Further Development and Initial Testing of RESTORE in Frontline Workers

RESTORE (www.restoreonline.ca) includes eight e-modules anticipated to be approximately 30-40 minutes each in length and intended to be completed over 4-8 weeks. The modules address cognitive and behavioural factors posited to cause and maintain psychological distress related to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include cognitions about the cause and meaning of stressors related to the pandemic, including self-blame, other blame and hindsight bias, as well as problematic beliefs related to safety, trust, and control. The modules also address the importance of: (1) expressing emotions that are natural to the events of the pandemic (e.g., sadness in the face of loss), (2) working through, rather than avoiding, thoughts, feelings and grief related to the pandemic, and (3) utilizing social supports. The modules consist of written materials, brief videos, and practice assignments delivered through the platform. RESTORE includes guidance via direct messaging and/or brief telephone calls.