Study Protocol for a Feasibility Study of a Novel ACT-based eHealth Psychoeducational Intervention for Students With Mental Distress

Introduction: Recent studies reveal a high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among university students, highlighting an urgent need for preventative measures at low cost to better support often overwhelmed support services. Objectives: Here we propose a protocol for assessing the feasibility and acceptability of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of an online transdiagnostic psychoeducational intervention called 'A Bite of ACT' (BOA) compared to a waitlist control. Methods and analysis: A randomised controlled trial with crossover design will be conducted at baseline, and two follow-up periods. The primary outcome measure will be the ACCEPT checklist, while secondary outcomes include measures of wellbeing, depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS21) and a process measure (psychological flexibility AAQII). Qualitative interviews and preliminary health economics analysis will provide additional insights. Analysis will focus on descriptive statistics and feasibility outcomes and calculate a treatment effect size to determine sample size needed for any future trial (if indicated).