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A support group intervention for at-risk female high school students
Summary
School nurses can help depressed adolescents through early intervention. A support group significantly reduced suicidal thoughts, stress, and family distress in high-risk teen girls.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent mental health
- School nursing
- Psychology
Background:
- School nurses are positioned for early intervention with at-risk adolescents.
- School-based support groups can effectively help depressed adolescents by providing skills training and emotional support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of a school-based support group on high-risk female adolescents exhibiting signs of depression.
- To evaluate changes in suicidal ideation, perceived stress, and family distress.
Main Methods:
- 14 high-risk female adolescents identified based on depression indicators.
- Weekly support group intervention focused on coping skills and emotional support.
- Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires assessing risk and protective factors.
Main Results:
- Significant decrease in suicidal ideation (55%).
- Reduction in perceived stress (27%) and family distress (26%).
- Most participants initiated formal mental health treatment.
Conclusions:
- School-based support groups are effective for high-risk adolescents.
- Early intervention by school nurses can improve mental health outcomes.
- The intervention successfully reduced negative symptoms and increased treatment engagement.