Development of an Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Self-Help Program for Arabic-Speaking Immigrants:...

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Digital Health
• Immigrant Health

Background:

• Arabic-speaking immigrants face barriers to mental health services in Europe.
• Mild to moderate psychological disorders like anxiety, depression, and insomnia are prevalent in this demographic.
• Lack of culturally sensitive and accessible treatment options exacerbates the issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of a transdiagnostic internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (iCBT) self-help program.
• The program is specifically designed in Arabic for common psychological problems.
• To address the unmet mental health needs of Arabic-speaking immigrants.

Main Methods:

• An iterative development process was employed.
• Incorporated feedback from 105 pilot users.
• Utilized insights from 2 focus groups to refine the program.

Main Results:

• Pilot users rated the program modules as acceptable, with average scores between 3 and 4 on a 5-point Likert scale.
• Focus groups provided positive feedback on content and structure.
• Suggestions were made for improving Arabic translation and usability.

Conclusions:

• Successfully developed an acceptable internet-based self-help program in Arabic.
• This intervention can enhance access to psychological support for an at-risk population.
• Further research is needed to establish the efficacy of this digital mental health intervention.