Internet-delivered CBT for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Internet-delivered Exposure and Mindfulness Based Therapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome - A Randomized Controlled Trial

The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of a 10 week Internet-delivered CBT treatment for patients diagnosed with IBS. The patients' work with the treatment and is supported through online contact with a therapist. Approximately 86 patients will be included in the study and randomized to either condition. All included patients are assessed one week before the treatment starts. After 10 weeks (post treatment). Follow-up assessments are conducted at 3 and 12 months follow-up after treatment. Patients in treatment condition are hypothesized to experience significant reduction IBS symptoms, societal costs and quality of life compared to patients on waiting list.

"Trimbos and Institute of Medical Technology Assessment Cost Questionnaire for Psychiatry". In this questionnaire, patients register their monthly health care consumption (e.g. GP visits) as well as time spent in informal health enhancing activities (e.g. self-help groups and informal care from friends). In addition, work loss and work cutback both at work and in the domestic realm is measured.

"Trimbos and Institute of Medical Technology Assessment Cost Questionnaire for Psychiatry". In this questionnaire, patients register their monthly health care consumption (e.g. GP visits) as well as time spent in informal health enhancing activities (e.g. self-help groups and informal care from friends). In addition, work loss and work cutback both at work and in the domestic realm is measured.

"Trimbos and Institute of Medical Technology Assessment Cost Questionnaire for Psychiatry". In this questionnaire, patients register their monthly health care consumption (e.g. GP visits) as well as time spent in informal health enhancing activities (e.g. self-help groups and informal care from friends). In addition, work loss and work cutback both at work and in the domestic realm is measured.

"Trimbos and Institute of Medical Technology Assessment Cost Questionnaire for Psychiatry". In this questionnaire, patients register their monthly health care consumption (e.g. GP visits) as well as time spent in informal health enhancing activities (e.g. self-help groups and informal care from friends). In addition, work loss and work cutback both at work and in the domestic realm is measured.

Inclusion Criteria: Diagnosis of IBS given by physician At screening fulfilling Rome III-criteria for IBS Exclusion Criteria: Severe depression Suicidal ideation Presence of unexplained IBS alarm symptoms

Ljotsson B, Falk L, Vesterlund AW, Hedman E, Lindfors P, Ruck C, Hursti T, Andreewitch S, Jansson L, Lindefors N, Andersson G. Internet-delivered exposure and mindfulness based therapy for irritable bowel syndrome--a randomized controlled trial. Behav Res Ther. 2010 Jun;48(6):531-9. doi: 10.1016/j.brat.2010.03.003. Epub 2010 Mar 16.