Activism to combat structural racism and reduce depression in Black and Latinx youth
Official title: Our Voices Matter: Racial Justice Activism Intervention to Address Structural Racism and Prevent Depression in Black and Latinx Youth
Funded at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago · NIH-11091644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how getting involved in racial justice activism can help Black and Latinx teens and young adults feel less stressed and depressed, by joining together in activities that fight against racism and support mental well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 17, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $691,590 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MD017610-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Black and Latinx adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing symptoms of depression or high stress levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Black or Latinx or who are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how participating in racial justice activism can help prevent depression and lower stress levels in Black and Latinx adolescents and young adults. The study will involve a group-based intervention where participants engage in activism activities aimed at addressing structural racism and its effects on mental health. By measuring changes in depressive symptoms and physiological stress markers, the research aims to provide evidence on the effectiveness of activism as a tool for improving mental health outcomes in these communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could empower Black and Latinx youth to improve their mental health through activism while addressing systemic inequalities.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that community activism can positively impact mental health, suggesting that this approach may be effective in addressing the issues faced by Black and Latinx youth.
Where this research is happening
-
Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heard-Garris, Nia Jenee' — Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Heard-Garris, Nia Jenee'
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.