Using expressive writing to help adults with spinal cord injuries cope with grief
The Impact of Expressive Emotional Writing on Facilitating Grief Resolution in Adults With Spinal Cord Injury
This study is testing whether a 10-week online writing program can help adults with spinal cord injuries cope with their grief and improve their emotional well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Birmingham, Alabama) |
| Trial ID | NCT06147258 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the therapeutic benefits of a 10-week online coach-guided expressive emotional writing program for adults with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Participants will engage in expressive writing to explore and express their feelings related to the grief of losing physical capacity and life goals. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design to assess improvements in psychosocial health, including grief intensity and social participation, using validated assessments. The program is designed for individuals who can access the internet and communicate effectively in English.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old with a diagnosis of spinal cord injury and limb weakness who can access the internet.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments or those currently undergoing psychotherapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the psychosocial health and grief resolution of adults living with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with expressive writing interventions, suggesting potential benefits for similar approaches.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: (1) diagnosis (with evidence) of SCI (traumatic or non-traumatic) with limb weakness; (2) aged \> 18 years; (3) access to the internet and a computer or to a smartphone that can perform videoconferencing, (4) sufficient English language and cognitive proficiency to complete self-report study questionnaires and understand program content in English, and able to communicate verbally or through writing. \- Exclusion Criteria: (1) severe cognitive impairments that prevent online learning and completion of the evaluation; (2) suicidal intent requiring emergency care; (3) consistent psychotherapy within the last 6 months; (4) current or planned participation in psychological therapy or a clinical trial during the study period that could affect the outcomes of the study; or (5) congenital SCI (e.g., spinal bifida) \-
Where this trial is running
Birmingham, Alabama
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, Alabama, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hon Yuen, PhD — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Hon Yuen, PhD
- Email: yuen@uab.edu
- Phone: 205-934-6301
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.