Effectiveness and Acceptability of Internet-delivered Treatment for Depression, Anxiety and Stress in University Students: Protocol for an Open Feasibility Trial

Depression, anxiety and stress are among the primary causes of disease rates worldwide and are the most prevalent mental health problems in the U.S. Each is associated with significant economic, personal, intrapersonal and societal losses including lower quality of life and increased mortality.

Depression, Anxiety and Stress in Students:

Depression and anxiety are also the most prevalent mental health problems among the student population. In the 2010 American College Health Survey, 48% of college and university students reported feeling overwhelming anxiety at least once in the previous year. Thirty-one percent reported feeling so depressed it was difficult to function at least once in the previous 12 months. More recently, University counseling and mental health services have reported an increase in the number of clients seeking services and in yearly visits.

The college years can be a highly stressful time in students' lives. This is particularly true of the period of transition to college as students are learning to cope with increased academic pressures. Students are at a developmental stage when newfound stressors can promote the onset of mental health difficulties. In addition to academic stress, international students can experience significant sociocultural adjustment demands.

Young adults between 17 and 25 years of age are reported to be at greater risk of developing a serious mental illness than individuals in other age groups. Although early diagnosis of mental disorders can be difficult, delayed diagnosis can often lead to treatment resistance and poorer longer-term outcomes. In addition, underachievement or failure at this point in life can cause long-term setbacks to individuals' self-esteem and future progress.