Mental Health Research Study
Researchers at Rutgers University are conducting a study in young Black and African American adults to better understand life-changing, threatening, or distressing experiences and how it relates to mental health.
Fast Facts
Had Experienced Life-Changing, Threatening, or Distressing Experiences
18-35 Years Old and Identify as Black or African American
Compensation Provided
Conducted in New Jersey
Study Background
Are you a young Black or African American adult interested in learning more about mental health while contributing to a program designed to uplift your community? Rutgers University-New Brunswick invites you to participate in our study, “Building a Community-Based Mental Health Literacy Intervention for Black Young Adults.”
Led by a dedicated team of Black and diverse researchers and community partners, this initiative seeks to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma among young Black adults.
Through focus groups, we’ve heard directly from young Black men and women about the importance of understanding mental health, recognizing symptoms, and accessing effective coping strategies. In response, we’ve created the Finding Emotional Empowerment and Lifelong Strength (FEELS) program. Designed for and by young Black adults, FEELS provides education on common mental health conditions, challenges harmful myths, and offers practical tools to give and receive support during difficult times.
By joining this study, you will play a vital role in shaping a resource that could benefit countless others. Participants will learn about the causes and symptoms of mental health challenges, explore strategies to manage and prevent them, and discover pathways to finding support. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us refine the FEELS program, ensuring it is relevant, accessible, and impactful.
Study Background
Are you a young Black or African American adult interested in learning more about mental health while contributing to a program designed to uplift your community? Rutgers University-New Brunswick invites you to participate in our study, “Building a Community-Based Mental Health Literacy Intervention for Black Young Adults.”
Led by a dedicated team of Black and diverse researchers and community partners, this initiative seeks to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma among young Black adults.
Through focus groups, we’ve heard directly from young Black men and women about the importance of understanding mental health, recognizing symptoms, and accessing effective coping strategies. In response, we’ve created the Finding Emotional Empowerment and Lifelong Strength (FEELS) program. Designed for and by young Black adults, FEELS provides education on common mental health conditions, challenges harmful myths, and offers practical tools to give and receive support during difficult times.
By joining this study, you will play a vital role in shaping a resource that could benefit countless others. Participants will learn about the causes and symptoms of mental health challenges, explore strategies to manage and prevent them, and discover pathways to finding support. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us refine the FEELS program, ensuring it is relevant, accessible, and impactful.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to address the critical need for accessible, culturally relevant mental health education for young Black adults. Research shows that mental health stigma, lack of awareness, and systemic barriers often prevent individuals in Black communities from seeking support. The Finding Emotional Empowerment and Lifelong Strength (FEELS) program was created to fill this gap by providing tools and knowledge that can empower young Black adults to understand, manage, and prioritize their mental health.
By focusing on young Black adults who have had life-changing, threatening, or distressing experiences, the study seeks to ensure the program is particularly relevant and effective for those who may benefit the most. The goal is to not only increase mental health literacy but also to challenge harmful myths, reduce stigma, and create a supportive framework for addressing mental health challenges within the community.
The outcomes of this study will help refine the FEELS program and ensure it becomes a valuable resource that fosters emotional empowerment and resilience in Black communities. Your participation will contribute to the development of an impactful initiative aimed at making mental health education accessible, relatable, and meaningful for future generations.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
Ages 18-35
Identify as Black or African American
Had life-changing, threatening, or distressing experiences
If you choose to participate in the study, you will have the opportunity to take part in a meaningful and educational experience while helping to improve the Finding Emotional Empowerment and Lifelong Strength (FEELS) program. Here’s what to expect:
Initial Survey: Once enrolled, you’ll complete a survey to assess your current knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes about mental health.
Group Sessions:
- You will attend 12 in-person group sessions in the Greater Somerset, Middlesex, or Essex County areas.
- Each session will last approximately 90 minutes.
- During these sessions, you’ll learn about mental health topics, including symptoms of common conditions, strategies for managing challenges, and ways to provide and seek support.
Additional Surveys:
- Midway through the program, you will complete a second survey to help us understand how the sessions are impacting your mental health knowledge and attitudes.
- At the end of the program, you will complete a final survey to evaluate the program’s overall effectiveness and share your feedback.
Your participation will take place in a supportive environment alongside peers who share similar goals. Not only will you gain valuable insights and tools to manage mental health, but you’ll also be contributing to a program designed to create lasting positive change in Black communities.
Each participant will receive up to $100 for participating in the program and completing three surveys.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
