Clinical Research Directory

Evaluating an ACT Self-help Book for University Students

Sponsor: Cardiff University

Summary

Background to the project: More and more university students are reporting poor mental health, which has resulted in long waiting lists for student support services. Given this context, self-help solutions, (which means giving students ideas in books/apps/websites that they can try in their own time to help with their problems), are becoming more important. Rationale for the project: There are many self-help resources for students but not many of them are well-researched. This research project will test a self-help book called "The Unbreakable Student: 6 Rules for Staying Sane at University". Methodology: A small group of students (approximately 12) will complete questionnaires at three time points (prior to reading the book, whilst reading the book and after reading the book). They will also answer four questions sent via text message, every three days throughout the study. These will relate to a particular aspect of university life which they have identified as stressful. They will also be interviewed afterwards, to give information about their experiences of reading the book and use of the end of chapter tasks etc. Purpose: The purpose is to find out if the book is helpful for students and, if so, which parts were the most helpful. Hypotheses: The book will help students to be less bothered by difficult thoughts, such that they might find them less interfering and may feel more engaged in meaningful activities. The book will also improve student wellbeing.

Official title: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for University Students: A Single Case Experimental Study of the Self-help Book "The Unbreakable Student"

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