Examining theoretical mediators in a culturally adapted, community health worker-led intervention for depression and anxiety.

Authors: Eddington, Kari M. Supple, Andrew J. Poindexter, Claire Markle, Sheri Livas, Gabriela Alegría, Margarita

This study looked at how a community health worker–led mental health program helps people with depression and anxiety. The program included training in mindfulness and encouraged people to take an active role in managing their mental health. Among over 1,000 participants, the results showed that improvements were mainly linked to increased mindfulness and confidence in managing their own care. The program reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety and worked similarly across different racial and ethnic groups. The findings suggest that community health workers can deliver effective mental health support using simple, structured approaches.