Bibliotherapy: could a book be the new prescription for student stress?

NCT ID NCT07627139

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Istanbul Nisantasi University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether reading specific self-help books can lower anxiety, depression, and rumination in university students aged 18-25. 110 students from health science programs will be randomly assigned to read one of two books or join a waiting list. Over 8 weeks, they will complete questionnaires to track changes in symptoms and thinking patterns.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: self-help books (metacognitive bibliotherapy)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to help students manage anxiety and depression without medication or therapy.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 110 students from one university. The results may not apply to everyone, and reading a book may not be enough for severe symptoms.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder rumination disorder Rumination Syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANXIETY DEPRESSION RUMINATION STRESS (PSYCHOLOGY)

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