4 - (SYM 34) Adolescent and Parent Perspectives on a Behavioral Activation App to Address Anhedonia

Abstract Body
Background

Anhedonia is a known contributor to depression and suicidal ideation and behaviors (SIB).  Anhedonia can cause inactivity and social isolation. Behavioral activation (BA) is a treatment approach that effectively targets anhedonia, inactivity and social isolation and is effective for alleviating depressive symptoms and prevention SIB. In a pilot study, we are testing a digital BA activation app that integrates activity monitor and feedback in its delivery with the support of a health coach (GET ActivE). Currently, there are no trials that demonstrate the effectiveness of digital BA for youth with depression and at suicide risk. To inform the GET ActivE adaptation and implementation strategies, we applied the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research by conducting qualitative interviews. This is significant given the barriers to uptake with digital mental health interventions and challenge of reaching racial/ethnic minoritized youth. 

Methods

The study conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with 10 adolescents and 10 parents to inform GET ActivE adaptations of a health coach manual and optimize acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness for treating youth at-risk for SIBs. Qualitative interviews were recorded and transcribed. A rapid analytic method is being utilized in a three-step process to quickly inform intervention adaptation.

Results

The adolescents’ ages ranged from 12-17 with a mean of 14.7 years. Eighty percent were female at birth while the sample racial composition was 50% Black and 50% White. The parents were all mothers and ranged in age from 34-52 with a mean of 39.6 years. Preliminary themes from adolescents and parents are: 1) adolescent activities; 2) adolescent experience of anhedonia; 3) coping with anhedonia 4) BA app feedback; 5) implementation barriers and facilitators; and 6) health coach characteristics and communication. Adolescents also provided information on use of apps in general. Adolescent and parents were favorable of GET ActivE in general. Salient issues include privacy concerns and parents’ involvement in GET ActivE. 

Conclusions

The adolescents and parent interviews were beneficial to inform the adaptation process for the GET ActivE health coach manual and study implementation. These will be discussed.