Transforming mental health care for K-12 students.
About Projekt 48
Projekt 48 transforms mental health care by integrating neuroscience, social work, and education. Building on over fifty years of groundbreaking scientific research, we provide K-12 students with practical tools to improve mental health outcomes. Through engaging, science-based resources, we make the wonders of neuroscience accessible to children and adults alike. Our interactive approach fosters a deeper appreciation for the brain’s beauty and biology, empowering our learning community with knowledge that drives meaningful change.
Our Name
The Egyptian surgical papyrus that systematically recorded 48 brain trauma cases inspires our name. It contains the oldest written record of the word "brain." It also provides a clinical account of the brain's anatomy, the meninges (the coverings of the brain), and cerebrospinal fluid.
Influenced by texts from around 3000 BC, the papyrus dates to roughly 1700 BC. It is the oldest medical document to employ the scientific method and has lived at the New York Academy of Medicine since 1948.
Our Work
Projekt 48 delivers innovative mental health programming to schools and youth-serving organizations across New York City. Our work is grounded in a deep understanding of the challenges facing young people today. According to the NYC Department of Health’s 2024 State of Mental Health of New Yorkers report, 15% of children ages 3 to 13 have a diagnosed mental health condition, with anxiety and depression being the most common. Mental health challenges also intensify during adolescence: nearly half of NYC teens report experiencing depressive symptoms, and the vast majority express anxiety about the future or the safety of their families. While teens show strong signs of resilience—turning to music, social media, and humor as coping strategies—those with daily social media use are also more likely to experience worry and depressive symptoms. Projekt 48’s neuro-trauma-informed, culturally responsive programs are designed to meet the mental health needs of young people, support their resilience, and promote well-being across NYC.
Our Results
Results from our Mood Meter study demonstrates that our model works. Click here to watch our 2024 Impact video and here to read our Impact Report. Sample our Mood Meter here.
Contact info@projekt48.org to learn more about our transformative work.
