Internet-based stress management for distressed managers: results from a randomised controlled trial

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The aim of our new randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the efficacy of a guided internet-based stress management intervention (iSMI) among distressed managers compared with a attention control group (AC) with full access to treatment-as-usual.

A total sample of 117 distressed managers, mainly employed in the healthcare, IT, communication and educational sector, were randomised to either iSMI (n=59) or an AC group (n=58). The internet-based stress management intervention consisted of eight modules including cognitive behavioural stress management and positive management techniques. Participants received a minimal and weekly guidance from a psychologist or master-level psychology student focusing on support, feedback and adherence to the intervention. Self-report data were assessed at pre, post and 6 months after the intervention. The primary outcome was perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale-14). The secondary outcomes included mental and work-related health outcomes.

Participants in the internet-based stress management intervention intervention reported significantly less symptoms of perceived stress (d=0.74, 95% CI 0.30 to 1.19) and burnout (d=0.95, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.37) compared with controls, at postassessment. Significant medium-to-large effect sizes were also found for depression, insomnia and job satisfaction. Long-term effects (6 months) were seen on the mental health outcomes.

This was one of the first studies showing that internet-based stress management intervention can be an effective, accessible and potentially time-effective approach of reducing stress and other mental-related and work-related health symptoms among distressed managers. Future studies are needed addressing distressed managers and the potential of indirect effects on employee stress and satisfaction at work.

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Persson Asplund, R., Dagöö, J., Fjellström, I., Niemi, L., Hansson, K., Zeraati, F., Ziuzina, M., Gerharts, A., LjĂłtsson, B., Carlbring, P., & Andersson, G. (in press). Internet-based stress management for distressed managers – Results from a randomized controlled trial. Occupational and Environmental Medicine. DOI: 10.1136/oemed-2017-104458