The Development of a Computer-Administered Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention to Promote Stress Management Among HIV+ Women

Abstract

Few interventions address the unique psychosocial needs of HIV+ women. To address this unmet need, we developed and pilot tested a brief, cognitive-behavioral computerized stress management intervention with 60 HIV+ women. This interactive intervention included modules that promoted cognitive appraisal skills, encouraged appropriate coping responses and problem solving skills, and provided relaxation training. In this report we provide an overview of the intervention and present acceptability and feasibility data from a pilot intervention trial. All participants successfully navigated the computerized program and most found the intervention to be acceptable. Overall, the results indicated that a brief, computerized stress management intervention was a feasible and acceptable approach to enhance stress management skills; use of this intervention has the potential to reduce distress and improve health outcomes among HIV+ women.