Early psychological support for family caregivers of stroke patients via instant messaging
Instant Message-delivered Early Psychological Intervention in Stroke Family Caregivers: a Mixed-method Study
This study is testing if instant messaging can provide early psychological support to family caregivers of stroke patients to help reduce their stress and improve their well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 152 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 5 sites (Hong Kong and 4 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT05907005 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to provide early psychological intervention to family caregivers of stroke patients using internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy (iCBT) through instant messaging. It addresses the psychological distress, including depression and anxiety, that caregivers often experience due to the burden of caring for stroke survivors. By utilizing ecological momentary intervention, the study seeks to alleviate caregiver stress and improve their overall well-being. Eligible participants include primary family caregivers of first-ever stroke patients with moderate disability, who can communicate in Chinese and use mobile messaging.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are primary family caregivers of first-ever stroke patients with moderate disability who can communicate in Chinese and use mobile messaging.
Not a fit: Patients who are professional caregivers, have pre-existing psychiatric conditions, or are currently undergoing other psychological interventions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce psychological distress among caregivers, enhancing their quality of life and ability to provide care.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar internet-delivered psychological interventions for caregivers, indicating potential for positive outcomes in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion 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.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong and 4 other locations
- Kwong Wah Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Princess Margaret Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
- Queen Mary Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
- United Christian Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jung Jae LEE
- Email: leejay@hku.hk
- Phone: +852 3917 6971
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.