Online Self-Esteem Interventions

Online self-esteem interventions are programs designed to help individuals improve their self-esteem through techniques which aim to address factors such negative self-perceptions and the promotion of positive self-image. While these are highly relevant factors following SCI, and are associated with symptoms of depression, only a single study has assessed the impact of such interventions in an SCI population (van Leeuwen et al. 2012).

Discussion

In an RCT, Robinson-Whelen et al. (2022) randomized participants into a self-esteem for women with disabilities intervention (SEE-SCI) group compared to no treatment group. The SEE-SCI group consisted of online virtual activities to improve self-efficacy and social connectedness. The study found no significant reduction in symptoms of depression in the SEE-SCI group compared to the control group.

Conclusion

There is level 2 evidence that self-esteem programs do not improve symptoms of depression post SCI.