https://pittplusme.org/study/712
SOVA Study for Adolescents
STUDY BASICS
Do you have a child age 14-17 who is currently experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, or has in the past? If so, your child may be able to help researchers build an online peer support community for depressed and anxious teens. This research study is done entirely online.
STUDY PURPOSE
About 10% of adolescents experience depression, and many of those also have anxiety. Unfortunately, only one-third of teens with these conditions receive any help, and some who receive help may not get the treatment they need. Researchers believe that providing online education and support may help teens better understand mental health issues and available treatment options. The SOVA (Supporting Our Valued Adolescents) Project is a secure and confidential online peer support network designed to help adolescents with depression and anxiety interact with peers going through similar difficulties, and with therapist moderators. SOVA participants can read articles about mental health, access resources, and comment online. Participants are also encouraged to become “SOVA Ambassadors” by sharing their personal experiences through blogposts.
COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD?
- Child age of 14-17
- Child with symptoms of depression and/or anxiety now or in the past
- Child has internet and email access
WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT
Participation takes place entirely online, and the level and duration of participation is up to you.
IRB: STUDY19040155A
- SOVA and WiseSOVA Feasibility Study
MEET THE RESEARCHER
Ana Radovic-Stakic
Ana Radovic, MD, MSc, is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Radovic is interested in increasing adolescent and parent participation in mental health treatment when depression treatment is recommended within primary care. She is especially interested in using internet technology such as social media to enable connections between adolescent and young adult peers as well as parent peers who have mental health illness in common.