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Open Access 01-12-2015 | Research article

A qualitative study exploring adolescents’ experiences with a school-based mental health program

Authors: Pernilla Garmy, Agneta Berg, Eva K. Clausson

Published in: BMC Public Health | Issue 1/2015

Abstract

Background

Supporting positive mental health development in adolescents is a major public health concern worldwide. Although several school-based programs aimed at preventing depression have been launched, it is crucial to evaluate these programs and to obtain feedback from participating adolescents. This study aimed to explore adolescents’ experiences with a -based cognitive-behavioral depression prevention program.

Methods

Eighty-nine adolescents aged 13–15 years were divided into 12 focus groups. The focus group interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Three categories and eight subcategories were found to be related to the experience of the school-based program. The first category, intrapersonal strategies, consisted of the subcategories of directed thinking, improved self-confidence, stress management, and positive activities. The second category, interpersonal awareness, consisted of the subcategories of trusting the group and considering others. The third category, structural constraints, consisted of the subcategories of negative framing and emphasis on performance.

Conclusions

The school-based mental health program was perceived as beneficial and meaningful on both individual and group levels, but students expressed a desire for a more health-promoting approach.

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Title: A qualitative study exploring adolescents’ experiences with a school-based mental health program
Authors: Pernilla Garmy
Agneta Berg
Eva K. Clausson
Publication date: 01-12-2015
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Public Health / Issue 1/2015
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-015-2368-z

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

A qualitative study exploring adolescents’ experiences with a school-based mental health program

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on sleep in brain health

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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