Dowagiac

Researchers are evaluating behavioral health programs designed to reduce mental and behavioral health problems in American Indian and Alaska Native communities, where access to culturally appropriate services is limited. This study compares the Family Spirit Strengths (FSS) program, a skills-based secondary prevention intervention, with an evidence-based nutrition education program. FSS incorporates elements from the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA) and culturally informed materials developed with guidance from an Indigenous advisory group to support mental health and community connections. The study randomly assigns participants to receive either the Family Spirit Strengths program or the Family Spirit Nurture nutrition education program. The FSS program focuses on psychoeducation about mental and emotional health, normalizing stress, reducing stigma around seeking help, and building hope. It teaches awareness of links between thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and spirituality, while encouraging cultural connections as coping strategies. The nutrition program serves as an active control, emphasizing healthy parental feeding practices and promoting healthy beverage choices. Participants are assessed at baseline, 3-4 months, and 6-8 months after starting the program. Researchers measure the difference in the number of poor mental health days over the last 30 days using the Health-Related Quality of Life measure. The study also monitors participant engagement and outcomes related to depressive symptoms, anxiety, substance use risk, and overall mental health. The total participation timeline spans up to eight months post baseline assessment.