Internet-based Behavioral Intervention Following ACS

Launched by KAROLINSKA INSTITUTET · Mar 1, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying an online program designed to help people who have had a recent heart issue, known as Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS), manage their anxiety about their heart health. The program uses a type of therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors. Researchers want to see if this online therapy can help reduce anxiety, improve the quality of life, and encourage more physical activity among participants. To compare its effectiveness, there is also a control group that will receive a different online program focused on heart-healthy lifestyle changes.

To participate in this study, individuals must be at least 18 years old and have experienced ACS at least six months prior. They should also be dealing with significant cardiac anxiety that affects their daily life. However, those with certain serious heart conditions, severe mental health issues, or who are currently undergoing other psychological treatments will not be eligible. If you decide to take part, you can expect to engage in online sessions that are tailored to help manage your anxiety and improve your overall well-being. The study is currently looking for participants, so it's a great opportunity for anyone meeting the criteria who is interested in improving their heart health and mental well-being.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • ACS ≥ 6 months before assessment (type 1 MI STEMI/NSTEMI or unstable angina \[UA\])
• • Age 18 and older
• • Clinically significant cardiac anxiety that leads to distress and/or interferes with daily life (Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire; CAQ: ≥18
• • Able to read and write in Swedish
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Heart failure New York heart Association class IV or ejection fraction ≤ 30%
• • Significant valvular disease
• • Planned coronary artery bypass surgery or percutaneous interventions
• • Any medical restriction to physical exercise
• • Severe medical illness or an acute health threatening disease (e.g., cancer)
• • Grade 3 hypertension (i.e., blood pressure ≥ 180 systolic and/or 110 diastolic)
• • Severe mental illness requiring urgent psychiatric hospitalization or intervention, or risk of suicide
• • Alcohol or substance use disorder that would impede ability to complete study protocol
• • Ongoing psychological treatment