Behavioural Development, Long-term Outcomes and Opportunities to Optimize Youth Mental Health Trajectories
The BLOOM project is studying young people aged 9 to 25 to better understand how mental health develops. Researchers want to identify early signs of conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and eating disorders. They're looking for different clues – like family history or general struggles – to predict who might be at risk and how to offer help early on. This project will follow young people for at least 5 years, even if they don't have a mental health diagnosis yet. The goal is to lay the groundwork for better preventative support, helping young people stay as healthy as possible during these important years. It's about spotting opportunities to improve their wellbeing before serious issues arise.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The 'BLOOM' project is all about understanding the journey of mental health in young people, specifically those aged 9 to 25. It's a big study designed to look closely at how different factors in a young person's life might lead to mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or eating disorders. The main goal is to find patterns and early signs that could help predict who might be at risk in the future.
Researchers will follow young people for at least five years, collecting information each year. This includes those who haven't yet been diagnosed with a mental health condition. By doing this, they hope to create a clearer picture of how these conditions start and develop over time. This valuable information could then be used to develop new ways to offer support and help earlier, hopefully before problems become too difficult.
Think of it like being able to spot a small crack in the pavement before it becomes a big hole. The BLOOM study wants to find those early 'cracks' in mental health development. This isn't about giving anyone a quick fix, but rather about gathering knowledge to help future generations of young people get the right support at the right time. The more we understand, the better we can help young people thrive.
Key takeaways
- A study looking at mental health in young people aged 9 to 25.
- Aims to understand early signs of mental health conditions like depression and ADHD.
- No treatments or medication are given; it's an observational study.
- Participation involves annual check-ups for at least five years.
- Helps pave the way for better future support for young people's mental health.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for young people between the ages of 9 and 25. You must be able to read and understand either French or English. If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian needs to give their permission for you to take part.
You might be eligible if you've already talked to a doctor or health service about a mental health concern (this is called the 'help-seeking' group). Or, if you haven't sought help for mental health directly, you could still be eligible if you have a family member (parent or sibling) who has received treatment for a mental health condition, or if you're getting support from community groups for things like housing, food, or if you face social challenges (for example, if you're from a racialised group or identify as LGBTQ2SIA+), or if you have a long-term physical illness like diabetes or asthma.
However, you won't be able to join if you can't communicate verbally due to certain medical conditions, or if you've already been diagnosed with one of the study's focus conditions (like depression or ADHD) by a doctor and are currently receiving treatment for it. The study wants to understand the beginnings of these conditions, not those already being treated.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 9 and 25 years old?
- Can you understand and speak English or French?
- If under 18, is a parent or guardian willing to consent?
- Have you talked to a doctor about a mental health concern, OR do you have a family history of mental health conditions, OR are you getting help from social support groups, OR do you have a long-term physical illness?
- Have you NOT already been diagnosed with a mental health condition like depression or ADHD and are currently receiving treatment for it?
- Can you communicate verbally?
What does participation involve?
If you join the BLOOM study, you'll be involved for at least five years. Each year, you and possibly your parent or guardian (if you're a young person) will have a check-up. This will involve answering questions about your mental health, wellbeing, and various aspects of your life. There are no medications or special treatments provided as part of this study; it's purely about observation and gathering information. After the initial five years, the study might continue with less frequent check-ups, depending on ongoing funding.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-MontréalVerified postcodeMontreal, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the main goal of the BLOOM study?
The main goal is to understand how mental health develops in young people aged 9-25, to predict future risks and find ways to offer early support.
Will I receive any treatment if I join?
No, this study does not provide any medical treatments or interventions. It's an observational study focused on gathering information.
How long will I be in the study?
You will be followed for at least five years, with annual assessments. After that, follow-ups might continue less often.
Who can join the study?
Young people aged 9 to 25 who can speak French or English. Eligibility also depends on whether you've sought mental health help, have family history, social needs, or a long-term physical illness.
What if I decide I don't want to continue?
You are free to leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and it won't affect any care you receive.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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