PulseExploreJournal ClubDebatesTrendingResearchersJournals
Instagram
HomeExploreJournal ClubTrending
Synapse
⌘+K
Synapse
May 9, 2026PLOS mental health.0 citationsOpen Access

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)-based programs for reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety and/or stress applied to the educational context: An exploratory review

View Full Paper
JPJohn Alexander Pedraza Palacios

Key Points

  • This review aims to characterize ACT-based intervention programs targeting symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress within educational contexts.
  • Reviewed 26 studies published from 2014 to 2023 concerning ACT interventions in educational settings.
  • Evaluated programs that varied in format (websites, apps, in-person, virtual) and modality (group, individual).
  • Identified ACT components, including acceptance, cognitive defusion, and values.
  • ACT programs significantly improve well-being and aid in academic completion.
  • Group formats provide social support, while individual sessions allow for personalized treatment.
  • Further research is required to enhance the implementation of ACT in educational environments.

Abstract

This scoping review focused on characterizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based intervention programs to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and/or stress in the educational context with youth and students. Twenty-six studies published between 2014 and 2023 were reviewed, originating mainly from the United States, Australia, Finland, and Canada. The programs implemented varied in format (websites, mobile applications, in-person or virtual sessions) and modality (group or individual). The results highlighted the effectiveness of ACT in improving well-being and facilitating students’ academic completion. The ACT components addressed included acceptance, cognitive defusion, present moment, self as context, values, and committed action, organized into open, focused, and committed content. Additional benefits were identified such as social support in group formats and treatment personalization in individual sessions. However, more research is needed to optimize the implementation and dissemination of ACT in educational settings, ensuring its integration into student well-being programs.

Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper

Cite This Study

John Alexander Pedraza Palacios (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69fecf94b9154b0b8287685bhttps://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000234
Ask AI
Helpful
Bookmark
Share
View Full Paper