WCM IRB #20-04021913-01
Overview
It is expected that large numbers of healthcare workers will experience a broad range of psychological reactions including anxiety, depression, moral distress, and trauma symptoms that will cause both significant suffering as well as occupational and social impairment. The purpose of this study is to find interventions which are helpful in treating psychological distress in healthcare workers caring for COVID-19 patients. There are two phases of the study.
Phase I
All participants will take part in Phase I, which consists of either a narrative writing intervention or a medical music intervention. For Phase I, you will be “randomized” into one of two computer-based interventions: narrative writing or medical music. Randomization means that you are put into a group by chance. It is like flipping a coin. Neither you nor the researchers will choose what group you will be in. You will have an equal chance of being placed in any group. Both narrative writing and medical music conditions will consist of four sessions over two weeks that are each approximately 30 minutes long (20 minute interventions including time to complete some self-report measures). At the end of the 4 sessions, you will participate in an assessment to reassess your symptoms. Healthcare workers that meet criteria for PTSD will be given the option to participate in Phase II.
Phase II
Following the completion of Phase 1 (which coincides with the Post-Phase I assessment), if you are determined to meet the criteria for PTSD, you will be given the choice to receive one of two evidence-based treatments: interpersonal therapy or exposure therapy. Both groups will receive ten sessions that are approximately 90 minutes each (75-minute treatment including time to complete some self-report measures). If you do not meet the criteria for PTSD, you will be given treatment referrals as appropriate. All interventions will be offered using distance technology.