Pilot Effectiveness Trial of an ACT Self-help Workbook Tailored Specifically for Prisons

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN, MADISON · Nov 30, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This study is looking at a special self-help workbook designed to help people in prison manage feelings of anxiety and depression. The workbook uses a method called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which helps individuals accept their thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that improve their lives. The researchers want to see if this workbook is easy to use, if people find it helpful, and if it actually makes a difference in reducing anxiety and depression over a 13-week period.

To participate in the study, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a reading level similar to a 6th grader. You should be experiencing moderate to severe anxiety or depression but not have thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It's also important that you are not scheduled to be transferred or released from prison within the next three months. If you meet these criteria and are willing to join, you could help researchers learn more about ways to support mental health in prison settings.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 18 years of age or older
• • Reading level of 6th grade or higher determined by the Wide Range Achievement Test
• • Moderate or severe anxiety and/or depression determined by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
• • No active self-harm or active suicidal intent
• • No scheduled transfer or release for at least three months
• • Must be willing and able to participate, including having permission and ability to use study materials, such as paper and a writing utensil
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to provide informed consent
• • Active self-harm or suicidal intent
• • Scheduled transfer or release within three months