A feasibility study of a personalised public mental health intervention for young women aged 14 to 18 years
This study is testing an online programme called 'My Story and Me' for young women aged 14-18. It aims to help them with their mental health, especially as more young women are facing challenges. The programme uses short videos of other young women sharing their experiences. By watching these, participants can better understand their own feelings, feel less alone, and learn how to get help. It's designed to be personal and aims to improve mental health understanding and reduce any shame around talking about mental health. The study will check how well this programme works and if young women find it helpful, to guide future mental health support for them.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many young women in the UK are currently facing mental health challenges, and this study aims to find better ways to support them. It's focusing on young women aged 14 to 18, especially those from different backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and various racial groups, who might face extra difficulties. The researchers believe that getting support that understands these different experiences is really important for good mental health.
The project is testing a new online programme called 'My Story and Me'. This programme uses short videos of young women sharing their personal stories about their thoughts and feelings. The idea is that by hearing relatable experiences, other young women can learn more about their own mental health, feel more confident in talking about their needs, and find help sooner. It's hoped that this will help prevent mental health problems and improve overall wellbeing.
This study is a 'feasibility study', which means it's checking if 'My Story and Me' is a good idea and works well in practice before a bigger study takes place. It will be tried out in different places like schools and community groups. The findings will help us understand how best to support young women's mental health in the future and could lead to new public health initiatives.
Key takeaways
- A study for young women aged 14-18 about mental health.
- Tests an online program called 'My Story and Me' using real stories.
- Aims to help young women understand their mental health and get support.
- Focuses on diverse backgrounds and reducing mental health stigma.
- Participation involves watching a video and sharing your own story.
- You can stop taking part at any time and support is available.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for young women and girls aged between 14 and 18 years old. The researchers have worked with young people to decide on an inclusive definition of who counts as a young woman or girl for this study.
To be able to take part, you should not currently be thinking about harming yourself. Also, you shouldn't be receiving specialist mental health support from a doctor or therapist right now, nor should you be actively looking for it.
If you are under 16, a parent or guardian will also need to agree for you to take part. Everyone taking part needs to be able to understand the study information and agree to participate.
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 a young woman or girl?
- Are you between 14 and 18 years old?
- Are you NOT currently seeking or getting specialist mental health support?
- Are you NOT currently thinking about harming yourself?
- If you're under 16, can your parent or guardian agree for you to take part?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be involved in watching a video from the ‘My Story and Me’ programme. These videos feature young women from different backgrounds sharing their experiences. After watching, you'll be asked to create your own story. This could be by recording your answers (using speech, video, text, or images) to three questions: 'Who am I?', 'What is My Mental Health Story?', and 'How would I Like to be Supported?'. The study will run from February 2025 to August 2026, and your involvement will be part of this period.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (9)
- Anna Freud CentreCity onlyLondon, England
- Kirklees CollegeApproximateHuddersfield, England
- Newham College of Further EducationApproximateLondon, England
- Investing in Children (Sjovoll Centre)City onlyDurham, England
- Invictus Wellbeing Head OfficeCity onlyHalifax, England
- Jo Richardson Community SchoolApproximateDagenham, England
- King Edward VI Handsworth School for GirlsCity onlyBirmingham, England
- Tudor Grange Academy WorcesterApproximateWorcester, England
- John Ruskin CollegeApproximateSouth Croydon, England
Common questions
What is 'My Story and Me'?
It's an online programme that uses videos of young women sharing their mental health stories to help others understand themselves better.
Who can join the study?
Young women and girls aged 14 to 18 who are not currently receiving specialist mental health care and are not thinking about harming themselves.
What will I have to do if I join?
You'll watch a video of someone else's story and then answer three questions about your own story, possibly using speech, video, text, or images.
Is it safe to talk about mental health in the study?
The researchers are experienced and will provide support if you find it difficult. You can also bring someone with you, and you can stop participating at any time.
Who is paying for this study?
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.
How to find out more
Angelika Labno
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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