Feasibility trial of a telehealth support group intervention to reduce anxiety in multiple sclerosis. (October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kever, Anne; Aguerre, Ines M; Vargas, Wendy; Straus Farber, Rebecca; Levine, Libby; Riley, Claire S; Vasquez, Minnelly; Leavitt, Victoria M
• Is Part Of: Clinical rehabilitation. Volume 36:Number 10(2022)
• Page Start: 1305
• Page End: 1313
• Publication Date: 2022-10
• Subjects: Anxiety -- telehealth -- clinical trial -- support group intervention -- multiple sclerosis; Medical rehabilitation -- Periodicals; 617.03
• DOI: 10.1177/02692155221107077
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0269-2155

Abstract

Objective: Anxiety is common among persons with MS (PwMS), but widely accepted treatments are lacking. Group-based interventions delivered via telehealth are an accessible treatment option requiring clinical trial evidence to support feasibility and initial efficacy. We conducted a pilot feasibility trial of an online support group intervention to reduce anxiety in PwMS. Methods: A non-randomized, parallel arm clinical trial was conducted. A total of 31 PwMS were enrolled: 20 completed a 12-week telehealth-delivered support group intervention and 11 were assigned to a survey-only control group. Primary feasibility outcomes were adherence and completion rates. Primary efficacy outcome was anxiety, secondary outcomes were depression, loneliness, distress, self-efficacy, stress, and quality of life. Results: Twenty-six participants completed the study. Intervention group adherence (75%) and completion (85%) rates were acceptable. Results indicated a medium size between-group effect, suggesting a greater reduction in anxiety in the intervention group compared to the control group [ U = 39.50, p = 0.045, r = 0.39]. No group differences in other outcomes were observed. Conclusion: A telehealth-delivered support group intervention appears feasible for further study and shows initial efficacy for the reduction of anxiety in PwMS.