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The effects of a psychological intervention directed at optimizing immune function: study protocol for a randomized
Lemmy Schakel1,2, Dieuwke S Veldhuijzen3,4, Henriët van Middendorp3,4
1Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Institute of Psychology, Health, Medical and Neuropsychology Unit, Leiden University, PO Box 9555, 2300 RB, Leiden, The Netherlands. L.Schakel@fsw.leidenuniv.nl.
Trials
|May 28, 2017
Summary
This study tested internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with serious gaming to improve health. The intervention showed potential in enhancing self-reported vitality and modulating physiological stress responses after an immune challenge.
Area of Science:
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Digital Health Interventions
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Psychological interventions like CBT and serious games show promise for health.
- Few studies combine internet-based CBT with serious gaming for health outcomes.
- Incorporating immune and psychophysiological challenges is crucial for understanding intervention effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a combined internet-based CBT and serious gaming intervention.
- To assess self-reported and physiological health outcomes following immune and psychophysiological challenges.
- To explore the mechanisms linking psychological factors to health.
Main Methods:
- Randomized controlled trial with 60 healthy men.
- 6-week guided internet-based CBT with serious gaming vs. control.
- Immunological challenge (BCG vaccination) followed by psychophysiological stress tasks.
- Primary outcome: self-reported vitality; Secondary: inflammatory markers, heart rate, skin conductance.
Main Results:
- The intervention group reported higher vitality post-intervention.
- Significant differences observed in stress response markers after the immune challenge.
- Delayed effects on physiological measures were noted at 4-week follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Combining e-health CBT with serious gaming is a viable approach to improve health outcomes.
- The intervention effectively modulates psychophysiological and immunological responses to challenges.
- This approach offers insights into mind-body connections and potential for optimized healthcare strategies.
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