Overview

This randomised controlled trial aims to investigate the efficacy of a psychological intervention for long COVID (LC) / post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) called Balance Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (Balance ACT).

The primary objective of this trial is to investigate whether Balance-ACT improves quality of life over treatment as usual (i.e., self-help leaflet) in people with PCS/LC.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18 or older
2. LC/PCS diagnosis as defined by National Health Service (NHS) / National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (i.e., symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with COVID-19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis). A checklist will be used to ensure participants fulfil the diagnostic criteria as per the NICE guidelines
3. Ability to travel to the research site for the study assessments
4. Having registered with a General Practitioner (GP) in the United Kingdom (UK) and consent to provide their details for the study team to contact
5. Ability to provide informed consent
6. Ability to read and write English

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current diagnosis of an active major mental health disorder likely to interfere with participation
2. Unstable alcohol / drug dependency
3. Unstable complications associated with LC/PCS
4. Past hospitalisation for COVID-19
5. Current or recent participation in other treatment intervention studies (<4 weeks after completion)
6. Currently receiving psychological support or psychotherapy
7. Pregnancy