Randomized Trial Comparing Three Online Treatments for Clinical Burnout Including ACT and Vocational Support

What This Trial Is About

This research focuses on adults in Sweden with clinical burnout, also known as stress-related exhaustion, who face challenges in coping at work or daily life and may be on sick leave. The trial evaluates and compares three different online psychological treatments to find effective, scalable options for managing burnout and supporting return-to-work. The study is a randomized controlled trial involving approximately 400 participants. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three 10-week internet-based programs an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT program that helps clarify personal values and encourages meaningful activity despite exhaustion a recuperation-focused treatment emphasizing rest, sleep hygiene, relaxation, and healthy daily routines without ACT components or ACT combined with additional vocational support sessions to address work-related barriers and create a return-to-work plan. All treatments include weekly online modules, written therapist feedback, and three video sessions, with licensed psychologists providing the vocational support sessions. During the study, participants complete assessments before treatment, weekly during treatment, immediately after, and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Researchers collect data on burnout symptoms, sick-leave days, stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia, cognitive issues, quality of life, and treatment satisfaction. Sick-leave information is obtained from national registries. Participants are monitored closely for safety, with weekly questionnaires and therapist contact to address risks such as worsening symptoms or suicidal thoughts. The total participation spans over one year including follow-up periods.

Comparing ACT, Recuperation, and ACT Plus Vocational Support for Clinical Burnout