Codeveloping a Novel Intervention for People With Post-COVID Condition: The Balance-ACT Study

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Physiology
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Persistent symptoms like fatigue and brain fog affect individuals post-COVID-19, termed post-COVID syndrome (PCS).
• A holistic psycho-physiological intervention, Balance-ACT, was developed to manage long-term PCS symptoms.
• The intervention integrates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with homeostasis principles for targeted support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and assess the acceptability of the Balance-ACT intervention for individuals with post-COVID syndrome.
• To integrate patient and public involvement (PPI) throughout the intervention development process.
• To create a relevant, ethical, and patient-centered intervention for managing PCS.

Main Methods:

• An iterative development process informed by theory, qualitative studies, a fatigue intervention review, and PPI group input.
• Qualitative studies explored implementation contexts and intervention appeal among PCS patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs).
• Patient and public involvement ensured relevance, ethical alignment, and patient needs were met in intervention materials and study management.

Main Results:

• The Balance-ACT intervention was found to be attractive to individuals living with PCS.
• Both PCS patients (n=19) and HCPs (n=12) provided overall endorsement for the intervention.
• Iterative feedback refined materials like therapist manuals, participant handbooks, and mindfulness resources, with trained therapists and a fidelity measure developed.

Conclusions:

• The Balance-ACT intervention was developed through an iterative, patient-centered approach.
• The intervention demonstrated acceptability among both patients experiencing post-COVID condition and healthcare professionals.
• Future research will focus on evaluating the efficacy of the Balance-ACT intervention.