Feasibility of Katatagan Plus as a mental health early intervention for at-risk youth

Background: Mental health concerns have been steadily rising worldwide, including in the Philippines. Given the shortage of mental health specialists in the country, it is crucial to make psychosocial support more accessible and available to Filipino youth.Objective: This study evaluated the feasibility of implementing Katatagan Plus, a resilience intervention for youth at risk of mental health issues, in seven local government units across two regions in the Philippines. Specifically, it aimed to measure the effectiveness of the Katatagan Plus program in developing resilience through adaptive coping, socio-emotional skills, and well-being, and reducing the risk of substance use and depressive symptoms.Method: Seventy-one adolescents screened as being at risk for mental health problems were invited to participate in the program. Most (68%) were participants in community-based programs facilitated by municipal health officers, whereas the remaining (32%) participated in school-based programs facilitated by school guidance personnel. Pre- and post-test surveys were conducted to measure program efficacy and changes in mental health outcomes.Results: Significant improvements in adaptive coping and well-being were observed from the pre- and post-tests. The proportion of participants with scores indicating good well-being rose from 49% to 70% before and after the program. There was also a significant decrease in depression symptoms and substance use. No differences were found in terms of setting/service provider for adaptive coping, substance use, and depression. However, improvements in well-being were greater among students in school-based settings compared to community settings.Conclusion: Results suggest the potential of this early mental health intervention for young people at risk, as well as the need for referrals for those who may need more specialised support.