Table 1 Content of the internet-based self-help program for SAD[29]
Session 1: Motivational enhancement | Reasons to initiate change, definition of goals, recording of difficult social situations |
Session 2: Psychoeducation | Information on SAD and its maintaining processes such as negative beliefs, self-focused attention and safety behaviors |
Development of an individual model for SAD | |
Session 3: Cognitive Restructuring | Identification and modification of dysfunctional assumptions using a thought record |
Session 4: Self focused attention | Various exercises to reduce self-focused attention, e.g. short behavioral experiments |
Session 5: Behavioral experiments | Planning and implementation of in vivo exposures |
Session 6: Summary and Repetition | Summary of the key elements of the treatment with emphasis on the importance of repeated practice (e.g. in vivo exposure) |
Session 7: Healthy lifestyle and problem solving | Information on healthy lifestyle behavior (physical exercise and nutrition) |
Development of problem solving skills | |
Session 8: Relapse prevention | Strategies for maintaining the skills learned, preparation for possible relapse |