Internet-Delivered Indicated Prevention For Anxiety Disorders: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The project aims to investigate the efficacy of a preventive cognitive behavioural intervention delivered via the Internet to individuals at risk of developing anxiety disorders. There is increasing evidence that suggests anxiety sensitivity may act as a premorbid risk factor for the development of anxiety pathology and panic disorder. Eighty-three university students with elevated anxiety sensitivity were randomly allocated to either an intervention group (n = 43), who worked through the Internet based program over a period of 6 weeks, or a waitlist control group (n = 40). Significant treatment effects were found for anxiety related cognitions and symptoms of depression, and a non-significant trend for anxiety sensitivity. These outcomes were related to expectancy but not to program utilization. Implications for the prevention of anxiety via the Internet are discussed.