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Evidence summaries

Internet-Based Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy, especially with therapist support, may be effective for symptoms of depression and anxiety. Level of evidence: "A"

A systematic review 1 including 12 studies with a total of 2334 subjects was abstracted in DARE. There was a significant difference in effect size (ES) in favour of internet-based CBT compared with control (random-effects model, ES 0.51, 95% CI: 0.28, 0.74). A pooled analysis of the 2 prevention studies (n=352) showed no significant difference between intervention and control. Heterogeneity between the 10 treatment studies was statistically significant and the ES in favour of internet-based CBT remained significant.

Comment: The quality of evidence is downgraded by inconsistency (variability in results across studies) and limitations in review methodology.

    References

    • Spek V, Cuijpers P, Nyklícek I, Riper H, Keyzer J, Pop V. Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy for symptoms of depression and anxiety: a meta-analysis. Psychol Med 2007 Mar;37(3):319-28. [PubMed][DARE]

Primary/Secondary Keywords