MyFILM: A Pilot Study for Social-Emotional Learning in Clinical Youth

The objective of this pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of MyFILM as a weekly group intervention for children aged 9-12 in a clinical setting. We will also gather preliminary data to explore changes in clinical metrics following participation in MyFILM in preparation for a full-scale clinical trial. Primary Objective (Feasibility): To determine whether a substantial proportion of participants complete the MyFILM intervention. Primary Objective (Acceptability): To determine whether the MyFILM intervention is acceptable to 9-12-year-old participants in a clinical setting. Secondary Objective (Clinical Effectiveness): To determine whether participation in MyFILM show preliminary evidence of improvement in social-emotional skills, coping ability, and reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms. Participants will: Participate in 9 sessions of a structured group-based program.

Inclusion Criteria: * Be between 9 and 12 years of age at enrollment * Be receiving outpatient care through Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre * Demonstrate elevated risk (first-degree relative with a mental illness, experiencing a major life stressor as judged by the treating physician and investigator), subclinical symptoms (symptoms of a mood and/or anxiety disorder that do not meet the threshold of a clinical diagnosis), or diagnosed mood and/or anxiety-related concerns * Be able to participate in group-based discussions and activities in English * Have parent/guardian consent and participant assent Exclusion Criteria: * Have active psychosis or mania * Have severe cognitive, developmental, and/or behavioural limitations preventing meaningful participation