TABLE 1.

Summary of content shared about Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT)

What is ICBT: ICBT stands for Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy ICBT treatment can be designed to help people manage chronic pain One of the main parts of ICBT for chronic pain is helping clients learn various coping skills for managing chronic pain Users are often taught relaxation strategies and how to plan and engage in activities when faced with chronic pain Users are also taught how to identify and challenge thinking patterns that may contribute to low mood or low quality of life These strategies are intended to increase quality of life as well as stress management Why ICBT for chronic pain: Chronic pain is an important area of study because of the high number of people affected by chronic pain Approximately 15% to 18% of Canadians will develop a chronic pain condition during their lifetime. People with chronic pain often find they need to learn new ways to manage their pain and often have difficulty obtaining help with this How does it work: There are many types of ICBT programs Most programs deliver content in sections which allow users to review program material on a daily basis Users typically receive a login name and a password which allows them to access the program Users can login to the program as often as they like to review program material Users can also have contact with a trained provider, most commonly a psychologist or someone under the supervision of a psychologist Messages are often sent online through a private and secure messaging system Who can use it: ICBT may not be appropriate for people who are at risk of harming themselves or others, people experiencing suicidal thoughts, manic symptoms or delusions, and people who are misusing drugs or alcohol These people would benefit most from in-person treatment and they would not be appropriate for ICBT