Effectiveness of Web‑based Psychoeducation Using a Cognitive‑behavioral Change Approach for Workers with Anxiety: A randomized controlled trial (Japanese)

Yoichi Seki, Yoichi Sekizawa and Eiji Shimizu

Discussion Papers (Japanese) from Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI)

Abstract: Background: Many workers fail to seek medical care or treatment despite experiencing significant anxiety. Such anxiety reduces individual well being and may lower labor productivity, creating economic losses. Easily accessible interventions that reduce anxiety are urgently needed. Intervention: We conducted a randomized controlled trial among workers with high GAD 7 scores to examine whether a web based psychoeducation program using a cognitive behavioral change approach reduces worry. The intervention included relaxation through breathing and imagery, attention training, a “three good things” exercise, and problem solving, delivered weekly for four weeks. The control group also recorded the time and weather online on a weekly basis. Outcomes included PSWQ (primary) and PHQ 9, GAD 7, and WHO HPQ (secondary). Results: Of 516 eligible participants, 355 were analyzed. The intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in PSWQ at week 4, with effects maintained at week 8. No significant differences were found for secondary outcomes. Conclusion: A brief four week web based psychoeducation program may effectively reduce anxiety among workers who suffer from anxiety.

Pages: 17 pages
Date: 2026-03
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eti:rdpsjp:26017

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