Lessons learned from 'TRAbee' – a large full-factorial designed study (n=2400) targeting depression and/or anxiety

• Background: Typically, internet-based treatment programs are effective for various psychological problems. However, diagnosing, and matching treatments to an individual's need, is a challenge and potentially resource-intensive. In addition, it is unknown what the optimal treatment length is and whether access to an online forum is beneficial for treatment adherence and subsequent outcome. In this study, the Iterapi platform fully automated all decisions and communication with the participants, maximizing scalability.Methods: A total of 2400 participants presenting with anxiety and/or depression were randomized into 12 subgroups (n=200 each) based on treatment modality, duration, and moderated discussion forum (Yes vs. No). Weekly measurements using PHQ9 and GAD7 were the primary outcome measures.The treatments were based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy (Unified Protocol) or Psychodynamic models and treatment principles (Affect Phobia). Both Unified Protocol and the Affect Phobia treatment program are transdiagnostic methods targeting symptoms of anxiety and depression. The participants were also randomly assigned to either having (50%) or not having (50%) access to a discussion forum that a clinician moderated. Finally, all participants of the two treatment groups and the waitlist-control group were randomly assigned to either an 8- or 16-week intervention duration.Results: All 2400 participants have been recruited. However, all post-assessment data is not yet collected at the time of writing (but will be by the time of the conference). This talk will focus on design considerations and lessons learned from the 'TRAbee' study.Discussion: Since the weekly assessment of outcome has been collected, the statistical power is strong, especially since the total number of participants is 2400. The outcome will answer several dissemination questions, including treatment length, discussion boards' added value, and treatment type (CBT vs. PDT).

Ämnesord

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Psykologi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Psychology (hsv//eng)

Nyckelord

TRAbee

depression

anxiety

psykologi

Psychology

Publikations- och innehållstyp

vet (ämneskategori)

kon (ämneskategori)