Evidence-based Internet Cognitive-behavioral Therapy for Social Anxiety
This study is testing an online therapy program, adapted for Canada, to help people with social anxiety. Social anxiety can make everyday tasks difficult and affects many people. The program, called iCBT Shyness Program, uses a type of talk therapy called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Researchers want to see if this online version works well, how many people finish it, and what makes it easy or difficult for people to use. This kind of online support is especially important when getting face-to-face help can be hard, like during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aims to make mental health support more accessible and effective for those who need it.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Social anxiety is a common condition where people feel very anxious and worried in social situations. This can make school, work, and daily life much harder. Getting help for social anxiety isn't always easy, as there can be long waiting lists or limited services available.
This study is looking at an online therapy program from Australia, which has been changed and translated for people in Canada, specifically in Quebec and Ontario. It's an internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (iCBT) program, which means it helps people understand and change their thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to their anxiety. The researchers want to see if this online program works well for reducing social anxiety symptoms, and how easy it is for people to use and complete in a real-world setting.
The main goals are to make sure the program fits the Canadian culture, to see if it actually helps people feel better, and to discover what helps or hinders people from using the program successfully. By offering this online option, the hope is to make effective therapy more readily available to many more people who struggle with social anxiety.
Key takeaways
- This study tests an online therapy for social anxiety.
- It aims to make mental health support more accessible in Canada.
- The program uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
- It compares different ways people can access and use the online program.
- Participation involves using an online program and completing questionnaires.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old and be able to speak and write in either French or English. You'll also need access to the internet and a computer or phone to use the online program. To check if you have social anxiety, you'll complete a special questionnaire, and your score will need to be above a certain level.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. These include if you have really severe symptoms of depression, have recently had thoughts about harming yourself, or have conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Also, if you use certain medications called benzodiazepines, or have problems with alcohol or drug use, you might not be able to take part.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you speak and write in English or French?
- Do you have reliable internet access and a digital device?
- Do you have social anxiety, as confirmed by a questionnaire?
- Do you *not* have severe depression or thoughts of harming yourself?
- Are you *not* currently using specific medications or struggling with substance use?
What does participation involve?
This study involves using an online therapy program for social anxiety. You will interact with the program through the internet. The study is split into different groups, some people might sign up for the program themselves, others might be recommended to it, and some might have some guidance. You will complete questionnaires to check your social anxiety symptoms at different times during the study. Some participants and healthcare providers will also be asked to share their experiences in interviews to help researchers understand what worked well and what could be improved. The total duration of participation isn't specified but typically involves completing the online modules over several weeks and follow-up assessments.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- CISSS de la Montérégie-CentreVerified postcodeGreenfield Park, Canada· Recruiting
- CIUSSS de l'Estrie - CHUSVerified postcodeSherbrooke, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is social anxiety?
Social anxiety is a strong fear of social and performance situations, leading to avoidance or enduring these situations with intense distress.
What is iCBT?
iCBT stands for internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It's a type of talk therapy delivered online that helps you change negative thinking patterns and behaviors.
Do I need to be in Canada to participate?
Yes, this study is specifically for people in two Canadian provinces: Quebec and Ontario.
Will I have a therapist guiding me?
The study has different groups, some might be self-referred and undirected, some recommended and undirected, and some recommended and directed. So, some participants might have guidance.
What if I feel worse during the study?
It's important to discuss any concerns with the study team. You always have the right to withdraw from the study at any point.
How to find out more
Helen-Maria Vasiliadis, PhD
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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