Adapted Self-Help Plus for Stress
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a stress management program, Self-Help Plus (SH+), can help international students at a U.S. university feel less stressed and more supported. The program includes a two-day workshop with videos, activities, and discussions designed to reduce stress and improve mood. Participants will complete surveys before and after the workshop to track their stress and well-being. International students experiencing mild distress who understand English well may be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to research that could enhance stress management resources for international students.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on stress management and does not mention medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this stress management program is safe for international students?
Research has shown that the Self-Help Plus (SH+) program is safe and well-received by participants. Studies have found that SH+ helps lower stress and can prevent mental health issues. The World Health Organization created this program, tailoring it for various groups, such as university students and community health workers in India.
Evidence indicates that SH+ does not cause any major side effects, as it focuses on managing stress through workshops, interactive activities, and group discussions. This method aims to boost well-being and is considered safe for participants. Reports have not identified any negative effects from the program, making it a promising choice for those wanting to manage stress and improve their mental health.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Most treatments for stress involve medication or traditional therapy sessions, but Adapted Self-Help Plus (SH+) offers a fresh approach by combining digital resources with in-person interaction. This treatment is unique because it uses digitized materials, including animated videos and guided exercises, making it engaging and accessible. Additionally, the two-day workshop format allows participants to quickly learn and practice stress management techniques in a supportive group setting. Researchers are excited about SH+ because it could provide a more flexible and scalable option for managing stress, potentially reaching a wider audience than traditional methods.
What evidence suggests that this adapted stress management program is effective for reducing stress?
Studies have shown that Self-Help Plus (SH+) effectively reduces stress and improves mental health. Research indicates it lowers feelings of anxiety and depression. For example, one study found that people felt less worried or sad after using SH+. Another study demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing more serious anxiety and stress from past trauma. Overall, SH+ appears to enhance well-being and helps people manage stress better. Participants in this trial will attend a two-day in-person workshop featuring digitized SH+ materials, including animated videos, guided stress management exercises, and group discussions.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Adam D Brown, PhD
Principal Investigator
The New School, Center for Global Mental Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for international students at The New School who are 18 or older, experiencing mild distress (scoring ≥3 on the Patient Health Questionnaire-4), and can understand English well enough to follow the program. They must be willing to consent to participate and complete study assessments.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Workshop
Participants attend a two-day in-person workshop that includes animated videos, interactive activities, and group discussions
Follow-up
Participants complete surveys about stress, mood, and well-being, and are monitored for changes from baseline to 6-week follow-up
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Adapted Self-Help Plus (SH+)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
The New School
Lead Sponsor