GOSH Website MICE Project

Mental Health Intervention for Children with Epilepsy: A Randomised Controlled Trial

There are higher rates of common mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and behavioural problems experienced by young people with epilepsy. However, existing epilepsy services are separate from mental health services so mental health problems often go untreated in young people with epilepsy.

Our research project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an evidence-based psychological treatment for common mental health problems in children with epilepsy.

The psychological treatment is called the Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH) and is provided over the telephone or video-conferencing software. Children with mental health difficulties will be randomised to either a) receive the psychological treatment plus their usual care for mental health problems or b) continue to receive the usual care provided at their local NHS trust We will compare the two groups after treatment (at follow up points at six months and 12 months) to evaluate changes in mental health symptoms, using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) as the primary outcome.

To find out more, email gos-tr.mice@nhs.net or visit UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health website to find out more