Structured Group Therapy in Reducing Depression and Anxiety in Pakistan

Pakistan Association of Cognitive Therapists

Status: Not yet enrolling

Conditions: Depression in Adults; Anxiety

Treatments: Other: Structured group therapy

Study type: Interventional

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT07239388

RCT_D_A_GT_2025

Details and patient eligibility

About

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.

Full 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.

Enrollment: 108 estimated patients

Sex: All

Ages: 18 to 65 years old

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Adults (18-65 years)
• Diagnosed with moderate to severe depression
• Residing in urban or rural areas of Pakistan
• Willingness to attend 12 weekly group therapy sessions and comply with the study protocol

Exclusion criteria

• Severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., psychosis, bipolar disorder)
• Ongoing substance abuse or severe substance use disorder
• Participation in other therapeutic interventions (e.g., individual therapy or group therapy) during the study period
• Cognitive impairments that would interfere with participation

Trial design

Primary purpose: Treatment

Allocation: Randomized

Interventional model: Parallel Assignment

Masking: Single Blind

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108 participants in 2 patient groups

Structured group therapy

Experimental group

Description:

This group 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.

Treatment:

Other: Structured group therapy

Treatment as usual

No Intervention group

Description:

Participants will receive standard treatment or usual care, which may include individual therapy or medication, depending on their current treatment regimen.