Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has a strong evidence base for preventing anxiety and depression in adolescents, with up to 65% of adolescents showed significant improvement in anxiety- and depression-related outcomes to CBT. Despite strong evidence that lifestyle factors (e.g., exercise, diet and sleep), benefit mental health, intervention programmes that integrate healthy lifestyle habits within CBT-based interventions to address anxiety and depression are currently lacking.

This workshop will focus on “Super Skills for Life” program (SSL), a transdiagnostic CBT-based programme for preventing anxiety and depression and for promoting healthy lifestyles. SSL focuses on: (1) promoting healthy lifestyles; (2) building emotional resilience through stress management; (3) encouraging peer learning and building peer networks; and (4) promoting self-confidence and social skills. For more information about SSL, please go to: https://www.cecilia-essau.com/psychological-intervention

Key Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants should have a good knowledge of:

• The prevalence, comorbidity, course, and cultural manifestations of anxiety and depression in children and adolescents.
• The core components of the SSL.
• Skills in delivering the core components of the SSL.
• Barriers and challenges in adapting evidence-based CBT-based intervention across cultures.

Training Modalities: Techniques used in the SSL will be described and illustrated through lecture, role play, and video clips.

Additional information:
Essau, C.A. & Ollendick, T.H. (Ed.) (2013). The Wiley-Blackwell Handbook of the treatment of childhood anxiety. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.