PS31 Loving ACTion: a mixed-methods evaluation of a podcast series to help adults with skin conditions or other appearance-affecting conditions or injuries navigate intimacy and romantic relationships

Abstract

Previous research demonstrates that some adults with skin conditions or other conditions or injuries that impact their appearance (referred to collectively as visible differences) experience challenges related to establishing and/or maintaining romantic relationships, sex and physical intimacy. Loving ACTion is a self-guided podcast intervention, based on acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), aimed at supporting adults with visible differences to navigate these challenges. The current study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Loving ACTion intervention, using a mixed-methods approach. Seventy-one adults were recruited with a range of visible differences (including 22 with skin conditions including eczema, ichthyosis, vitiligo, acne, rosacea, epidermolysis bullosa and atopic dermatitis, and 21 with alopecia). They completed an online mixed-methods survey at three timepoints: baseline, postintervention and 1-month follow-up. Sixteen (including five with a dermatological condition) also took part in a semistructured interview. Paired-samples t-tests were used to examine differences in outcomes related to psychosocial ­wellbeing and body image constructs between timepoints. Content analysis was used to analyse open-ended survey responses and template analysis was used to analyse interview data. Between baseline and postintervention, there were significant reductions in appearance-focused distress within romantic relationships, body image life disengagement, fear of negative appearance evaluation, and internal shame, and significant improvements in body esteem, self-compassion and psychological flexibility. Between baseline and follow-up, the same effects were observed, plus statistically significant improvements in valued living. Qualitative analysis suggested engaging with Loving ACTion facilitated personal growth and highlighted the importance of considering individual needs and ways to meet these. The Loving ACTion podcast-based intervention can help adults with dermatological conditions or other visible differences to navigate dating and romantic relationships. This novel intervention addresses a previous gap in support provision for adults with skin conditions and is now freely available at www.VisibleDifferenceSupportHub.com.