Evaluating a mental health support platform for university students

Efficacy, Cost-effectiveness and Implementation of an Integrated Self-help and Support Services for Student Mental Health in Tertiary Institutions: JCTH+ Pragmatic Cluster RCT

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT06623682

This study tests whether a new mental health support platform for university students can improve their well-being compared to regular services.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment1684 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT06623682 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the JCTH+ platform, which integrates existing mental health services in tertiary education institutions, compared to standard services. It employs a parallel pragmatic cluster-randomized control trial design, with randomization at the institution level and a target sample size of 1,684 participants. Assessments will occur at multiple time points over two years to measure changes in mental health symptoms and well-being. Additionally, qualitative interviews will be conducted with staff to gather insights on the integration process and implementation effectiveness.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are full-time tertiary education students in Hong Kong aged 18 and above, experiencing moderate to severe anxiety or depression.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have depressive or anxiety symptoms, or those unable to read Chinese or English, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve mental health outcomes for university students by providing effective self-help and support services.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in integrating digital mental health interventions in educational settings, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 years old or above
* Able to read Chinese or English
* With internet connection and able to access the internet
* With moderate-severe GAD-7 a/o moderate-severe PHQ-9
* studying full-time at a tertiary education institution in Hong Kong

Exclusion Criteria:

* not able to read and understand Chinese;
* under 18 years old;
* not able to access the Internet or use digital devices
* without depressive symptoms or anxiety symptoms

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

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 Mental HealthMental Well-beingPsychological InterventionSelf-careOnline Psychological Intervention
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.