Abstract
Background:
Food allergy (FA) is increasingly prevalent and can adversely impact quality of life (QoL). Avoidance of allergens and self-management is essential. However, some individuals may overcompensate to keep safe, leading to hypervigilance and distress. Research suggests that Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) may lessen the negative emotional impact of FA in children and parents of children with FA; however, no research has explored the impact of CBT on adults with FA.
Objective:
A feasibility Randomised Control Trial aimed to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility and provide a signal of efficacy for a brief online CBT group for adults with FA with associated self-reported distress. Method: Participants (N = 44) were randomised using a web-based system into a CBT (N = 22) or a control group (N = 22). CBT consisted of two three-hour online workshops. The control group received self-help materials. Acceptability and feasibility were investigated through recruitment, retention and outcome measure response rates, goal-based outcomes and a feedback form. Measures of QoL, worry, anxiety, depression, stress, coping and self-care were collected at baseline, one-month and three-months post-intervention.
Results:
The retention rate for both groups was 82% (N = 36) at three-month follow-up and 91% of participants attended at least one intervention session. Quantitative and qualitative feedback supported this intervention’s acceptability and feasibility. The intervention group had greater reduction in impairment compared with the control group on the QoL measure at both follow-up points. Additionally, a treatment effect was found for the intervention group for depression at three-month follow-up. Furthermore, the intervention group utilised more problem-focused coping at one-month follow-up. Participants made progress towards their subjective goal ratings three-months post CBT.
Conclusion:
This brief CBT intervention and research was deemed feasible and acceptable to participants. A signal of efficacy was also found for QoL. A powered RCT and longer-term follow-up is recommended.