Enlace Familiar for Adolescent Mental Health

This trial tests a new program called Enlace Familiar, designed to help Latino teens discuss mental health with caregivers or trusted adults. The study will assess whether community health workers can effectively guide the program and if it enhances communication about mental health. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will try the program, while the other will continue with standard care. Latino teens with mild mental health concerns who are not currently in treatment are ideal candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative mental health solutions in their community.

The trial does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does require that participants are not currently receiving mental health treatment or have not received it in the past year.

Research shows that the Enlace Familiar program provides a safe and supportive experience for Latino teenagers. Studies on family-based programs like Enlace Familiar suggest they can improve mental health. In this program, community health workers (CHWs) engage with teens and their families about mental health.

Enlace Familiar is unique because it focuses on strengthening family connections to improve adolescent mental health. Unlike typical treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy or medication, which primarily target the individual, this approach emphasizes the role of family support in healing. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it could offer a holistic, supportive environment that enhances traditional therapies and may lead to more sustainable mental health improvements for adolescents.

This trial will compare the Enlace Familiar program with standard care. Studies have shown that family-based programs can improve teenagers' mental health and behavior. Research indicates that teenagers receiving organized family support tend to experience better mental health. Additionally, involving community health workers can make mental health discussions more culturally relevant and effective. Most studies on similar programs report positive changes, emphasizing the importance of communication between teenagers and their caregivers. Although specific data on Enlace Familiar's effectiveness is limited, these elements suggest it could enhance mental health communication among Latino teenagers.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸