Online Group Therapy Using the Unified Protocol to Treat Emotional Disorders in Adults with Long COVID-19

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the Unified Protocol UP, a psychological intervention delivered online in a group format, to treat emotional disorders in adults diagnosed with long COVID. This randomized controlled trial involves 90 adults who have long COVID and comorbid emotional disorders such as anxiety and depression. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and acceptability of the UP in improving emotional symptoms and whether these improvements last for up to 12 months. Additionally, chronic stress levels will be monitored through cortisol measurements in hair among participants receiving the UP. The study includes two groups 45 participants receiving the UP through 12 weekly online sessions of 2 hours each, focusing on emotion regulation skills across eight modules delivered via videoconference. The control group of 45 participants will remain on a waiting list for 12 weeks while receiving usual medical care for their long COVID symptoms. After the waiting period, control group participants will also receive the UP intervention following the same online format. Participants will be involved in assessments before the treatment, after the 12-week intervention, and at follow-ups at 3, 6, and 12 months. These assessments include questionnaires measuring depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, stress, cognitive complaints, and quality of life. Biological samples will be collected to analyze cortisol levels in the experimental group. Satisfaction and acceptability of the UP will also be evaluated. This study lasts over a year with multiple evaluations to understand the long-term effects of the intervention.

Effectiveness and Acceptability of the Unified Protocol for the Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in People With Long COVID-19.