Study tests online therapy for prolonged grief disorder

A new study protocol aims to evaluate the feasibility of internet-delivered cognitive-behavioral therapy (iCBT) for adults suffering from Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD). PGD affects approximately 10% of individuals who experience the loss of a loved one, leading to persistent grief symptoms that can significantly impact daily functioning. This study, titled GROw, will be conducted by researchers from Universitat Jaume I in Spain and aims to explore an effective treatment option for this underserved population.

The study will include 48 adults who meet the criteria for PGD, which requires at least six months to have passed since the death of a loved one. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving the iCBT intervention and the other receiving traditional face-to-face cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Both treatment formats will consist of the same therapeutic components organized into eight modules, ensuring comparability in the interventions.

Assessment points will occur at five intervals: screening, baseline, post-intervention, and follow-ups at three and twelve months. These assessments will evaluate participant adherence, satisfaction with the treatment, and changes in psychological outcomes, including symptoms of grief, depression, and anxiety. The researchers aim to determine whether the iCBT format can effectively reach individuals who may otherwise avoid in-person therapy due to stigma or accessibility issues.

Previous studies have shown that internet-based interventions can effectively reduce grief symptoms, but few have specifically targeted PGD. This study seeks to fill that gap, particularly within the Spanish-speaking population. The researchers believe that by offering iCBT, they can make treatment more accessible and cost-effective.

The study has received ethical approval from the Universitat Jaume I’s Ethics Committee and has been registered with the clinical trials database. Recruitment will utilize various platforms, including social media and local clinics, to ensure a diverse participant pool. Participants will complete all assessments online and receive ongoing support to promote retention throughout the study.

This research is timely, especially given the heightened levels of grief experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing measures have complicated the grieving process for many, underscoring the need for alternative therapy options. The results of this feasibility trial could lead to larger-scale studies and ultimately improve treatment strategies for those experiencing prolonged grief.