On 26 January 2026, Youth-GEMs hosted Science Café #38 to discuss the development of a new e-health learning module and strategies for recruiting participants for clinical study.

Developing an E-Health Module

An update by Lonneke Fuhler was shared on the e-learning module currently being developed within Work Package 2. The module, expected to be completed by July, is designed for parents and teachers of young people aged 12–24. It will include sections focused on knowledge, skills, and practical tools to better support young people’s mental health. The development process includes stakeholder interviews and a series of panel meetings.

A key discussion point was how to present information about mental health diagnoses. Young experts emphasized the importance of explaining that diagnoses reflect general patterns rather than fixed identities and advised keeping the module clearly targeted at parents and teachers rather than young people themselves. Concerns were raised about the risk of self-diagnosis and unintended stigma. The group agreed to structure content around behaviors and symptoms rather than diagnostic labels. Suggestions included linking to resources, such as the Gemmy app, and possibly adding a short section that directs young people to reliable resources and explains their purpose.

When asked to prioritize topics mentioned by the stakeholder panel, young experts highlighted trauma, creating safe environments, early detection of difficulties, reflective tools for adults, the impact of diet and exercise, online safety, and managing waiting lists. Additional suggestions included guidance on navigating online challenges, such as managing group chats and understanding social media algorithms.

Recruiting Participants for the Clinical Mental Health Study

In the second part of the session Zjulie Rutten focused on recruitment and engagement strategies for the ongoing clinical study examining protective and risk factors in young people’s mental health. Across six European countries, clinicians are recruiting young people who are seeking help for mental health concerns. Participation involves a five-hour baseline assessment, followed by meetings at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Young experts were asked to reflect on current recruitment strategies, including clinician invitations and flyers with QR codes, and to suggest ways to make participation more appealing and less anxiety-provoking. Several practical recommendations emerged:

• Offer participants more choice in how they are contacted.
• Prefer text messaging (e.g., WhatsApp) over phone calls.
• Avoid platforms such as Snapchat.
• Keep messages short and clear.
• Consider offering short (10-minute) online introductory meetings, where participants can keep their camera off and end the conversation at any time.
• Provide flexible appointment times.
• Offer incentives such as gift vouchers.
• Explore outreach through schools and youth events.

The overarching message from young experts was clear: autonomy, flexibility, and clear communication are key to making research participation feel safe and accessible.