Study on Mental Health Promoting Effects of Natural Psychotherapy for Adolescents

The Effect of Universal Intervention Based on Natural Psychotherapy: Evidence From Chinese Adolescents

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of a universal intervention based on Natural Psychotherapy in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms among primary and middle school students. To evaluate both the clinical outcomes and the potential underlying mechanisms of change, data will be collected at four distinct time points: baseline (pre-intervention), post-intervention, 3-month follow-up, and 6-month follow-up.

Objective 1: Evaluate the Efficacy of Natural Psychotherapy on Primary Outcomes (Anxiety Symptoms and Rumination) To evaluate the short-term and sustained efficacy of the Natural Psychotherapy program in reducing anxiety symptoms and maladaptive rumination among primary and middle school students compared to standard schooling.

Objective 2: Assess the Impact on Secondary Outcomes (Psychological Well-being, Emotional Regulation, Stress, Sleep, Self-Esteem, Depression, Life Satisfaction, and Social Support) To assess the effects of the Natural Psychotherapy program on secondary psychological outcomes, including mindfulness, perceived stress, resilience, insomnia severity, self-esteem, depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, eudaimonic well-being, and perceived social support, and to examine whether improvements in these domains mediate the primary outcomes.

Objective 3: Explore the Mechanisms of Change and Predictors of Treatment Response To explore the underlying psychological mechanisms through which Natural Psychotherapy produces its therapeutic effects on primary outcomes (anxiety and rumination) and to identify baseline predictors and moderators of treatment response.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages: 7 to 18 years.
• Population: School-aged children and adolescents currently enrolled and attending primary or secondary school.
• Capacity: Ability to comprehend the study procedures and provide assent (or consent, if applicable).

Exclusion Criteria:

• School Attendance: Children not currently attending school or on long-term academic leave.
• General Exclusion: Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator or school physician, would interfere with the participant's ability to attend school or comply with study procedures.