The acceptability, usability and short-term outcomes of Get Real: A web-based program for psychotic-like experiences (PLEs)

• Published in: Internet interventions : the application of information technology in mental and behavioural health Vol. 2; no. 3; pp. 266 - 271
• Main Authors: Stafford, Emma, Hides, Leanne, Kavanagh, David J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-09-2015; Elsevier
• Subjects: Internet; Intervention; Psychotic-like experiences, psychosis; Web program; Intervention; Web program; Internet; Psychotic-like experiences, psychosis
• ISSN: 2214-7829; 2214-7829
• DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2015.05.004

Psychotic-like experiences (PLEs) are subclinical delusional ideas and perceptual disturbances that have been associated with a range of adverse mental health outcomes. This study reports a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the acceptability, usability and short term outcomes of Get Real, a web program for PLEs in young people.
Participants were twelve respondents to an online survey, who reported at least one PLE in the previous 3months, and were currently distressed. Ratings of the program were collected after participants trialled it for a month. Individual semi-structured interviews then elicited qualitative feedback, which was analyzed using Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) methodology. PLEs and distress were reassessed at 3months post-baseline.
User ratings supported the program's acceptability, usability and perceived utility. Significant reductions in the number, frequency and severity of PLE-related distress were found at 3months follow-up. The CQR analysis identified four qualitative domains: initial and current understandings of PLEs, responses to the program, and context of its use. Initial understanding involved emotional reactions, avoidance or minimization, limited coping skills and non-psychotic attributions. After using the program, participants saw PLEs as normal and common, had greater self-awareness and understanding of stress, and reported increased capacity to cope and accept experiences. Positive responses to the program focused on its normalization of PLEs, usefulness of its strategies, self-monitoring of mood, and information putting PLEs into perspective. Some respondents wanted more specific and individualized information, thought the program would be more useful for other audiences, or doubted its effectiveness. The program was mostly used in low-stress situations.
The current study provided initial support for the acceptability, utility and positive short-term outcomes of Get Real. The program now requires efficacy testing in randomized controlled trials.
•PLEs have been associated with a range of adverse mental health outcomes•Get Real is a new web-based program targeting PLEs in young people•User ratings supported the program's acceptability, usability and perceived utility•Get Real reduced the number, frequency and level of distress associated with them PLEs at 3 months follow -up.•Further testing in randomized controlled trials is required.