A brief CBT intervention for depersonalisation-derealisation disorder in psychosis: Results from a feasibility randomised controlled trial.
S. Farrelly, E. Peters, Matilda Azis, A. S. David, Elaine C M Hunter
Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry September 1, 2023 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2023.101911 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Single-blind randomized controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 21 |
| Population | Individuals with psychotic symptoms and depersonalisation/derealisation symptoms |
| Duration | Six sessions |
| Key findings | The brief six-session cognitive-behavioural therapy adapted for depersonalisation-derealisation was judged feasible and acceptable, with some signal of effect on clinical outcomes, though recruitment was challenging. The authors suggest further investigation is warranted. |
Abstract
Background: AND OBJECTIVES Depersonalisation/derealisation symptoms are prevalent in psychosis patients, are associated with increased impairment, and may maintain psychosis symptoms. We aimed to establish the feasibility and acceptability of a brief, six session therapy protocol adapted from a Cognitive-Behavioural model of Depersonalisation-Derealisation Disorder (DDD) in participants with psychotic symptoms.
Methods: A single-blind, randomised controlled trial was conducted with a treatment-as-usual control condition. Feasibility and acceptability estimates included rates of referral, acceptance, eligibility, consent, satisfaction and improved skills/knowledge to manage depersonalisation.
Results: Twenty-one individuals were recruited to the trial. Results suggest that the intervention was feasible and acceptable to participants and there is some signal of effect on clinical outcomes.
Limitations: There were some challenges in recruitment. Recruitment feasibility estimates from the research register used may not be informative for future trials recruiting directly from teams.
Conclusions: Overall, the results suggest that further investigations would be of interest and recommendations for this are made.