From the Clinic to Schools: Iterative Development of a Depression Prevention Program for Adolescents With ADHD Within an Urban School System.

• ADHD is a risk factor for depression and requires tailored depression efforts. • Schools represent an optimal environment to reduce the disparity between research evidence and access to care for black adolescents with ADHD in urban areas. • The Behaviorally Enhancing Adolescents' Mood in Schools (BEAMS) program was iteratively developed using stakeholder feedback. • BEAMS was implemented easily by the school mental health provider and resulted in reductions in irritability and emotion regulation as depicted in case study vignettes. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent disorder, particularly among Black youth and youth in urban settings. In addition to well-documented academic and social dysfunction, ADHD is associated with increased risk for depression and suicide. However, there is a stark mismatch between services available and need among adolescents with ADHD, especially those from low-income backgrounds. Implementation of services in schools is one promising way to overcome barriers to care, decrease stigma associated with mental health care, and offer the ability to practice mental health skills in a more natural environment. As such, the current study aims to (a) describe the iterative development of a school-based depression prevention program (i.e., Behaviorally Enhancing Adolescents' Mood in Schools [BEAMS]) for adolescents with ADHD in an underresourced, urban school district using stakeholder feedback; and (b) evaluate the preliminary effectiveness of an open trial of BEAMS. Raw data for all participants (n = 6; 83% Black, 17% biracial; 83% male) with indications for significant Reliable Change Indices are presented in addition to two case vignettes to illustrate treatment components and exemplify participant response. Pre- and posttreatment focus group data are presented to depict the development of the BEAMS program, lessons learned, and modifications made to BEAMS, in preparation for a larger randomized trial. Future directions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]