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- Hensler, Ida, 1989-, et al.
(author)
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Longitudinal follow-up of the randomized controlled trial of access to the trauma-focused self-management app PTSD Coach
- 2023
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In: Internet Interventions. - : Elsevier. - 2214-7829. ; 32, s. 100618-
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Apps that target posttraumatic stress are rarely evaluated and long-term examination of symptom change is rare. In a waitlist-controlled randomized controlled trial, we found that the Swedish version of the self-management app PTSD Coach confers benefits on posttraumatic stress and depressive symptoms after three months use. Here, we aimed to evaluate between-group effects on functional disability as well as within-group changes on mental health, somatic illness and functional disability after access to the Swedish PTSD Coach app during 9 months. In addition, we described negative effects, helpfulness and satisfaction with the app. Among the 179 trauma-exposed adults (92% women) randomized to instant access or delayed access to PTSD Coach, symptoms of posttraumatic stress, depression, somatic illness and functional disability decreased and were maintained within 3 to 9 months of app access. Posttraumatic stress continued to improve during follow up. PTSD Coach was considered slightly to moderately helpful and satisfactory, and 43% reported any negative effect related to using the app. PTSD Coach is an effective self-management intervention for trauma-related distress. Future research should investigate mechanisms of change, as well as individual characteristics that predict symptom reduction after access to PTSD Coach in order to inform clinical practice.
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