Harvey James and Jennie Lucifer
In recent years, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a successful intervention for alleviating depressive symptoms in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), offering both in-person and internet-based options. Stefan M. Gold and colleagues conducted a parallel-group trial featured in The Lancet Digital Health, evaluating the efficacy of an Internet Based CBT (iCBT) program tailored for MS patients. This program, comprising ten modules and a summary module, demonstrated effectiveness in reducing depressive symptoms, as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II, with both therapist-guided and stand-alone formats. Importantly, these reductions were sustained at the 12-month follow-up.
iCBT interventions hold promise for improving the quality of life for MS patients by addressing depressive symptoms. Additionally, they may impact the disease trajectory, reduce healthcare costs, and offer accessibility to vulnerable populations, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era. With their potential to address unmet mental health needs, especially in remote or immunocompromised patients, iCBT interventions could serve as an interim solution or complement to in-person psychotherapy sessions. This research underscores the importance of integrating innovative approaches like iCBT into mental health care for MS patients to enhance their overall wellbeing.