Improving mental health services for young children at risk

Engaging Mental Health Services for Preschoolers at Risk

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10951843

This study is all about helping young kids aged 3 to 5 who might be struggling with their mental health, especially those from low-income and diverse backgrounds, by finding ways to make it easier for their families to get the support and care they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10951843 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing mental health services for preschoolers aged 3-5 years who are at risk for developmental concerns, particularly among low-income and ethnically diverse populations. It aims to identify and address barriers that prevent early diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders in these children. The approach includes a peer-based family navigator program designed to empower caregivers and improve their engagement with healthcare services. By fostering trust and providing support, the program seeks to facilitate timely referrals and interventions for children in need.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are preschool-aged children (3-5 years) from low-income families, particularly those who are Black or Latinx, and who exhibit developmental concerns.

Not a fit: Children who do not exhibit developmental concerns or who are outside the age range of 3-5 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier identification and treatment of mental health issues in preschoolers, improving their long-term developmental outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using peer-based support programs to improve engagement in mental health services among similar populations, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.