The use of guided self-help in Anorexia Nervosa

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A study of the feasibility and effectiveness of the addition of Self Help Aid and Recovery guide for Eating Disorders (SHARED) to treatment as usual for Anorexia Nervosa.

  • IRAS ID

    159490

  • Contact name

    Janet Treasure

  • Contact email

    janet.treasure@kcl.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    King's College London

  • Research summary

    This study examines whether a guided self-help intervention developed for patients with eating disorders (SHARED) is a useful addition to standard treatment for people with anorexia nervosa. The intervention includes accessible, authentic video and written materials developed by recovered patients for use on mobile devices; videos that provide relaxation training and psychoeducation/information about eating disorders; online text-based guidance from ex-patients and carers (i.e., "recovery guides"), and a workbook. We will examine whether the intervention can reduce symptoms and improve engagement in treatment as usual. The potential for further enhancement of the intervention will be explored by measuring how change occurs, what component of the intervention is more effective and what patient and therapy factors are relevant. Feedback from patients and recovery guides will be also be gathered.
    As a secondary question, we will examine the impact of providing support on the health of the recovery guides.
    The overall aim of this study is to optimise the content and the form of the intervention and knowledge about whether a larger study is justifiable and feasible.

  • REC name

    London - Brent Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    14/LO/1347

  • Date of REC Opinion

    8 Sep 2014

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion