Efficacy of Therapist Guided e-Therapy Versus Self-Help Therapy on Psychological Distress Among Individuals in Oman During COVID-19 Pandemic
Depressive Symptoms, Generalized Anxiety
About this trial
This is an interventional treatment trial for Depressive Symptoms
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
- All Omanis and Non-Omanis living in Oman, Male or female aging 18-65 years, with PHQ-9 or GAD -7 total scores ≥ 10.
- Has access to the internet and video conferencing.
- Able to participate in the trial and adhere to the trial protocol.
- Can provide a written informed consent to participate in the trial.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Pre-existing mental disorders.
- Diagnosis of moderate to severe intellectual disability.
- Presence of alcohol or other substance use disorders (except for nicotine or caffeine).
- Those who does not meet the inclusion criteria.
- Those with suicidal or homicidal ideation at baseline.
Sites / Locations
Arms of the Study
Arm 1
Arm 2
Experimental
Active Comparator
Therapist Guided E-Therapy
Self-Help Therapy
The participants in this group will be allocated weekly sessions with a trained aboard certified clinical psychologist via a web-based e-therapy platform. The sessions will be conducted in the Arabic or English languages. Following sessions would focus on psychological first aid based on the following interventional tools: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Acknowledging emotions and normalizing current stress Differentiate dysfunction versus distress (identify any debilitating thoughts/emotions if applicable) Behavioral Activation Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Grounding, Breathing, Acceptance of emotions, and de-fusion
The participants in the control group will be supplied with an automatic weekly newsletter through E-mail containing self-help information and tips to cope with distress associated with COVID-19 in Oman. The information will mainly comprise of behavioral tips from principles of CBT and ACT focusing on positive cognitive reinforcement, strengthening relationships and mindfulness practice.