Feasibility and Acceptability of an In-Person 8-Week Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program for University Students to Reduce Depression and Anxiety Symptoms

What this Trial Is About

Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal behaviors are increasingly common among university students worldwide. Studies have shown high rates of psychiatric disorders in this population, including in Chile where depressive symptoms and suicide risk remain significant concerns. This research aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of an in-person mindfulness-based cognitive therapy program designed to reduce these mental health symptoms among undergraduate students at Universidad de los Andes. The intervention involves an 8-week Mindfulness Skills for Students program, delivered in-person by two trained facilitators at Universidad de los Andes. Each weekly session lasts 90 minutes and includes group mindfulness activities such as sitting meditation, body scan, and mindfulness of daily activities. Participants receive worksheets, access to an online platform with audiovisual guidance, and are asked to practice mindfulness exercises at home for 15 minutes daily. The program incorporates group discussions on stress management, mindfulness concepts, and acceptance of experiences. Participants will attend weekly sessions and complete daily home practice logs online. Researchers will assess the programs acceptability, recruitment feasibility, and participant satisfaction over about two years. Mental health outcomes like depression, anxiety, suicidal risk, quality of life, and mindfulness skills will be measured using standardized questionnaires throughout the study. The study will monitor any adverse events and provide support as needed, aiming to explore the programs impact on students mental health.

Acceptability and Feasibility of an In-person 8-week Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy Program Among Undergraduates