Virginia Via Research Day Book 2026

Medical Student Research Public Health

13 FEED, READ, AND GROW: DEVELOPMENT OF A STORYWALK® FOR THE IDENTIFICATION AND MANAGEMENT OF PANIC ATTACKS IN THE PRE-KINDERGARTEN POPULATION

Spencer R. Prematta OMS-IV; Harsha Bhagtani, MD; Silvia N. Jaimes Ocazionez, MD; Carolina Smales MS Corresponding author: Sprematta@vcom.edu

VCOM-Virginia, Blacksburg, Virginia Mass General Brigham and Women's; Joi Neuron by Carol Joy® LLC.

was advertised towards the 2–5-year-old population, and participants were invited to participate in the StoryWalk®, and guardians were asked to complete a survey on behalf of their children at the completion of the event. Results: We received a total of 15 participants in the StoryWalk® across the two events. We saw that 93.3% (68.05, 99.83) of participants found the StoryWalk® engaging and reported enjoying the experience. Furthermore, 93% (68.05,99.83) of participants were able to identify one of the physiological effects of anxiety episodes, and 80% (51.91,95.67) were able to identify both physiological effects discussed in the StoryWalk®. Of the coping skills discussed, 100% (78.20,100.00) of participants identified at least one coping skill, with 73% (44.90,92.21) identifying both coping skills. Discussion: Our results indicate that children responded well to the StoryWalk®, with a majority

reporting that they enjoyed the experience. Furthermore, survey respondents were able to identify the physiological response of the body to an acute episode of anxiety. Additionally, respondents were able to recall the steps of deep-breathing exercises for coping with anxiety and panic attacks. This QI project shows an efficacious modality to engage young children in topics regarding mental health and equipping this population with the tools to cope with anxiety and future life stressors. IRB Statement: IRB #: 2152783-1. Level of Review: Not research / QI. Date of Approval February 7, 2024 .

Context: The prevalence of anxiety and other mental health concerns among children is increasing, findings that have been further accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Coupled with a physician deficit in pediatrics and psychiatry in rural areas, the teaching of coping skills by other community leaders outside of the doctor’s office could prove a helpful and necessary intervention. This study will provide an interactive way to teach an anxiety-coping skill and engage participants through an interactive reading experience called a StoryWalk®. Objective: To determine if the StoryWalk® will be effective in teaching the Pre-Kindergarten population the physiological effects of, and the coping skills for, an acute episode of anxiety or panic attack. Methods: The StoryWalk® took place across two events at different libraries in Roanoke, VA. The StoryWalk® was developed based upon a book by local author Carol Joy® titled “Don’t Panic”. The event

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2026 Research Recognition Day