MS and ME
Research type
Research Study
Full title
To evaluate the implementation of a computerised CBT model based on the SaMS manual to support psycho-social adjustment for people with MS.
IRAS ID
170905
Contact name
Smaragda Agathou
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
UCL
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 30 days
Research summary
Shift.ms is developing a web-based, self-management tool based on cognitive behavioural therapy techniques (CBT) to support adjustment for people with MS (MSers). The tool draws on the Supportive Adjustment for MS (SaMS) handbook (which was previously tested in a randomised controlled trial). We will assess users' experience of the tool and how they feel before and after using it.
SaMS and various studies have shown that CBT is an effective method to manage distress for patients with MS. The study will test whether some of the principles from the original SaMS handbook can be successfully translated into an online self-management tool to provide positive clinical outcomes for MSers dealing with adjustment and the distress caused by diagnosis of a long term health conditions in line with shift.ms peer-to-peer model.
The study aims to offer 100 MSers (who have been diagnosed within the past 10 years) use of the tool and measure their progress before and after signposted by staff at the National Hospital of Neurology and Neurosurgery through a variety of methods. The tool will also be offered to 400 current Shift.ms members. The study will last 4 months and participants will be able to use the tool as much they find useful.
The objectives:
Can part of the SaMS manual be translated successfully to support MSers with adjustment?
What mechanisms are specific to the online intervention?REC name
South Central - Berkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SC/0759
Date of REC Opinion
24 Dec 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion