Improving mental health treatment for youth in Sierra Leone through peer support
Expanding the Reach of Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatment: Diffusion and Spillover of Mental Health Benefits Among Peer Networks and Caregivers of Youth Facing Compounded Adversity in Sierra Leone
This study is looking at how a special therapy program for young people in Sierra Leone can help not just the kids who take part, but also their friends and family, by sharing helpful mental health skills within their community.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chestnut Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10610382 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) intervention, known as the Youth Readiness Intervention (YRI), can benefit not only the youth participants but also their peers and caregivers in Sierra Leone. By examining how mental health techniques spread naturally among social networks, the study aims to measure the indirect benefits experienced by nonparticipants who learn from those directly involved in the YRI. The research is conducted in collaboration with local government and organizations, focusing on enhancing emotional regulation and daily functioning in youth facing adversity. The study will also assess the potential cost-effectiveness of these mental health interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include youth facing compounded adversity in Sierra Leone and their caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in Sierra Leone or who do not have access to the YRI intervention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health outcomes for youth and their communities in Sierra Leone.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies of the YRI have shown success in improving mental health outcomes, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
Chestnut Hill, United States
- Boston College — Chestnut Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Betancourt, Theresa Stichick — Boston College
- Study coordinator: Betancourt, Theresa Stichick
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 below.