%0 Journal Article
%T "Performing Emotions and Suffering": Recovery of Depressive Symptoms Involving Adolescent Intervention in Art and Dance Schools
%J European journal of mental health
%D 2022
%A Santos, J.C.
%A Quaresma, H.
%A Brás, M.
%A Carmo, C.
%A Façanha, J.
%A Nabais, A.
%A Simeão, L.
%A Calças, C.
%A Matos, E.
%A Coruche, I.
%A Simões, R.
%A Erse, M.
%A Loureiro, C.
%A Marques, L.
%V 17
%N 3
%P 65-77
%X INTRODUCTION: In previous studies, a large majority of dance students reported mental health issues, mainly eating disorders and depression. Aims: This project aimed to promote mental health and well-being as well as prevent maladaptive and risky behaviors - namely suicidal behavior - among adolescents who attend art and dance schools. It was implemented in sequential stages, including six moments of classroom intervention for adolescents. <br><br>METHODS: A quasi-experimental research design was applied, with two assessment moments (before and after the intervention) using questionnaires filled out by the adolescents. <br><br>RESULTS: The project was implemented in three art schools (Center and South of Portugal), and the sample consisted of 122 adolescents. 72.9% of our sample were girls aged 12-18 years (M = 13.88; SD = 1.54). Boys showed significantly higher well-being scores (M = 16.53; SD = 4.24 vs M = 14.67, SD = 4.17), and girls showed higher coping scores (M = 153.3; SD = 13.53 vs M = 146.73; SD = 13.22). Concerning depressive symptoms, 34.8% of adolescents had moderate/severe depressive symptoms, which decreased by 10% after the intervention. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents attending art schools might be more vulnerable to developing mental distress, and this intervention proved to be an effective approach for promoting mental health and well-being as well as preventing suicidal behaviors. © 2022 The Authors. Published by Semmelweis University, Institute of Mental Health, Budapest.<p /><p>Language: en</p>
%G en
%I Akadémiai Kiadó
%@ 1788-4934
%U http://dx.doi.org/10.5708/EJMH.17.2022.3.5