Internet-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Psychological Distress Experienced by People With Hearing...

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Psychiatry
• Digital Health

Background:

• Hearing loss and audiological conditions are frequently associated with psychological distress and psychiatric symptoms.
• Existing psychological interventions for individuals with hearing impairments are limited.
• There is a need for accessible mental health support tailored to this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the protocol for a randomized controlled trial (RCT).
• To evaluate the efficacy of an internet-delivered psychological treatment for individuals experiencing hearing problems and psychological distress.
• To assess the impact of the intervention on hearing-related distress, anxiety, depression, acceptance, and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial design will be employed.
• Participants with significant psychological distress will be randomized to either an 8-week internet-delivered acceptance-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ACT) or a wait-list control group.
• Outcomes measured include hearing-related distress, anxiety, depression, acceptance of hearing difficulties, and quality of life.

Main Results:

• This section is not applicable as the abstract describes a study protocol, not results.
• The study aims to provide data on the effectiveness of internet-delivered ACT for this population.
• Anticipated results may inform future treatment guidelines.

Conclusions:

• The findings from this trial are expected to enhance understanding of effective internet-based psychological treatments for individuals with co-occurring hearing issues and psychological distress.
• This research may pave the way for more accessible and targeted mental health interventions in audiology.
• The study contributes to the growing field of digital mental health solutions.