Psychological intervention to improve the mental health of patients with COVID-19

INTERVENTION: Ninety‐three eligible participants selected by cluster sampling are randomized to an intervention group (n = 47) and a control group (n = 46) using a computerized random number generator by a trial statistician who had no clinical involvement in the project. Participants in the control group receive routine treatment according to the Chinese Management Guidelines for COVID‐19, while participants in the intervention group receive routine treatment with additional CBT. The cognitive intervention includes: 1. Providing information related to COVID‐19, real‐time information on the COVID‐19 outbreak 2. Giving clear and comprehensive explanations to patients' questions The behaviour intervention includes: 1. Instruction on self‐protection behaviours such as proper hand‐washing technique 2. Self‐monitoring COVID‐19 related symptoms 3. Relaxation techniques such as music therapy and breath meditation 4. Encourage patients to maintain close communication with family and friends through a mobile phone or WeChat (a communication app) The CBT intervention is performed once a day in the morning, taking 30 minutes to complete and is recorded by the nurses. Each intervention is strictly carried out through face‐to‐face communication, with a patient‐centred approach so the intervention could be adjusted based on the individual’s needs. The duration of intervention ranged from 7 to 29 days. CONDITION: Depression, anxiety and stress in patients with COVID‐19 (SARS‐CoV‐2 infection) ; Mental and Behavioural Disorders PRIMARY OUTCOME: ; Psychological health level of the patient with COVID‐19, assessed using the Chinese Version of; Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale‐21 (DASS‐21) for all participants at baseline and post‐; intervention (1 day later); SECONDARY OUTCOME: There are no secondary outcome measures INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Patients with COVID‐19 who had mild symptoms in line with the diagnostic criteria of the Chinese Management Guidelines for COVID‐19 (version 6.0) 2. Good communication and understanding of Chinese 3. Aged 20‐69 years