Online Skills-Based Program for Carers and Families Supporting Adults with Moderate to Severe Anorexia Nervosa

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate a new online group program called CAREFREE for carers of adults with moderate to severe Anorexia Nervosa. The program focuses on enhancing carers understanding of Anorexia through a Biopsychosocial and Schema-Compassion Focused framework, addressing biological, psychological, and social factors affecting the disorder. It also targets carer burnout and aims to improve emotional communication, family interactions, and compassion among carers. The study includes two phases an initial feasibility trial followed by a more detailed feasibility study to determine the interventions effectiveness before a larger trial. The CAREFREE program consists of 12 sessions delivered online to carers across Scotland. It provides psychoeducation about Anorexia Nervosa and carer burnout, focusing on improving emotional fluency, family communication skills, and self-other compassion. The study does not have comparator groups but tracks various outcomes before, during, and after the program, including a 3-month follow-up. This cross-regional NHS project aims to support carers and indirectly improve patient motivation and quality of life. Participants will complete multiple assessments including weekly rating scales during the program and questionnaires before, immediately after, and three months post-intervention. These assessments measure family functioning, quality of life, emotional stress, attachment experiences, schema modes, eating disorder impact, and parenting. Qualitative interviews with patients also take place after the intervention. The study will analyze outcomes related to carer and patient quality of life, family communication, and patient motivation to change over a 24-month period, with safety monitored throughout.

Evaluation of a New Program for Carers of People with Anorexia Nervosa