i-ACT FOR LIFE: Mobile application for prevention and management of psychological distress

Abdul Khaiyom, Jamilah Hanum and Abdul Aziz, Amani Fadzlina and Md. Rosli, Ahmad Nabil and Bahari, Che Amnah and Thomas Abdullah, Nur Sakinah and Badrol Hisham, Afaf Qamelia and Rusli, Mohammad Farhan and Zainal Abidin, Muhammad 'Adil (2026) i-ACT FOR LIFE: Mobile application for prevention and management of psychological distress. In: 1st National Conference on Behavioural Sciences in Health, 6-7 May 2026, Shah Alam, Selangor.

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Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of remote mental healthcare delivery. Digital interventions reduce costs, overcome access barriers, and offer flexibility, making them essential in addressing rising post-pandemic mental health challenges. In Malaysia, increasing demand continues to strain an overburdened mental healthcare system, necessitating scalable and innovative solutions. OBJECTIVE(S): This study examines the development and user engagement of i-ACT for Life, a mobile application based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) integrated with Islamic spiritual practices, designed to prevent and manage psychological distress in Malaysia. MATERIALS & METHODS: The app was adapted from a cloud-based instant messaging intervention previously validated in a randomised controlled trial. It comprises five weekly modules—Grounding, Unhooking, Acting on Values, Being Kind, and Making Room—aligned with ACT core processes and enriched with Qur’ānic verses, Hadith, and spiritual activities. The app incorporates infographics, interactive exercises, quizzes, audio-guided practices, and psychoeducational videos. Users are encouraged to complete the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) pre- and post-intervention. i-ACT for Life is embedded within the Selangor Mental Sihat (SEHAT) - SELANGKAH initiative. RESULTS: Since its launch in October 2022, the app has attracted 23,945 users, indicating strong accessibility and initial engagement, particularly with the Grounding module. However, participation declines markedly after Week 1, with only 180 users completing all modules by November 2024. Post-intervention DASS-21 completion rates were minimal. CONCLUSION: While the app demonstrates strong reach, sustaining engagement remains a key challenge. Strategies such as enhanced promotion, automated reminders, and therapistassisted support may improve retention and intervention outcomes.

Item Type:	Proceeding Paper (Other)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Cognitive-Behavioural; Culture; Mobile Health (mHealth); Prevention; Sustainable Development Goal 3
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Islamic Revealed Knowledge and Human Sciences Kulliyyah of Medicine
Depositing User:	Dr Muhammad Adil Zainal Abidin
Date Deposited:	06 Nov 2026 11:53
Last Update:	06 Nov 2026 11:53
Queue Number:	2026-10-Q6051
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/132331
Indexed In:	UNSPECIFIED

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