The S.M.A.R.T. Project: Stress Management and Resilience Training for Teens

Depressive symptoms are common in adolescents, with 20-25% of adolescents experiencing a
depressive episode before they graduate high school, and implications into adulthood. Since
depression often first appears in adolescence and unsuccessful treatment of adolescent
depression increases the risk of chronic or recurrent depression in adulthood, managing
depression symptoms at this critical stage of development can benefit mental health and
functioning throughout the lifespan. Preliminary studies have indicated that a mindful
self-compassion program is a promising intervention to prevent depression and improve
wellbeing in at-risk teens.

The S.M.A.R.T Project (Stress Management and Resilience Training for Teens) is designed to
learn about mood in teens, and whether emotional well-being can be improved with an 8 week
class. In this study, 80 adolescents ages 14-17 ,with subsyndromal depression, will be
randomized to either the 8-week mindful self-compassion intervention or the 8-week healthy
lifestyles control program, followed by 6 monthly continuation sessions. Feasibility of the
research protocol and of the program elements will be assessed. Focus group feedback will
also inform program modifications and refinement. Additionally, baseline, mid-intervention,
and 3- and 6-months post intervention measurements of depression, resilience, and other
related psychosocial measures will allow preliminary exploration of the impact of each
program on outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Adolescents age14-17 (inclusive) in high school (may turn 18 after enrollment).

- Score of at least 6 on the Quick Inventory Depressive Symptomatology (QIDS). Potential
participants must be pre-screened with the QIDS assessment

- Clinical mental health assessment based on the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for
Children-IV (DISC-IV) to screen for serious psychiatric illness, including current
major depression

- Able to read and communicate in English

- Willing to be randomized to one of the two arms;

- Able to attend 8 weekly, 1.75 hour sessions, as well as complete self-report measures
and homework

- Have access to a computer or other internet-enabled device.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Score of at least 6 on the QIDS (pre-screening);

- Suicidality or major depression as determined by Study Psychologist;

- Inability to speak, write, and read English;

- Active substance abuse, defined as active treatment for substance abuse, legal
consequences/school suspensions associated with substance use, or ongoing family
conflict associated with substance use;

- History of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, severe autism, or psychiatric
hospitalization within the past 2 years;

- Unable or unwilling to attend or participate in group sessions and/or self-report
assessments;

- Current or prior participation in another intervention to address depression or
psychiatric conditions;

- Prior formal training in mindfulness, such as a mindfulness course.