Study Comparing Group-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to Supportive Group Therapy for University Students With Depression and Anxiety

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the efficacy of a group-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ACT compared to a non-directive group therapy in university students with moderate to moderatehigh emotional symptoms such as depression and anxiety. The study aims to improve mental health by increasing psychological flexibility, which helps individuals act according to their values while accepting difficult emotions. The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial with an ideographic approach to measure changes in emotional symptoms and psychological flexibility. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups a structured ACT group or a non-directive supportive group. Both interventions consist of five in-person sessions, each lasting approximately 90 minutes. The ACT sessions focus on increasing psychological flexibility through core processes, while the non-directive group provides emotional support through empathy and active listening without clinical techniques. The intervention period includes daily and weekly assessments using Ecological Momentary Assessment EMA and ends with follow-up assessments. During the study, participants complete self-report questionnaires at baseline, after the intervention, and at follow-up points. Researchers assess depressive and anxiety symptoms, psychological flexibility, repetitive negative thinking, and sense of purpose in life. Daily and weekly EMA measures are collected from Week 2 to Week 15, with follow-ups at Weeks 15 and 23. Qualitative interviews are also conducted to explore participant experiences. The total study duration includes intervention and follow-up periods extending to about 23 weeks.

Group-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Versus Active Control in University Students With Emotional Symptoms