Managing emotional distress in glaucoma patients

Treating Psychosocial Distress in Glaucoma

Not applicable Interventional Duke University · NCT06053307

This study is trying out a new mobile app treatment to help people with glaucoma who are feeling emotionally stressed to see if it can make a difference for them.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorDuke University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Durham, North Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06053307 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop and refine a behavioral intervention for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma who experience psychosocial distress. The approach involves three phases: first, creating a baseline intervention based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) delivered through a mobile app. Next, qualitative interviews with patients and health professionals will help refine this intervention. Finally, a pilot study will assess the acceptability and feasibility of the refined intervention among glaucoma patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with mild to severe chronic glaucoma and experiencing at least mild psychosocial distress.

Not a fit: Patients with borderline glaucoma, recent glaucoma surgery, major medical conditions, or significant psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the emotional well-being of glaucoma patients dealing with distress.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar interventions targeting psychosocial distress in chronic conditions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria

* diagnosed with mild, moderate, or severe chronic glaucoma (e.g., POAG),
* had a visual field within the past year at the main Duke Eye Center,
* been prescribed pressure lowering eye drop medication,
* at least mild distress (based on PHQ-4),
* 18 years old,
* able to understand, speak, and read English, and
* be able to provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria

* diagnosed with borderline glaucoma or as a glaucoma suspect,
* had a glaucoma surgery in past month (e.g., trabeculectomy, glaucoma drainage device/tube),
* visual acuity of worse than 20/70 in the better seeing eye,
* diagnosed with a major medical conditions (e.g., cancer, or another visual disorder, like macular degeneration),
* diagnosed with a psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder), and
* reported or suspected cognitive impairment indicated by provider or chart review.

Where this trial is running

Durham, North Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Glaucoma, Primary Open AngleDistress, EmotionalAnxietyDepression
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.