Group Intervention for Loneliness

Overseen By Frankie Lui, MSW

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's

Disqualifiers: Disoriented, Delirious, Unable to consent, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: 8 weeks

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial aims to evaluate how effectively a group activity can reduce feelings of loneliness in older adults in a psychiatric unit. The treatment, called Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups, is a specialized therapy that encourages meaningful connections. Participants will either join this group therapy or continue with regular support meetings to compare effects. Suitable candidates for this trial are older adults currently in a psychiatric ward. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to explore innovative therapy methods that could enhance emotional well-being.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

What prior data suggests that this group loneliness intervention is safe for geriatric psychiatry inpatients?

Research shows that Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) Groups are designed to enhance connection and improve well-being. Previous studies have used these groups to reduce loneliness. These groups are based on a therapy that promotes openness and kindness toward others.

While specific safety data from these studies is not available, ACL Groups are a form of psychotherapy, which is generally well-tolerated. Psychotherapy typically involves talking and group activities, which are considered safe. Studies on ACL Groups have not reported specific negative effects.

For those considering joining a trial with ACL Groups, this treatment is generally very safe and aims to foster a sense of connection and support. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial?

Researchers are excited about the Group Intervention for Loneliness because it is a fresh approach that targets emotional and social aspects directly through Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups. Unlike traditional options like individual therapy or medication, which often focus on reducing symptoms, this group-based method builds a supportive community, encouraging participants to actively connect with others facing similar challenges. By fostering an environment of shared experiences and emotional growth, these groups aim to address the root causes of loneliness, rather than just managing its symptoms. This innovative approach has the potential to create lasting personal change and stronger social bonds.

What evidence suggests that the Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups might be an effective treatment for loneliness?

Research has shown that Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) groups, which participants in this trial may receive, can help reduce loneliness. These groups aim to increase social connections and improve well-being using techniques from Functional Analytic Psychotherapy. In some studies, attendees of these group sessions felt less lonely and more connected to others. The approach helps participants become more aware of their feelings, act bravely in social situations, and develop feelings of love and acceptance. While more research is needed, early findings suggest that ACL groups can positively impact those who feel lonely. ^{1 2 3 4 6}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Elisabeth VanBussel, MD

Principal Investigator

St. Joseph's Health Care London

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for older adults admitted to a geriatric psychiatry inpatient unit who can pass a basic cognitive test (MoCA score of 10 or above). It's designed to help those feeling lonely.

Inclusion Criteria

I am admitted to a geriatric psychiatry unit.

Exclusion Criteria

Individuals who are delirious

I am unable to give consent for research or therapy on my own.

Individuals who are disoriented to person

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups intervention for loneliness

8 weeks

Weekly group sessions

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

4 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups
• Mutual Help Meetings

Trial Overview The study tests group therapy sessions called Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups. These are based on functional analytic psychotherapy aimed at reducing loneliness among the participants.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Treatment Experimental Treatment 1 Intervention

Treatment group will receive Awareness, Courage, and Love Groups for loneliness.

Group II: Control Active Control 1 Intervention

Control group will receive treatment as usual in the form of Mutual Help Meetings.

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's

Lead Sponsor

Trials

678

Recruited

421,000+

London Health Sciences Centre OR Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's

Lead Sponsor

Trials

668

Recruited

424,000+

London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute and Lawson Research Institute of St. Joseph's

Lead Sponsor

Trials

686

Recruited

427,000+

Lawson Health Research Institute

Lead Sponsor

Trials

684

Recruited

432,000+

Western University, Canada

Collaborator

Trials

270

Recruited

62,500+

Published Research Related to This Trial

In a study involving 20 patients over four years, group-analytic treatment led to significant personality changes, including a reduction in defensive behaviors and a shift towards more mature coping mechanisms.

The use of the Life Style Index and Defence Mechanisms Scale, along with the Minnesota Multiphase Personality Inventory, indicated that participants experienced lower levels of conflict and improved psychological functioning, suggesting a positive outcome from group analysis.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Changes of defense mechanisms and personality profile during group analytic treatment. Vlastelica, M., Jurcević, S., Zemunik, T.[2009]

Research indicates that positive changes in attachment insecurity reported by clients can last long after group therapy has concluded, suggesting lasting benefits of group therapy on attachment issues.

Attachment anxiety influences how much and how quickly individuals learn from interpersonal interactions in group settings, highlighting the importance of attachment dynamics in therapeutic outcomes.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Attachment and group psychotherapy: introduction to a special section. Tasca, GA.[2019]

A new systemic-constructivistic therapy group was developed for individuals struggling with alcohol problems as part of an inpatient rehabilitation program, focusing on improving interpersonal relationships and utilizing narrative therapy concepts.

The paper discusses the evolution of this therapy group, highlighting key aspects such as group characteristics, guiding techniques, therapist roles, and common challenges faced by group members, suggesting a structured approach to enhance treatment outcomes.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[A group therapy model in the rehabilitation fo alcoholism]. Vittadini, G., Giorgi, I.[2006]

This article explores how attachment theory, which has been widely used in individual therapy, can also be applied to understand dynamics in group therapy settings, particularly focusing on adult attachment styles.

By identifying the attachment styles of group members, therapists can better predict interpersonal relationships and transference within the group, which may enhance the effectiveness of group therapy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Application of adult attachment theory to group member transference and the group therapy process. Markin, RD., Marmarosh, C.[2019]

In a reanalysis of the Kiel Group Psychotherapy Study involving 34 patients, those with ambivalent attachment patterns showed the most positive treatment outcomes, particularly in symptom relief and self-perception.

Patients with avoidant attachment patterns found group-related therapeutic factors, like cohesion and altruism, to be the least helpful, suggesting that attachment styles may influence the effectiveness of psychotherapy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[Attachment characteristics and psychotherapy outcome following inpatient psychodynamic group treatment]. Sachse, J., Strauss, B.[2006]

In a study of 82 patients undergoing intensive short-term group psychotherapy, significant improvements in personality functioning were observed, particularly in areas previously classified as having severe or moderate pathology.

The therapy effectively addressed various psychological issues, as indicated by changes in MMPI-2 clinical scales, suggesting that this approach can be beneficial for patients with neurotic and selected personality disorders.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Changes in personality functioning as a result of group psychotherapy with elements of individual psychotherapy in persons with neurotic and personality disorders - MMPI-2. Cyranka, K., Rutkowski, K., Mielimąka, M., et al.[2017]

Schema-focussed Emotive Behavioral Therapy (SET) was found to be an effective group therapy for patients with personality disorders, showing improvements in interactional behavior and symptomatic complaints after treatment in a study of 93 participants.

While SET led to a lower dropout rate and stable effects over time, it was noted that Cluster C patients experienced a deterioration in symptoms at follow-up, whereas Cluster B patients continued to improve compared to control subjects.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[Evaluation of the "Schema-focused Emotive Behavioural Therapy" (SET) for patients with personality disorders: results of a randomised controlled trial]. Zorn, P., Roder, V., Soravia, L., et al.[2022]

Group psychotherapy is increasingly recognized as an effective treatment method that combines social interaction and psychological insight, allowing patients to explore unconscious motivations and learn from each other in a supportive environment.

The success of group psychotherapy relies more on the therapist's commitment and facilitation skills than on the specific therapeutic approach used, highlighting the importance of a group-centered rather than leader-centered dynamic.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

[Group psychotherapy in psychiatry]. Battegay, R.[2006]

The adapted meaning-centered group psychotherapy (MCGP) significantly improved quality of life (QoL) and reduced distress among Portuguese cancer patients, with 91 participants showing notable benefits after just four sessions.

Participants in the MCGP group experienced significant decreases in depression and anxiety compared to those receiving usual care, highlighting the potential efficacy of this therapy in enhancing psychological well-being for cancer patients.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Meaning-centered group psychotherapy in Portuguese cancer patients: A pilot exploratory trial. da Ponte, G., Ouakinin, S., Santo, JE., et al.[2023]

Courage is essential in psychodynamic group therapy, as it involves facing emotional pain honestly, which strengthens the therapeutic alliance among participants.

The article emphasizes the importance of group therapists recognizing and acknowledging courageous behaviors, as this can enhance the effectiveness of therapy and improve group dynamics.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A plea for greater recognition and appreciation of our group members' courage. Gans, JS.[2010]

Citations

1. cdn.clinicaltrials.gov cdn.clinicaltrials.gov/large-docs/18/NCT05619718/Prot_SAP_000.pdf

A geriatric psychiatry inpatient pilot intervention for loneliness Inpatient psychiatry units are ideally suited for piloting a novel intervention for loneliness that is based on Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) groups.

2. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11545820/

An Awareness, Courage, and Love Online Group ... This study aims to evaluate an online Awareness, Courage, and Love (ACL) group intervention designed to enhance social connectedness and subjective well-being

3. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39517370/

Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial This study will offer a robust framework for investigating the impact of the online ACL intervention on loneliness and social connectedness ...

4. withpower.com withpower.com/trial/phase-loneliness-2-2023-639f2

Group Intervention for Loneliness · Info for Participants The ACL Groups treatment is unique because it combines elements of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy, focusing on awareness, courage, and love to address ...

5. trial.medpath.com trial.medpath.com/clinical-trial/d41ceeb633d2dff9/nct05619718-loneliness-group-intervention-geriatric-psychiatry

Loneliness Group Intervention | MedPath The goal of this pilot study is to determine the feasibility and acceptability of a group loneliness intervention in geriatric psychiatry inpatients.

6. aura.antioch.edu aura.antioch.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1937&context=etds

An accessible behavioral intervention to improve well-being functional analytic psychotherapy's awareness, courage, and love model to generate open- heartedness towards others: A pilot randomized controlled trial.