Anxiety, Depression in Adults
Conditions
Keywords
Depression, Anxiety, Group therapy, Social support
Brief summary
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in group settings to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhance emotional resilience, and improve social support among Pakistani individuals struggling with these conditions.
Detailed description
Mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are prevalent in Pakistan and significantly affect the emotional, social, and occupational well-being of individuals. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability globally, and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in Pakistan, affecting millions. In the Pakistani context, stigma surrounding mental illness, lack of awareness, and limited access to mental health services create substantial barriers to care. Group therapy, which provides a collective support system and skill-building strategies, can be an effective modality in addressing these challenges. Structured group therapy offers participants a sense of community, reduces feelings of isolation, and provides a platform for learning coping strategies within a culturally sensitive framework. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in group settings to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhance emotional resilience, and improve social support among Pakistani individuals struggling with these conditions.
Interventions
Participants will receive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) therapy techniques in group settings. The intervention will cover contents like: (1) Introduction to Depression and Anxiety: Understanding symptoms and causes; (2) Cognitive Restructuring: Identifying and challenging negative thoughts; (3) Stress Management: Techniques for managing physiological and psychological stress; (4) Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, breathing exercises, and body scanning; (5) Behavioural Activation: Planning and engaging in pleasurable and meaningful activities; (6) Social Support: Building and enhancing relationships; (7) Relapse Prevention: Strategies for maintaining progress after the intervention. Each group will consist of 8-10 participants to allow for optimal interaction and support. Twelve weekly group sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, will be conducted.
Sponsors
Pakistan Association of Cognitive Therapists
Study design
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Intervention model
PARALLEL
Primary purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE (Subject)
Eligibility
Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
18 Years to 65 Years
Healthy volunteers
No
Inclusion criteria
* Adults (18-65 years) * Diagnosed with moderate to severe depression * Residing in urban or rural areas of Pakistan * Willingness to attend 12 weekly group therapy sessions and comply with the study protocol
Exclusion criteria
* Severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., psychosis, bipolar disorder) * Ongoing substance abuse or severe substance use disorder * Participation in other therapeutic interventions (e.g., individual therapy or group therapy) during the study period * Cognitive impairments that would interfere with participation
Design outcomes
Primary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Depression and anxiety | 12 weeks | As measured through the participants' scores on the Hospital Anxiety & Depression Scale (HADS) |
Secondary
| Measure | Time frame | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Social support | 12 weeks | As measured through participants' scores on the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) |
| Functionality of participants | 12 weeks | As measured through participants' scores on the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) |
Countries
Pakistan
Outcome results
None listed