Feasibility and acceptability of the Unified Protocol for anxiety and depression in Pakistan: a pilot randomized controlled trial.

In 30 seconds

This pilot randomized controlled trial assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the Urdu Adapted Unified Protocol (UA-UP) for anxiety and depression in 51 adults in Pakistan. The study found high feasibility indicators, with 85.7% recruitment and 82.4% retention. Participants in the UA-UP group showed significant improvements in anxiety (g=1.18) and depression (g=1.15) compared to the control group.

Key findings

• 85.7% recruitment and 82.4% retention rates indicate high feasibility.
• 79% of participants completed homework assignments, reflecting strong acceptability.
• UA-UP group showed significant improvements in anxiety (g=1.18) and depression (g=1.15).
• Qualitative feedback highlighted enhanced emotional awareness and improved coping strategies.

Why it matters

Access to effective psychological treatments for anxiety and depression is crucial, especially in low-resource settings. This study suggests that culturally adapted interventions can be both feasible and acceptable, potentially improving mental health care delivery.