An Islamic Psychospiritual-Acceptance and Commitment-based Prevention Program for At-risk Young Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic

An Islamic Psychospiritual-Acceptance and Commitment-based Prevention Program for At-Risk Young Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has increased mental health concerns worldwide, and young adults are at higher risk of experiencing increased psychological distress due to the pandemic. University students face compounding stressors during the pandemic, such as online and remote learning, economic insecurity, and uncertain career prospects. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an online modular prevention program featuring integrated elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Islamic spirituality in reducing the psychological distress and increasing the psychological flexibility, self-compassion, and resilience of Muslim university students in Malaysia.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Undergraduate or postgraduate student enrolled in a Malaysian university
• aged 18-29 years old
• Obtained moderate and above levels in either one of the stress, anxiety, and depression subscales of the DASS-21 pre-intervention assessment
• Muslim
• Owns a gadget with Internet access
• Can read and understand English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Those with previous experience with a modular ACT-based treatment with Islamic elements
• Those with past or present diagnosis of mental/neurological disorder
• Those reporting active suicidality
• Those involved in any other form of psychological treatment (ie. psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy)