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eSupport: Feasibility trial of telehealth support group participation to reduce loneliness in multiple sclerosis
Victoria M Leavitt1, Claire S Riley2, Philip L De Jager3
1Translational Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory, Cognitive Neuroscience Division, Multiple Sclerosis Center, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
Background:
Loneliness is a risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality. Persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) are at increased risk for loneliness. Support groups facilitate meaningful social connections.
Objective:
To conduct a feasibility trial of eSupport: online support groups.
Methods:
Participants engaged in 1 hour/week eSupport or eJournal (active control). Primary outcome was feasibility (completion and adherence). We evaluated loneliness and depressive symptoms for preliminary efficacy.
Results:
Feasibility outcomes were met: completion rate was 96.4%; 88.9% were adherent. Loneliness and depression showed trend-level decreases in both conditions.
Conclusion:
Feasibility of telehealth support group participation for pwMS was supported. eSupport is accessible, affordable, acceptable, and scalable. Results warrant a randomized controlled trial to support efficacy.
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