Online Programme Cuts Functional Seizure Frequency
A Melbourne-based clinical trial demonstrates that a self-guided intervention significantly lowers seizure rates for adults.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Stroke
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A clinical trial conducted in Melbourne between February 2022 and April 2024 found that a self-guided internet programme reduces functional seizure frequency in adults. Participants using the tool achieved a seizure rate ratio of 0.35 compared to those receiving standard care.
Why it matters
The intervention offers a scalable treatment alternative for patients who lack access to specialist psychological care. It provides a new method for managing symptoms that are otherwise difficult to treat.
The study involved 107 participants with video electroencephalogram-confirmed functional seizures and a minimum of four seizures per month. Results showed a statistical p-value of 0.006 for the observed reduction in overall seizure frequency.
The players
Re-PROGRAM
This is a five-session self-guided digital intervention designed to assist individuals with managing functional seizures through psychological therapy and lifestyle adjustment.
The details
The Re-PROGRAM intervention consists of five sessions focusing on lifestyle factors, seizure management, and psychological therapy. While self-guided participants showed improved anxiety levels over 12 months, therapist-guided sessions did not yield a significant reduction in seizure frequency.
Timeline
The clinical trial in Melbourne occurred from February 2022 to April 2024.
Follow-up assessments for seizure frequency and anxiety occurred at 6 weeks.
Researchers conducted follow-up checks at 6 months.
The final study follow-up was completed at 12 months.
The Big Picture
The findings regarding the Re-PROGRAM intervention mark a significant step in validating digital psychological support for patients with functional neurological disorders. This model provides a template for scaling mental health therapies for conditions where access to specialists is often limited.
Patients may find the self-guided programme provides a new, accessible tool for managing functional seizures outside of traditional clinical settings. This approach offers a potential reduction in seizure frequency without the requirement for frequent therapist-led appointments.
The takeaway
Self-guided digital interventions represent a viable pathway for individuals needing consistent psychological support for seizure management. Implementing such programmes could bridge the gap in care for those unable to access traditional therapist-led treatment.
Further reading
For more information on similar research, visit the Stroke section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by European Medical Journal.
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