Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
4-23-2025
Abstract
Date: 04/23/2025
Student Name: Kennedy Coates
Capstone Project Title: Beyond the Mind: A Podcast Series Advocating for Mental Health Services and Addressing Anxiety in High Schools
Capstone Faculty Advisor: Sylvia Anderson DHEd, MBA, OTR/L, CAPS
Abstract:
This project explores the challenges and research gaps related to adolescent anxiety in a high school setting. It aims to identify specific mental health needs and advocate for school-based interventions through the development of an educational podcast. The podcast offers practical strategies and resources for both students and school staff to further address anxiety. Data was collected through observation and a review of existing literature, along with survey feedback from 13 doctoral students in the Howard University Occupational Therapy program. Respondents recommended enhancing the podcast with visuals, sound effects, and subtitles to improv engagement and accessibility. Detailed responses from the 13 respondents can be found in the appendix section of the paper (Figure 2). Research supports podcasts as an effective medium for adolescent education. Findings emphasize the importance of integrating accessible and affordable mental health services in schools and highlight the need for continued research on podcast effectiveness and additional strategies to reduce anxiety in adolescents.
Recommended Citation
Coates, Kennedy and Anderson, Sylvia, "Beyond the Mind: A Podcast Series Advocating for Mental Health Services and Addressing Anxiety in High Schools" (2025). Howard University, Department of Occupational Therapy Capstone and Faculty Research. 16.
https://dh.howard.edu/huotresearch/16
