Internet-based Treatment for Informal Caregivers in Lithuania LINGI

Internet-based Treatment for Informal Caregivers in Lithuania LINGI: a Randomized Control Trial

The purpose of this study is to evaluate efficacy of internet intervention for informal caregivers in Lithuania in reducing their care-giving burden.

Intervention is going to take a form of an Internet based Cognitive Behavioural Treatment program (ICBT) consisting of eight modules. These are the themes, as listed chronologically: Introduction, Thoughts, Stress and relaxation, Problem Solving, Communication, Anxiety, Behavioural Activation, Maintenance. These themes were chosen after considering topics which might be the most useful for someone in a role of an informal caregiver, considering the trans-diagnostic nature of the intervention.

Effect of the intervention will be compared against a wait-list control group. Intervention is in Lithuanian.

Inclusion Criteria:

• must be 18 years old or over
• fluent in comprehending, writing and reading Lithuanian language
• score 24 or more points on the Caregiver Burden Inventory
• spent at least last couple of months for providing care
• must have internet access and ability to use computer or any other compatible device

Exclusion Criteria:

• adverse life experiences as identified by LEC
• alcohol addiction
• having severe physical or mental impairments
• suicide risk
• severe interpersonal violence
• the person in need of care has life expectancy below or approximately around 6 months