Can an online program ease the distress of unexplained physical symptoms?
NCT ID NCT04942028
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether an internet-based exposure therapy program can reduce distress related to physical symptoms better than standard education about healthy lifestyle habits. 161 adults in Stockholm with significant distress from somatic symptoms participated. The treatment involves gradually facing situations that trigger symptom-related distress, delivered online.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- internet-delivered exposure-based behavioral therapy
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could provide an accessible online treatment option for people distressed by chronic physical symptoms, reducing healthcare costs.
- What could go wrong
- This is a single completed trial with 161 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The treatment requires active engagement and may not help everyone.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Liljeholmen University Primary Health Care Centre
Stockholm, 11763, Sweden
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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