Discussion 1:  Mentoring and Peer Support

Adolescence is a time of trials and tribulations. Teens are dealing with the formation of self and identifying who they are in the world. They are also experiencing biological changes that create mood swings and at times emotional outbursts. Interventions for this group can be challenging, as adolescents often avoid asking for assistance. This avoidance is due to their desire to look normal and fit in. As a result, peer group and mentoring programs appear to be the most beneficial in helping adolescents. These settings offer the support teens need along with the validation that they are not alone in their struggles. Some of the main concerns for adolescents are depression, suicide, self-esteem, and self-confidence.

· Post an Internet-based intervention used with adolescents and locate an article on the use of mentoring or peer support programs for adolescents.

· Describe the intervention and the underlying theory.

· Identify the target behaviors that this intervention is used to address. Assess the intervention and then compare and contrast these interventions.

· Finally, describe the strengths and weaknesses of each intervention.

Support your posts with specific references to the Learning Resources. Be sure to provide full APA citations for your references.

Discussion 2: Depression and Suicide Intervention

When working with adolescents you will likely be faced with issues of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation and even attempts. For youth between the ages of 10 and 24, suicide is the third leading cause of death in the United States (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2012). It is essential to understand the risks associated with teen suicide and intervention strategies to address this issue.

· Post a review of the literature on adolescent depression and suicide and identify an evidence-based intervention that addresses these issues.

· Then, apply that intervention to either the Brady or Tiffani case.

· Describe the possible risk factors the client presents that would make him or her at risk for depression and suicide.

· Then, plan an intervention for that client to address these issues.