The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interventions on Depression and Anxiety in the Adult East Asian and Related Diaspora Populations: a Meta-analysis

The prevalence of non-psychotic disorders such as depression and anxiety has been increasing in East Asian populations along with the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Interventions (CBIs) as treatment. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to examine the efficacy of CBIs on depression and anxiety outcomes for East Asian adults. A literature search of databases was conducted using Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBM reviews. Pooled mean effect sizes were calculated using post-intervention scores. Twenty-three studies were included in the final analysis, with 2573 measurements in the depression category and 1632 in the anxiety category. A medium effect size was found for the effect of CBIs within East Asian adults on depression (Hedge’s g =  − 0.57) and anxiety (Hedge’s g =  − 0.65) when compared to controls. This meta-analysis provides evidence for the efficacy of CBIs in treating depression and anxiety in adult East Asian populations.