Clinical effectiveness of computer-based psychoeducational self-help platforms for eating disorders (with or without an associated app): A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, computer-based self-help platforms for eating disorders (EDs) became increasingly prevalent as a tool to effectively prevent and treat ED symptoms and related behaviours. This systematic review explored the clinical effectiveness of computer-based self-help platforms for EDs. Methods: From inception to the 31st of May 2024, a systematic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Global Health, and APA PsycInfo was conducted. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Outcome quality assessments were conducted according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). Results: 14 RCTs, with a total of 4195 participants, were included. 4 studies explored the effectiveness as primary prevention, 7 as secondary prevention, and 3 as tertiary intervention. The gathered literature demonstrated computer-based self-help platforms as clinically effective in reducing ED core symptoms and related behaviours, with psychoeducation, cognitive behavioural, and dissonance-based approaches being the most prevalent approaches. Conclusions: Computer-based self-help platforms are effective in the short-term reduction of ED symptoms and associated behaviours and should be implemented in the early stages of a tiered healthcare system for ED treatments. Trial Registration: Prospero (CRD42024520866).