Authors: Hlebec Valentina, Bolko Irena, Magnusson Lennart, Brolin Rosita, Becker Saul, Lewis Feylyn, Morgan Vicky, Leu Agnes, Alder Elena, Phelps Daniel, De Boer Alice, Hoefman Renske, Bouwman Tamara, de Jong  Nynke, Santini  Sara, Socci Marco, D'Amen  Barbara, Boccaletti Licia in Hanson Elizabeth

Year of research: 2021

The research project “Psychosocial support for promoting mental health and well-being among adolescent young carers in Europe” (ME-WE), funded by the European Union (H2020; 2018-2021), aimed to develop an innovative framework of primary prevention interventions for AYCs aged 15-17 that have been tested in six European countries (Sweden - coordinator, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and United Kingdom). The ME-WE primary prevention intervention program for AYCs has been developed based on the theoretical framework of the DNA-V model (Discoverer, Noticer, Advisor and Values), an adaptation of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) evidence-based approach, which is suitable for working with adolescents to promote their well-being. Authors have conducted a randomized controlled trial with a two (arms) by three (times) repeated measures factorial design. Two different modes of delivery were applied: a) a fully face-to-face approach (adopted by Italy, Slovenia, and United Kingdom), and b) a blended approach that combines face-to-face and online sessions delivered via the ZOOM platform and a dedicated ME-WE mobile app (adopted by Sweden, Switzerland, and the Netherlands) which was co-designed with AYCs at earlier stages of the project. To comply with the restrictions and precautionary measures introduced at national levels, due to COVID-19 pandemic, the study has been virtualized. No changes in the intervention contents »per se« were introduced, keeping the online intervention equivalent to the pre-COVID-19 version. Outcomes were measured at the individual level. Both the ME-WE intervention and the waitlist control group were assessed at baseline (T0), immediately post-intervention for the ME-WE intervention group or after seven weeks for the waitlist control group (T1), and at 3 months follow-up (T2). Participant-reported outcome measures were analysed. After the 3 months follow-up the waitlist control group were offered to receive the same program as the intervention group. The data file as well as all accompanying materials are available only upon request.