Macquarie University Anxiety Research Unit (MUARU)
The Cool Teens CD-ROM - Evaluation of a self-help multi-media computer program for adolescents with anxiety disorders
The study is being conducted by a group of psychologists at the Macquarie University Anxiety Research Unit (MUARU) within the Department of Psychology under the direction of Professor Ronald Rapee and Dr Viviana Wuthrich. The study is funded by a grant from the Australian Rotary Health Research Fund.
Background
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in young people and can produce marked interference in their lives. Despite the development of many effective cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) programs for this problem, access to treatment services remains a problem and it is estimated that only 1 in 4 young people receive professional help. A variety of treatment barriers may be involved, including lack of confidentiality, stigma, cost, geographic isolation, access to therapists, and discomfort with traditional therapy procedures and formats. Since computer-based CBT (CCBT) has been shown to be clinically efficacious and an acceptable therapy format for various forms of anxiety in adults, a team at our research unit set about offering a new computer-based option. As a result, we have developed Cool Teens, a self-help therapy CD-ROM for anxiety disorders in adolescents.
What is the purpose of the study?
The purpose of this study is to investigate if a new computer-based treatment is effective in reducing adolescent anxiety, and to provide information to ensure that future programs are designed to be of most help. The treatment study will involve the home use of a new self-help CD-ROM by young people who experience anxiety.
We are currently seeking participants. The study is open to young people living in any part of Australia who would like help to manage their anxiety, are between 14 and 18 years of age, and have access to a computer. Teens, parents, school counsellors and GPs can read more information about the research at http://www.psy.mq.edu.au/MUARU/child/highschool.htm.
To apply to participate or for more information contact:
Viviana Wuthrich, Ph.D.
Macquarie University Anxiety Research Unit
Sydney, NSW, Australia 2109
Phone: 02 9850 8041 Email: viviana.wuthrich@psy.mq.edu.au or Cool.Teens@psy.mq.edu.au