A protocol for a multisite pilot and feasibility randomized controlled trial compares a six-week mindfulness-based intervention, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and health education groups for 120 adolescents ages 12-17 with elevated depression symptoms, body mass index at or above the 85th percentile, and a family history of diabetes. The trial, conducted across four U.S. sites, aims to assess intervention fidelity, recruitment feasibility, and acceptability. Primary outcomes include at least 80% adherence to intervention protocols and at least 80% enrollment of eligible youth. Findings will guide the design of a future multisite efficacy trial evaluating whether mindfulness can reduce depression and improve insulin resistance in adolescents at risk for type 2 diabetes.
An online mindfulness program adapted for LGBTQ+ adolescents, Learning to Breathe-Queer (L2B-Q), was tested in a pilot study with twenty participants. The program showed feasible recruitment and assessment retention, acceptable content with some delivery areas needing improvement, and was safe and tolerable. From before to after the intervention, adolescents reported decreased depression and anxiety, and improved intuitive eating, physical activity, and LGBTQ+ identity self-awareness, with moderate-to-large effects. The findings suggest that adapted mindfulness-based interventions can benefit LGBTQ+ youth and warrant further optimization and testing.