A therapist-supported internet-based intervention for bereaved siblings: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Mental Health
• Digital Therapeutics

Background:

• Sibling loss significantly impacts adolescent and adult mental and physical health.
• Bereaved siblings are a high-risk group lacking evidence-based interventions.
• Internet-based interventions offer a potential avenue for supporting this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of an internet-based writing intervention for bereaved siblings.
• To assess treatment effects on grief, depression, PTSD, and survivor guilt.

Main Methods:

• A two-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT) compared the intervention to a waiting list control.
• The 6-week intervention utilized cognitive behavioral therapy-based writing assignments.
• Eighty-six bereaved siblings (aged 16-65) were randomized, with primary outcomes including prolonged grief disorder and depression symptoms.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant improvements in depression and prolonged grief disorder symptoms compared to the control group.
• All primary and secondary outcomes improved significantly from baseline to 12-month follow-up in the intervention group.
• A clinically significant change in depression was observed in 34% of the intervention group versus 10% in the control group.

Conclusions:

• An internet-based writing intervention is effective for bereaved siblings in both the short and long term.
• This brief online therapy provides significant benefits for mental health outcomes.
• Further research, including dismantling studies, is recommended to optimize interventions for bereaved siblings.