Remote Stepped‑Care Boosts Mental Health for Polish Workers in the Netherlands

Polish migrant workers living in the Netherlands often report high levels of anxiety and depression. Their symptoms are linked to difficult work schedules, low wages, and cramped housing. Despite the need, they rarely seek professional mental‑health help.

The RESPOND study tested a two‑step remote program. Step 1 offered a guided online self‑help course called "Doing What Matters in Times of Stress". Step 2 provided individual video sessions of "Problem Management Plus" for those who needed more support. Both steps were run by trained non‑professional helpers and were adapted to Polish culture.

In a randomised controlled trial, participants receiving the stepped‑care package showed a measurable drop in psychological distress compared with a control group receiving usual care. Scores on anxiety and depression scales improved after the intervention, indicating the approach can effectively reduce mental‑health problems among this population.

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