Abstract
Problem Significance: First-generation graduate students within the California State University (CSU) system are more vulnerable to anxiety and depression due to societal, community, relational, and individual-level factors. Still, interventions do not specifically address this group.
Analysis and Objectives: Multiple theoretical models aim to improve the mental wellness of CSU first-generation students. The outcome objective of this proposed intervention is to reduce the incidence of anxiety and depression by at least 10% in at least 70% of program participants.
Intervention (Solution) Proposal: The program, SPARK, focuses on improving social support, increasing coping against stressors in graduate school, and encouraging students to meet their basic needs. The aims are achieved through a small-group mentorship design that endures through the initial cohort’s program of study.
Recommendations and Conclusions: The project proposes an intervention for anxiety and depression among CSU FGGS by intervening on factors contributing to anxiety and depressive symptoms: low social support, low coping skills, and low coping self-efficacy. Strengths of the proposal include a high degree of community involvement, but it is limited by an inability to prove the causation of reduced anxious and depressive symptoms.