Family Spirit Strengths

Launched by JOHNS HOPKINS BLOOMBERG SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH · Apr 18, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Family Spirit Strengths trial is studying a new program designed to help women who are experiencing mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use issues. This program is particularly focused on supporting American Indian and Alaska Native communities, where access to mental health services can be limited. The Family Spirit Strengths program teaches coping skills and helps participants connect with their community and cultural resources. In this study, half of the participants will receive this new program, while the other half will take part in a nutrition education program, allowing researchers to compare the two approaches.

To be eligible for this trial, participants should be female, at least 14 years old, and either pregnant or a primary caregiver of a child under 2 years old. They should also have a family history of substance use issues, personal substance use challenges, and elevated symptoms of depression or anxiety. Participants can expect to engage in skills-building activities, connect with others, and contribute to improving mental health services in their communities. This trial is currently recruiting participants and is led by a team of researchers who are committed to involving Indigenous voices in the process.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Self-identify as female; and
• • Pregnant or be a primary caregiver of a child that is 24 months or younger; and
• • 14 years or older at time of enrollment; and
• • Report a family history of high-risk substance use and/or report high-risk levels of personal substance use; and
• • Have elevated symptoms of depression and/or anxiety and/or risk of substance use disorder; and
• • Be part of the service population of one of the participating sites.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Profound disability that limits the ability to participate in assessments or interventions; and
• • Unlikely to be residing in or near the research service area for the next 6 months.