This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a culturally adapted, guided self-help cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) manual specifically designed for individuals with OCD in Pakistan.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic and debilitating mental health condition characterised by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts (compulsions). These symptoms are often distressing, time-consuming, and cause significant functional impairment and reduction in quality of life. Cognitive and behavioural therapies, particularly the Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), have consistently demonstrated efficacy as a first-line treatment for OCD. However, access to trained therapists remains limited in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including Pakistan. Self-help interventions rooted in CBT principles, especially when culturally adapted, represent a promising, scalable, and cost-effective alternative to conventional therapy. Previous research in Pakistan has shown the feasibility and acceptability of culturally adapted CBT (CaCBT) in treating depression and OCD within primary care and outpatient settings (Naeem et al., 2011; Aslam et al., 2015). This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a culturally adapted, guided self-help CBT manual specifically designed for individuals with OCD in Pakistan.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
108
Participants will receive a culturally adapted guided self-help OCD manual based on culturally adapted CBT principles, designed to be used over ten weeks. The manual includes: Psychoeducation, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Thought distraction techniques, Mood tracking and thought diaries, Identifying and modifying cognitive distortions, Problem-solving and communication strategies, and Relaxation and well-being exercises. Participants will receive the self-help manual at the time of initial assessment and intake, and then will be provided with telephone support. Psychology graduates working as guides will provide weekly telephone support. Intervention will be provided flexibly over 12 weeks. The second contact will be made at the time of final assessment on the 12th week.
Obsessive-compulsive symptoms
As assessed through participants' scores on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS)
Time frame: 12 weeks
Feasibility and acceptability
Feasibility and acceptability will be assessed through trial procedure, recruitment, retention and informal feedback from participants.
Time frame: 12 weeks
Clients' satisfaction
The client satisfaction scale will be used. At the end of the intervention, researchers will ask participants to describe their experience. They will be asked to name the sessions they found most or least helpful and to provide suggestions for improving the intervention.
Time frame: 12 weeks
Anxiety & depression
As assessed through participants' scores on the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
Time frame: 12 weeks
Functionality
As assessed through participants' scores on the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2 (WHODAS 2)
Time frame: 12 weeks
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.