Research Snapshot: Online guided self-help intervention for refugees proves effective

The World Health Organization (WHO) and partners developed ‘Step-by-Step’; a digital intervention targeted at supporting adults suffering from depression. This trial tested Step-by-Step with Syrian refugees in Lebanon through a partnership with the National Mental Health Programme.

Results show that those who used Step-by-Step experienced improved mental health. The intervention should be culturally adapted to be most effective, which requires formative research. WHO and partners continue to adapt, test and pilot Step-by-Step in a range of settings. Step-by-Step was found to support people with depressive symptoms in a context of adversity. Some people will require specialist care and it is recommended that the intervention is implemented in an integrated mental health system with referral options to specialist support.

A countrywide implementation project for all people in Lebanon is currently underway to further understand how to implement and scale up Step-by-Step.

This snapshot contains key messages, findings, implications for humanitarian policymakers and practitioners and recommendations for further research.