UPSTREAM ! Together: Preventing Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Health Problems in Youth

Mental, emotional, and behavioral (MEB) health problems are prevalent. While most of these problems have roots dating to childhood, some MEB problems can be prevented. Barriers to progress include fragmented payment structures and systems that neglect MEB problems, which community systems could help solve. The Farley Center partnered with three diverse Colorado communities to develop a plan to raise awareness and prevent MEB problems in children and their families. Researchers and community leaders used a community-based participatory research approach, Boot Camp Translation, to assess community demographics, assets, and challenges for a tailored solution.

All three communities decided to go “upstream” and focus on social connectedness with the recognition that the prevention of MEB problems begins early in life and lasts a lifetime. The Farley Center worked with community leaders to write and submit grant proposals to implement communities’ prevention ideas. Two communities successfully won funding. Combining community expertise with knowledge about preventing MEB problems can mitigate these issues while strengthening families and communities.

Equity and empowerment at the community level are core values of the Farley Center. UPSTREAM ! Together showcased the benefit of partnering with communities to amplify community voice and elevate local priorities.