Smartphone-Based Cognitive Emotion Regulation Training for Caregiver Stress
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to help family members caring for someone with Alzheimer's or related dementias manage stress more effectively. It tests a smartphone-based training program called Cognitive Emotion Regulation Training, which teaches emotion regulation techniques such as distancing (viewing a situation objectively) and reinterpretation (imagining a better outcome). Participants will be randomly assigned to learn one of these techniques or join a control group. The study seeks unpaid primary caregivers who feel at least a little stressed and have a smartphone. As an unphased trial, it offers caregivers an opportunity to learn valuable stress management techniques.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on psychological training rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this smartphone-based cognitive emotion regulation training is safe for caregivers?
Previous studies have shown that emotion regulation training, like the techniques used in this trial, is safe for participants. Research indicates that psychological distancing helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression in caregivers of patients with schizophrenia. No significant negative effects were reported, suggesting it is well-tolerated.
For the reinterpretation technique, studies have demonstrated that it helps people manage stress by changing their perspective on situations. This method is considered safe, with no major negative side effects reported in similar settings.
Both techniques aim to help caregivers better manage their emotions. They have been tested in other groups without significant safety concerns, suggesting they are likely safe for participants in this trial as well.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about cognitive emotion regulation training for caregiver stress because it leverages smartphone technology to deliver psychological interventions in a convenient and accessible way. Unlike traditional therapy sessions that require in-person appointments, these interventions can be delivered via videoconference, allowing caregivers to receive support without leaving their homes. The two strategies, reinterpretation and distancing, provide caregivers with structured methods to manage stress by reimagining outcomes or viewing situations objectively, which could offer more immediate and practical benefits compared to standard stress management techniques. This approach has the potential to empower caregivers with tools to handle stress more effectively, improving their well-being and quality of life.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for caregiver stress?
Research shows that training in managing emotions can help caregivers handle stress better. In this trial, participants will receive either "psychological distancing" or "reinterpretation" training. Earlier studies have shown that those who practiced "psychological distancing," which involves viewing emotional situations as if they were outsiders, felt less negative and stressed. This technique helps reduce stress and build resilience. Another method, "reinterpretation," involves imagining more positive outcomes and has been shown to aid emotional coping. A review of multiple studies found that these skills can protect against stress and challenges, making them promising for caregivers of Alzheimer's patients. Both methods aim to improve mental well-being by changing how emotions are processed.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Bryan Denny, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
William Marsh Rice University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for unpaid primary caregivers of Alzheimer's patients who are over 18, speak English, provide at least 4 hours of care daily, and experience some stress. They must be generally healthy with no major psychological diagnoses except certain mood or anxiety disorders. Participants need a smartphone to receive training and complete assessments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Training
Participants receive structured cognitive emotion regulation training via smartphone for one week
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in psychological and psychophysiological outcomes
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Cognitive Emotion Regulation Training via Psychological Distancing
- Cognitive Emotion Regulation Training via Reinterpretation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Bryan Denny
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator