ACE Program: Evaluation of a School-Based Prevention Program for Depression in Young People

This presentation described the development, implementation, & short-term effectiveness of a school-based targeted program for the prevention of depression in adolescents. The “Adolescents Coping With Emotions” (ACE) program aims to build young peoples’ resilience by helping them adopt effective coping strategies for current & future problems. Results of a qualitative & quantitative evaluation were very positive. Students’ self-report ratings showed significantly decreased levels of depressive symptoms including negative thinking patterns, & significantly increased coping & problem solving skills.