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Brief cognitive-behavioral internet therapy for irritable bowel syndrome
Melissa G Hunt1, Samantha Moshier, Marina Milonova
1Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6241, USA. mhunt@psych.upenn.edu
An internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) significantly reduced symptoms and improved quality of life. These improvements were sustained at 3-month follow-up, offering accessible IBS treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
- Digital Health
Background:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- Limited therapist availability and treatment access hinder widespread CBT for IBS.
- Internet-based interventions offer a potential solution to improve accessibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a 5-week internet-based CBT intervention for IBS.
- To assess the impact of limited therapist e-mail feedback on treatment outcomes.
- To examine the maintenance of treatment gains at 3-month follow-up.
Main Methods:
- A small, randomized controlled trial involving 54 IBS patients recruited online.
- Participants were randomized to immediate internet-based CBT or a wait-list control.
- Assessments included IBS symptom severity and quality of life measures.
Main Results:
- Treatment completers showed statistically and clinically significant reductions in IBS symptoms.
- Quality of life significantly improved among treatment completers.
- Treatment gains were substantially maintained at the 3-month follow-up assessment.
Conclusions:
- A 5-week internet-based CBT intervention with limited therapist feedback is effective for IBS.
- The intervention leads to sustained improvements in symptoms and quality of life.
- Reducing catastrophizing may be a key mechanism for treatment efficacy in IBS.
Related Concept Videos
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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IBS is a chronic condition that can persist over a long period or recur frequently.
The pathogenesis of IBS involves a complex interplay of the following factors:
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Irritable Bowel Syndrome III: Medical and Nursing Management
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