barriers to accessing mental health support for these individuals; however, the design and implementation of DHIs for depression and anxiety in people with chronic conditions are yet to be explored. Objective This study aimed to explore what is known in the literature regarding DHIs for the prevention, detection, or treatment of depression and anxiety among people with chronic conditions. Methods A scoping review of the literature was conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley framework. Searches of the literature published in 5 databases between 1990 and 2019 were conducted in April 2019 and updated in March 2021. To be included, studies must have described a DHI tested with, or designed for, the prevention, detection, or treatment of depression or anxiety in people with common chronic conditions (arthritis, asthma, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, stroke, and Alzheimer disease or dementia). Studies were independently screened by 2 reviewers against the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Both quantitative and qualitative data were extracted, charted, and synthesized to provide a descriptive summary of the trends and considerations for future research. Results Database searches yielded 11,422 articles across the initial and updated searches, 53 (0.46%) of which were included in this review. DHIs predominantly sought to provide treatment (44/53, 83%), followed by detection (5/53, 9%) and prevention (4/53, 8%). Most DHIs were focused on depression (36/53, 68%), guided (32/53, 60%), tailored to chronic physical conditions (19/53, 36%), and delivered through web-based platforms (20/53, 38%). Only 2 studies described the implementation of a DHI. Conclusions As a growing research area, DHIs offer the potential to address the gap in care for depression and anxiety among people with chronic conditions; however, their implementation in standard care is scarce. Although stepped care has been identified as a promising model to implement efficacious DHIs, few studies have investigated the use of DHIs for depression and anxiety among chronic conditions using such models. In developing stepped care, we outlined DHI tailoring, guidance, and intensity as key considerations that require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amika Shah
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Global eHealth Innovation, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Neesha Hussain-Shamsy
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Global eHealth Innovation, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gillian Strudwick
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Sanjeev Sockalingam
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert P Nolan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Cardiac eHealth, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emily Seto
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Centre for Global eHealth Innovation, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Gan DZQ, McGillivray L, Han J, Christensen H, Torok M. Effect of Engagement With Digital Interventions on Mental Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Digit Health 2021; 3:764079. [PMID: 34806079 PMCID: PMC8599127 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2021.764079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) present a promising way to address gaps in mental health service provision. However, the relationship between user engagement and outcomes in the context of these interventions has not been established. This study addressed the current state of evidence on the relationship between engagement with DMHIs and mental health outcomes. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and EmBASE databases were searched from inception to August 1, 2021. Original or secondary analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they examined the relationship between DMHI engagement and post-intervention outcome(s). Thirty-five studies were eligible for inclusion in the narrative review and 25 studies had sufficient data for meta-analysis. Random-effects meta-analyses indicated that greater engagement was significantly associated with post-intervention mental health improvements, regardless of whether this relationship was explored using correlational [r = 0.24, 95% CI (0.17, 0.32), Z = 6.29, p < 0.001] or between-groups designs [Hedges' g = 0.40, 95% CI (0.097, 0.705), p = 0.010]. This association was also consistent regardless of intervention type (unguided/guided), diagnostic status, or mental health condition targeted. This is the first review providing empirical evidence that engagement with DMHIs is associated with therapeutic gains. Implications and future directions are discussed. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier: CRD 42020184706.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Z Q Gan
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lauren McGillivray
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Jin Han
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Pang Y, Zhang X, Gao R, Xu L, Shen M, Shi H, Li Y, Li F. Efficacy of web-based self-management interventions for depressive symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:398. [PMID: 34380440 PMCID: PMC8359554 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03396-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of depression is increasing worldwide. Depression can lead to poor physical health and even suicide. However, in high-income countries, only about 50% of the people with depression receive appropriate therapy, and the detection rate of depression in low- and middle-income countries is relatively lower. Web-based self-management enables remote treatment and solves the problem of insufficient psychological treatment resources. Many past studies have evaluated the effectiveness of web-based self-management of depression, but there has been no synthesis of evidence. Therefore, this study conducted a meta-analysis of the effectiveness of web-based self-management for depressive symptoms. METHOD Six electronic databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) were searched in September 2020. All literature referring to the effects of web-based self-management on depression were shortlisted by performing the medical subject headings (MeSH) search combined with a text word search. RESULTS A total of 18 eligible randomized controlled trials were identified, and the results from 3055 participants were consolidated. The web-based self-management group exhibited a greater reduction in depressive symptoms than the control group (g = - 0.46; 95% CI: 0.62,0.30), and there was no evidence of publication bias. Subgroup analysis revealed that patients with moderate-to-severe depression benefited from web-based self-management interventions. In terms of interventions, those based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) were highly effective. We noted that the longer the intervention time, the better was the improvement in the status of depression. Furthermore, it was established that participants who communicated with therapists and showed greater adherence to the intervention experienced significant improvement in their symptoms. The results of the intervention group were better than those of the waiting-list, treatment-as-usual, and online psychoeducation groups. CONCLUSIONS Web-based self-management is a promising therapy for depression. Future research should aim to refine these aspects of the intervention to achieve a beneficial impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Pang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ruitong Gao
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Linqi Xu
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Meidi Shen
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Shi
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuewei Li
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Feng Li
- School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Farley H. Promoting self-efficacy in patients with chronic disease beyond traditional education: A literature review. Nurs Open 2020; 7:30-41. [PMID: 31871689 PMCID: PMC6917929 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim To examine barriers to self-efficacy and strategies beyond traditional education that promote self-efficacy for patients living with chronic disease. The review questions were as follows: (a) What are barriers to self-efficacy in patients experiencing chronic disease? and (b) What non-traditional strategies and programmes can be implemented by healthcare leaders to promote self-efficacy in patients with chronic disease? Design Integrative review. Method Data sources searched were CINAHL, Google Scholar, Health Source, Academic Search Complete and PsycARTICLES published between January 2014-January 2018. Synthesis and thematic analyses were conducted on 24 articles. Results Three themes were identified as barriers to self-efficacy: health literacy, access and support. Four prominent strategies were found to promote self-efficacy: self-management programmes, telehealth, mobile applications, gaming and social media. The findings indicate self-efficacy for patients with chronic conditions can improve with new interventions. Enhancing traditional education and boosting self-efficacy could increase treatment adherence and decrease cost.
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Reaching the Latino Population: a Brief Conceptual Discussion on the Use of Telehealth to Address Healthcare Disparities for the Large and Growing Population. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41347-019-00088-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for chronic health conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Behav Med 2018; 42:169-187. [DOI: 10.1007/s10865-018-9984-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThis systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) on anxiety and depression among persons with chronic health conditions. A systematic database search was conducted of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, EMBASE, and Cochrane for relevant studies published from 1990 to September 2018. A study was included if the following criteria were met: (1) randomized controlled trial involving an ICBT intervention; (2) participants experienced a chronic health condition; (3) participants ≥ 18 years of age; and (4) effects of ICBT on anxiety and/or depression were reported. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias on the included studies. Pooled analysis was conducted on the primary and condition specific secondary outcomes. Twenty-five studies met inclusion criteria and investigated the following chronic health conditions: tinnitus (n = 6), fibromyalgia (n = 3), pain (n = 7), rheumatoid arthritis (n = 3), cardiovascular disease (n = 2), diabetes (n = 1), cancer (n = 1), heterogeneous chronic disease population (n = 1), and spinal cord injury (n = 1). Pooled analysis demonstrated small effects of ICBT in improving anxiety and depression. Moderate effects of therapist-guided approach were seen for depression and anxiety outcomes; while, self-guided approaches resulted in small effects for depression and moderate effects in anxiety outcomes. ICBT shows promise as an alternative to traditional face-to-face interventions among persons with chronic health conditions. Future research on long-term effects of ICBT for individuals with chronic health conditions is needed.Trial Registration PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018087292.
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