An Open Trial of the Effectiveness, Program Usage, and User Experience of Internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Mixed Anxiety and Depression for Healthcare Workers on Disability Leave.

Abstract

An open trial of an internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) program for healthcare workers was conducted. Healthcare workers on disability leave who used the iCBT program were assessed on: self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21; and, program usage. Healthcare workers' experience of using iCBT was evaluated in a separate survey. Of the 497 healthcare workers referred to the iCBT program, 51% logged in, 25% logged in more than once, and 12% logged in more than once and completed at least two assessments. For the latter group, self-reported depression and anxiety symptoms significantly decreased from the first assessment. This iCBT program was perceived to be of benefit to healthcare workers, with program usage and effectiveness that was similar to what has been previously reported for unguided iCBT.