Clinical Research Directory

Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) for Anxiety and Depression in Singapore

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) has a robust evidence base for treating anxiety disorders and depression, including transdiagnostic CBT. Internet-based CBT (iCBT) offers a new approach to delivering these therapies. iCBT is a digital adaptation of traditional CBT that leverages digital platforms to deliver similar therapeutic interventions. iCBT encompasses structured programmes that provide users with tools and techniques to manage mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The digital format ensures timely access to CBT and typically includes interactive modules, videos, self-assessment tools, and virtual therapist support. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of iCBT in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as its cost-effectiveness and acceptability in local context. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Do participants receiving iCBT show a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, and does the effectiveness of iCBT vary based on individual user characteristics? 2. What are the factors that influence the acceptance, adoption, and engagement rates of iCBT among Singaporeans? 3. Is iCBT more cost-effective as compared to usual care? Researchers will compare guided iCBT to usual care (traditional CBT) to assess iCBT's clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and acceptability in Singapore's primary and community healthcare settings. Participants in the intervention group will: 1. Undergo guided iCBT intervention consisting of 8 weeks of online modules covering core CBT techniques 2. Counsellors will schedule 3 regular check-ins 3. Questionnaires will be administered at 5 timepoints 4. Selected participants will be invited for a semi-structured interview to assess their experiences with iCBT Participants in the control group will: 1. Continue usual care 2. Questionnaires will be administered at 5 timepoints A parallel qualitative study involving service providers is required to contextualise trial findings, identify implementation barriers and enablers and inform national scale-up and policy decisions. It aims to explore service providers' experiences, perceptions and contextual factors influencing the implementation of iCBT within routine primary-care and community mental-health services participating in this trial.

Testing Adapted Self-Help Plus (SH+) for Stress and Well-Being in International Students at a U.S. University

The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if an adapted version of Self-Help Plus (SH+), a stress management program developed by the World Health Organization, can reduce stress and improve well-being in international students at a U.S. university. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does SH+ reduce perceived stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms in international students? Does SH+ improve feelings of social support, self-efficacy, and adjustment in a new cultural environment? Participants will: Attend a two-day in-person workshop that includes animated videos, interactive activities, and group discussions. Complete three surveys (before the workshop, right after, and six weeks later) about stress, mood, and well-being. Optionally, take part in a short interview to share feedback about their experience.