Principal Investigator: Andrea Knight, MD, MSCE 

Co-Principal Investigator: Shirley Tse, MD, FRCPC 

Funded by: SPARCC 

Study Goals: To identify MH symptoms and needs for youth with JSpA, and to evaluate the feasibility of MH screening. 

Description: This mixed-method study aims to identify MH symptoms and needs for youth with JSpA while also evaluating the feasibility of MH screening. A total of 30 patients and 30 caregivers from the SickKids JSpA clinic will be enrolled to complete quantitative measures. A subset of 15 of these patients and 15 caregivers will participate in qualitative semi-structured interviews.   

Impact: The findings from this project will establish a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies and monitoring guidelines for MH care in pediatric JSpA, ultimately aiming to prevent poor mental health outcomes as these patients transition into adulthood.