An initial evaluation of an online, compassionate intervention for adults with type 1 and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Individuals with a Chronic Physical Health Condition (CPHC) may experience ongoing challenges with physical and psychological wellbeing. Psychological therapies are offered to this population and literature is emerging to indicate that compassion-focused interventions may be useful. This review sought to assess the evidence-base for the effectiveness and acceptability of digital, self-compassion interventions for individuals with CPHCs.

Methods: A quantitative, systematic review of five databases (four published, one unpublished) elicited 12 studies that met inclusion criteria. Studies were assessed for quality using the Effective Public Healthcare Practice Project tool. Data was extracted and narratively synthesised.

Results: Included studies were of a weak (n=7) or moderate quality (n=5), with samples of chronic pain, visible skin conditions, breast cancer survivors, type two diabetes mellitus, coeliac disease and mixed CPHC populations. Findings suggested preliminary evidence for the effectiveness and acceptability of digital, self-compassion interventions in CPHCs, particularly in people with chronic pain and breast cancer survivors. This was reflected in the change of self-compassion, psychological and condition-specific outcome measures, along with reported satisfaction and adherence

Discussion: Given the preliminary findings, digital, self-compassion interventions appear to be effective and acceptable for some CPHCs. Suggestions for future research have been made in the context of the reported strengths and limitations of this systematic review.