A multiple methods evaluation of a cognitive behavioural therapy group for people with learning disabilities and anxiety

Accessible summary:
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help individuals with learning disabilities and anxiety.
• A group was run to help people to manage their anxiety and to feel better.
• At the end participants and their supporters fed back their experiences of the group and filled in questionnaires to measure their anxiety and psychological distress.
• The group seems to reduce people's anxiety.
• This report adds to a growing body of existing literature demonstrating some benefits of CBT for people with learning disabilities and anxiety.

Abstract:
Background: Existing studies show mixed results of the effectiveness of CBT for people with learning disabilities and anxiety.

Method: A CBT group was run for people with learning disabilities and anxiety, who attended with a supporter. Qualitative interviews were conducted post-group and analysed using thematic analysis. Standardised questionnaires measuring anxiety, psychological distress and overall functioning were administered at pre- and post-group, and at follow-up.

Results: Participants’ anxiety decreased overall post-group, which remained largely at follow-up. The group and the supporters’ involvement was helpful. Both supporters and participants recalled coping strategies that were presented in the group. Three out of four participants found attending a group challenging initially. The supporters seem to have specific expectations about the impact of the group.

Conclusions: The results of the study are consistent with the existing, growing body of evidence which supports the use of CBT for people with learning disabilities and anxiety.