Development and Evaluation of a CBT-based Transdiagnostic Transcultural Web App for Mental Health Problems

Three-quarters of the global burden of mental disorders, including depression and anxiety, lies in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) (WHO, 2017). However, the treatment gap for common mental disorders in LMICs is significant, with an estimated 90% of people in these settings unable to access appropriate mental health care (Vos et al., 2015).

Despite the strong evidence supporting effectiveness in several disorders, cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) remains underutilized internationally due to the limited availability of comprehensive training programmes and qualified CBT-trained staff. (Myhr & Payne, 2006). However, self-help and GSH can be delivered online and have been found to be effective and feasible for individuals with depression and anxiety (Andrews et al., 2018). Furthermore, leveraging the unprecedented increase in cell phone users and internet technologies, as well as the decline in prices of handheld mobile devices, may overcome barriers to care and address the substantial mental health treatment gap in these settings (Lambert & Littlefield, 2009; Lewis et al., 2012; UN Foundation-Vodafone Foundation Partnership, 2020; WHO, 2011). We, therefore, propose the development and evaluation of a CBT-based transcultural, transdiagnostic interactive web app to address symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress.

Inclusion criteria

• Individuals aged 18 to 65 years
• At least 5 years of education
• Computer literate
• Owning a smartphone or a personal computer with a reliable internet connection
• Score of 8 or higher on Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Depression or Anxiety scales as measured by their primary care clinician.

Exclusion criteria

• Substance use disorder according to DSM-5 criteria
• Significant cognitive impairment (for example, profound learning disability or dementia)
• Active psychosis as determined by their primary care clinician