THURSDAY, Jan. 2, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Eczema, a skin condition known for its intense itching and thick, scaly patches, has long been a challenge for sufferers, with no permanent cure available. However, a recent study reveals that an online, self-guided form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may help individuals manage the discomfort associated with the condition.
The study, published in JAMA Dermatology, found that online, self-guided CBT is as effective as therapist-led sessions in reducing the symptoms of eczema. The therapy teaches patients how to manage the persistent itching and improve their quality of life, all while requiring fewer healthcare resources.
“Self-guided internet CBT has proven to be an effective treatment option for reducing eczema symptoms, providing relief while also minimizing the need for extensive healthcare interventions,” said Dorian Kern, a doctoral student at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, in a press release from the institute.
CBT is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to mental or physical health issues. Although CBT is typically conducted with a therapist, the online version in this study allows participants to navigate the therapy on their own, learning mindfulness techniques and strategies for managing eczema-related itching.
For example, while scratching may temporarily relieve the itch, it can worsen the condition. CBT in this case teaches individuals to use alternative methods, such as applying moisturizers or engaging in meditation, to reduce discomfort and manage flare-ups.
In the study, nearly 170 adults with eczema were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group used the online self-guided program, while the other attended traditional CBT sessions led by a psychologist. Both treatment regimens lasted for 12 weeks.
On average, participants in the self-guided program spent about 16 minutes per session on the online program, compared to 50 minutes for those attending psychologist-led sessions. Despite the difference in session length, both groups experienced similar improvements in their eczema symptoms.
This finding suggests that self-guided online therapy could provide an accessible and effective way for individuals to manage eczema, especially for those who may not prefer in-person therapy or have limited access to healthcare services.
“This represents an important development not only for patients with atopic eczema, but also for other chronic conditions in dermatology and beyond,” Kern concluded.
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