Pub Date : 2025-12-05DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100897
Bram van der Boom , Tara Donker , Derek de Beurs , Arnout C. Smit , Lian van der Krieke , Pepijn Steures , Roel Pietersen , Marieke van Meeteren , Arnoud Arntz , Heleen Riper
Background
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is the most prevalent personality disorder and can significantly impair patients' functioning. Evidence-based treatments exist, but can be inaccessible due to various limitations. Internet-delivered treatment could potentially increase accessibility and scalability. Before investigating patients, we planned a pilot-test of video-conferencing group schema therapy (VC-GST) as self-therapy for therapists in training.
Objective
This study aimed to assess the feasibility of VC-GST for therapists in training. We hypothesised VC-GST to be a feasible intervention.
Methods
An uncontrolled pre-post-test feasibility study was conducted on a group of 24 therapists in training and analysed via one-sample and paired-samples t-tests. Feasibility was assessed through system usability, client satisfaction, group cohesion, working alliance, and drop-out rates. Furthermore, the effect of the VC-GST intervention on the participants' functioning, patterns, and personality traits was evaluated.
Results
VC-GST showed high usability and strong client satisfaction, with marked improvement in group cohesion and working alliance, and a drop-out rate of 4 %. Additionally, participants showed an increase in adaptive and decrease in maladaptive schemas.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that VC-GST could be a feasible intervention for therapists in training, warranting further research into VC-GST for a clinical population of BPD patients.
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Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100895
Ohad Ashur , Chen Rayan Saar , Or Brandes , Amit Baumel
Objective
Studies indicate that users can establish a therapeutic alliance (TA) with digital health interventions. However, research examining how TA unfolds in digital settings and its unique facets compared to conventional TA remains limited. This qualitative study aimed to explore and validate preliminary quantitative findings suggesting three distinct themes unique to eHealth TA.
Methods
Qualitative data were collected from users of a digital parent training program aiming to explore participants' general experiences with the program. Semi-structured double-blind interviews were conducted (n = 16), and responses to open-ended questions from a larger sample of users were collected (n = 64). Data were thematically analyzed using the six-step framework outlined by Braun and Clarke.
Results
In the deductive thematic analysis all three eHealth TA themes were identified – Sense of Relatedness (SR), Application-Induced Accountability (AIA), and Perceived Emotional Investment (PEI), along with the three sub-themes of conventional TA (Goal, Task and Bond). Two eHealth TA themes (SR, AIA) were fully represented in participant's responses, while one (PEI) was only marginally validated. Regarding conventional TA, Goal and Task were fully represented, while Bond was only marginally validated. Validation of eHealth TA themes was further supported by the analysis of the open-ended questions.
Conclusions
Findings reinforce prior research, indicating that TA in digital health settings unfolds in distinct ways, and underscoring the need for further exploration of eHealth TA's unique characteristics. Additionally, the study emphasizes potential advantages of employing double-blind methodology in qualitative studies.
{"title":"Exploring and validating themes of the eHealth Therapeutic Alliance Inventory in digital health interventions: A qualitative analysis","authors":"Ohad Ashur , Chen Rayan Saar , Or Brandes , Amit Baumel","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100895","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100895","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Studies indicate that users can establish a therapeutic alliance (TA) with digital health interventions. However, research examining how TA unfolds in digital settings and its unique facets compared to conventional TA remains limited. This qualitative study aimed to explore and validate preliminary quantitative findings suggesting three distinct themes unique to eHealth TA.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Qualitative data were collected from users of a digital parent training program aiming to explore participants' general experiences with the program. Semi-structured double-blind interviews were conducted (<em>n</em> = 16), and responses to open-ended questions from a larger sample of users were collected (<em>n</em> = 64). Data were thematically analyzed using the six-step framework outlined by Braun and Clarke.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In the deductive thematic analysis all three eHealth TA themes were identified – Sense of Relatedness (SR), Application-Induced Accountability (AIA), and Perceived Emotional Investment (PEI), along with the three sub-themes of conventional TA (Goal, Task and Bond). Two eHealth TA themes (SR, AIA) were fully represented in participant's responses, while one (PEI) was only marginally validated. Regarding conventional TA, Goal and Task were fully represented, while Bond was only marginally validated. Validation of eHealth TA themes was further supported by the analysis of the open-ended questions.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Findings reinforce prior research, indicating that TA in digital health settings unfolds in distinct ways, and underscoring the need for further exploration of eHealth TA's unique characteristics. Additionally, the study emphasizes potential advantages of employing double-blind methodology in qualitative studies.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100895"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145747057","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100893
Lara Rolvien , Duygu Sönmez , Lea Schuurmans , Lisa Borgmann , Annika Schmüser , Steffen Moritz , Anna Baumeister
Background
Self-guided internet-based interventions have been established as effective tools for reducing gambling disorder. However, research on their potential negative side effects remains limited. This study investigated both unintended positive effects, and unwanted negative effects, of the self-guided internet-based intervention ‘Restart’ for individuals with self-reported gambling problems.
Methods
A total of 94 participants with self-reported gambling problems were investigated for positive and unwanted effects using the Positive and Negative Effects of Psychotherapy Scale for Internet-Based Intervention (PANEPS-I) after using the internet-based intervention ‘Restart’ for six weeks.
Results
The findings indicate that positive effects, such as increased self-efficacy (64.8 %), were reported more frequently than unwanted effects. Nonetheless, a significant proportion of participants experienced side effects (23.9 %), alleged malpractice (38.6 %), and found procedures unethical (21.5 %). Key unwanted effects included feelings of stigmatization and blaming, experiences of excessive pressure during the intervention and perceptions of the program as overly directive or as not in line with own preferences. Positive effects but not unwanted effects significantly increased the likelihood for a positive response (Odds ratio = 1.59 p < .001).
Conclusion
The findings suggest that while self-guided internet-based interventions can serve as valuable tools for individuals reluctant to seek traditional therapy, they require careful refinement to address user-specific needs and reduce adverse outcomes. Future research should focus on identifying factors that predispose individuals to positive and unwanted effects and explore intervention modifications, such as integrating optional therapeutic support or personalized content adaptations.
基于互联网的自我引导干预措施已被确立为减少赌博障碍的有效工具。然而,对其潜在负面影响的研究仍然有限。本研究调查了自我引导的基于互联网的干预“重启”对自我报告赌博问题的个人的意外积极影响和不必要的负面影响。方法对94名自我报告有赌博问题的参与者在使用网络干预“重启”六周后,使用“网络干预心理治疗积极与消极影响量表”(PANEPS-I)对其积极与不良影响进行调查。结果研究结果表明,积极的影响,如提高自我效能感(64.8%),比不良影响的报告频率更高。尽管如此,相当大比例的参与者经历了副作用(23.9%),涉嫌医疗事故(38.6%),并发现手术不道德(21.5%)。主要的不良影响包括污名化和责备的感觉,干预期间过度压力的经历,以及认为该计划过于指导性或不符合自己的偏好。积极效应而非不良效应显著增加了积极反应的可能性(优势比= 1.59 p < .001)。研究结果表明,尽管基于互联网的自我指导干预措施可以作为不愿寻求传统治疗的个人的宝贵工具,但它们需要仔细改进以满足用户特定需求并减少不良后果。未来的研究应侧重于确定使个体倾向于积极和不希望的影响的因素,并探索干预修改,例如整合可选的治疗支持或个性化的内容适应。
{"title":"Help or harm? Assessing positive and unwanted effects of a self-guided internet-based intervention for gambling problems","authors":"Lara Rolvien , Duygu Sönmez , Lea Schuurmans , Lisa Borgmann , Annika Schmüser , Steffen Moritz , Anna Baumeister","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100893","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100893","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Self-guided internet-based interventions have been established as effective tools for reducing gambling disorder. However, research on their potential negative side effects remains limited. This study investigated both unintended positive effects, and unwanted negative effects, of the self-guided internet-based intervention ‘Restart’ for individuals with self-reported gambling problems.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A total of 94 participants with self-reported gambling problems were investigated for positive and unwanted effects using the Positive and Negative Effects of Psychotherapy Scale for Internet-Based Intervention (PANEPS-I) after using the internet-based intervention ‘Restart’ for six weeks.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The findings indicate that positive effects, such as increased self-efficacy (64.8 %), were reported more frequently than unwanted effects. Nonetheless, a significant proportion of participants experienced side effects (23.9 %), alleged malpractice (38.6 %), and found procedures unethical (21.5 %). Key unwanted effects included feelings of stigmatization and blaming, experiences of excessive pressure during the intervention and perceptions of the program as overly directive or as not in line with own preferences. Positive effects but not unwanted effects significantly increased the likelihood for a positive response (Odds ratio = 1.59 <em>p</em> < .001).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings suggest that while self-guided internet-based interventions can serve as valuable tools for individuals reluctant to seek traditional therapy, they require careful refinement to address user-specific needs and reduce adverse outcomes. Future research should focus on identifying factors that predispose individuals to positive and unwanted effects and explore intervention modifications, such as integrating optional therapeutic support or personalized content adaptations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100893"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145693155","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100892
Paul Hüsing , Mareike Busmann , Bernd Löwe , Petra Engelmann
Objective
Low back pain (LBP) affects daily functioning and strains healthcare systems. Cognitive, behavioral, and emotional factors contribute to its persistence, yet these factors are often neglected in standard care. Personalized digital interventions containing psychoeducational information on relevant biopsychosocial aspects may thus improve outcomes when applied to patients in an early stage. This trial examined whether a brief, personalized animated psychoeducational video—tailored to individual risk profiles based on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and covering biopsychosocial contributors to LBP (depression, catastrophizing, health anxiety, fear of movement, pain endurance behavior, expectations, trauma, emotion regulation)—improves pain-related self-efficacy in adults with acute and subacute low back pain (0–12 weeks).
Methods
In this two-arm randomized controlled trial, participants with back pain (duration <12 weeks) and resulting impairment were randomized to receive either a personalized animated video (intervention) or care as usual (control). Videos comprised modules (≈2–3.5 min per module) selected from eight possible topics based on baseline PROM cut-offs. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks. Primary analysis used mixed ANOVA to examine changes in pain-related self-efficacy (FESS) over time and between groups; secondary outcomes on biopsychosocial factors were tested with repeated measures ANOVAs and group-adjusted ANCOVAs.
Results
75 participants were included in the analysis. Pain-related self-efficacy improved significantly over time, F(2, 148) = 6.435, p = .002, but without significant group differences, F(2, 148) = 2.146, p = .121. Most secondary outcomes also improved (all p < .001), except pain avoidance-endurance behavior, but analyses did not yield significant differences between intervention and control group (all p > .05. Participants rated the intervention as credible (M = 8.36), with moderate ratings for personal fit and symptom benefit. No adverse events were reported.
Conclusion
Although brief exposure may have limited the impact, the intervention was well-received. Future research should explore integrating personalized psychoeducation into multimodal treatments, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches for this diverse patient population.
Summary
A brief personalized online intervention improved back-pain self-efficacy, without being superior to an untreated control group. High acceptance seems promising for future multimodal use.
目的腰痛(LBP)影响日常功能并使医疗系统紧张。认知、行为和情感因素导致其持续存在,但这些因素在标准治疗中往往被忽视。个性化的数字干预措施包含相关生物心理社会方面的心理教育信息,因此,在早期阶段应用于患者时,可能会改善结果。该试验研究了一个简短的、个性化的心理教育动画视频,该视频根据患者报告的结果测量(PROMs)为个体风险特征量身定制,涵盖了LBP的生物心理社会因素(抑郁、灾难化、健康焦虑、运动恐惧、疼痛耐受行为、期望、创伤、情绪调节),是否能改善急性和亚急性腰痛(0-12周)成人疼痛相关的自我效能。方法在这项双组随机对照试验中,患有背部疼痛(持续时间为12周)并导致损伤的参与者被随机分为两组,一组接受个性化的动画视频(干预),另一组接受常规护理(对照组)。视频由模块组成(每个模块≈2-3.5分钟),从基于基线PROM截止的八个可能主题中选择。在基线、4周和12周时评估结果。初步分析采用混合方差分析来检验疼痛相关自我效能感(FESS)随时间和组间的变化;采用重复测量方差分析和组校正ancova对生物心理社会因素的次要结局进行检验。结果共纳入75名受试者。疼痛相关自我效能感随时间显著改善,F(2,148) = 6.435, p = 0.002,组间差异无统计学意义,F(2,148) = 2.146, p = 0.121。除了疼痛回避-耐力行为外,大多数次要结局也得到改善(p < 0.001),但分析显示干预组与对照组之间没有显著差异(p < 0.05)。参与者对干预的评价为可信(M = 8.36),对个人健康和症状改善的评价为中等。无不良事件报告。结论虽然短暂接触可能影响有限,但干预效果良好。未来的研究应探索将个性化心理教育整合到多模式治疗中,强调个性化方法对不同患者群体的重要性。简短的个性化在线干预改善了背痛自我效能感,但并不优于未经治疗的对照组。高接受度似乎对未来的多模式使用很有希望。
{"title":"A personalized online intervention to enhance back pain-related self-efficacy: A two-arm randomized controlled trial (IDRIS)","authors":"Paul Hüsing , Mareike Busmann , Bernd Löwe , Petra Engelmann","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100892","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100892","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Low back pain (LBP) affects daily functioning and strains healthcare systems. Cognitive, behavioral, and emotional factors contribute to its persistence, yet these factors are often neglected in standard care. Personalized digital interventions containing psychoeducational information on relevant biopsychosocial aspects may thus improve outcomes when applied to patients in an early stage. This trial examined whether a brief, personalized animated psychoeducational video—tailored to individual risk profiles based on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and covering biopsychosocial contributors to LBP (depression, catastrophizing, health anxiety, fear of movement, pain endurance behavior, expectations, trauma, emotion regulation)—improves pain-related self-efficacy in adults with acute and subacute low back pain (0–12 weeks).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this two-arm randomized controlled trial, participants with back pain (duration <12 weeks) and resulting impairment were randomized to receive either a personalized animated video (intervention) or care as usual (control). Videos comprised modules (≈2–3.5 min per module) selected from eight possible topics based on baseline PROM cut-offs. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks. Primary analysis used mixed ANOVA to examine changes in pain-related self-efficacy (FESS) over time and between groups; secondary outcomes on biopsychosocial factors were tested with repeated measures ANOVAs and group-adjusted ANCOVAs.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>75 participants were included in the analysis. Pain-related self-efficacy improved significantly over time, F(2, 148) = 6.435, <em>p</em> = .002, but without significant group differences, F(2, 148) = 2.146, <em>p</em> = .121. Most secondary outcomes also improved (all <em>p</em> < .001), except pain avoidance-endurance behavior, but analyses did not yield significant differences between intervention and control group (all <em>p</em> > .05. Participants rated the intervention as credible (M = 8.36), with moderate ratings for personal fit and symptom benefit. No adverse events were reported.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Although brief exposure may have limited the impact, the intervention was well-received. Future research should explore integrating personalized psychoeducation into multimodal treatments, emphasizing the importance of individualized approaches for this diverse patient population.</div></div><div><h3>Summary</h3><div>A brief personalized online intervention improved back-pain self-efficacy, without being superior to an untreated control group. High acceptance seems promising for future multimodal use.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100892"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145624102","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100894
Heather D. Hadjistavropoulos , Blake F. Dear , Nickolai Titov , Ram P. Sapkota
Adaptive actions have been identified as potential mechanisms of change in transdiagnostic internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT), but their role relative to homework engagement remains unclear. This study examined whether changes in adaptive actions are maintained at follow-up, their relationship with homework engagement, their individual and joint prediction of diverse treatment outcomes, and their role as mediators and in reciprocal relationships with outcomes. Adults (N = 625) received a transdiagnostic ICBT program in routine care. Outcomes included depression, generalized anxiety, posttraumatic stress, panic, social anxiety, insomnia, functional impairment, and wellbeing. Adaptive actions were assessed with the Things You Do Questionnaire–15 Item (TYDQ–15) and homework engagement with the Homework Reflection Questionnaire (HWRQ). TYDQ–15 scores improved from pre- to post-treatment and were maintained at follow-up. Although correlated, mid-treatment TYDQ–15 scores more consistently predicted outcomes than homework engagement and partially mediated changes across all assessed outcomes. Reciprocal analyses revealed bidirectional relationships between adaptive actions and anxiety and wellbeing, and partially bidirectional associations with depression. Overall, mid-treatment adaptive actions emerged as a stronger and more consistent mechanism of change than homework engagement across diverse outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of research on the benefits of encouraging adaptive actions early in treatment.
{"title":"Adaptive actions as a mechanism of change in transdiagnostic internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy: Comparison with homework engagement","authors":"Heather D. Hadjistavropoulos , Blake F. Dear , Nickolai Titov , Ram P. Sapkota","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100894","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100894","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Adaptive actions have been identified as potential mechanisms of change in transdiagnostic internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT), but their role relative to homework engagement remains unclear. This study examined whether changes in adaptive actions are maintained at follow-up, their relationship with homework engagement, their individual and joint prediction of diverse treatment outcomes, and their role as mediators and in reciprocal relationships with outcomes. Adults (<em>N</em> = 625) received a transdiagnostic ICBT program in routine care. Outcomes included depression, generalized anxiety, posttraumatic stress, panic, social anxiety, insomnia, functional impairment, and wellbeing. Adaptive actions were assessed with the Things You Do Questionnaire–15 Item (TYDQ–15) and homework engagement with the Homework Reflection Questionnaire (HWRQ). TYDQ–15 scores improved from pre- to post-treatment and were maintained at follow-up. Although correlated, mid-treatment TYDQ–15 scores more consistently predicted outcomes than homework engagement and partially mediated changes across all assessed outcomes. Reciprocal analyses revealed bidirectional relationships between adaptive actions and anxiety and wellbeing, and partially bidirectional associations with depression. Overall, mid-treatment adaptive actions emerged as a stronger and more consistent mechanism of change than homework engagement across diverse outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of research on the benefits of encouraging adaptive actions early in treatment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100894"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145693162","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100891
Yamin Guo
Background
Cancer caregiving is associated with elevated psychological burden, yet scalable interventions remain limited. This randomized controlled trial evaluated a therapist-guided, internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy program versus standardized information brochures in informal caregivers of patients with advanced cancer, with caregiver burden specified as the primary outcome and anxiety, depression, and caregiver self-efficacy as secondary outcomes.
Methods
A parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted among 200 informal caregivers, randomized to either the cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention (n = 100) or the control (n = 100). The intervention comprised an 8-week online cognitive behavioral therapy program supervised by licensed therapists. Primary (caregiver burden) and secondary (anxiety, depression, and caregiver self-efficacy) outcomes were measured using the Zarit Burden Interview–22 caregiver burden scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7 anxiety scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 depression scale, and the Caregiver Self-Efficacy Scale, administered at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Analyses used linear mixed-effects models with intention-to-treat and sensitivity analyses.
Results
At week 8, caregiver burden decreased by −11.6 ± 6.2 in the internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy group versus −2.1 ± 5.9 in the control group (p = 0.027; Cohen's d = 1.35); anxiety decreased by −5.2 versus −0.8 (p = 0.009; d = 1.40); depression decreased by −6.4 versus −1.2 (p = 0.008; d = 1.42); and caregiver self-efficacy increased by +21.9 versus +2.9 (p = 0.021; d = 1.44). A clinical reduction in caregiver burden occurred in 67.0 % of participants in the internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy group, compared with 19.0 % in the control group (odds ratio 8.60; p = 0.005).
Conclusion
In this randomized trial, internet-delivered CBT produced greater improvements than information brochures in caregiver burden (primary outcome) and in anxiety, depression, and self-efficacy over 8 weeks.
癌症护理与心理负担增加有关,但可扩展的干预措施仍然有限。方法对200名非正式照护者进行平行双臂随机对照试验,随机分为认知行为治疗干预组(n = 100)和对照组(n = 100)。干预包括一个为期8周的在线认知行为治疗项目,由有执照的治疗师监督。主要(照顾者负担)和次要(焦虑、抑郁和照顾者自我效能)结果采用Zarit burden访谈- 22照顾者负担量表、广泛性焦虑障碍- 7焦虑量表、患者健康问卷- 9抑郁量表和照顾者自我效能量表进行测量,分别在基线、第4周和第8周进行。分析使用线性混合效应模型和意向治疗和敏感性分析。结果第8周,网络传递认知行为治疗组照顾者负担下降了- 11.6±6.2,对照组为- 2.1±5.9 (p = 0.027; Cohen’s d = 1.35);焦虑降低- 5.2比- 0.8 (p = 0.009; d = 1.40);抑郁症患者为- 6.4 vs - 1.2 (p = 0.008; d = 1.42);照顾者自我效能感提高+21.9比+2.9 (p = 0.021; d = 1.44)。在网络认知行为治疗组中,67.0%的参与者在临床中减轻了照顾者的负担,而在对照组中,这一比例为19.0%(优势比8.60;p = 0.005)。结论:在这项随机试验中,在8周的时间里,互联网提供的CBT在照顾者负担(主要结局)、焦虑、抑郁和自我效能方面比信息手册有更大的改善。
{"title":"Internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy versus standard information brochures in advanced cancer caregivers: randomized controlled trial","authors":"Yamin Guo","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100891","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100891","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Cancer caregiving is associated with elevated psychological burden, yet scalable interventions remain limited. This randomized controlled trial evaluated a therapist-guided, internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy program versus standardized information brochures in informal caregivers of patients with advanced cancer, with caregiver burden specified as the primary outcome and anxiety, depression, and caregiver self-efficacy as secondary outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A parallel two-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted among 200 informal caregivers, randomized to either the cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention (<em>n</em> = 100) or the control (n = 100). The intervention comprised an 8-week online cognitive behavioral therapy program supervised by licensed therapists. Primary (caregiver burden) and secondary (anxiety, depression, and caregiver self-efficacy) outcomes were measured using the Zarit Burden Interview–22 caregiver burden scale, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7 anxiety scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 depression scale, and the Caregiver Self-Efficacy Scale, administered at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Analyses used linear mixed-effects models with intention-to-treat and sensitivity analyses.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>At week 8, caregiver burden decreased by −11.6 ± 6.2 in the internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy group versus −2.1 ± 5.9 in the control group (<em>p</em> = 0.027; Cohen's d = 1.35); anxiety decreased by −5.2 versus −0.8 (<em>p</em> = 0.009; d = 1.40); depression decreased by −6.4 versus −1.2 (<em>p</em> = 0.008; d = 1.42); and caregiver self-efficacy increased by +21.9 versus +2.9 (<em>p</em> = 0.021; d = 1.44). A clinical reduction in caregiver burden occurred in 67.0 % of participants in the internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy group, compared with 19.0 % in the control group (odds ratio 8.60; <em>p</em> = 0.005).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>In this randomized trial, internet-delivered CBT produced greater improvements than information brochures in caregiver burden (primary outcome) and in anxiety, depression, and self-efficacy over 8 weeks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100891"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145624101","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-15DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100888
Julian Herpertz , Bridget Dwyer , Ellen Wagner , Jane Mikkelson , Nils Opel , John Torous
Introduction
As the number of health apps continues to rise, concerns about their quality, privacy standards, and adherence to evidence-based healthcare remain. While multiple frameworks exist to assess app quality, a standardized, cross-domain approach is lacking. The M-Health Index and Navigation Database (MIND) comprises a structured framework for app evaluation and a publicly accessible database that applies this framework to rate individual apps. This allows for longitudinal tracking of quality metrics and comparisons across different health app categories.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review to identify studies that utilized either the MIND database or its framework to evaluate health apps. Studies were included if they used MIND in their methodology to evaluate health apps. Data were synthesized descriptively, and two-proportion z-tests were applied for comparisons.
Results
We identified 22 studies, including 16 evaluating commercially available health apps. The most frequently assessed metrics were privacy policies, operating system compatibility, cost, and evidence backing. Only 15 % of mental health apps were supported by feasibility or efficacy studies, nearly one-fourth lacked a privacy policy, and 44 % explicitly disclosed sharing personal health information with third parties. Similar deficiencies were found across non-mental health domains, indicating that concerns regarding app quality and data privacy may not be unique to mental health.
Discussion
Our findings suggest that evidence and privacy concerns are prevalent across almost all health app categories, highlighting the need for stronger regulatory oversight and improved validation standards. MIND serves as a valuable tool for evaluating digital health apps, supporting both app selection and cross-domain quality comparisons.
{"title":"Five years of app evaluation: Insights from a framework in practice – a systematic review on the m-health index and navigation database","authors":"Julian Herpertz , Bridget Dwyer , Ellen Wagner , Jane Mikkelson , Nils Opel , John Torous","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100888","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100888","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>As the number of health apps continues to rise, concerns about their quality, privacy standards, and adherence to evidence-based healthcare remain. While multiple frameworks exist to assess app quality, a standardized, cross-domain approach is lacking. The M-Health Index and Navigation Database (MIND) comprises a structured framework for app evaluation and a publicly accessible database that applies this framework to rate individual apps. This allows for longitudinal tracking of quality metrics and comparisons across different health app categories.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We conducted a systematic review to identify studies that utilized either the MIND database or its framework to evaluate health apps. Studies were included if they used MIND in their methodology to evaluate health apps. Data were synthesized descriptively, and two-proportion z-tests were applied for comparisons.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>We identified 22 studies, including 16 evaluating commercially available health apps. The most frequently assessed metrics were privacy policies, operating system compatibility, cost, and evidence backing. Only 15 % of mental health apps were supported by feasibility or efficacy studies, nearly one-fourth lacked a privacy policy, and 44 % explicitly disclosed sharing personal health information with third parties. Similar deficiencies were found across non-mental health domains, indicating that concerns regarding app quality and data privacy may not be unique to mental health.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Our findings suggest that evidence and privacy concerns are prevalent across almost all health app categories, highlighting the need for stronger regulatory oversight and improved validation standards. MIND serves as a valuable tool for evaluating digital health apps, supporting both app selection and cross-domain quality comparisons.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100888"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145579060","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study aims to investigate the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers on how the Heart@Home application improves self-management following a two-week period of usage and how to improve the application for further utilization.
Methods
This qualitative study used a case study approach. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers and evaluated patients' quality of life before and after using the application. Purposeful sampling was employed, and thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data analysis.
Result
Nine patients, seven caregivers, and two healthcare providers were included in the analysis. The potential benefits for health behavior modification were noted through several mechanisms, including increasing self-awareness of patient's current health status, guide for managing symptoms related to health status changes, and providing emotional assessment, reassurance and a sense of being cared for. In addition, more function in application is needed to increase engagement with application usage. Although the pre-post pilot analysis shows no statistically significant changes in participants' quality of life, as measured by the EQ-5D questionnaire, promising trends were observed in the domains of self-management and daily activity.
Conclusion
The Heart@Home mobile application shows promise in promoting self-management and behavior modification among heart failure patients. Future development should focus on improving technical stability, incorporating personalized feedback, and enabling direct messaging with healthcare providers to enhance the application's effectiveness in managing heart failure.
{"title":"Perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers on how the Heart@Home mobile application improves self-management in heart failure care: A qualitative study","authors":"Alicha Chumintrachark , Kanokporn Pinyopornpanish , Chanchanok Aramrat , Chutamas Pairoj , Nida Buawangpong , Suphawita Pliannuom , Sarapee Seesopon , Mesaya Khangtanyakit , Nopakoon Nantsupawat , Wichuda Jiraporncharoen , Chaisiri Angkurawaranon , Arintaya Phrommintikul","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100890","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100890","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aims to investigate the perspectives of patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers on how the Heart@Home application improves self-management following a two-week period of usage and how to improve the application for further utilization.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This qualitative study used a case study approach. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers and evaluated patients' quality of life before and after using the application. Purposeful sampling was employed, and thematic analysis was performed for qualitative data analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Result</h3><div>Nine patients, seven caregivers, and two healthcare providers were included in the analysis. The potential benefits for health behavior modification were noted through several mechanisms, including increasing self-awareness of patient's current health status, guide for managing symptoms related to health status changes, and providing emotional assessment, reassurance and a sense of being cared for. In addition, more function in application is needed to increase engagement with application usage. Although the pre-post pilot analysis shows no statistically significant changes in participants' quality of life, as measured by the EQ-5D questionnaire, promising trends were observed in the domains of self-management and daily activity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The Heart@Home mobile application shows promise in promoting self-management and behavior modification among heart failure patients. Future development should focus on improving technical stability, incorporating personalized feedback, and enabling direct messaging with healthcare providers to enhance the application's effectiveness in managing heart failure.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100890"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145579059","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-14DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100889
Junkai Yang , Yao Chen , Yin Fan , Yunge Bai , Zhang Lin , Huajian Li , Shuangge Sui
Background
Large-scale crises require brief, scalable, on-line mental-health interventions. We examined the effectiveness of a single 90–120 min videoconference group based on the Simple-Swift Reconstruction Approach (SSRA).
Methods
In a parallel-group randomized trial, 277 Chinese adults were assigned to SSRA (n = 143) or a waiting-list control (n = 134). Baseline and 2-week outcomes were the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). The SSRA group also completed Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) ratings immediately before and after the session. Complete-case analyses used paired and independent t-tests with Cohen's d (two-tailed α = 0.05).
Results
One hundred twenty-one SSRA participants (19 % male; M = 34.9 years, SD = 11.3) attended the SSRA session and showed a large within-session SUD reduction (baseline M = 5.81, SD = 1.62; post M = 3.20, SD = 1.57; t(120) = 19.26, p < .001, d = 1.75). Two-week follow-up data were available for 71 SSRA and 19 control participants (retention = 32.5 %). Within the SSRA group, depressive symptoms (Δ = −2.14, d = 0.63), anxiety (Δ = −1.89, d = 0.66), and self-efficacy (Δ = +2.28, d = 0.41) improved descriptively. However, only the between-group difference for depression (PHQ-9) reached significance (t(24.7) = −2.60, p = .015, d = 0.76); between-group GAD-7 and GSES were nonsignificant. Age and sex did not moderate outcomes.
Conclusions
A one-off, on-line SSRA group produced a large within-session reduction in subjective distress and a significant between-group improvement in depressive symptoms over two weeks, supporting SSRA as a rapid, low-intensity option during public-health emergencies. Replication with larger samples and longer follow-up is recommended.
大规模危机需要简短、可扩展的在线心理健康干预。我们检查了基于简单-快速重建方法(SSRA)的单次90-120分钟视频会议组的有效性。方法在一项平行组随机试验中,277名中国成年人被分配到SSRA组(n = 143)或等待名单对照组(n = 134)。基线和2周的结果是患者健康问卷-9 (PHQ-9)、广泛性焦虑障碍-7 (GAD-7)和一般自我效能量表(GSES)。SSRA组还在治疗前后立即完成了主观障碍单元(SUD)评分。全病例分析采用Cohen’s d的配对和独立t检验(双尾α = 0.05)。结果121名SSRA参与者(19%为男性,M = 34.9岁,SD = 11.3)参加了SSRA会议,会议期间SUD大幅减少(基线M = 5.81, SD = 1.62;后M = 3.20, SD = 1.57; t(120) = 19.26, p < 0.001, d = 1.75)。71名SSRA参与者和19名对照参与者可获得两周随访数据(保留率为32.5%)。在SSRA组中,抑郁症状(Δ = - 2.14, d = 0.63)、焦虑(Δ = - 1.89, d = 0.66)和自我效能感(Δ = +2.28, d = 0.41)均有显著改善。但只有抑郁(PHQ-9)组间差异有显著性意义(t(24.7) =−2.60,p = 0.015, d = 0.76);GAD-7和GSES组间差异无统计学意义。年龄和性别对结果没有影响。结论:一次性在线SSRA组在两周内显著减少了主观痛苦,并在组间显著改善了抑郁症状,支持SSRA作为突发公共卫生事件中快速、低强度的选择。建议使用更大的样本和更长的随访时间进行复制。
{"title":"Rapid relief online: A randomized trial of a single-session simple-swift reconstruction approach group during the COVID-19 surge","authors":"Junkai Yang , Yao Chen , Yin Fan , Yunge Bai , Zhang Lin , Huajian Li , Shuangge Sui","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100889","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100889","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Large-scale crises require brief, scalable, on-line mental-health interventions. We examined the effectiveness of a single 90–120 min videoconference group based on the Simple-Swift Reconstruction Approach (SSRA).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In a parallel-group randomized trial, 277 Chinese adults were assigned to SSRA (<em>n</em> = 143) or a waiting-list control (<em>n</em> = 134). Baseline and 2-week outcomes were the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). The SSRA group also completed Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) ratings immediately before and after the session. Complete-case analyses used paired and independent <em>t</em>-tests with Cohen's <em>d</em> (two-tailed α = 0.05).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>One hundred twenty-one SSRA participants (19 % male; <em>M</em> = 34.9 years, <em>SD</em> = 11.3) attended the SSRA session and showed a large within-session SUD reduction (baseline <em>M</em> = 5.81, <em>SD</em> = 1.62; post <em>M</em> = 3.20, <em>SD</em> = 1.57; <em>t</em>(120) = 19.26, <em>p</em> < .001, <em>d</em> = 1.75). Two-week follow-up data were available for 71 SSRA and 19 control participants (retention = 32.5 %). Within the SSRA group, depressive symptoms (Δ = −2.14, <em>d</em> = 0.63), anxiety (Δ = −1.89, <em>d</em> = 0.66), and self-efficacy (Δ = +2.28, <em>d</em> = 0.41) improved descriptively. However, only the between-group difference for depression (PHQ-9) reached significance (<em>t</em>(24.7) = −2.60, <em>p</em> = .015, <em>d</em> = 0.76); between-group GAD-7 and GSES were nonsignificant. Age and sex did not moderate outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>A one-off, on-line SSRA group produced a large within-session reduction in subjective distress and a significant between-group improvement in depressive symptoms over two weeks, supporting SSRA as a rapid, low-intensity option during public-health emergencies. Replication with larger samples and longer follow-up is recommended.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100889"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145578924","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-11-06DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100886
Maria Bragesjö , Filip K. Arnberg , Erik Andersson
This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of a therapist-guided, internet-delivered early intervention for trauma. Exposure to traumatic events is common and can lead to substantial psychological distress, functional impairment, and societal costs. Early psychological interventions have the potential to mitigate these effects. We developed Condensed Internet-delivered Prolonged Exposure (CIPE), a digital intervention delivered within two months of trauma exposure. In a randomized controlled trial (N = 102), CIPE was more effective than a waiting-list control in reducing post-traumatic stress symptoms at post-intervention (3 weeks) and at a prespecified 7-week follow-up while the waiting-list control remained intact (prior to crossover). In this study, we evaluated CIPE from a societal cost perspective, aggregating direct medical costs (healthcare contacts, medication) and indirect costs (sick leave, reduced productivity, domestic loss) with equal weight in total cost calculations using a self-report questionnaire. Cost-effectiveness was assessed using responder status (≥10-point symptom reduction) and subthreshold symptom status on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Cost-utility was assessed using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) from the EQ-5D. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated using bootstrapped regression analyses and visualized in cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves. CIPE showed a 95 % probability of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of €939–1181 per additional responder or subthreshold case. The corresponding cost per QALY gained was €2929–3636. Effects were sustained at 12-month follow-up. These findings suggest that therapist-guided digital exposure therapy delivered soon after trauma can reduce symptoms at a relatively low cost to society. Future research should examine CIPE's long-term economic impact and potential for broader implementation.
{"title":"Cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of a therapist-guided online intervention provided soon after trauma: Results from a randomized controlled trial","authors":"Maria Bragesjö , Filip K. Arnberg , Erik Andersson","doi":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100886","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.invent.2025.100886","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of a therapist-guided, internet-delivered early intervention for trauma. Exposure to traumatic events is common and can lead to substantial psychological distress, functional impairment, and societal costs. Early psychological interventions have the potential to mitigate these effects. We developed Condensed Internet-delivered Prolonged Exposure (CIPE), a digital intervention delivered within two months of trauma exposure. In a randomized controlled trial (<em>N</em> = 102), CIPE was more effective than a waiting-list control in reducing post-traumatic stress symptoms at post-intervention (3 weeks) and at a prespecified 7-week follow-up while the waiting-list control remained intact (prior to crossover). In this study, we evaluated CIPE from a societal cost perspective, aggregating direct medical costs (healthcare contacts, medication) and indirect costs (sick leave, reduced productivity, domestic loss) with equal weight in total cost calculations using a self-report questionnaire. Cost-effectiveness was assessed using responder status (≥10-point symptom reduction) and subthreshold symptom status on the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Cost-utility was assessed using quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) from the EQ-5D. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated using bootstrapped regression analyses and visualized in cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves. CIPE showed a 95 % probability of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of €939–1181 per additional responder or subthreshold case. The corresponding cost per QALY gained was €2929–3636. Effects were sustained at 12-month follow-up. These findings suggest that therapist-guided digital exposure therapy delivered soon after trauma can reduce symptoms at a relatively low cost to society. Future research should examine CIPE's long-term economic impact and potential for broader implementation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":48615,"journal":{"name":"Internet Interventions-The Application of Information Technology in Mental and Behavioural Health","volume":"42 ","pages":"Article 100886"},"PeriodicalIF":4.1,"publicationDate":"2025-11-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145465212","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}