THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ONLINE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR ANXIETY DISORDERS
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life. Traditional face-to-face therapeutic interventions have proven effective in treating anxiety, but the accessibility and convenience of online clinical psychological interventions are becoming increasingly relevant. With the rise of digital mental health platforms, it is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in treating anxiety disorders. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of online clinical psychological interventions for anxiety disorders by comparing outcomes in terms of symptom reduction, treatment adherence, and overall patient satisfaction. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted, synthesizing data from 25 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving over 1,500 participants. The studies examined various online interventions, including internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (iCBT), virtual counseling, and digital self-help programs, with a focus on anxiety symptom severity pre- and post-treatment. The analysis showed a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms among participants receiving online interventions, with a moderate effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.55). Internet-based CBT demonstrated the highest efficacy, followed by virtual counseling and self-help programs. High treatment adherence and positive patient satisfaction were also reported. Online clinical psychological interventions, particularly internet-based CBT, are effective in reducing anxiety symptoms.
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References
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