Reducing Subclinical Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression: A Comparison of Two College Courses

Abstract

Mental health has been declining among college students in recent years. Reports indicate that even subclinical symptoms of anxiety and depression can negatively influence life satisfaction and performance. Mental health experts are calling for more efforts to address these concerns among college and general populations. This study examined the effect of two, 15-week courses for reducing anxiety and depression symptoms in functional college students. Twenty-seven participants in a mental health skills course practiced cognitive-behavioral, relaxation, and lifestyle skills. Eighty-six participants in a conventional stress management course were taught stress theory and practiced relaxation and lifestyle skills. The Spielberg Trait Anxiety Inventory and the Beck Depression Inventory II were used to assess the students' mental health before and after the intervention. An analysis of covariance at posttest revealed significantly greater reductions in anxiety and depressive symptoms among participants in the mental health skills course. Success with the cognitive-behavioral approach used in the course lends support for the recommendation that educators be trained to adapt some of these skills to classroom settings. Additional research is needed to isolate the most powerful components of the course.