Using network science to create personalized interventions for adolescent depression

Harnessing Network Science to Personalize Scalable Interventions for Adolescent Depression

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10786569

This study is looking to help teenagers aged 12 and up who are dealing with depression by letting them sign up for online support without needing their parents' permission, making it easier for them to get the help they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10786569 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving access to mental health treatment for adolescents suffering from depression, particularly those who face barriers due to parental consent requirements. By allowing teens aged 12 and older to self-refer for online interventions without needing parental approval, the study aims to increase participation and diversity among participants. The approach includes testing online single-session interventions that have shown promise in reducing depression severity. The research also evaluates the impact of these policies on treatment accessibility and effectiveness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 21 who are experiencing symptoms of depression and are seeking mental health support.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 12 years old or those who do not have access to the internet may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to mental health care for adolescents, leading to better treatment outcomes for depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches, particularly in trials that allowed adolescents to self-refer for mental health interventions.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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 2026-06-09 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.