Instant Message-delivered Early Psychological Intervention in Stroke Family Caregivers

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · Jun 7, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help family members who care for stroke patients. Many caregivers experience stress, anxiety, and depression, which can affect their health. The goal of the study is to provide early psychological support through a program delivered via instant messaging on mobile phones. This program, called internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy (iCBT), aims to help caregivers change how they think about their situation and learn skills to cope better with the challenges they face.

To participate in this trial, you must be a primary family caregiver of a stroke patient who has moderate disability and has been in the hospital for at least 6 days but no more than 21 days. You should be at least 18 years old, able to communicate in Chinese (Cantonese or Putonghua), and comfortable using instant messaging on your phone. If you join, you can expect to receive support that can help reduce stress and improve your well-being as you care for your loved one. It's important to note that this trial is not for professional caregivers or those currently receiving other psychological treatments.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Primary family caregiver of first-ever stroke patient who has \<15 modified Barthel Index(mBI) scores (moderate disability);
• • Caregiver of a stroke patient who has a hospital inpatient stay of ≥6 days and ≤21days;
• • Aged ≥18;
• • Able to read and communicate in Chinese (Cantonese or Putonghua);
• • Able to use mobile phone instant messaging function; and
• • PHQ-9 (depressive symptom) score ranging from 5 to 19 (note. mild: 5-9, moderate: 10-14, moderately severe: 15-19 and severe: 20-27)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Caregiver of stroke patient who is admitted to intensive care unit;
• • Professional medical personnel and/or professional carer;
• • Diagnosis of psychiatric disease before stroke event or currently taking psychotropic drug including antidepressants;
• • PHQ-9≥20 (we shall provide information on mental health services; if needed, we shall make the appropriate referrals); and
• • Currently participating in any type of psychological intervention.