Addressing the Mental Health and Productivity of Young Workers using Contextual Behavioural Science
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Birmingham
Department Name: School of Psychology
Abstract
Mental health problems affect one in six workers each year and are the leading cause of sickness absence (Deloitte, 2020). Offering mental health support in the workplace can be an effective public health intervention to help remediate common issues (e.g. anxiety, depression) and ultimately improve productivity at work (Prudenzi et al., 2021). A novel approach that has been suggested to promote employees' mental and physical health is CBS (Bond & Bunce, 2003). This model and intervention aim to promote mental health of employees by helping them to be more aware, open and active. This is achieved through the process of 'psychological flexibility'. My PhD thesis aimed to test the CBS psychological model and therapy (ACT) to improve mental health and reduce work-related stress of healthcare employees. My doctoral thesis addressed several gaps in the literature and produced four studies. In combination, the findings from my thesis found that the CBS model, ACT intervention, and the hypothesised resilience skills (psychological flexibility and self-compassion) were beneficial to improving mental health in healthcare employees.
The landscape of workplace mental health has dramatically changed since the start of my PhD. Increased technology, the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, technological advancements and financial stressors have led to poorer mental health in young people with an increased risk of unemployment (Bartelink et al., 2020, for a review). Highly relevant UK funders (e.g. Wellcome Trust), recent reports (e.g. Deloitte Generation Z and Millennials', 2021), policymakers (e.g. EUniWell) and the latest Mental Health at Work guideline (NICE) have all launched a call for evidence-based interventions that improve mental health of young people at work. With the help of multiple experienced academics, partners, young people, and stakeholders I would like to further develop, advance and implement my work for helping young people's mental health.
This fellowship has three objectives: 1) to further increase the impact and dissemination of my research and reach international visibility; 2) to develop my abilities to become an independent academic, and; 3) to expand and develop the work conducted during my PhD to help remediate common youth mental health problems (e.g. anxiety, depression) and likely improve their engagement at work.
With this fellowship I aim to:
Collaborate with: a) academics of the University of Birmingham (Dubai) and the UAE FAHR stakeholders, b) academics and partners of the MHPP project, c) senior youth mental health experts and the YAB at the IMH University of Birmingham (Edgbaston campus);
Disseminate: deliver a stakeholder webinar, attend an International Occupational Psychology Conference and a CBS Conference, publish an article in a public news outlet, deliver a Train-the-Trainer training programme and an academic seminar (University of Birmingham, Dubai);
Supervise: supervising master's level student projects and a PhD student;
Lead: form and lead a new IMH research sub-theme group entitled 'Employment and Mental Health' in the Mood Disorders Lab group (Prof Marwaha);
Adapt the intervention: adapt the CBS intervention used in my PhD to help young people improve their mental health and productivity at work;
Develop a grant proposal: improve my writing skills and develop the New Investigator Grant application.
This fellowship will aim to empower me and consolidate the relevant skillset for my future career as a scientist-practitioner: designing, administering and evaluating interventions for improving mental health in the workplace. This fellowship would enhance the range of academic employment opportunities available to me in this field. That said, my drive to undertake this fellowship is not solely fuelled by the opportunities that will emerge upon completion but also by the prospect of engaging in the process of pursuing a research avenue that I care about deeply.
The landscape of workplace mental health has dramatically changed since the start of my PhD. Increased technology, the continuation of the COVID-19 pandemic, technological advancements and financial stressors have led to poorer mental health in young people with an increased risk of unemployment (Bartelink et al., 2020, for a review). Highly relevant UK funders (e.g. Wellcome Trust), recent reports (e.g. Deloitte Generation Z and Millennials', 2021), policymakers (e.g. EUniWell) and the latest Mental Health at Work guideline (NICE) have all launched a call for evidence-based interventions that improve mental health of young people at work. With the help of multiple experienced academics, partners, young people, and stakeholders I would like to further develop, advance and implement my work for helping young people's mental health.
This fellowship has three objectives: 1) to further increase the impact and dissemination of my research and reach international visibility; 2) to develop my abilities to become an independent academic, and; 3) to expand and develop the work conducted during my PhD to help remediate common youth mental health problems (e.g. anxiety, depression) and likely improve their engagement at work.
With this fellowship I aim to:
Collaborate with: a) academics of the University of Birmingham (Dubai) and the UAE FAHR stakeholders, b) academics and partners of the MHPP project, c) senior youth mental health experts and the YAB at the IMH University of Birmingham (Edgbaston campus);
Disseminate: deliver a stakeholder webinar, attend an International Occupational Psychology Conference and a CBS Conference, publish an article in a public news outlet, deliver a Train-the-Trainer training programme and an academic seminar (University of Birmingham, Dubai);
Supervise: supervising master's level student projects and a PhD student;
Lead: form and lead a new IMH research sub-theme group entitled 'Employment and Mental Health' in the Mood Disorders Lab group (Prof Marwaha);
Adapt the intervention: adapt the CBS intervention used in my PhD to help young people improve their mental health and productivity at work;
Develop a grant proposal: improve my writing skills and develop the New Investigator Grant application.
This fellowship will aim to empower me and consolidate the relevant skillset for my future career as a scientist-practitioner: designing, administering and evaluating interventions for improving mental health in the workplace. This fellowship would enhance the range of academic employment opportunities available to me in this field. That said, my drive to undertake this fellowship is not solely fuelled by the opportunities that will emerge upon completion but also by the prospect of engaging in the process of pursuing a research avenue that I care about deeply.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Arianna Prudenzi (Principal Investigator / Fellow) |
Publications
Arianna Prudenzi
(2023)
How Psychological Flexibility Can Help Beat Burnout: A possible solution for healthcare workers across the globe
in Psychology Today (press outlet)
Arianna Prudenzi
(2023)
ACT in the Workplace: Nurturing Supportive Environments Within and Across Teams (Symposium)
Arianna Prudenzi
(2023)
MENTOR Pilot: Results from a Joint Employee-Manager-Liaison Worker Intervention
| Title | Policy brief and animation |
| Description | Policy brief and animation Policy brief: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvfBJGfw8/Ku_uPL_ObJIZOOHkswaGVw/view?utm_content=DAFvfBJGfw8&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=viewer Animation: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvoTy7OmA/8MCxavHihErD_hcQQaMPFg/watch |
| Type Of Art | Film/Video/Animation |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Impact | The animation and policy brief has been shared with Sealey Associates and with policy experts. |
| URL | https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvoTy7OmA/8MCxavHihErD_hcQQaMPFg/watch |
| Description | Expanding Collaborative Networks (National & International): This fellowship facilitated the establishment and deepening of key collaborations in workplace mental health. Notable partners include the Youth Advisory Board (Institute for Mental Health), the McPin Foundation, MHPP project partners, and youth mental health experts from the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) workplace intervention developers. These partnerships significantly extended the reach and impact of my research. Building on this work, in 2025, I successfully expanded my network further and secured a British Academy pump-priming award. Leveraging the policy insights developed during the fellowship, I am now collaborating with new partners (Dr Tayler Truhan (Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK), Dr Bojana Dinic (University of Novi Sad, Novi Sad, Serbia), Professor Mark Campbell (University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland), Dr Darragh Lydon (Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK), Mr Soumya Kanti Datta (Digiotouch, Nice, France), Mr Petar Krstic (Opens, Novi Sad, Serbia) to co-design a mental health prototype aimed at supporting young adults in managing their mental health. Effective Dissemination and Engagement: The fellowship enabled a range of dissemination and engagement activities, including stakeholder webinars, academic seminars (e.g., University of Birmingham Dubai), and a dedicated stakeholder workshop. These activities generated strong interest from leading global industries in piloting the ACT for Young Workers programme, demonstrating the real-world impact and applicability of my research. Academic Career Progression: This fellowship marked a significant step in my academic career. Key milestones include: Establishing a research group at the University of Birmingham. Supervising PhD students. Achieving Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) status. Securing a Lectureship position. These achievements underscore my progression towards independent academic leadership. Meeting the Fellowship Objectives The fellowship successfully met its core objectives: Objective 1: Dissemination and Collaboration Successfully achieved through extensive stakeholder engagement, conference participation, and publication of a press article in Psychology Today. Objective 2: Academic Independence Despite restrictions on teaching roles limiting direct involvement in an MSc module, key indicators of academic independence - FHEA recognition, research group formation, and a Lectureship position - demonstrate significant progress. Objective 3: Development and Testing of Intervention The adapted ACT for Young Workers intervention was successfully tested with 10 participants using an interval-contingent research design, yielding promising preliminary results. A larger feasibility study was completed in 2024. This paper is about to submitted for publication (2025). Additionally, industry-supported grant proposals have been developed for a randomised controlled trial and broader implementation. Future Directions and Accountability Sustaining and Expanding Impact: The collaborative networks established during the fellowship - including academic institutions, mental health organisations, and industry partners - are well-positioned to advance this work. In particular, partnerships with key industry stakeholders provide direct pathways for implementation and further research. Next Steps: The ACT for Young Workers pilot study will serve as a foundation for larger-scale research and implementation trials. Ongoing grant proposals and international interest will drive further development and evaluation. Continued stakeholder engagement and funding efforts will ensure sustained progress and impact. Accountability: To demonstrate the value of public investment, this research will continue to prioritise transparent reporting, clear documentation of outcomes, and ongoing dissemination of findings. Engagement with both public and private sector partners will ensure alignment with societal needs and measurable contributions to workplace mental health. |
| Exploitation Route | The outcomes of this funding have produced several tangible results that can be expanded upon by various stakeholders, including researchers, practitioners, educational institutions, and policymakers. Here's how these outcomes might be taken forward and utilised by others: Further Research and Development: Academic Collaborations: The networks established with various experts and institutions can facilitate further interdisciplinary and cross-institutional research projects, enabling a broader exploration of workplace mental health issues. Intervention Adaptation and Testing: The pilot study and intervention adaptations conducted can serve as a basis for further refinement and larger-scale testing. Other researchers can use these initial findings to apply for funding to conduct more comprehensive studies, potentially in different contexts or populations. Educational and Training Programmes: Curriculum Development: The insights gained from the seminars and workshops can be integrated into academic curricula, especially in psychology, occupational health, and human resources management courses, to prepare future professionals with up-to-date knowledge on mental health in the workplace. Professional Development: The Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention for young workers designed during the fellowship can be adopted and customised by organisations and professional bodies for continuing education and staff development programmes. Policy and Practice Implementation: Workplace Mental Health Programmes: Organisations, especially those already engaged, can pilot and implement the developed mental health interventions within their operations. Success stories and case studies from these implementations can inspire other organisations to adopt similar programmes. Public Health Guidelines: Policymakers can use the findings from this fellowship to inform public health guidelines and workplace regulations, promoting mental health awareness and support systems within various industries. Public Awareness and Advocacy: Media and Public Engagement: The successful dissemination events, such as publications and presentations at international conferences, raised public awareness about the importance of mental health in the workplace. These can be used by mental health advocates and charities to campaign for better mental health support systems. Charity and Non-Profit Activities: Charities can utilise the research findings and collaboration networks established to design and implement community-based programs targeting youth and workplace mental health. Grant Writing and Funding Opportunities: Future Grant Proposals: The experience and success in securing grants during the fellowship (e.g., ESRC pump-priming for ESRC Fellows) and the British Academy pump-priming fund in 2025 can serve as a model for other researchers and practitioners on how to develop good quality grant applications for mental health initiatives. Expansion of Research Areas: The collaborations established for future grant proposals, especially those involving underserved populations like individuals with vision impairments, open avenues for research in areas that intersect mental health with other forms of disability or chronic conditions. |
| Sectors | Communities and Social Services/Policy Education Other |
| Description | Narrative Impact This project has made substantial advancements in addressing workplace mental health, particularly focusing on young workers, through the development and dissemination of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Contextual Behavioural Science (CBS) frameworks. The findings disseminated through international academic events, talks, seminars, conferences, a press outlet, and a policy brief have reached a wide array of non-academic audiences, including clinical practitioners, wellbeing champions, occupational health psychologists, HR managers, employers, employees, leaders, managers, policymakers, and the broader society, significantly impacting their understanding and management of mental health in the workplace. Economic and Societal Impact The engagement with international industry partners and the dissemination of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Young Workers Intervention have led to a successful grant in 2025 (British Academy) aimed at developing a new technology to help improve mental health in young people. Anticipated outcomes from these grant proposals include improvements in employee performance and reductions in absenteeism, contributing to the development of a more supportive and health-focused workplace culture. Implementing mental health interventions like CBS for Young Workers highlights the importance of integrating comprehensive mental health strategies into organisational policies, potentially leading to significant improvements in employee well-being and overall organisational efficiency. This work demonstrates the substantial return on investment organisations can achieve by prioritising mental health, promising a future where workplaces are not only more productive but also inherently healthier and more supportive for all employees. Broad-Spectrum Impact Across Sectors Public Sector: Collaborations formed during the fellowship, including NIHR-funded projects, show how mental health interventions in the workplace can influence public education system policies and practices, leading to widespread societal benefits. Private Sector: Engagements with industry leaders are on track to secure funding and facilitate the integration of evidence-based mental health strategies into corporate practices. Third/Voluntary Sector: The fellowship has enhanced mental health advocacy and support through partnerships with charities like Mind, improving the support network for young individuals facing mental health challenges. Engagement and Impact Across Non-Academic Audiences Clinical Practitioners and Mental Health Professionals: Through the dissemination of results of meta-analyses and randomised controlled trials (RCTs, Prudenzi et al., 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024) at the webinar and conferences, these professionals have been equipped with evidence-based insights into the effectiveness of CBS interventions. This knowledge will help them in guiding treatment decisions and designing future interventions tailored to young workers' mental health needs. Employers and Organisational Leaders: Through the dissemination of the findings at the webinar and employers' engagement talks, the research has led to potential economic and innovation benefits of implementing CBS interventions at the organisational level, demonstrated by some willingness from organisations to adapt these internally. This can potentially lead to financial savings and enhanced employee wellbeing by integrating mental health strategies into organisational policies and practices. Employees: Through dissemination of the findings (e.g., press outlets, talks, seminars, conferences) the focus on psychological flexibility within the CBS framework promises to improve mental health, reduce distress, and increase work satisfaction among young workers. This approach equips employees with skills to effectively manage workplace challenges and stress. Leaders and Managers: Through dissemination of the findings (e.g., press outlets, talks, seminars, conferences) and in facing the complexities of today's work environment, leaders from multiple organisations were encouraged to adopt CBS-based skills to foster adaptive and flexible leadership approaches. Policymakers: Through the academic seminar at Queen's Belfast and the policy brief, the pressing need to address high rates of burnout and poor well-being was highlighted, advocating for policy changes that prioritise mental health interventions in the workplace, particularly those based on the CBS approach. Societal Impact Through dissemination activities (talks, seminars, press outlets) the project's broader societal impact is envisaged through increased mental health awareness and the dissemination of CBS techniques that can be applied in daily work practices. These interventions are designed to be accessible and transferrable, potentially equipping a wider audience with the skills to manage psychological challenges effectively. Academic impact The fellowship has led to the establishment of a new research group at the University of Birmingham and fostered interdisciplinary research collaborations with academic experts in young people's mental health, psychiatry, psychology, and education (University of Birmingham, University of Birmingham Dubai, University of Nottingham, The University of Sheffield). The academic collaborations have led to grant submissions. Future Directions and Legacy Moving forward, the fellowship is set to continue influencing workplace mental health through ongoing research and the development of new interventions. The pilot study conducted under this award lays solid evidence and data for future grants, including the evaluation of a larger randomised controlled trial intervention for young workers and health economic analyses to ensure cost-effective mental health solutions. Progress and Future Directions Current Work: The adaptation of the intervention for young workers, guided by comprehensive reviews and stakeholder feedback, represents a tailored approach to meeting the specific mental health needs of this demographic. The ongoing testing of this adapted intervention to reach 40 participants aims to refine and expand the promising findings that have been found through this research with 10 participants. Future Work: After completion of the larger feasibility trial, we aim to submit a grant proposal for a pragmatic randomised controlled trial. This proposed study aims to rigorously evaluate the adapted intervention for young workers, contributing to a scalable, evidence-based approach to improving workplace mental health. Incorporating these developments, the project not only advances academic understanding of workplace mental health interventions but also demonstrates a tangible, real-world impact on various stakeholders. Through strategic dissemination and engagement, the work has begun to reshape the landscape of mental health care in the workplace, promising lasting benefits across sectors. |
| Impact Types | Societal |
| Description | Policy brief 'EMPOWER: Experimental Medicine & Proactive Outreach in Youth Mental Health Early Response: A Policy Brief' (funded by ESRC Sealey Associates pump-priming fund) |
| Geographic Reach | Local/Municipal/Regional |
| Policy Influence Type | Implementation circular/rapid advice/letter to e.g. Ministry of Health |
| Impact | The policy brief has been shared with policymakers attending the event on young people's mental health at Queen's University Belfast. The policy brief has lead to a systematic review of the literature that is currently in progress. |
| Description | Engaging Minds: A Video Game to Improve Mental Health in Young Adults |
| Amount | £9,500 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | PPHE25\100188 |
| Organisation | The British Academy |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2025 |
| End | 03/2026 |
| Description | Impact Acceleration grant |
| Amount | £1,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | University of Birmingham |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2023 |
| End | 03/2024 |
| Title | Adapted Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention for improving distress and burnout of young adults |
| Description | The study piloted the feasibility and acceptability of a four-week group-based acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) intervention for improving the mental health, wellbeing, and productivity of young workers experiencing work-related stress based on a prior intervention (e.g., Prudenzi et al., 2022). Prior to running the study, a co-design approach was used to adapt an established ACT intervention to suit young workers. This involved a consultation with a group of young people experiencing work-related stress and individual consultations with youth mental health experts. Eight consultants took part in the young worker's group consultation. Three youth mental health experts took part in individual consultations. |
| Type Of Material | Physiological assessment or outcome measure |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | The co-design approach, involving young workers and youth mental health experts in the adaptation of the ACT intervention, exemplifies a participatory research methodology that ensures interventions are tailored to the specific needs and experiences of the target population. This approach not only improves the relevance and effectiveness of the intervention but also promotes a sense of ownership and engagement among participants. The inclusion of new mechanisms and considerations specifically for young workers, based on direct feedback from consultations, demonstrates a responsive and flexible approach to intervention design. The insights garnered from the co-design consultations provided invaluable information on the specific challenges and needs of young workers regarding work-related stress and mental health. This direct input from the target demographic has enriched the understanding of how to effectively support young workers, informing future research, policy, and practice in occupational mental health. A tangible outcome is the adaptation of the ACT intervention for young workers. |
| Title | Contextual Behaviour Science Intervention for Improving Stress of Young Workers |
| Description | We collected data of 10 participants who completed an adapted version of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy intervention previously used in adults (e.g., Prudenzi et al., 2023). The intervention was delivered to a group of 10 young workers. Repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to assess changes from baseline to mid-intervention and post-intervention. Further data are currently being collected on this project. Multilevel modelling analyses will be used using hierarchical linear modelling software HLM version 8. |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2023 |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | This small pilot with 10 individuals has lead to a larger feasibility trial that is currently ongoing at The University of Sheffield. The aim of the feasibility trial is to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the intervention with a sample of approximately 40 young adults participants. The data will be made freely available once data from all participants have been collected. |
| Description | Collaborations with Young People PPI groups - McPin Foundation and Institute for Mental Health (IMH) |
| Organisation | McPin Foundation |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | Collaborations with the Institute for Mental Health (IMH) Youth Advisory Board (YAB) and the McPin Foundation, facilitated the establishment of a partnership aimed at enhancing our research on youth mental health in the workplace. With the research team, we shared our academic and practical insights into the adaptation of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention for young workers. This involved presenting our preliminary research findings, theoretical frameworks, and intervention strategies aimed at improving mental health outcomes among young employees. We organised and hosted two youth mental health co-design workshops (one for the ACT for young workers intervention and the other one for the EMPOWER project), which served as a platform for engaging with young people directly. These groups were important for stage 1 of the ACT intervention adaptation, ensuring that the perspectives and needs of young people were integrated into the research process. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The McPin Foundation and the IMH YAB provided invaluable access to their extensive networks of young people interested in mental health research. This enabled the recruitment of participants for the webinar and the adaptation work of the ACT intervention, ensuring a broad representation of young voices. The Lead of IMH YAB shared critical insights and suggestions on how to effectively conduct work with young people. These contributions were important in shaping our approach to engaging with and understanding the needs and perspectives of young participants. The McPin Foundation helped in recruiting young people for the ACT intervention and the EMPOWER youth mental health webinar. Their established network and credibility within the youth mental health community were instrumental in engaging a wider audience and ensuring active participation. |
| Impact | Youth Mental Health Webinar: A successful webinar that served as stage 1 in the adaptation process of the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention for young workers. This event facilitated direct engagement with young people, offering insights into their perspectives on mental health at work. Recruitment of Young Participants: The collaboration enabled the recruitment of 15 young people for the initial webinar, contributing to the diversity and richness of the feedback and insights gathered during the adaptation of the ACT intervention. Research Insights and Adaptation: The shared insights and suggestions from the IMH YAB lead and the recruitment facilitated by the McPin Foundation contributed to the effective adaptation of the ACT intervention, ensuring it was more relevant and responsive to the needs of young workers. Publication and Dissemination: While specific publications were not mentioned, collaborations like these often lead to academic papers, policy briefs, and other dissemination materials that highlight the findings and insights gained from the research and intervention adaptation process. Enhanced Intervention Design: The collaboration led to an improved design of the ACT intervention for young workers, incorporating the unique needs and challenges faced by this demographic, thereby increasing the potential effectiveness of the intervention in real-world settings. Strengthened Networks: The collaboration strengthened the network between academic researchers and youth mental health advocates, facilitating future research collaborations and the sharing of best practices in youth mental health support. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Engaging Minds: A Video Game to Improve Mental Health in Young Adults (new British Academy pump-priming fund award) |
| Organisation | Queen's University Belfast |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We aim to: Build a robust and multidisciplinary team to ensure diverse expertise and strengthen the foundation for a Horizon Europe application Engage five young adults groups (18-26 year-olds) from the UK and Serbia to co-design the intervention, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and alignment with user needs. Explore the specific mental health needs of young adults to inform the game's narrative, mechanics, and features. Develop a prototype of the mental health video game and engage stakeholders to refine the Horizon Europe application. Dr Prudenzi (England): Role: Lead on psychological development content Contribution: line management of researchers, coordination and project management of the project, expertise in psychological interventions development for young people, co-lead PPI groups. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Dr Truhan (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Dr Lydon (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on video game development Contribution: Supervising researcher in Computer Science to develop prototype of the mental health video game Dr Dinic (Serbia): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Professor Campbell (Ireland): Role: Lead on the role of gaming in psychological research on mental health Contribution: Contribution to video game development and healthy human-gaming interactions, ensuring the intervention is both engaging and psychologically beneficial. Digiotouch (France): Role: AI and gamification experts to enhance technological robustness and engagement Contribution: Contribution to the development of the video game prototype, using advanced AI for personalised gameplay and gamification to ensure engagement. OPENS (Serbia): Role: Participant recruitment and engagement. Contribution: Provide access to diverse young adults for PPI and research activities. Researchers A researcher in Psychology will be employed to lead PPI groups, conduct interviews and analyse data. A researcher in Computer Science will be employed to help the team build an initial prototype. Potential additional collaborators EU policy and healthcare organisations stakeholders to support scalability and integration into European health systems. |
| Impact | We have been successful at receiving the British Academy pump-priming fund award. Activities will commence in March 2025. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Engaging Minds: A Video Game to Improve Mental Health in Young Adults (new British Academy pump-priming fund award) |
| Organisation | University of Limerick |
| Country | Ireland |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We aim to: Build a robust and multidisciplinary team to ensure diverse expertise and strengthen the foundation for a Horizon Europe application Engage five young adults groups (18-26 year-olds) from the UK and Serbia to co-design the intervention, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and alignment with user needs. Explore the specific mental health needs of young adults to inform the game's narrative, mechanics, and features. Develop a prototype of the mental health video game and engage stakeholders to refine the Horizon Europe application. Dr Prudenzi (England): Role: Lead on psychological development content Contribution: line management of researchers, coordination and project management of the project, expertise in psychological interventions development for young people, co-lead PPI groups. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Dr Truhan (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Dr Lydon (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on video game development Contribution: Supervising researcher in Computer Science to develop prototype of the mental health video game Dr Dinic (Serbia): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Professor Campbell (Ireland): Role: Lead on the role of gaming in psychological research on mental health Contribution: Contribution to video game development and healthy human-gaming interactions, ensuring the intervention is both engaging and psychologically beneficial. Digiotouch (France): Role: AI and gamification experts to enhance technological robustness and engagement Contribution: Contribution to the development of the video game prototype, using advanced AI for personalised gameplay and gamification to ensure engagement. OPENS (Serbia): Role: Participant recruitment and engagement. Contribution: Provide access to diverse young adults for PPI and research activities. Researchers A researcher in Psychology will be employed to lead PPI groups, conduct interviews and analyse data. A researcher in Computer Science will be employed to help the team build an initial prototype. Potential additional collaborators EU policy and healthcare organisations stakeholders to support scalability and integration into European health systems. |
| Impact | We have been successful at receiving the British Academy pump-priming fund award. Activities will commence in March 2025. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | Engaging Minds: A Video Game to Improve Mental Health in Young Adults (new British Academy pump-priming fund award) |
| Organisation | University of Novi Sad |
| Country | Serbia |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We aim to: Build a robust and multidisciplinary team to ensure diverse expertise and strengthen the foundation for a Horizon Europe application Engage five young adults groups (18-26 year-olds) from the UK and Serbia to co-design the intervention, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, and alignment with user needs. Explore the specific mental health needs of young adults to inform the game's narrative, mechanics, and features. Develop a prototype of the mental health video game and engage stakeholders to refine the Horizon Europe application. Dr Prudenzi (England): Role: Lead on psychological development content Contribution: line management of researchers, coordination and project management of the project, expertise in psychological interventions development for young people, co-lead PPI groups. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Dr Truhan (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Dr Lydon (Northern Ireland): Role: Lead on video game development Contribution: Supervising researcher in Computer Science to develop prototype of the mental health video game Dr Dinic (Serbia): Role: Lead on psychological research on youth mental health and youth engagement. Contribution: Contribution to psychological intervention development ensuring tailoring to young people, and co-lead PPI workshops. Professor Campbell (Ireland): Role: Lead on the role of gaming in psychological research on mental health Contribution: Contribution to video game development and healthy human-gaming interactions, ensuring the intervention is both engaging and psychologically beneficial. Digiotouch (France): Role: AI and gamification experts to enhance technological robustness and engagement Contribution: Contribution to the development of the video game prototype, using advanced AI for personalised gameplay and gamification to ensure engagement. OPENS (Serbia): Role: Participant recruitment and engagement. Contribution: Provide access to diverse young adults for PPI and research activities. Researchers A researcher in Psychology will be employed to lead PPI groups, conduct interviews and analyse data. A researcher in Computer Science will be employed to help the team build an initial prototype. Potential additional collaborators EU policy and healthcare organisations stakeholders to support scalability and integration into European health systems. |
| Impact | We have been successful at receiving the British Academy pump-priming fund award. Activities will commence in March 2025. |
| Start Year | 2024 |
| Description | New academic collaborations with Queen's Belfast, University of Sussex and mental health Charity Mind |
| Organisation | MIND (Mental Health Charity) |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | In 2023 I was enrolled in the ESRC Fellowship Development Programme and was successful at receiving the ESRC pump-priming fund as PI. The title of the pump-priming application was: 'EMPOWER: Experimental Medicine & Proactive Outreach in Youth Mental Health Early Response. The EMPOWER team, consisting of myself Dr Arianna Prudenzi, Dr Tayler Truhan, and Dr Paul Shuttleworth, undertook a series of activities over three months (June to September 2023) as part of our commitment to the ESRC pump-priming grant proposal. Our primary objectives were to engage youth in discussions about mental health treatments, host a seminar on youth mental health, foster collaboration with industry partners, and produce a policy brief to guide future interventions. My role was mainly to conduct a comprehensive narrative review on the current evidence surrounding novel treatments/interventions for improving mental health in young adults. My role was also to lead a industry event at Mind mental health charity headquarter in London. As part of the pump-priming fund, I employed a research assistant to work on this with me for 10 weeks. The policy animation brief animation can be found here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvoTy7OmA/8MCxavHihErD_hcQQaMPFg/watch |
| Collaborator Contribution | Webinar Group The webinar aimed to gather insights from young adults on innovative treatments for mental health. The session was conducted using Zoom and gathered values, challenges, and impressions that subsequently shaped our policy brief and youth mental health seminar. Our partnership with the McPin Foundation enabled us to recruit a group of 10-15 young participants swiftly. University Seminar Hosted at Queen's University Belfast, this event brought together youth mental health colleagues from Queen's University Belfast (QUB), invitees from the University of Birmingham (UOB), including Dr Maria Dauvermann and Dr Gerald Jordan, policy officials, and community youth support workers. A blog post summarising the event's highlights has been published https://www.upen.ac.uk/blogs/?story_id=943 The seminar served as a platform to present our research, engage with experts, and refine our policy brief. Industry Collaboration with Mind Held at the Mind Charity's in London headquarters, this collaboration allowed the ESRC fellows to present their research findings to the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot team (MHPP), and the broader Young Mind team. Feedback from non-academics and charity professionals specialising in service design and evaluation was invaluable in initiating discussions for future collaborations. The team also explored opportunities for a stage 2 grant with the possible collaborators. Our collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. |
| Impact | Webinar Group This activity empowered the ESRC fellows to grasp and implement the co-produced research methodology, specifically the "What Matters Approach". It also provided the fellows an opportunity to exercise leadership skills and bolster group management capabilities. University Seminar The EMPOWER project's University seminar significantly elevated the fellows' academic skills, showcasing research outcomes to a broad audience of experts. It prompted discussions about potential collaborations and future research intersections. The process of organising this event armed the ESRC fellows with valuable experience in event management, stakeholder engagement, and logistical orchestration. Industry Collaboration The collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. Engaging with industry professionals not only broadened our team's networking horizons but also facilitated a feedback mechanism, ensuring our research's practical relevance. Developmental Benefits for the Fellows In the course of completing the EMPOWER project activities, the ESRC fellows have not only contributed to the objectives of the project but have also derived significant professional growth benefits. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | New academic collaborations with Queen's Belfast, University of Sussex and mental health Charity Mind |
| Organisation | Queen's University Belfast |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | In 2023 I was enrolled in the ESRC Fellowship Development Programme and was successful at receiving the ESRC pump-priming fund as PI. The title of the pump-priming application was: 'EMPOWER: Experimental Medicine & Proactive Outreach in Youth Mental Health Early Response. The EMPOWER team, consisting of myself Dr Arianna Prudenzi, Dr Tayler Truhan, and Dr Paul Shuttleworth, undertook a series of activities over three months (June to September 2023) as part of our commitment to the ESRC pump-priming grant proposal. Our primary objectives were to engage youth in discussions about mental health treatments, host a seminar on youth mental health, foster collaboration with industry partners, and produce a policy brief to guide future interventions. My role was mainly to conduct a comprehensive narrative review on the current evidence surrounding novel treatments/interventions for improving mental health in young adults. My role was also to lead a industry event at Mind mental health charity headquarter in London. As part of the pump-priming fund, I employed a research assistant to work on this with me for 10 weeks. The policy animation brief animation can be found here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvoTy7OmA/8MCxavHihErD_hcQQaMPFg/watch |
| Collaborator Contribution | Webinar Group The webinar aimed to gather insights from young adults on innovative treatments for mental health. The session was conducted using Zoom and gathered values, challenges, and impressions that subsequently shaped our policy brief and youth mental health seminar. Our partnership with the McPin Foundation enabled us to recruit a group of 10-15 young participants swiftly. University Seminar Hosted at Queen's University Belfast, this event brought together youth mental health colleagues from Queen's University Belfast (QUB), invitees from the University of Birmingham (UOB), including Dr Maria Dauvermann and Dr Gerald Jordan, policy officials, and community youth support workers. A blog post summarising the event's highlights has been published https://www.upen.ac.uk/blogs/?story_id=943 The seminar served as a platform to present our research, engage with experts, and refine our policy brief. Industry Collaboration with Mind Held at the Mind Charity's in London headquarters, this collaboration allowed the ESRC fellows to present their research findings to the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot team (MHPP), and the broader Young Mind team. Feedback from non-academics and charity professionals specialising in service design and evaluation was invaluable in initiating discussions for future collaborations. The team also explored opportunities for a stage 2 grant with the possible collaborators. Our collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. |
| Impact | Webinar Group This activity empowered the ESRC fellows to grasp and implement the co-produced research methodology, specifically the "What Matters Approach". It also provided the fellows an opportunity to exercise leadership skills and bolster group management capabilities. University Seminar The EMPOWER project's University seminar significantly elevated the fellows' academic skills, showcasing research outcomes to a broad audience of experts. It prompted discussions about potential collaborations and future research intersections. The process of organising this event armed the ESRC fellows with valuable experience in event management, stakeholder engagement, and logistical orchestration. Industry Collaboration The collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. Engaging with industry professionals not only broadened our team's networking horizons but also facilitated a feedback mechanism, ensuring our research's practical relevance. Developmental Benefits for the Fellows In the course of completing the EMPOWER project activities, the ESRC fellows have not only contributed to the objectives of the project but have also derived significant professional growth benefits. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | New academic collaborations with Queen's Belfast, University of Sussex and mental health Charity Mind |
| Organisation | University of Sussex |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | In 2023 I was enrolled in the ESRC Fellowship Development Programme and was successful at receiving the ESRC pump-priming fund as PI. The title of the pump-priming application was: 'EMPOWER: Experimental Medicine & Proactive Outreach in Youth Mental Health Early Response. The EMPOWER team, consisting of myself Dr Arianna Prudenzi, Dr Tayler Truhan, and Dr Paul Shuttleworth, undertook a series of activities over three months (June to September 2023) as part of our commitment to the ESRC pump-priming grant proposal. Our primary objectives were to engage youth in discussions about mental health treatments, host a seminar on youth mental health, foster collaboration with industry partners, and produce a policy brief to guide future interventions. My role was mainly to conduct a comprehensive narrative review on the current evidence surrounding novel treatments/interventions for improving mental health in young adults. My role was also to lead a industry event at Mind mental health charity headquarter in London. As part of the pump-priming fund, I employed a research assistant to work on this with me for 10 weeks. The policy animation brief animation can be found here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFvoTy7OmA/8MCxavHihErD_hcQQaMPFg/watch |
| Collaborator Contribution | Webinar Group The webinar aimed to gather insights from young adults on innovative treatments for mental health. The session was conducted using Zoom and gathered values, challenges, and impressions that subsequently shaped our policy brief and youth mental health seminar. Our partnership with the McPin Foundation enabled us to recruit a group of 10-15 young participants swiftly. University Seminar Hosted at Queen's University Belfast, this event brought together youth mental health colleagues from Queen's University Belfast (QUB), invitees from the University of Birmingham (UOB), including Dr Maria Dauvermann and Dr Gerald Jordan, policy officials, and community youth support workers. A blog post summarising the event's highlights has been published https://www.upen.ac.uk/blogs/?story_id=943 The seminar served as a platform to present our research, engage with experts, and refine our policy brief. Industry Collaboration with Mind Held at the Mind Charity's in London headquarters, this collaboration allowed the ESRC fellows to present their research findings to the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot team (MHPP), and the broader Young Mind team. Feedback from non-academics and charity professionals specialising in service design and evaluation was invaluable in initiating discussions for future collaborations. The team also explored opportunities for a stage 2 grant with the possible collaborators. Our collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. |
| Impact | Webinar Group This activity empowered the ESRC fellows to grasp and implement the co-produced research methodology, specifically the "What Matters Approach". It also provided the fellows an opportunity to exercise leadership skills and bolster group management capabilities. University Seminar The EMPOWER project's University seminar significantly elevated the fellows' academic skills, showcasing research outcomes to a broad audience of experts. It prompted discussions about potential collaborations and future research intersections. The process of organising this event armed the ESRC fellows with valuable experience in event management, stakeholder engagement, and logistical orchestration. Industry Collaboration The collaboration with Mind provided a unique lens into the translation of academic research into actionable real-world solutions, especially within the mental health domain. Engaging with industry professionals not only broadened our team's networking horizons but also facilitated a feedback mechanism, ensuring our research's practical relevance. Developmental Benefits for the Fellows In the course of completing the EMPOWER project activities, the ESRC fellows have not only contributed to the objectives of the project but have also derived significant professional growth benefits. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Title | Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Improving Distress of Young Workers |
| Description | The study adapted a well-established and validated four-week ACT intervention, which has been covered previously (e.g., see Prudenzi et al., 2022). However, there were some notable additions and amendments to the session content. After conducting a co-design and co-production group, one-to-one sessions and a psychoeducation session were added. |
| Type | Therapeutic Intervention - Psychological/Behavioural |
| Current Stage Of Development | Refinement. Clinical |
| Year Development Stage Completed | 2016 |
| Development Status | Under active development/distribution |
| Clinical Trial? | Yes |
| Impact | The development of the co-designed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) intervention for young workers has led to several notable impacts beyond the immediate research findings, affecting various domains such as community engagement, policy influence, and professional development: Community Engagement and Empowerment The involvement of young workers and mental health experts in the development process has fostered a greater sense of community engagement and empowerment. This collaborative approach has not only provided valuable insights into the specific needs and preferences of young workers but has also raised awareness about the importance of mental health in the workplace. By actively participating in the development of the intervention, young people and experts have contributed to a culture of openness and dialogue around mental health issues, potentially reducing stigma and encouraging more young workers to seek support when needed. Policy Influence and Organisational Change The insights gained from this intervention development process have the potential to inform policy changes and organisational practices aimed at improving mental health support for young workers. By demonstrating the feasibility and acceptability of a tailored ACT intervention, the project provides evidence that can be used by policymakers, HR professionals, and organizational leaders to advocate for and implement more effective mental health strategies within the workplace. This could lead to a shift in how organizations approach mental health, prioritizing proactive and preventive measures that are informed by the actual needs of young employees. Professional Development and Capacity Building The process of developing and implementing this intervention has also contributed to the professional development of the research team and participating mental health professionals. For researchers, the project offered an opportunity to engage in multidisciplinary collaboration, apply innovative research methods, and gain experience in participatory research approaches. Mental health professionals involved in delivering the intervention gained insights into the specific challenges faced by young workers, enhancing their capacity to provide targeted support and potentially influencing their practice beyond the scope of the study. Enhancement of Digital Mental Health Interventions: The successful delivery of the ACT intervention through an online platform contributes to the growing field of digital mental health interventions. This project demonstrates the potential for using digital platforms to reach and support young workers, offering a model for how technology can be used to deliver psychological interventions effectively. |
| Description | Academic Seminar at Queen's University Belfast (funded by ESRC Sealey Associated pump-priming for ESRC fellows) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Policymakers/politicians |
| Results and Impact | This event brought together youth mental health colleagues from Queen's University Belfast (QUB), invitees from the University of Birmingham (UoB), policy officials, and community youth support workers. A blog post summarizing the event's highlights has been published at https://www.upen.ac.uk/blogs/?story_id=943. The seminar served as a platform to present our research, engage with experts, and refine our policy brief. The booklet of the event can be found here: https://www.canva.com/design/DAFv2HRAeis/rEnTaVz1OGWbi-R9oydeKg/view. This activity has led us to collaborate on a policy brief and on a systematic review of the literature, which is currently in progress. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.canva.com/design/DAFv2HRAeis/rEnTaVz1OGWbi-R9oydeKg/view |
| Description | Academic Seminar at the University of Birmingham Dubai |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Research talk to students and Psychology faculty at the University of Birmingham Dubai. Students showed an interest in participating in co-production workshops to adapt the content of the intervention in the Middle East if further funding is secured. Slides on the ACT intervention of this research were shared. The event reached about 25 participants. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Stakeholder workshop with senior stakeholders (Middle East) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Delivery of a stakeholder workshop to senior stakeholders in collaboration with the Head of Research (University of Birmingham Dubai). The session aimed at presenting the intervention of this research and also other workplace programmes (e.g., Prudenzi et al., 2023) and to gather interest for the adaptation of the intervention in the Middle East. Overall, the workshop participants shared important insights on how these interventions should be adapted in the United Arab Emirates (e.g., training delivered by women therapists). These views will help reshape the interventions outside of the interested stakeholders. Some employers showed interest in our programme, leading to the submission of grants proposal. Images from the event were shared in the School of Psychology's newsletter for wider dissemination. The event reached over 20 participants. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Two-week visit at the University of Birmingham Dubai |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Two-week visit at University of Birmingham Dubai. During my scheduled programme, I delivered a co-production workshop entitled 'Workplace Interventions to Address Workers' Burnout and Productivity: A Co-production Workshop' to external stakeholders and a research talk entitled' Workplace Interventions for Improving Psychological Distress, Burnout and Productivity' to UG (year 1-3) Psychology students and Psychology Academic staff. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Webinar on Improving Mental Health at Work |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Conducted a Stakeholder Webinar for Employees and Managers: This webinar, aimed at enhancing performance and mental health in the workplace, targeted individuals interested in understanding and implementing strategies to improve these aspects. Slides on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy interventions for reducing stress and burnout were shared. This event reached approximately 30 individuals. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Young People Collaboration event at Mind mental health charity (funded by ESRC Sealey Associates pump-priming for ESRC fellows) |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Third sector organisations |
| Results and Impact | Hosted at Mind Charity's London headquarters, the event aimed to share research in the area of young people mental health with colleagues from Queen's University Belfast and the University of Sussex, and to explore collaborations with Young Minds in London. The event led to the dissemination of my work and that of my colleagues, as well as discussions about a future grant proposal. Slides showing ACT for young workers protocol that was evaluated in this research were shared on the day. The event reached about 15 people. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| Description | Young People Collaborative Network Event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Networking event focused on exploring and enhancing interventions for improving mental health of young adults aged 18-30, including the student population. Our goal was to foster a collaborative environment where academics from across the University, practitioners, and colleagues from the industry sector and third sector could come together to share insights, experiences, and innovative approaches in this area to facilitate collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the discussion of potential advancements in mental health interventions. We invited interested researchers and staff from Psychology, the NHS, and other departments to consider contributing to this event by delivering a brief presentation (10 minutes) related to the overarching theme. This was a fantastic opportunity to highlight the work presented in this research, engage with new colleagues, and potentially initiate collaborative projects. The event was well received with about 15 people participating in the event. The collaboration event initiated some collaborations between individuals and conversations about the establishment of a network. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |
| Description | Young People Networking event |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Networking event held at The University of Sheffield connecting 30+ mental health experts, charities and industries in South Yorkshire. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2024 |