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Treating anxiety and depression in older adults: randomised controlled trial comparing guided v. self-guided
Nickolai Titov1, Vincent J Fogliati1, Lauren G Staples1
1, PhD.
Background:
Symptoms of anxiety and depression are prevalent in older adults.
Aims:
To compare clinician-guided and self-guided versions of a transdiagnostic internet-delivered cognitive-behavioural therapy (iCBT) intervention for adults aged 60 years and above.
Method:
Adults (n=433) with symptoms of anxiety and depression were randomly allocated to: (1) clinician-guided treatment (n=153); (2) initial clinician interview followed by self-guided treatment (n=140); or (3) self-guided treatment without interview (n=140).
Results:
Large reductions (d ≥1.00) in symptoms of depression and anxiety were observed across groups, and sustained at follow-up. No differences were observed in clinical outcomes or satisfaction ratings. Age did not affect outcomes.
Conclusions:
Carefully developed iCBT interventions may significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in older adults when delivered in either clinician-guided or self-guided formats.
Declaration Of Interest:
N.T. and B.F.D. developed the Wellbeing Plus Course but derive no financial benefit from it.
Copyright And Usage:
© 2016 The Royal College of Psychiatrists. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Non-Commercial, No Derivatives (CC BY-NC-ND) licence.
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