A homeschool-based cognitive behavioral program to improve adolescent mental health

Problem: Anxiety and depression are prevalent in the adolescent population and can have significant consequences. Treatment recommendations are established but rates of utilization remain low, often due to a lack of access to mental health providers. Availability of mental health services in a school-based setting may increase access, but homeschooled children do not have access to these services. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the number of homeschooled children and compounded the problem of adolescent mental health disorders.

Methods: This pilot evidence-based practice project aimed to increase access to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in adolescents. Eight students from a local homeschool cooperative participated in the Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment (COPE) program. A Friedman test was used to evaluate median differences on anxiety and depression screening instruments at baseline, program completion, and 1 month after the program. Students also completed an adapted COPE program evaluation.

Results: Median scores on screening instruments decreased from pre-COPE to 1 month after, although results were not statistically significant. Students reported that the COPE program was helpful, and they learned new ways to deal with their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Conclusion: COPE is a feasible option to increase access to CBT in a homeschool setting.