Adapting and Piloting Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Severe Premenstrual Mood Symptoms

Launched by WOMEN'S COLLEGE HOSPITAL · Jun 11, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new therapy called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help individuals who experience severe mood symptoms before their period, known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) or Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME). These conditions can significantly affect a person's daily life, and the goal of this study is to see if a virtual group version of ACT, called ACT-Premenstrual (ACT-PM), is feasible and acceptable for those affected. If successful, this therapy could provide a much-needed option for improving the quality of life for those struggling with these symptoms.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be diagnosed with PMDD or have a mood disorder that worsens premenstrually, have regular menstrual cycles, and live in Ontario. They will need access to the internet and a device with video capabilities to join the virtual group sessions. Participants can expect to engage in group therapy, where they will learn techniques to manage their symptoms. It's important to note that this study is not yet recruiting, and only individuals who can communicate in English will be eligible, as the sessions are currently only offered in that language.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • (1) diagnosed by the psychiatrist who conducted the initial assessment with either Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), or a bipolar or depressive disorder where there is Premenstrual Exacerbation (PME), after 2-3 months of mood tracking using a validated evidenced based scale for premenstrual mood symptoms (McMaster Premenstrual And Mood Symptom Scale (MAC-PMSS) or similar;
• • (2) have internet access and a video-enabled device;
• • (3) residing in Ontario for the duration of the study, necessary because MDs and therapists who could deliver the intervention are all licensed provincially;
• • (4) regular menstrual cycles (\~21-35 days); and
• • (5) have a regularly treating physician (e.g. psychiatrist or primary care provider).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • (1) active alcohol or substance use disorder in the previous 12 months;
• • (2) active suicidal ideation, mania, psychosis, or violence;
• • (3) current pregnancy or planning a pregnancy during the duration of the study
• • (4) inability to complete group and/or study measures in English, necessary as the pilot group is only available in English at this time.