From cultural understanding to internet-based care in Indonesia
From Cultural Understanding to Internet-Based Care in Indonesia: Assessment and Transdiagnostic CBT for Anxiety Problems in University Students
Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems among university students. In Indonesia, many students experience anxiety but do not receive professional support because of limited services, financial and geographical barriers, and stigma. Providing psychological interventions online may help overcome some barriers to professional support. However, treatments developed in Western countries may not fully reflect Indonesian students’ cultural values and experiences.
This dissertation aimed to develop and preliminarily evaluate a culturally adapted, internet-based transdiagnostic Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) program for anxiety disorders among Indonesian university students. The first steps consisted of interviews with students and psychologists to explore how anxiety is understood, experienced, and treated in Indonesia, as well as preferences for online mental health services. In addition, studies of culturally adapted CBT for anxiety disorders in Southeast Asia were systematically reviewed.
These findings guided the development of an online treatment program adapted to the Indonesian context. Students and psychologists evaluated the first version, and their feedback informed its final refinement. A culturally adapted anxiety measure was also developed and validated. The program was subsequently examined in a feasibility study with Indonesian university students with an anxiety disorder. It was feasible and generally acceptable, with promising improvements in anxiety symptoms and well-being.
Overall, this dissertation suggests that combining cultural adaptation, digital delivery, and transdiagnostic CBT may provide valuable and culturally appropriate anxiety care for Indonesian university students. The findings provide a foundation for larger controlled studies and further development of culturally adapted digital mental health services in Indonesia.