Webcam-based telemedicine useful in internet use disorder and gaming disorders
Webcam-based telemedicine effectively treats internet use disorders (IUDs) and gaming disorders. Short-term, manualised, webcam-based online therapy reduces symptoms of IUDs, depression, and anxiety while increasing motivation for change and self-efficacy, according to a study published in EClinicalMedicine.
A systematic literature identifying 15 appropriate articles on the efficacy of several digital health interventions for IUDs reported positive effects of an online/webcam-based intervention.
Evidence-based treatments for IUDs are limited, and more data on online therapy approaches must be collected. In the present study, researchers investigated the efficacy of a manualised therapist-guided online intervention (OMPRIS) to reduce IUD symptoms and improve psychological well-being.
In this multicentre, two-arm, single-blinded trial, individuals ≥16 years suffering from IUD symptoms were recruited in Germany (August 16, 2020, to March 11, 2022) through media advertisements and healthcare providers. One hundred eighty individuals were randomised as 1:1 into two groups: a webcam-based OMPRIS intervention or a waitlist control (WLC) group.
Reduction in IUD symptoms was the primary outcome as measured by the Assessment of Internet and Computer Scale (AICA-S). Follow-ups were conducted at six weeks and six months.
Key findings in the study are:
- There were 89 patients in the OMPRIS intervention and 91 in the WLC arm.
- Outcome assessment in the OMPRIS intervention and WLC group was completed by 91 % and 96.7 % after treatment.
- OMPRIS participants had a greater reduction in AICA-S scores from baseline to post-treatment (mean score 12.1 to 6.8) compared to the WLC group (12.6 to 11.0), with an estimated mean difference of −3.9.
- No adverse events were recorded.
The study interpreted the effectiveness and superiority of Webcam-based OMPRIS therapy in reducing IUD symptoms.
They said, “Webcam-based, specialised online therapy increases IUD treatment options. It is a valuable option for those with motivational issues, feelings of shame and limited access due to long waiting lists.
Further reading:
Dieris-Hirche Efficacy of a short-term webcam-based telemedicine treatment of internet use disorders (OMPRIS): a multicentre, prospective, single-blind, randomised, clinical trial. EClinicalMedicine, 64, 102216. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2023.102216
