Assessing the efficacy and acceptability of an internet-delivered intervention for resilience among college students: A pilot randomised control trial protocol

A Enrique, O Mooney, A Salamanca-Sanabria, C T Lee, S Farrell, D Richards, A Enrique, O Mooney, A Salamanca-Sanabria, C T Lee, S Farrell, D Richards

Abstract

Background: Exposure to new stressors places college students at increased risk for developing mental health problems. Preventive interventions aimed at enhancing resilience have the potential to improve mental health and well-being in college students and internet-delivery may improve access to these interventions. However, few studies have evaluated the efficacy of online interventions for resilience in college students. The present study seeks to assess the feasibility [initial efficacy and acceptability] of a newly developed internet-delivered intervention for resilience provided with human or automated support, in a sample of college students.

Method: A pilot randomised controlled trial including three groups: 1) an intervention group with human support; 2) an intervention group with automated support; and 3) a waiting list control group. The intervention, Space for Resilience, is based on positive psychology and consists of seven modules, delivered over a period of eight weeks. Primary outcomes measures will include the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and the Pemberton Happiness Index (PHI). Secondary outcomes measures will include the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), the Patient Health Questionnaire - 4 items (PHQ-4), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Perceived Stress Scale - 4 items (PSS-4). Acceptability will be examined using the Satisfaction with Treatment (SAT) questionnaire. Analysis will be conducted on an intention-to-treat basis.

Discussion: The study seeks to establish the initial efficacy and acceptability of an internet-delivered intervention for resilience with human support and automated support. Apart from determining the impact of the intervention on acceptability and effectiveness, this study will be a first to explore more clearly the relative benefits of different support modes.

Keywords: Automated support; College students; Human support; Internet-delivered treatment; Positive psychology; Resilience; Well-being.

Conflict of interest statement

AE, SL, SF, and DR are employees of SilverCloud Health. AE and DR are members of the e-mental health research group, School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
CONSORT flow diagram.

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