Effectiveness and Cost Effectiveness of OkeyMind for Social Anxiety Among Youth

Background: Social anxiety is increasingly prevalent among youths, leading to social withdrawal and isolation, which heighten depression risk. eHealth interventions have shown promise in improving access and engagement, offering anonymity, broader accessibility, and personalized treatment features. However, the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of eHealth methods for young individuals dealing with social anxiety-driven depression remain unexplored. Objective: This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a mobile-based psychoeducation program (OkeyMind) in mitigating symptoms associated with social anxiety among youth. Methods: Participants will be recruited and screened onsite and then randomized to the intervention group and the waiting list control group. Eligible participants are youths aged 18 to 25 years with moderate or above depression \[Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)\>9), mild or above social phobia \[Social Phobia Inventory (SPIN)\>19\], and a smartphone with WeChat installed. The intervention group will receive a one-month mobile psychoeducation program (OkeyMind), which includes both psychoeducation and meditation components, with all content fully automated. The waiting list control group will receive the same intervention after 3 months. Participants will be followed up at three time-points: baseline, 1 month, and 3 months Results: The investigators will recruit 180 participants, with 90 in each group. The primary effectiveness outcomes are the scores of SPIN and PHQ-9, and the cost-effectiveness outcomes is measured by the EuroQol-5 Dimensions-5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L). Participant recruitment will begin before January 2025. The first follow-up assessment will conclude by May 2025, and data analysis will be finalized by early 2026. Results will be expected around May 2026. Conclusions: This research evaluates the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of OkeyMind, a mobile-based psychoeducation program for youth with social anxiety. OkeyMind might be a promising strategy for combating social anxiety, especially in low- and middle-income countries with limited medical resources. By leveraging mobile technology, it aims to provide accessible, cost-effective mental health support, improving outcomes on a broader scale.