RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

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

We are evaluating a new online support program called CAREFREE, designed for people who care for adults with moderate to severe anorexia nervosa. This program, available across Scotland, consists of 12 online sessions. It helps carers understand anorexia by looking at how biological, psychological, and social factors play a role. CAREFREE also focuses on helping carers manage their own stress, improve how they communicate with their loved one, and develop compassion for themselves and others. The study aims to improve the quality of life for both carers and patients, enhance patients' motivation to get better, and potentially reduce hospital stays. We will look at how well the program works and if it can lead to bigger studies in the future.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

NHS Forth Valley

Enrolment target

Start

01 May 2023

Estimated completion

30 Jun 2025

Anorexia Nervosa Carer Stress Syndrome

What is this study about?

Anorexia nervosa can be a very challenging illness, not just for the person directly affected, but also for their family, friends, and partners who provide care. Sometimes, despite treatment, people with anorexia might not feel motivated to get better, and this can put a lot of strain on their carers and healthcare services.

This study is looking at a new online program called CAREFREE, specifically designed to support these carers. The program gives carers a deeper understanding of anorexia, exploring how different aspects – like biology, feelings, and social situations – can contribute to the illness. It also helps carers manage their own stress and learn better ways to communicate, aiming to improve relationships within the family.

The main goal is to improve the quality of life for both the person with anorexia and their carer. We hope it will also help motivate patients to recover and potentially reduce the need for hospital admissions. This is a two-part study. First, we'll check if the program is practical to run and if people find it helpful. Then, we'll use what we learn to plan a second, more thorough study to see if the CAREFREE program genuinely makes a positive difference.

Key takeaways

A new online support program for carers of adults with anorexia nervosa.
Helps carers understand the illness and manage their own stress.
Aims to improve family communication and patient motivation.
Available online for carers across Scotland.
The study assesses if the program is practical and effective.
You can withdraw from the study at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for people who care for an adult with moderate to severe anorexia nervosa. This includes family members, partners, or spouses. To join the study, you must be at least 18 years old, be able to speak and read English, and have access to the internet and feel comfortable using online meeting tools.

You cannot join if you are currently experiencing a severe mental health condition called acute psychosis, or if you cannot speak or read English.

For the adult with anorexia nervosa to be part of the study, they must also be at least 18 years old, have a diagnosis of moderate to severe anorexia nervosa from a doctor at one of the participating centres, and be able to speak and read English. They cannot be experiencing acute psychosis.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

I care for an adult (18+) with anorexia nervosa.
I am at least 18 years old.
I can speak and read English.
I have access to the internet and can use online meeting tools.
I am not currently experiencing acute psychosis.

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you will join an online program called CAREFREE, which involves 12 group sessions. These sessions will help you understand anorexia better and teach you skills to support yourself and your loved one. The program runs online, so you can participate from anywhere in Scotland with internet access. Researchers will collect information on various outcomes, such as your quality of life, the patient's quality of life, how you communicate as a family, and the patient's motivation to change. This will involve filling out questionnaires. The study will last for 24 months, during which time your progress and the impact of the program will be monitored. There is no specific medication involved in this program.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this program could offer several benefits, such as gaining a better understanding of anorexia, learning new communication skills, and potentially reducing your own stress. We hope it will also improve relationships and motivate your loved one towards recovery. While the program is designed to be supportive, talking about difficult topics can sometimes be emotionally challenging. You are free to stop participating at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect any care you or your loved one receives.

Locations (2)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

NHS Glasgow
Verified postcode
Glasgow, United Kingdom· Recruiting
NHS Forth Valley
Verified postcode
Stirling, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness where a person tries to keep their weight as low as possible, often by restricting food intake. It can lead to severe physical and mental health problems.

Who is the CAREFREE program for?

It's for family members, partners, or spouses who care for an adult (18+) with moderate to severe anorexia nervosa. You need to be able to speak English and have internet access.

How long does the program last?

The CAREFREE program itself involves 12 online sessions. The entire study will track progress and collect information over a 24-month period.

Do I have to pay to join?

No, this is a research study and you will not have to pay to participate in the CAREFREE program.

What if I decide I don't want to continue?

You are completely free to leave the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your or your loved one's care.

How to find out more

Susan G Simpson, Doctorate Clinical Psychology

susan.g.simpson@nhs.scot 44 + 1786458549 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.