Investigating issues surrounding depression in adolescent girls across Ontario: a participatory action research project

Can J Commun Ment Health. 2003 Spring;22(1):55-68. doi: 10.7870/cjcmh-2003-0004.

Abstract

This study gathered data from adolescent girls in four regions (Ottawa, North Bay, Toronto, Windsor) concerning key issues in the prevention of depression in young women. Using a participatory methodology, a team of young women worked with researchers to design and conduct focus groups with 48 adolescent girls across Ontario. Major themes emerging from the focus group data fell into five categories: (a) symptoms, (b) contributing factors, (c) alleviating depression, (d) prevention, and (e) barriers to receiving help. These findings should be considered when designing programs targeting depression in young women in order to maximize the accessibility and effectiveness of such initiatives.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attitude to Health*
  • Depressive Disorder / prevention & control*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Health Services Needs and Demand
  • Humans
  • Ontario
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Support