Randomized controlled trial of a web‐based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) program to promote mental health in university students

摘要

Abstract Objective This study evaluated a 4‐week web‐based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) mental health promotion intervention for university students. Method Participants were randomized to intervention ( n ?=?596) or waitlist control ( n ?=?566). Assessment of primary outcomes (depression, anxiety, stress, well‐being, self‐compassion, life satisfaction, and academic performance) and ACT processes (acceptance, cognitive fusion, education values, valued living, and present moment awareness) occurred at pre‐ and post‐intervention and 12‐week follow‐up for intervention participants, and the same pre–post interval for waitlist control participants. Results Analyses showed significant improvements from pre‐ to post‐intervention compared with waitlist control on all primary outcomes and ACT processes. All intervention gains were maintained at follow‐up. Improvements on all primary outcomes were mediated by three or more ACT processes in both samples. Intervention effects were consistent across both sample groupings. Conclusion Findings provide support for a web‐based ACT mental health promotion intervention for university students.