BRiCs is a study
exploring mental health
and resilience in
adolescents in Colombia

BRiCs is a study
exploring mental health
and resilience in
adolescents in Colombia

There are approximately 5.2 million adolescents currently living in Colombia. From 14 to 16 years, a changing reality is experienced with biological, psychological, and social maturational changes making adolescents more vulnerable to mental health problems and other psychosocial difficulties.

There are approximately 5.2 million adolescents currently living in Colombia. From 14 to 16 years, a changing reality is experienced with biological, psychological, and social maturational changes making adolescents more vulnerable to mental health problems and other psychosocial difficulties.

Within the National Mental Health Survey (ENSM-2015) approximately nine per cent of individuals aged 12-17 years old report a lack of support when experiencing problems. Additionally, 31.6% reported having some dysfunction at home, with this being severe in 7% of cases; 53.7% reported not participating in any social groups (sports, religious, artistic, or other) and 18.3% reported having been displaced by violence including armed conflict. Given this complex interplay between multiple stress factors within communities, a particular focus has been placed on the mental health needs of adolescents within this region.

The overall aim of this study is to improve health outcomes for adolescents with depression and anxiety in Colombia by adapting an existing effective intervention. To achieve this, several secondary aims are established. We considered a mixed-methods approach for this multiple phase project.

ADAPT

Adapt an effective low-cost intervention called DIALOG+, so that it is suitable as a treatment for adolescents with depression and anxiety.

DEVELOP

Develop an implementation strategy to promote the uptake of the DIALOG-A intervention in routine practice to improve the health outcomes of adolescents with depression and anxiety.

ASSESS

Assess the feasibility and acceptability of the new intervention which we call DIALOG-A.

INVOLVE

Involve adolescents in the research by setting up a participatory arts-based project.

Funded by

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