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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
QUESTIONS: 414-328-8910
Date: Nov 27, 2007
Internet-Based Treatment has Potential
The report is based on a pilot study conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs. CBT helps patients process traumatic memories therapeutically, understand and manage symptoms, and correct maladaptive thoughts and behavior. These results point to a possible way to deliver PTSD treatment to a large population via online self-management. A summary of the study is available on the American Journal of Psychiatry website.
From the November 2007 issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry
A Randomized, Controlled Proof-of-Concept Trial of an Internet-Based, Therapist-Assisted Self-Management Treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Brett T. Litz, Ph.D., Charles C. Engel, M.D., M.P.H., Richard A. Bryant, Ph.D., and Anthony Papa, Ph.D.
OBJECTIVE: The authors report an 8-week randomized, controlled proof-of-concept trial of a new therapist-assisted, Internet-based, self-management cognitive behavior therapy versus Internet-based supportive counseling for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
METHOD: Service members with PTSD from the attack on the Pentagon on September 11th or the Iraq War were randomly assigned to self-management cognitive behavior therapy (N=24) or supportive counseling (N=21).
RESULTS: The dropout rate was similar to regular cognitive behavior therapy (30%) and unrelated to treatment arm. In the intent-to-treat group, self-management cognitive behavior therapy led to sharper declines in daily log-on ratings of PTSD symptoms and global depression. In the completer group, self-management cognitive behavior therapy led to greater reductions in PTSD, depression, and anxiety scores at 6 months. One-third of those who completed self-management cognitive behavior therapy achieved high-end state functioning at 6 months.
CONCLUSIONS: Self-management cognitive behavior therapy may be a way of delivering effective treatment to large numbers with unmet needs and barriers to care.
© 2007 American Psychiatric Association
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Wisconsin Paralyzed Veterans of America
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