A programme to respond to early signs of depression amongst young people
Blues is a 6 week Cognitive Behavioural Group Depression Prevention programme for 13 – 19 year olds that actively engages students with depressive symptoms or at risk of onset of major depression in weekly, one-hour group sessions and home practice assignments. Sessions focus on building group rapport and increasing participant involvement in pleasant activities, learning and practicing cognitive restructuring techniques, and developing response plans to future life stressors. In-session exercises require participants to apply skills taught in the programme. Home practice assignments reinforce the skills taught and help participants learn how to apply these skills to their daily life. Research undertaken has demonstrated proven outcomes in the following areas:
The programme will be delivered in schools by Action for Children staff who will be trained in delivering the programme. Promotional literature and programme information will be made available to the school, parents and students beforehand.
Schools that are selected to be involved in the programme will be required to support the process by:
Schools will also need to consider the work that will be required to achieve sustainable funding for continued delivery the programme after our initial delivery funding expires.
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