INTERconNEcT-Eds: a Guided Self-help Mobile App to Improve Outcome in Eating Disorders

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PALERMO · Aug 9, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The INTERconNEcT-Eds trial is studying a new mobile app designed to help people with eating disorders, which are serious mental health conditions affecting how individuals eat and feel about food. The trial is testing whether a guided self-help program delivered through this app can effectively reduce symptoms of eating disorders and improve emotional well-being. The program includes written materials, short videos, and online group sessions led by trained mentors and mental health professionals. Researchers will conduct two separate studies to see how well this app works for individuals both in the community and those receiving outpatient treatment.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be over 18 years old and either have a diagnosed eating disorder (like anorexia or bulimia) or show significant symptoms of an eating disorder. They should also have access to the internet and be Italian-speaking. Participants can expect to engage with the app for eight weeks, which will include interactive materials and support from peers and professionals. It’s important to note that individuals with certain severe mental health conditions, pregnancy, or other specific medical issues will not be eligible to join the study. This trial aims to provide new tools for managing eating disorders and improving quality of life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • The inclusion criteria for study 1 are: (1) \>18 years, (2) with a clinician-formulated diagnosis of eating disorder (i.e., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) or Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder based on the criteria of the DSM-5-TR, (3) having started TAU within 12 months; (4) with access to Internet connection through a mobile device, (5) Italian speaking.
• • The inclusion criteria for study 2 are: (1) \>18 years, (2) a score \> 2.77 on the Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire, (3) attending no treatment for eating disorder symptoms but reporting a regular monitoring by their own primary care physician (GP), 4) with access to Internet connection through a mobile device, (4) Italian speaking.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • For both study 1and 2: acute psychosis, clinical depression or suicidal ideation, pregnancy, use of medication that might influence eating behavior, neurological and visual impairment and Intellectual disability.