RecruitingInterventional

ABC-UK: Single session self-help

The ABC-UK study wants to see if a short, online activity helps young adults in the UK who are experiencing low mood. Many young people find it hard to get support quickly, so this study explores if a quick online tool, focusing on enjoyable activities, can make a difference. Participants, aged 19-25, will be split into two groups by chance. One group gets the online activity plus usual support, while the other only gets usual support and a list of mental health resources. Researchers will check in after one and six months to see how everyone's mood is. This could offer a simple, accessible way for young adults to get help.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Bath

Enrolment target

264

Start

20 Apr 2026

Estimated completion

01 Apr 2027

Treatment of depressive symptoms in young adults

What is this study about?

Many young people in the UK sometimes feel down or experience low mood, which can be part of depression. It can be quite tricky to get help or support exactly when you need it. This research is important because it’s looking for new, easy ways to help young adults feel better without long waiting times or complicated steps.

This study, called ABC-UK, is specifically designed to understand if a very short online activity can improve mood. This activity is special because it helps people think about and do more things they find meaningful and enjoyable. The idea is that doing more of these activities might lift your spirits. The researchers want to compare this simple online tool with the kind of support young adults usually get, to see if the online activity offers an extra boost.

By taking part, you could help scientists understand effective ways to support young people's mental health. If this 'single session self-help' activity works, it could become a widely available and easy-to-use option for many young adults struggling with their mood. This isn't about replacing other types of support but finding an additional, accessible tool.

Key takeaways

It's an online study for young adults (19-25) in the UK.
It tests if a short online activity can help with low mood.
You'll be in one of two groups: activity + usual support, or usual support only.
Participation involves online surveys at the start, 1 month, and 6 months.
You could help find new, accessible ways to support mental health.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for young adults between 19 and 25 years old who live in the United Kingdom. You'll need to be able to read and understand English, and also have internet access (on a computer, tablet, or smartphone) to take part.

To be included, you should be feeling a bit down or experiencing symptoms of low mood. The researchers will check this with a short questionnaire at the start.

Unfortunately, you wouldn't be able to join if you don't meet these age or location requirements, or if you're currently having thoughts of harming yourself. The study also has checks to make sure responses are genuine and from a real person, so automated or fraudulent replies won't be included.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 19 and 25 years old?
Do you currently live in the United Kingdom?
Can you read and understand English easily?
Do you have access to the internet on a computer, tablet, or phone?
Are you currently feeling a bit down or experiencing low mood?
Are you willing to complete online forms and surveys?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first fill out an online questionnaire to see if the study is right for you. If you qualify, you'll then be asked to agree to take part and complete a starting survey. After that, you'll be randomly put into one of two groups, like flipping a coin. One group will get access to a quick online activity (about 15-20 minutes long) designed to help your mood, alongside standard support available. The other group will only receive standard support, which includes a list of mental health resources.

Everyone will be asked to fill out follow-up questionnaires online one month and six months after they start. The entire study, from beginning to end, will last around 12 to 18 months, including finding participants and completing all follow-ups.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in the online activity might help your mood and overall well-being, though this isn't guaranteed. On the other hand, some questions in the surveys might feel personal or sensitive, and thinking about your mood or mental health could temporarily cause some discomfort. The research team will provide information about places you can get support if you need it. Remember, you can choose to stop taking part in the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

University of Bath
Unverified
Bath, England

Common questions

What is 'usual support'?

Usual support refers to the mental health help and resources generally available to young people. In this study, it also includes a list of helpful mental health websites and services.

What does 'randomly assigned' mean?

It means you'll be put into one of the two study groups by chance, like drawing names out of a hat. Neither you nor the researchers choose which group you're in.

How long does the online activity take?

The online activity is designed to be very short, taking around 15–20 minutes to complete in one go.

Will I have to travel anywhere?

No, this study is entirely online. You can take part from anywhere in the UK with internet access.

Who is running this study?

The study is being run by researchers at the University of Bath in the United Kingdom.

How to find out more

Jeffrey Lambert

jl2426@bath.ac.uk +44 1225 388388 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.