A pilot study shows promise in increasing help-seeking in people with social anxiety

Study
9 June 2017

A recent study published in Digital Health reported the results from a randomised controlled trial (RCT) conducted at the CMHR. The RCT explored the potential effectiveness of an online program designed to increase help-seeking intentions for social anxiety disorder.

Preliminary findings showed participants in the intervention group developed more favourable attitudes towards seeking psychological help, a higher level of perceived need for treatment, and greater knowledge about social anxiety disorder compared to participants who did not receive the intervention. Most respondents were satisfied with the intervention content.

The authors hope a fully powered trial of the model will be conducted, to provide a more rigorous test of these preliminary findings. If the model is found to be effective, the intervention has the potential to decrease individual burden associated with social anxiety disorder.