Evaluation of a new Internet-based self-help guide for patients with bulimic symptoms in Sweden

Abstract

The current study evaluated a new Internet-based self-help guide based on cognitive-behavioural therapy for patients with bulimic symptoms. Thirty-eight participants from a waiting list at an eating-disorder outpatient unit were assessed pre-treatment, post-treatment and at a 2-month follow-up using the Rating of Anorexia and Bulimia interview-revised version, an anamnesis questionnaire, the Eating Disorder Inventory-2 (EDI-2) and Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90R). The SCL-90R Global Severity Index and most EDI-2 subscales showed significant differences from pre-to post-treatment and the 2-month follow-up, apart from ineffectiveness, impulse regulation and social insecurity. Expert ratings revealed a significant reduction in vomiting, dietary restraints and weight phobia, with the exception of binge eating from pre-treatment to the 2-month follow-up. Exercise increased significantly, indicating that participants changed their method of compensation. An Internet-based self-help guide for bulimic symptoms is a promising new tool and can be used effectively as the first step in a stepped-care model. Further evaluations with randomized controlled trials are necessary.