The RinasciMENTE 2.0 Project: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial Evaluating the Efficacy of an Internet-Based Self-Help Program for Managing Psychological Distress Within the Broader Italian Population

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the RinasciMENTE 2.0 initiative, an internet-based self-help intervention grounded in the principles and techniques of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in assisting individuals from the general population who are dealing with mild psychological difficulties. Methods: To accomplish this objective, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be carried out, with random allocation occurring at the individual level. The study intends to compare the impact of the RinasciMENTE 2.0 program with that of a waiting list control group in terms of enhancing the psychological well-being of a representative sample from the community. A minimum of 128 participants experiencing mild or subthreshold levels of psychological symptoms will be recruited. Following baseline screening, participants will be randomly assigned to the experimental group or the control condition. The program will extend over a period of two months, during which participants will engage in eight weekly modules of CBT. The effects of the RinasciMENTE 2.0 program on specific primary and secondary psychological outcomes will be evaluated post-intervention (at 2 months) and during a follow-up assessment at 12 months. Expected Results and Conclusions: Anticipated outcomes include an improvement in individuals’ psychological functioning and the acquisition of skills and self-assurance necessary to effectively address their emotional difficulties.