A self-help workbook for managing anxiety and depression in prisons

Pilot Effectiveness Trial of an ACT Self-help Workbook Tailored Specifically for Prisons

Not applicable Interventional University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT06162624

This study is testing a self-help workbook designed to help people in prison manage their anxiety and depression better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment96 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison Academic / other
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT06162624 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to adapt an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) self-help workbook specifically for incarcerated individuals. The study involves a three-step process: first, gathering input from stakeholders to tailor the workbook's content and format; second, refining the workbook based on feedback from participants; and third, assessing the workbook's feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness in reducing anxiety and depression among inmates. Participants will engage with the workbook over 13 weeks, with assessments conducted at various intervals to measure outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are incarcerated individuals aged 18 and older who experience moderate to severe anxiety and/or depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are actively self-harming or have suicidal intent will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could provide incarcerated individuals with effective tools to manage anxiety and depression, potentially improving their mental health and well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using self-help interventions for mental health in prison settings, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years of age or older
* Reading level of 6th grade or higher determined by the Wide Range Achievement Test
* Moderate or severe anxiety and/or depression determined by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI)
* No active self-harm or active suicidal intent
* No scheduled transfer or release for at least three months
* Must be willing and able to participate, including having permission and ability to use study materials, such as paper and a writing utensil

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to provide informed consent
* Active self-harm or suicidal intent
* Scheduled transfer or release within three months

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AnxietyDepressionDepression, AnxietyAnxiety Disordersincarcerated
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.