RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Internet-based stress management for distressed managers: results from a randomised controlled trial JF Occupational and Environmental Medicine JO Occup Environ Med FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 105 OP 113 DO 10.1136/oemed-2017-104458 VO 75 IS 2 A1 Robert Persson Asplund A1 Jesper Dagöö A1 Ida Fjellström A1 Linnea Niemi A1 Katja Hansson A1 Forough Zeraati A1 Masha Ziuzina A1 Anna Geraedts A1 Brjánn Ljótsson A1 Per Carlbring A1 Gerhard Andersson YR 2018 UL http://oem.bmj.com/content/75/2/105.abstract AB Objective The aim of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the efficacy of a guided internet-based stress management intervention (iSMI) among distressed managers compared with a attention control group (AC) with full access to treatment-as-usual.Method A total sample of 117 distressed managers, mainly employed in the healthcare, IT, communication and educational sector, were randomised to either iSMI (n=59) or an AC group (n=58). The iSMI consisted of eight modules including cognitive behavioural stress management and positive management techniques. Participants received a minimal and weekly guidance from a psychologist or master-level psychology student focusing on support, feedback and adherence to the intervention. Self-report data were assessed at pre, post and 6 months after the intervention. The primary outcome was perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale-14). The secondary outcomes included mental and work-related health outcomes.Results Participants in the iSMI intervention reported significantly less symptoms of perceived stress (d=0.74, 95% CI 0.30 to 1.19) and burnout (d=0.95, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.37) compared with controls, at postassessment. Significant medium-to-large effect sizes were also found for depression, insomnia and job satisfaction. Long-term effects (6 months) were seen on the mental health outcomes.Conclusion This is one of the first studies showing that iSMIs can be an effective, accessible and potentially time-effective approach of reducing stress and other mental-related and work-related health symptoms among distressed managers. Future studies are needed addressing distressed managers and the potential of indirect effects on employee stress and satisfaction at work.