Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy improves the treatment outcomes of patients with Parkinson’s disease

This study investigated if guided internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) improves the treatment outcomes of patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Researchers suggested that ICBT as an addition to the standard treatment improved the outcomes of some of these patients. 

PD is a chronic condition that affects the brain cells. These cells lose their ability to control body functions causing mental and physical symptoms. Most people with PD have symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Prior studies showed that CBT improves depressive and anxiety symptoms in patients with PD. Self-help sessions like telephone or internet-based therapy improve the reach of these treatments. However, there is a very limited number of studies investigating self-help therapy in PD. 

ICBT is a guided self-help treatment that has shown the same benefits as face-to-face therapy. It is a reduced cost therapy due to the limited therapist-time required. However, there are no ICBT programs adapted for patients with PD. 

This study included information about 77 patients with PD and anxiety or depression symptoms. These patients were assigned to receive 10 weeks of standard therapy with and without ICBT. 

Participants receiving ICBT reported higher functioning after treatment. However, only around one-third of participants in the ICBT group responded to the treatment. These patients showed a 30% reduction in depression symptoms after treatment.

Symptoms of anxiety, depression and sleep disorders were lower after treatment in the ICBT group when compared to the standard therapy group. Positive effects were also seen in the quality of life in the ICBT group.

This study concluded that ICBT might be a good addition to PD treatment as it improved the functioning of some patients.

This study included a short follow-up period and a small number of participants. Further studies with longer follow-up are necessary.