The Balance Study — Santa Clara University
Feel like you can't always handle your emotions? We get it and we might be able to help!
Be part of an 8-week program and get real tools to manage difficult emotions, with a team that understands what you're going through.
Fully remote.
Ages 14 to 19 · California residents · Up to $100 + MUSE meditation headband ($249 value) upon completion.
About the Study
Learn tools to handle difficult emotions, contribute to research that matters, and get compensated.
We're examining the positive impact of peer counseling and a novel digital mental health application designed to improve emotional well-being.
Over the course of 8 weeks, this study provides tools and support to help you manage tough feelings and build a more positive, fulfilling life.
What you could receive:
Cash upon completion
Meditation headband, $249 value
Peer counseling sessions
Mental health app access
Know someone who might qualify? Refer a friend ages 14 to 19 living in California, and you will be compensated for anybody who completes the study that you referred.
What could be involved?
- ✱8-week mental health intervention (fully remote).
- ✱Use a MUSE2 headband to track your sleep.
- ✱Complete 3 surveys.
- ✱Provide simple finger-prick blood samples to help us understand how stress affects your body.
- ✱16-week-long study.
Who can join?
- ✱All youth ages 14-19.
- ✱Youth from underserved communities.
- ✱If you're experiencing any mental health symptoms (feeling down, low energy, stress, etc.).
Why participate?
- ✱Free access to mental health resources.
- ✱Be part of research that aims to improve emotional well-being for youth.
- ✱Help shape future mental health interventions.
- ✱Earn money for participation.
Why this research matters
The numbers say it all.
Youth have reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
Youth have said their mental health needs were not being met.
Of youth with a mental health diagnosis who seek help had difficulty getting it.
Source: CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey, 2023 / CDC National Survey of Children's Health, 2021-2023 / HRSA National Survey of Children's Health, 2023. Educational only. Not medical advice.
Ready?
Your participation could help thousands of teens like you.
California teens, ages 14-19 only · Questions? balancestudy2024@gmail.com
FAQ
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you.
Reach out to the Balance Study team at any time.
balancestudy2024@gmail.comAlready completed the eligibility survey? We will reach out soon if you qualify.