Exploring Patient Perspectives on a 12-Week Online, Stress Reduction Intervention in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Background Online stress reduction interventions may be useful adjuncts to standard medical therapies for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). As part of the evaluation of a 12-week randomized control trial (RCT) of an online multicomponent stress reduction program, our aim for the current study was to use qualitative methods to more deeply explore the patient experience with the online programming. Methods Upon completion of the 12-week RCT, all intervention participants were invited to participate in semistructured interviews. A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Interviews were analyzed through a theoretical thematic analysis process, whereby transcripts were coded, and codes then grouped into larger categories and themes. Results A total of 56 interviews were analyzed with the emergence of 3 main themes: (1) IBD as a source of stress and uncertainty, (2) understanding the positive impacts of the stress reduction program, and (3) suggested strategies to enhance program desirability. IBD was described as causing uncertainty, significant disruptions to daily activities, and stress, which in turn worsened symptoms. The online program was associated with a perceived reduction in IBD symptom burden, an increased ability to manage daily and disease-associated stressors, and a more positive mindset. Variation in program content and fostering connections with others in the IBD community were identified as potential strategies to enhance future programming. Conclusions This qualitative companion study highlights the power of the patient voice to deepen our understanding of the impact of IBD, and the potential benefit of an online stress reduction program including suggestions for iterative refinement. Lay Summary Findings of our qualitative study indicated that IBD was a significant sources of stress, with participation in a novel 12-week online mental wellness program serving to decrease participants' symptoms and increase their perceived ability to manage stress.