Brief Intervention for FCD: A Feasibility Study
This research study aims to explore a new, brief talking therapy for individuals diagnosed with Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD). FCD is when someone experiences problems with their memory and thinking, but doctors haven't found any physical reasons for it. We want to find out if offering a single therapy session, which includes a technique called Attention Training, is practical and well-received by patients. We'll also be looking at whether this session might help with FCD symptoms, daily life activities, and overall quality of life. Participants will complete questionnaires, attend one clinic session, and have two follow-up phone calls to share their experiences.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research study is looking into a condition called Functional Cognitive Disorder, or FCD. If you have FCD, it means you're experiencing problems with your memory, concentration, or other thinking abilities, but doctors haven't found any clear physical cause, like a head injury or a specific brain disease, to explain these symptoms. It's a real and often frustrating experience for those affected.
The main aim of this study is to test a new, very short therapy. It's designed to be just a single session and includes something called 'Attention Training Technique'. We want to see if this one-off therapy is something people with FCD find useful and easy to fit into their lives. We're also keen to understand if it can make a difference to their symptoms, help them with everyday tasks, and improve their general well-being and quality of life.
By taking part, you'd help us understand if this brief intervention could be a helpful option for future FCD treatment. Your experiences and feedback are really important, as they will help us learn how effective and practical this kind of support could be for others living with FCD.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a single-session talking therapy for Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD).
- It aims to see if the therapy is practical and helpful for symptoms and quality of life.
- Participation involves questionnaires, one clinic visit, and two follow-up phone calls.
- The therapy includes 'Attention Training Technique' to help with focus.
- Your involvement could help improve future support for people with FCD.
- You can stop participating at any time without affecting your medical care.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 65 years old. You must have been diagnosed with Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) by a doctor. This means your memory or thinking problems aren't caused by another medical condition, and brain scans (like an MRI) have shown nothing unusual.
However, there are some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you're over 65, or if a doctor has diagnosed you with another brain condition. Also, if you're currently taking part in another clinical trial or study that involves trying out a treatment, you wouldn't be able to join this one. We also wouldn't be able to include you if you're experiencing severe low mood or depression, as this study isn't designed to help with those specific issues.
It's very important that you're able to understand what the study involves and agree to take part. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, it's always best to discuss it with your doctor or the study team.
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.
- Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
- Have you been diagnosed with Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD) by a doctor?
- Do brain scans (like MRI) show no unusual findings?
- Are your thinking problems not caused by another medical condition?
- Are you NOT currently in another treatment study or trial?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, here's what you can expect:
First, you'll be asked to fill out some questionnaires. These will cover your concerns about memory and thinking, as well as how you're feeling generally, including any anxiety or low mood, and how these affect your daily life and overall well-being.
Next, you'll visit a clinic for a single therapy session. During this session, you'll learn and practice a technique called Attention Training Technique (ATT), which is aimed at helping with concentration and attention.
After your clinic visit, a researcher will call you twice at home. These phone calls are to chat about how you've been getting on with the techniques learned, and to complete the same set of questionnaires you filled in at the start. You'll also answer some questions about your overall experience of taking part in the study and whether you found the session helpful. There are no medications involved in this study. The total duration of your involvement, from the first questionnaires to the final phone call, will typically last a few weeks.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- King's College HospitalVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is Functional Cognitive Disorder (FCD)?
FCD is when someone has real problems with their memory or thinking, but doctors haven't found a physical cause for it, like a brain disease.
What is 'Attention Training Technique'?
It's a specific mental exercise designed to help you improve your focus and concentration.
How long will I be involved in the study?
Your involvement in the study will typically last a few weeks, including questionnaires, one clinic visit, and two phone calls.
Will I have to take any new medicines?
No, this study does not involve taking any new medications. It's focused on a talking therapy technique.
What will happen to my information?
All your personal information will be kept confidential and used only for research purposes, following strict privacy rules.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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