A peer-based mentoring program for reducing anxiety and depression symptoms among college students: A preliminary study.

The study evaluated the feasibility and acceptability, as well as conducted an initial test of effectiveness, of a peer-based mentoring program for mental health problems among college students. Thirty-two undergraduate students from a University in the southern part of the United States who exhibited moderate depression or anxiety symptoms were assessed. The participants were primarily white and in their freshman year. Participants were randomized into two groups. Participants in the intervention group met with a trained peer mentor once a week for four weeks, while participants in the control group were placed on a waitlist. All participants completed pre- and post-treatment surveys to assess anxiety and depression symptoms. The data indicated that participants in the intervention group had significantly greater post-treatment reductions in depression symptoms. These findings provide preliminary support for the use of peer-based mentoring programs in treating mental health problems on college campuses.