NCT07239388

Structured Group Therapy in Reducing Depression and Anxiety in Pakistan

Effectiveness of Structured Group Therapy in Reducing Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Pakistan: A Randomised Controlled Trial

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 108 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Pakistan Association of Cognitive Therapists · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 65 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in group settings to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhance emotional resilience, and improve social support among Pakistani individuals struggling with these conditions.

Detailed description

Mental health disorders, particularly depression and anxiety, are prevalent in Pakistan and significantly affect the emotional, social, and occupational well-being of individuals. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability globally, and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in Pakistan, affecting millions. In the Pakistani context, stigma surrounding mental illness, lack of awareness, and limited access to mental health services create substantial barriers to care. Group therapy, which provides a collective support system and skill-building strategies, can be an effective modality in addressing these challenges. Structured group therapy offers participants a sense of community, reduces feelings of isolation, and provides a platform for learning coping strategies within a culturally sensitive framework. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) in group settings to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhance emotional resilience, and improve social support among Pakistani individuals struggling with these conditions.

Conditions

• Depression in Adults
• Anxiety

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Structured group therapy	Participants will receive Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) therapy techniques in group settings. The intervention will cover contents like: (1) Introduction to Depression and Anxiety: Understanding symptoms and causes; (2) Cognitive Restructuring: Identifying and challenging negative thoughts; (3) Stress Management: Techniques for managing physiological and psychological stress; (4) Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, breathing exercises, and body scanning; (5) Behavioural Activation: Planning and engaging in pleasurable and meaningful activities; (6) Social Support: Building and enhancing relationships; (7) Relapse Prevention: Strategies for maintaining progress after the intervention. Each group will consist of 8-10 participants to allow for optimal interaction and support. Twelve weekly group sessions, each lasting 90 minutes, will be conducted.

Timeline

• Start date: 2025-11-01
• Primary completion: 2026-02-01
• Completion: 2026-02-01
• First posted: 2025-11-20
• Last updated: 2025-11-20

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Pakistan