Brief History of the VALIDITY♀ Project

The VALIDITY♀ project was conceived in 1999 through a partnership of research, community programs and product development at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health to explore the psychosocial risk factors associated with depression in young women, It used a participatory action research (PAR) model to conduct the initial research and make recommendations in order to develop new useful prevention and treatment interventions. 

 

This project was initially able to tap into the valuable insights of adolescent girls regarding depression through a series of provincial focus groups.  Many of the themes that emerged from these focus groups are supported by current literature and research.  Many of the topics, however, have not yet received sufficient empirical attention.  So CAMH continues to support the VALIDITY♀ project and initiatives to address these factors.  Some of the suggestions made by the young women include, educating other young women, service providers and the general public about recognizing and responding sensitively to depression continue to contribute to our awareness initiatives and campaigns.

 

The VALIDITY♀ project has elicited valuable information that is used by the professional community to enhance services for young women experiencing depression.  It is also an important journey in its own right.  At all stages of the project, young women have shared stories, tears, energy, and dreams with the VALIDITY♀ project team. This is a project that has touched many people’s lives and continues to generate interest and energy.  The VALIDITY♀ project has grown beyond a research project to become a vibrant, sensitive community of women dedicated to helping young women and preventing depression.

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