Can a 4-Week online course ease burnout in future doctors?

NCT ID NCT06914843

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This pilot study tested a web-based program called OptimalWork that teaches cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) skills to help medical trainees manage stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression. 35 participants were randomly assigned to either the 4-week online course or a podcast-listening control group. Researchers measured well-being over 16 weeks to see if the program improves resilience and mental health.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

OptimalWork (online CBT-based training modules)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a scalable way to improve mental health and resilience among medical trainees and healthcare workers.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 35 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The intervention requires daily time commitment, and benefits may not last long-term.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

    St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States