Using online communities to help depressed teenagers
Evaluation of an Asynchronous Remote Communities Approach to Behavioral Activation for Depressed Adolescents
This study is exploring a new online program designed to help teenagers dealing with depression by connecting them with supportive groups, therapists, and tools to track their feelings and activities, making it easier for them to get involved in their mental health care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10917060 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to support adolescents struggling with depression by utilizing Asynchronous Remote Communities (ARC). These online groups provide a platform for participants to engage in behavioral activation activities, receive coaching from therapists and chatbots, and track their mood and activities. The program aims to enhance access to mental health care and improve engagement with evidence-based interventions through technology. By creating a supportive online environment, the study seeks to motivate adolescents to actively participate in their mental health treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents diagnosed with depression who may have difficulty accessing traditional mental health care.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing depression or those who are already receiving effective mental health treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to mental health support for adolescents and enhance their engagement in treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using technology-mediated interventions for mental health support, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jenness, Jessica Lynne — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Jenness, Jessica Lynne
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.