A structured research study exploring what actually helps teens follow through

A university-led study examining whether lifestyle support — with or without mental health skills — makes it easier for teens to maintain healthy habits.

For parents and caregivers of teens ages 14- 17

See if your family qualifies

What this is

This study was created to better understand what helps teens follow through with healthy changes over time.

It is a university-led research study focused on long-term support, not quick fixes.

A university research study

Designed for teens at risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Focused on long-term follow-through, not quick fixes

Why this study exists

Parents are often told:

Reduce screen time

Improve nutrition

Increase activity

But maintaining those changes over time is difficult — especially when stress, mental health, and daily life get in the way.

This study is exploring whether additional emotional and behavioral skills help teens stay engaged and supported over time.

What participation involves

If your family takes part

Duration

3 assessment visits(baseline, 16 weeks, 32 weeks)

Sessions

2 per week

Sessions are

90 minutes

Location

In person at your local study site

Teens are placed into one of three groups

Group placement is randomized. This is essential for the research.

No intervention (comparison group), or

A lifestyle-focused program, or

A lifestyle program plus mental health skills support

Transparency and Fairness

Important to know

~80%

Approximately 80% of participants are placed in a program

~20%

Approximately 20% are asked to wait before starting

Everyone

All participants contribute to what researchers learn

The study does not promise outcomes.

Its purpose is to learn what approaches work best.

Why participation Matters

By participating, your family helps researchers:

Understand what support teens actually need

Improve how future programs are designed

Inform how clinics and health systems approach prevention

Your involvement contributes to evidence that can shape care beyond this study.

Compensation

Compensation is provided to help offset the time and travel required for participation in this research study.

This includes study sessions and scheduled assessment visits.

Full details regarding compensation will be shared during the screening process so you and your teen can review the information before making a decision.