A Cluster Randomised Trial of an Internet-Based Intervention Program for Tinnitus Distress in an Industrial Setting

Abstract

The effectiveness of a therapist-supported Internet intervention program for tinnitus distress in an industrial setting was evaluated using a cluster randomised design. Fifty-six Australian employees of two industrial organisations were randomly assigned, based on their work site (18 work sites from BP Australia and five from BHP Billiton), to either a cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program or an information-only control program. Participants were assessed at pre- and postprogram, measuring tinnitus distress, depression, anxiety, stress, quality of life, and occupational health. The CBT program was not found to be superior to the information program for treating tinnitus distress. A high attrition rate and small sample size limit the generalisability of the findings, and further developments of the program and assessment process are needed to enhance engagement and compliance.

Keywords:

• Tinnitus
• distress
• Internet intervention
• Internet
• cognitive behaviour therapy
• cluster randomised trial
• therapist-assisted

Acknowledgments

We wish to acknowledge the contribution of the late Professor Jeff Richards to the development of this project. This project was supported by an Australian Research Council Linkage Project Grant with industry contribution from BP Australia. We wish to thank BP Australia and BHP Billiton and all participants who took part.