Move&Connect-Youth: A Virtual Group Intervention for Youth Experiencing Persisting Symptoms After Concussion

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Pediatric Neurology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury, can lead to persisting symptoms in youth.
• Effective interventions are needed to address the unique challenges faced by adolescents with post-concussion syndrome.
• Virtual group interventions offer a scalable and accessible approach for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the iterative development of the Move&Connect-Youth (M&C-Y) virtual group intervention.
• To report findings from the initial feasibility testing of M&C-Y for youth with persisting symptoms after concussion (PSAC).
• To gather participant feedback on intervention structure, engagement, and takeaways.

Main Methods:

• The M&C-Y intervention was developed using an intervention mapping framework.
• Feasibility was assessed based on pre-defined criteria.
• Ten youth with PSAC participated in the virtual intervention.
• Data were collected through pre-intervention questionnaires and semi-structured exit interviews.

Main Results:

• The M&C-Y intervention met feasibility criteria.
• Participant feedback highlighted positive aspects of intervention structure and engagement.
• Key takeaways for participants included improved understanding and coping strategies.

Conclusions:

• M&C-Y is a meaningful and feasible intervention for youth with PSAC.
• The virtual group format was found to be engaging for the target population.
• Further research can explore the efficacy of M&C-Y in improving long-term outcomes.