Evaluation of a CBT-Based Program for Mental Health in the General Population During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Stepped-Care Approach Using a Chatbot and Digitized Group Intervention.

ABSTRACT: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed a substantial portion of society to multiple stressors, while access to mental health care was limited. To address this, we introduced a digital stepped-care program rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles, aiming to alleviate mental health distress among the general public seeking help. Methods: The program comprises a 4-week digital application using "Aury" the chatbot, followed by an optional 6-week online group session for those still symptomatic. A 4-week waiting period separated these steps. Participants entered based on self-identified mental health concerns. Interventions addressed prevalent pandemic mental health issues: sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, worry/rumination, interpersonal issues, and resou

SUBMITTER: Langhammer T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11919055 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature