Groundbreaking study on Libera’s mental health impact published in Journal of Appalachian Health

A new peer-reviewed study published in the Journal of Appalachian Health validates the impact of Libera, Inc., a West Virginia-based nonprofit organization supporting women and girls, as a vital mental health resource in the Appalachian region.

The article, titled “Finding Freedom in Appalachia: Evaluating a Mental Health Intervention in West Virginia,” details a mixed-methods evaluation of the Libera program and its outcomes for participants and volunteer mentors (called “Listeners”). The research was led by Elizabeth Claydon, Ph.D., of the West Virginia University School of Public Health, in partnership with Libera staff and community members.

The study shows statistically significant improvements in depression, anxiety and life satisfaction among women and girls who participated in the Libera intervention. It also found that volunteer Listeners—community members trained to offer lay mental health support—experienced increased knowledge, growth and positive behavioral changes as a result of their involvement.

“This evaluation shows the lasting impact that Libera is making in our state,” said Claydon, lead author and researcher. “Libera focuses on listening first and truly hearing the stories of those it serves. By centering the voices of women and girls and connecting them with resources, Libera creates unique pathways to helping them find their own freedom.”

Libera’s model, built on accessible lay counseling and mentorship, addresses critical gaps in mental health care access in rural and underserved communities. The organization equips women and girls with tools, resources and one-on-one support to help them recognize and overcome barriers in their lives. The model is used in weekly groups led in schools, juvenile detention centers, shelters, youth reporting centers, residential facilities and with at-risk youths across West Virginia.

“This study affirms what we've seen firsthand in our communities,” Kelsey Riggi, executive director at Libera, said. “Our approach is simple but powerful—providing a safe space to be heard, seen and supported. Now we have evidence to back the stories we’ve heard from hundreds of women and girls.”

The research also highlights areas for continued development, including enhanced support for participants with eating disorders and expanded training in specialized topics like LGBTQ+ inclusivity (e.g., Safe Zone training). Despite these areas for improvement, the study reinforces Libera’s holistic, relational approach as a powerful tool in combating isolation, generational trauma and mental health disparities in rural communities.

Libera, Inc. continues to expand its reach across West Virginia and beyond, working with schools, community groups and individuals to create a culture of listening, connection and hope—one conversation at a time.

Read the full article here: https://uknowledge.uky.edu/jah/vol7/iss1/2/.

Photo above: Libera bus (Credit: Libera, Inc.).

CONTACTS:

Lindsay Wiles
WVU School of Public Health
Director of Marketing and Communications
304-293-1699; lindsay.wiles@hsc.wvu.edu

Kelsey Riggi
Libera, Inc.
Director of Strategic Initiatives
724-992-8569; kelsey@liberawv.com