A mixed-method randomised controlled feasibility trial of digital CBT and emotion regulation skills training for employees in the workplace (REST)

Abstract Background and aim Digital interventions for depression and anxiety can be as effective as face-to-face therapy. One in six workers experience some form of mental health problems, making the workplace a potential avenue to deliver mental health interventions as part of a stepped care model. This study aimed to assess the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of a digital cognitive behavioural therapy (dCBT) on depression and anxiety for employees in the workplace. Methods A mixed-methods evaluation of employees allocated to dCBT ( n =25), or a waitlist control group ( n =27) was used to assess five feasibility objectives related to recruitment of employers and employees, engagement, study procedure and preliminary efficacy of the intervention. Quantitative outcome measures and qualitative interviews at 8 weeks post-randomisation were used. Quantitative outcomes were also assessed within subject at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up. Qualitative data was analysed using thematic and framework analysis in Nvivo, whilst quantitative outcomes were analysed using mixed effect linear models between and within subject in R and SPSS. Results Thirty-Three businesses agreed to facilitate the delivery of three trials run by the University of Warwick in their workplaces. 52 participants consented into the REST trial. Adherence/usage of participants of the treatment platform was just over 50% across the whole sample. There was a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms post-intervention and at follow-up timepoints across all participants and over time although there were no statistically significant between group differences. High acceptability and satisfaction of the intervention were reported by participants based on qualitative interview data at post-intervention. Conclusions Results from this feasibility study suggests that the dCBT programme (REST) was acceptable and shows improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms, albeit not over and above the treatment effects in the control group. Recruitment of participants and engagement with the intervention made the feasibility of the delivery somewhat challenging. With better recruitment promotion and engagement strategies, as well as implementing the learnings from the feasibility trial, a fully powered study can inform the efficacy of the REST intervention. Trial registration The study is registered in the BMC Springer Nature ISRCTN registry ISRCTN31161020 (registered on 08/06/2021).