Grant: Doctoral Research Award -PA: Research in First Nations, Métis &/or Inuit Health

Wait-lists for mental health services in First Nations' communities often make services inadequate to meet community needs. The use of transdiagnostic treatments could serve to reduce these wait-times by allowing individuals who are experiencing a wide array of difficulties (e.g., depression, anxiety, substance use) to receive services that address underlying symptoms at the same time. These treatments also provide a new framework for evidence based culturally appropriate services within First Nations' communities by incorporating strategies that align with cultural values. Working in collaboration with a community based organization serving First Nations communities in North Western Ontario, a skill based transdiagnostic group intervention will be developed and implemented. This treatment will target community specific needs through consultation with organizational staff and community members. Culturally appropriate skills, concepts, and examples will be identified and integrated into the treatment. This is the first project to adapt and assess the effectiveness of a transdiagnostic mental health treatment for First Nations children. Following an initial pilot group of the treatment, approximately 50 children aged 7-12 years will complete a revised version. It is anticipated that these group interventions will reduce difficulties in emotion regulation, repetitive negative thinking, behavioural avoidance, and self-care of the children while developing positive coping strategies.