Let's find your path!

Have you been feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just kinda “blah” lately? Has it been hard being away from friends or school while in quarantine? Could you just use some help in how to handle tough times?

We can help

What is Path 2 Purpose?

PATH 2 Purpose (P2P) is a free, voluntary virtual research study for teens who want to improve their mood and learn how to manage difficult feelings and situations. Developed by mental health professionals, P2P aims to assess how best to help teens like you build healthy habits and prevent feeling down.

Interested?
Am I eligible?

Am I eligible to participate in P2P?

If all of the below statements describe you, GREAT NEWS, you may be eligible to participate in P2P.

  • I am between 13 and 19 years old.
  • I live in Illinois, Kentucky, or Massachusetts.
  • I read and speak English (it is ok if your parents/guardians do not).
  • I have access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone and the internet.
  • I have permission from my parent, guardian, or caregiver (if under age 18) to participate.

Thinking of Participating? Check out what teen participants had to say about P2P.

It was actually fairly simple [to participate]. I talked to [my doctor] about it. I made my account...and I did all the modules. I did try applying the things that were going on within the modules into my own life, because I’ve been going through a really rough time. Going through the modules and trying to use the stuff that is in the modules and applying it to real life actually helped.”

Teen Male Participant

Today, I had a lot of negative things happen to me. But, instead of dwelling on them, I listed the positive things that happened during the day and used the tools I learned to change my perspective on the day. These groups have been helping me slowly change my thinking

16-year-old Program Participant

Tracking my thoughts and feelings has really helped me see why I get sad or angry. It was really helpful in understanding why I get so down.

15-year-old Program Participant

What happens if I decide to participate?

If you are eligible and choose to participate in the P2P program, you will:

  • Take part in one of two different programs (TEAMS or CATCH-IT) that will teach you coping skills (like how to manage conflicts with friends and family) and to reduce stress (like how to handle negative thoughts or plan for major life changes).
    • If you are in the CATCH-IT group, you will work on an online program at your own pace and in complete privacy.
    • If you are on the TEAMS group, you will meet online with about 6 -10 other teens and a group leader, once a week for eight weeks and then once a month for 6 months.
  • Receive a few calls from the research team to see how things are going in the program.
  • Complete a couple of surveys about participating in P2P and your health.

See here to learn more about how to talk to your parent, guardian, or caregiver

Get help here

Remember that if you participate in P2P…

  • It does not involve you taking any medications or talking about things you don’t want to.
  • You should always seek help from your doctor or other professional if you feel you may be getting depressed.
  • You can stop participating at any time if you decide it is not right for you.
  • You do not have to pay anything.

Contact Us to Learn More

To learn more about P2P, email (path2purpose@uic.edu), call [1-877-268-PATH (7284)], or click below for a team member to contact you.

Contact Us