S. Parikh, D. Taubman, C. Antoun, and et al (2018)
The Michigan Peer-to-Peer Depression Awareness Program: School-Based Prevention to Address Depression Among Teens.
Psychiatric Services, 69(4):487-491.
OBJECTIVE:
The Peer-to-Peer Depression Awareness Program (P2P) is a school-based program that aims to decrease mental illness and promote well-being among students by empowering high school students as both learners and educators. Specific goals include improving the school climate around mental health, directing students to resources, and encouraging help-seeking behavior.
METHODS:
In the 2015-2016 academic year, 121 students across 10 high schools organized into teams and were trained to develop and implement peer-to-peer depression awareness campaigns. Outcomes were assessed via pre- and posttest questionnaires.
RESULTS:
A total of 878 students completed questionnaires. Outcomes demonstrated improved knowledge and attitudes toward depression, increased confidence in identifying and referring peers with depression, improved help-seeking intentions, and reduced stigma.
CONCLUSIONS:
The P2P program increased depression literacy through the use of youth-designed and youth-implemented depression awareness and outreach activities, which may ultimately result in earlier detection of depression and in fewer depression sequelae.
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