A novel online program for fatigue; a feasibility study

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    A novel online program for fatigue; a feasibility study

  • IRAS ID

    246730

  • Contact name

    Alicia/M Hughes

  • Contact email

    alicia.hughes@kcl.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    King’s College London

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    2 years, 9 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    Research has shown that Long Term Conditions (LTC’s) are associated with high levels of fatigue, depression, anxiety, distress and disability. Unhelpful or negative thinking styles may play a role in the perpetuation and maintenance of symptoms of fatigue and distress. This study aims to develop more positive, adaptive thinking styles using an online training program.
    Prior to this study, suitable materials will be developed and the program tested using qualitative methods and think aloud techniques.
    The feasibility study of the online program will start with individuals with Chronic Fatigue (CF) including both patients with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME) and idiopathic chronic fatigue (ICF). We will use qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the acceptability, feasibility and effectiveness of the program. We will make revisions to the program based on the outcomes and feedback from this phase.
    We will also recruit other populations of people with long term physical health conditions, who experience high levels of fatigue (e.g. cancer and multiple sclerosis).
    Participants will complete 12 sessions of the computerised training programme (4 sessions per week, over 3 weeks) with each session lasting approximately 20 minutes. All sessions will be completed at home, online on a computer or tablet. Questionnaire based assessments will be completed before and after the 12 training sessions and at 1-month and 3-month follow-ups.

  • REC name

    London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    19/LO/1430

  • Date of REC Opinion

    23 Sep 2019

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion