Online therapy for public safety personnel with mental health issues
Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (ICBT) for Public Safety Personnel (PSP): Examination of Engagement, Outcomes, Strengths and Challenges
This study is testing an online therapy program to see if it can help Canadian public safety workers with depression, anxiety, or PTSD feel better and access mental health support more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 250 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Regina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Regina, Saskatchewan) |
| Trial ID | NCT04127032 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates a tailored Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) program specifically designed for Canadian public safety personnel (PSP) experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress. The approach focuses on providing accessible mental health support through an online platform, addressing barriers such as geographic limitations and stigma associated with seeking help. Key outcomes include participant engagement, symptom improvement, and the feasibility of implementing ICBT within this unique population. The study aims to enhance mental health care accessibility for PSP who often face challenges in receiving traditional in-person therapy.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Canadian public safety personnel aged 18 and older who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress.
Not a fit: Patients at high risk of suicide or those currently receiving regular psychological treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve mental health outcomes for public safety personnel by providing accessible and effective treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with Internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for various populations, indicating potential for effectiveness in this novel application for public safety personnel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age or older * residing in a Canadian province or territory in which PSPNET is able to offer services * endorsing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress * able to access a computer and internet service * willing to provide a physician as emergency contact unless the participant does not have a physician and the clinician conducting the telephone screening assesses the need for an emergency contact to be low. Exclusion Criteria: * high suicide risk * suicide attempt or hospitalization in the last year * primary problems with psychosis, alcohol or drug problems, mania * currently receiving regular psychological treatment for anxiety or depression * not present in Canada during treatment * concerns about ICBT
Where this trial is running
Regina, Saskatchewan
- Department of Psychology and Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment — Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Heather D Hadjistavropoulos, PhD — University of Regina
- Study coordinator: Heather D Hadjistavropoulos, PhD
- Email: heather.hadjistavropoulos@uregina.ca
- Phone: 306-585-5133
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.