|
Abstract
|
Theoretical Background: Although depressive disorders are among the most common mental disorders in adolescence, youth are not sufficiently informed about this illness. Among other things, this contributes to the fact that the majority of adolescents suffering from depression do not seek professional treatment or do so too late. One part of the “ich bin alles” (https://www.ich-bin-alles.de/) project is providing age-appropriate information on depression in adolescents via social media.
Aims and methods: In the present study, this strategy of providing information via Instagram is evaluated. One part of the evaluation is a pilot randomized controlled trial aiming to examine whether the communication of information on depression can lead to an increase in depression literacy, a reduction in stigma and an increase in help-seeking intention, and whether these changes persist over three months. Moreover, the acceptance of the Instagram profile will be analyzed. This is investigated using online questionnaires with >100 adolescents aged 13-18 before and after the content is presented, as well as in a follow-up after three months. The aim of the second part of the evaluation is to use a qualitative study design (Thinking Aloud Protocol) to investigate the spontaneous thoughts and feelings that adolescents aged 13-18 years express while viewing “ich bin alles” content on Instagram.
Results: Data collection will begin in spring 2025 and the first results of the ongoing study will be presented.
Conclusion: If the social media content will increase depression literacy, reduce stigma and improve help-seeking intention, this approach can serve as an innovative example for target-group oriented strategies that aim to foster early recognition and professional treatment of youth depression.
|
