Teenager navigating chronic fatigue by taking part in research

A growing number of teenagers are facing mental health challenges today, with data for Wales showing that adolescent girls aged 16–19 are the group who most frequently presented with mental health crises.

Mo Frankland, a 17-year-old from Suffolk, who has taken an active role in mental health research after being diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome which impacted both their physical and mental wellbeing.

Why did you choose to take part in research?

“I struggled with coming to terms with the fact that my life had essentially changed overnight.

“I'd gone from being in school full-time and being active, to attending school twice a week and being tired all the time.”

After a year of grappling with this new reality and gaining a deeper understanding of how their life has changed, Mo recognised the power of their experiences and how they can make a positive impact on others by sharing their experiences.

“I always want to help others.”

What was your experience of taking part in the study?

“My mum helped me find opportunities to take part in mental health research on social media."

“I filled in surveys or questionnaires at first but eventually started helping researchers shape what they are working on.”

“I joined the Wolfson Young People’s Advisory Group a year after my diagnosis and they introduced me to the world of research.”

Established in 2020, the Wolfson Centre for Young People’s Mental Health, based at Cardiff University, focuses on understanding anxiety and depression in young people, aiming to bring about a positive impact through effective interventions and policy changes.

“I was finally in an environment where I felt understood and brave enough to talk about my own experiences, both linked with my condition and before I got ill.”

Where would we be without research?

Mo’s journey highlights the value of taking part in research can help build supportive communities and empower people to take charge of their mental health.

Participating in research felt like a part of my mental health journey that helped me cope.”

"Helping with research has shown me it helps a lot of people, including myself, and strengthens the bonds in groups facing similar challenges."

Be Part of Research is a UK-wide service that helps people find and engage in health and care research across nearly every condition.

Sign up to Be Part of Research to learn about a range of opportunities to take part in or help with health and social care research in your area.