An innovative pilot project is giving Canadian children the tools to ward off depression -- without the medication. It's called learned optimism, and if successful, it could soon be coming to a school near you.

The 12-week program is the first to be offered in a Canadian elementary school. Researchers were surprised by how quickly they caught on to the techniques.

The children are taught how to turn negative emotions into positive ones. What they are learning is the basics of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy -- a technique shown to treat and prevent depression.

"We may be able to prevent disease in some kids at risk..and even if we don't prevent it we can teach them the skills to help them cope," Dr. Katharina Manassis of Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children said.

About 10 to 15 per cent of children suffer from depression. Many others may develop repetitive negative thinking that can lead to depression as they become teens and adults.

Thirteen-year-old Brian Shepherd suffered from depression. His mother, Nancy, said that when he was 10 he stopped wanting to go out with his family and began to retreat.

She said he was withdrawn and anxious until she enrolled him in therapy. Brian said the experience showed him how to change the way he thought.

"You are the same person you always were, you are just happier. Your brain is telling you to be happier," Brian said.

Advocates of the therapy believe it might vaccinate children against future depression and it is now being taught to all school children in Australia. At least one Canadian principal thinks it may have a role here as well.

"I see this approach as very positive, very encouraging. I should like to see it expand further into the school system..but first it needs to have a stronger base of support," Anne Gomme of Roywood Elementary school said.

With a report from CTV's Avis Favaro