Results of the improved version of the online CB-ART intervention in reducing distress during the COVID-19 outbreak in Vietnam

Abstract

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals were experiencing psychological crises, hence the increasing need for a short-term and effective therapeutic intervention, which can quickly assess contributing factors, common types, and levels of stress that they were in, as well as ways to promote the utilization of their resources to cope with the crisis. After two weeks (from January 8, 2021 to August 13, 2021), with 77 people supported in managing stress using the online CB-ART (Cognitive Behavioral and Art-based) intervention, the positive results have been achieved and presented in the previous article. To quickly activate psychological resources in crisis, in the second course of support, we added a fourth picture to the CB-ART process. After testing the improved version, the entire group agreed to officially implement it on August 17, 2021. The goal of the improved version is to maximize one's inner resources by quickly thinking and drawing the 4th “magic” picture, which reveals directions, course of action and ways to cope with stress. As of September 19, 2021, the results of applying this improved version on 64 participants have proven its effectiveness and feasibility.