Effects of a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy-Based Program on Stress, Anxiety and Depression in College Freshmen when Delivered Peer-to-Peer

Background: Sedentary behaviors and mental health symptomology have increased in college youth over the past decade. Institutions of higher education are working to address these concerns through preventative programming that teaches students how to cope with stress, anxiety, and depression.Aims: This pilot study aimed to evaluate the impact of a cognitive-behavioral skills building intervention (MINDSTRONG) on college freshmen’s healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors, stress, anxiety, and depression when delivered by a peer skilled to deliver the intervention. Methods: A pre-experimental pre- and post-test study design was used. Students at a large Midwest university enrolled in a required survey class were recruited via email. Descriptive statistics described the sample demographics and mean differences between baseline and post-intervention survey outcomes were calculated to assess for significant changes in healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors, stress, anxiety, and depression.Results: Students (n = 15) who completed the 7-session weekly program had increased healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors and decreased stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Students learned new ways to deal with their behaviors, thoughts, and feelings. Most students recommended all students receive the MINDSTRONG program. Conclusions: Peer-to-peer delivery of MINDSTRONG is a promising intervention to combat feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors and beliefs in college freshmen when delivered in a peer-to-peer format.