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Rhodes JR, Tedeschi RG, Moore BA, Alldredge CT, Elkins GR. Posttraumatic growth-oriented peer-based training among U.S. veterans: evaluation of post-intervention and long-term follow-up outcomes. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1322837. [PMID: 38250126 PMCID: PMC10797000 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1322837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Exposure to trauma among U.S. military veterans occurs at a high rate, often resulting in continued difficulty with emotional adjustment and a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present study provides data from 184 U.S. military veterans who completed a manualized posttraumatic-growth oriented training program during an integrative seven-day retreat. Methods Data was collected at baseline, after program completion, and at 18-month follow-up. Results Results on primary outcomes indicated significant increases, with medium to large effect sizes, in growth related outcomes. Specifically, there was a significant increase in scores by 54% on the posttraumatic growth outcome measure (PTGI-X) from baseline (M = 50.2, SD = 31.1) to endpoint (M = 77.4, SD = 29.6), t(183) = -8.78, p < 0.001. Also, results indicate that immediately following training (Day 7), participants reported a significant decrease of 49% on the PCL-5 from baseline (M = 39.7, SD = 17.6) to endpoint (M = 20.1, SD = 13.2), t(183) = 11.75, p < 0.001. Depression subscale scores decreased by 60% from baseline (M = 8.0, SD = 5.2) to endpoint (M = 3.2, SD = 3.0), t(183) = 10.68, p < 0.001; Anxiety scores decreased by 28% from baseline (M = 5.8, SD = 4.3) to endpoint (M = 4.2, SD = 3.5), t(183) = 4.08, p < 0.001; and Stress scores decreased by 50% from baseline (M = 10.0, SD = 4.4) to endpoint (M = 5.0, SD = 3.3), t(183) = 12.21, p < 0.001. Eighteen-month follow-up data was available for 74 participants and indicated that all significant changes in growth-related outcomes were maintained. Further, all significant changes in symptomatology-related outcomes were also maintained at follow-up. Discussion These findings demonstrate both the immediate and the long-lasting impact of an integrative posttraumatic growth-oriented training program on psychological growth and PTSD symptom reduction among U.S. military veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R. Rhodes
- Department of Psychology, Abilene Christian University, Abilene, TX, United States
| | - Richard G. Tedeschi
- Boulder Crest Institute for Posttraumatic Growth, Bluemont, VA, United States
| | - Bret A. Moore
- Boulder Crest Institute for Posttraumatic Growth, Bluemont, VA, United States
| | - Cameron T. Alldredge
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
| | - Gary R. Elkins
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
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Sultani G, Heinsch M, Wilson J, Pallas P, Tickner C, Kay-Lambkin F. 'Now I Have Dreams in Place of the Nightmares': An Updated Systematic Review of Post-Traumatic Growth Among Refugee Populations. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2024; 25:795-812. [PMID: 37097092 PMCID: PMC10666490 DOI: 10.1177/15248380231163641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Trauma exposure places refugees at serious risk of developing mental health difficulties. However, research also recognizes that refugees can respond to trauma with psychological development and growth, commonly referred to as post-traumatic growth (PTG). An updated systematic review was conducted to investigate PTG across different refugee populations, including the processes that mediate this phenomenon, and the use of therapy in promoting PTG. A systematic search of CINAHL Complete, Proquest 5000, PsychINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science was performed to identify studies exploring PTG in refugee populations, published between June 2013 and November 2021. In all, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria for this review. Quantitative results reveal a positive correlation between PTG and religious commitment and coping, and the effectiveness of narrative and community-based interventions in facilitating PTG. Qualitative results facilitate insight into the complex ways refugees find meaning and strength after trauma through religion, comparison-based thinking, helping others, and storytelling. Findings highlight the need for future research and interventions to recognize the distinct PTG experiences of different refugee populations.
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Von Arcosy C, Padilha M, Mello GL, Vilete L, Luz MP, Mendlowicz M, Serpa OD, Berger W. A bright side of adversity? A systematic review on posttraumatic growth among refugees. Stress Health 2023; 39:956-976. [PMID: 36949033 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Until the third trimester of 2022, 103 million people worldwide had been forced to leave their homes and become refugees. The traumatic experiences of refugees can lead not only to mental disorders but also to Posttraumatic Growth (PTG). (1) To find the variables positively and negatively associated with PTG in refugees. (2) To investigate the relationship between PTG and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among refugees. We systematically searched Medline, Web of Knowledge, PsycInfo, Scopus, and PTSD Pubs for studies about PTG in refugees. Epidemiological studies using the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory. Grey literature, reviews, and meta-analysis. Risk of bias was assessed by the 'The Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool'. We included 24 studies investigating PTG and associated factors. The factors positively associated with PTG were social support, regular migration status, religiosity, satisfaction with life, time, and problem-focussed and emotion-focussed coping. The factors negatively associated with PTG were: irregular migration status, emotional suppression, and avoidance coping. Studies on PTG in refugees are essential to finding new ways to address mental health in this field. Few studies offered risk of bias, particularly regarding the sample selection. We conclude that PTG may be influenced by many factors and it would be of importance that the centres for support, as well as public policies, took that into account to foster the outcome and not only to focus on disease. This study was partially supported by CAPES and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42020215607).
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheyenne Von Arcosy
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Padilha
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Lorran Mello
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Liliane Vilete
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mariana Pires Luz
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Mauro Mendlowicz
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Octavio Domont Serpa
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - William Berger
- Department of Psychiatry and Legal Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Shaw SA, Lee C, Ahmadi M, Karim Shor Muluk H, Mohamed Jibril Z, Ahmadi L, Randall L, Yang C, Gilbert L. A randomized controlled trial testing the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of a mental health Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment among refugees in Malaysia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023; 69:1898-1908. [PMID: 37326111 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231179323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among refugees residing in countries of first asylum, such as Malaysia, high rates of psychological distress call for creative intervention responses. AIMS This study examines implementation of a Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model promoting emotional well-being and access to services. METHOD The one-session intervention was implemented in community settings by refugee facilitators during 2017 to 2020. 140 Participants including Afghan (n = 43), Rohingya (n = 41), and Somali (n = 56) refugees were randomized to receive either the intervention at baseline, or to a waitlist control group. At 30 days post-intervention, all participants completed a post-assessment. Additionally, after completing the intervention, participants provided feedback on SBIRT content and process. RESULTS Findings indicate the intervention was feasible to implement. Among the full sample, Refugee Health Screening-15 emotional distress scores reduced significantly among participants in the intervention group when compared to those in the waitlist control group. Examining findings by nationality, only Afghan and Rohingya participants in the intervention condition experienced significant reductions in distress scores compared to their counterparts in the control condition. Examining intervention effects on service access outcomes, only Somali participants in the intervention condition experienced significant increases in service access compared to the control condition. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate the potential value of this SBIRT intervention, warranting further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey A Shaw
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | - Maryam Ahmadi
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | | | - Latifa Ahmadi
- School of Social Work, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | | | | | - Louisa Gilbert
- School of Social Work, Columbia University, New York, USA
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Baumeister A, Aldin A, Chakraverty D, Hübner C, Adams A, Monsef I, Skoetz N, Kalbe E, Woopen C. Interventions for improving health literacy in migrants. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 11:CD013303. [PMID: 37963101 PMCID: PMC10645402 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013303.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health literacy (HL) is a determinant of health and important for autonomous decision-making. Migrants are at high risk for limited HL. Improving HL is important for equitable promotion of migrants' health. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness of interventions for improving HL in migrants. To assess whether female or male migrants respond differently to the identified interventions. SEARCH METHODS We ran electronic searches to 2 February 2022 in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and CINAHL. We also searched trial registries. We used a study filter for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (RCT classifier). SELECTION CRITERIA We included RCTs and cluster-RCTs addressing HL either as a concept or its components (access, understand, appraise, apply health information). DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the methodological procedures recommended by Cochrane and followed the PRISMA-E guidelines. Outcome categories were: a) HL, b) quality of life (QoL), c) knowledge, d) health outcomes, e) health behaviour, f) self-efficacy, g) health service use and h) adverse events. We conducted meta-analysis where possible, and reported the remaining results as a narrative synthesis. MAIN RESULTS We included 28 RCTs and six cluster-RCTs (8249 participants), all conducted in high-income countries. Participants were migrants with a wide range of conditions. All interventions were adapted to culture, language and literacy. We did not find evidence that HL interventions cause harm, but only two studies assessed adverse events (e.g. anxiety). Many studies reported results for short-term assessments (less than six weeks after total programme completion), reported here. For several comparisons, there were also findings at later time points, which are presented in the review text. Compared with no HL intervention (standard care/no intervention) or an unrelated HL intervention (similar intervention but different information topic) Self-management programmes (SMP) probably improve self-efficacy slightly (standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.06 to 0.50; 2 studies, 333 participants; moderate certainty). SMP may improve HIV-related HL (understanding (mean difference (MD) 4.25, 95% CI 1.32 to 7.18); recognition of HIV terms (MD 3.32, 95% CI 1.28 to 5.36)) (1 study, 69 participants). SMP may slightly improve health behaviours (3 studies, 514 participants), but may have little or no effect on knowledge (2 studies, 321 participants) or subjective health status (MD 0.38, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.89; 1 study, 69 participants) (low certainty). We are uncertain of the effects of SMP on QoL, health service use or adverse events due to a lack of evidence. HL skills building courses (HLSBC) may improve knowledge (MD 10.87, 95% CI 5.69 to 16.06; 2 studies, 111 participants) and any generic HL (SMD 0.48, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.75; 2 studies, 229 participants), but may have little or no effect on depression literacy (MD 0.17, 95% CI -1.28 to 1.62) or any health behaviour (2 studies, 229 participants) (low certainty). We are uncertain if HLSBC improve QoL, health outcomes, health service use, self-efficacy or adverse events, due to very low-certainty or a lack of evidence. Audio-/visual education without personal feedback (AVE) probably improves depression literacy (MD 8.62, 95% CI 7.51 to 9.73; 1 study, 202 participants) and health service use (MD -0.59, 95% CI -1.11 to -0.07; 1 study, 157 participants), but probably has little or no effect on health behaviour (risk ratio (RR) 1.07, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.25; 1 study, 135 participants) (moderate certainty). AVE may improve self-efficacy (MD 3.51, 95% CI 2.53 to 4.49; 1 study, 133 participants) and may slightly improve knowledge (MD 8.44, 95% CI -2.56 to 19.44; 2 studies, 293 participants) and intention to seek depression treatment (MD 1.8, 95% CI 0.43 to 3.17), with little or no effect on depression (SMD -0.15, 95% CI -0.40 to 0.10) (low certainty). No evidence was found for QoL and adverse events. Adapted medical instruction may improve understanding of health information (3 studies, 478 participants), with little or no effect on medication adherence (MD 0.5, 95% CI -0.1 to 1.1; 1 study, 200 participants) (low certainty). No evidence was found for QoL, health outcomes, knowledge, health service use, self-efficacy or adverse events. Compared with written information on the same topic SMP probably improves health numeracy slightly (MD 0.7, 95% CI 0.15 to 1.25) and probably improves print literacy (MD 9, 95% CI 2.9 to 15.1; 1 study, 209 participants) and self-efficacy (SMD 0.47, 95% CI 0.3 to 0.64; 4 studies, 552 participants) (moderate certainty). SMP may improve any disease-specific HL (SMD 0.67, 95% CI 0.27 to 1.07; 4 studies, 955 participants), knowledge (MD 11.45, 95% CI 4.75 to 18.15; 6 studies, 1101 participants) and some health behaviours (4 studies, 797 participants), with little or no effect on health information appraisal (MD 1.15, 95% CI -0.23 to 2.53; 1 study, 329 participants) (low certainty). We are uncertain whether SMP improves QoL, health outcomes, health service use or adverse events, due to a lack of evidence or low/very low-certainty evidence. AVE probably has little or no effect on diabetes HL (MD 2, 95% CI -0.15 to 4.15; 1 study, 240 participants), but probably improves information appraisal (MD -9.88, 95% CI -12.87 to -6.89) and application (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.29 to 1.77) (1 study, 608 participants; moderate certainty). AVE may slightly improve knowledge (MD 8.35, 95% CI -0.32 to 17.02; low certainty). No short-term evidence was found for QoL, depression, health behaviour, self-efficacy, health service use or adverse events. AVE compared with another AVE We are uncertain whether narrative videos are superior to factual knowledge videos as the evidence is of very low certainty. Gender differences Female migrants' diabetes HL may improve slightly more than that of males, when receiving AVE (MD 5.00, 95% CI 0.62 to 9.38; 1 study, 118 participants), but we do not know whether female or male migrants benefit differently from other interventions due to very low-certainty or a lack of evidence. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Adequately powered studies measuring long-term effects (more than six months) of HL interventions in female and male migrants are needed, using well-validated tools and representing various healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Baumeister
- Center for Life Ethics/Hertz Chair TRA 4, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Angela Aldin
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Digo Chakraverty
- Medical Psychology, Neuropsychology and Gender Studies and Center for Neuropsychological Diagnostics and Intervention (CeNDI), University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Constanze Hübner
- Center for Life Ethics/Hertz Chair TRA 4, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anne Adams
- Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ina Monsef
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nicole Skoetz
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Elke Kalbe
- Medical Psychology, Neuropsychology and Gender Studies and Center for Neuropsychological Diagnostics and Intervention (CeNDI), University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christiane Woopen
- Center for Life Ethics/Hertz Chair TRA 4, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Peer Y, Koren A, DiNapoli P, Gautam R. Factors Associated with Implementing the Integrated Behavioral Health Care Model and Iraqi Refugees in the USA. Community Ment Health J 2023; 59:1251-1260. [PMID: 36917297 PMCID: PMC10011859 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01107-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to identify which factors facilitate providing integrated behavioral health care for Iraqi refugees in nationally recognized community health center in Northern USA. The social-ecological model (SEM) framework guided this qualitative case study exploring the experience of 11 professional staff. Data were collected from June through August 2021 through individual interviews. Eight themes emerged based on the SEM levels: Intrapersonal-gender-driven engagement; interpersonal-the need for discretion and trusting relationship; community-collaboration with community resources and integrator from the community; organizational-holistic care, and long-term care; and policy-insufficient educational preparation. The results highlight components for clinical practice and policymakers regarding a population that is a big consumer of mental health care. Future research should explore other vulnerable populations, the effect of social groups, and the incorporation of community resources as part of the integrated care team.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifat Peer
- Susan and Alan Solomont School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Lowell 113 Wilder Street, Suite 200, Lowell, MA 01854-3058 USA
| | - Ainat Koren
- Susan and Alan Solomont School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Lowell 113 Wilder Street, Suite 200, Lowell, MA 01854-3058 USA
| | - Pamela DiNapoli
- Department of Nursing, University of New Hampshire, Hewitt Hall, 4 Library Way, Durham, NH 03824 USA
| | - Ramraj Gautam
- Susan and Alan Solomont School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Lowell 113 Wilder Street, Suite 200, Lowell, MA 01854-3058 USA
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Smaik N, Simmons LA, Abdulhaq B, Dardas LA. The feasibility and preliminary efficacy of narrative exposure therapy on post-traumatic stress disorder among Syrian refugees in Jordan. Int J Nurs Sci 2023; 10:518-526. [PMID: 38020837 PMCID: PMC10667293 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2023.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common mental health disorders among refugees, and all require immediate mental health support to prevent short- and long-term detrimental health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of narrative exposure therapy (NET) in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety among Syrian refugees residing in Jordan. Methods A two-arm randomized control trial was utilized. A total of 40 Syrian refugees aged 18 to 64 diagnosed with PTSD were randomly allocated to either the NET intervention group (n = 20) or the waitlist control group (n = 20) using a computer-generated allocation list with 1:1 allocation. PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Arabic rendition of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, while depression and anxiety symptoms were appraised using the Arabic adaptation of the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25. Descriptive statistics were employed to characterize the sample and survey data. Independent t-tests were conducted to assess mean score differences in PTSD, anxiety, and depression between the intervention and control groups. Results Post NET intervention, significant reductions in PTSD (t = -10.00, P < 0.001), anxiety (t = -9.46, P < 0.001), and depression (t = -6.00, P < 0.001) scores were observed in the intervention group compared to the control group. Effect sizes were moderate for the trauma (Cohen's d = 0.73) and depression (Cohen's d = 0.79) symptoms and notably large for anxiety symptoms (Cohen's d = 0.97). There were no adverse events related to study participation. The intervention achieved a 100% participant retention rate. Conclusions The results pertaining to retention rate, adherence to the study protocol, data completeness, cultural congruence, and participants' satisfaction provided strong support for the future implementation of the full-scale RCT. NET may be a feasible and helpful approach for refugees and other patients with PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadeen Smaik
- School of Nursing, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Leigh Ann Simmons
- The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Raeder R, Clayton NS, Boeckle M. Narrative-based autobiographical memory interventions for PTSD: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1215225. [PMID: 37829075 PMCID: PMC10565228 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1215225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of narrative-based interventions (NBIs) for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Investigating the efficacy of NBIs should yield insight on autobiographical memory (AM) phenomena implicated in PTSD onset and recovery, leading to improved intervention protocols. Furthermore, by analyzing how NBIs influence maladaptive AM distortions, we hope to shed light on the theorized narrative architecture of AM more generally. Methods A systematic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and PubMed. Additional studies were then also identified from the reference lists of other relevant literature and considered for inclusion. Studies were then evaluated for adherence to the inclusion/exclusion criteria and assessed for risk of bias. Various meta-analyses were performed on included studies to understand how NBIs may or may not influence the overall effect size of treatment. Results The results of the meta-analysis of 35 studies, involving 2,596 participants, suggest that NBIs are a viable and effective treatment option for PTSD, yielding a statistically significant within-group effect size and decrease in PTSD symptomatology at both post-treatment [g = 1.73, 95% CI (1.23-2.22)] and 3-9 month follow-up assessments [g = 2.33, 95% CI (1.41-3.26)]. Furthermore, the difference in effect sizes between NBIs compared to active and waitlist controls was statistically significant, suggesting that NBIs are superior. Sub-analyses showed that NET provided a stronger effect size than FORNET, which may be due to the nature of the traumatic event itself and not the treatment protocol. While evidence of small study and publication bias was present, a weight-function model and trim-and-fill method suggested it was not influencing the overall results. Discussion This meta-analysis presents strong evidence supporting the use of NBIs in the treatment of PTSD. Clear similarities can be identified between NBIs included in this analysis that make them distinct from non-NBI interventions, which are reviewed in the discussion. Controlled comparisons between NBIs and non-NBIs would help to further understand AM mechanisms of action implicated in recovery and how various interventions facilitate them. Future research should also aim to elucidate the full range of AM impairment in individuals with PTSD to gain insight on how other memory capabilities, such as the ability to mentally simulate the future, are implicated in the pathogenesis of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Raeder
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola S. Clayton
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Boeckle
- Scientific Working Group, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Department of Transitory Psychiatry, University Hospital Tulln, Tulln, Austria
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Bedard-Gilligan M, Kaysen D, Cordero RM, Huh D, Walker D, Kaiser-Schauer E, Robjant K, Saluskin K, Pearson C. Adapting narrative exposure therapy with a tribal community: A community-based approach. J Clin Psychol 2022; 78:2087-2108. [PMID: 35621371 PMCID: PMC9811656 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE American Indian (AI) individuals are at increased risk for present-day trauma exposure and associated negative outcomes, as well as ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma exposure and adversity. However, few empirically supported treatments exist that are specifically tailored and/or tested with AI communities. This study describes the process of selecting, adapting, and implementing narrative exposure therapy (NET) with an AI community. METHODS A community and academic partnership was formed and worked together to make culturally mindful changes to NET to best fit the needs of the community. The partnership incorporated community leaders/Elders (n = 7), providers (n = 11), and participants seeking treatment (n = 50) to implement an iterative process of adapting and implementing the adapted form of NET. RESULTS Key adaptions included addressing historical and intergenerational trauma, greater protections for confidentiality in a small community, and incorporation of cultural customs and traditions. Overall, the adapted form of NET was favorably received by the participants, and the implementation appeared to be feasible, with improved retention over past trials of adapted trauma-focused treatments with this community and with highly positive satisfaction ratings and feedback. CONCLUSIONS NET was shown to be an appropriate approach for this AI community and should be considered as a treatment option for other AI communities. Future work should consider strategies outlined in this adaption as well as following a similar process for working with AI communities to implement culturally appropriate interventions for trauma-related symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Bedard-Gilligan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Debra Kaysen
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Rebeca Marin Cordero
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - David Huh
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Denise Walker
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Elisabeth Kaiser-Schauer
- Vivo International, Konstanz, Germany
- Center of Excellence for Psychotraumatology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, USA
| | | | - Kathy Saluskin
- Yakama Nation Behavioral Health, Toppenish, Washington, USA
| | - Cynthia Pearson
- Indigineous Wellness Research Institute, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Ellis K, Jones F. An initial evaluation of narrative exposure therapy as a treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder among Sudanese refugees in Cairo, delivered by lay counselors. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00194-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The growing worldwide refugee crisis highlights the needs for increased access to mental health services, including in the large urban cities in the Middle East to which refugees are frequently displaced and in which access to such services is limited. The current study offers an initial evaluation of narrative exposure therapy as a treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder among Sudanese refugees in Cairo, delivered by lay counselors. Sudanese refugees with no prior background in counseling were given 27 h of training in narrative exposure therapy. They then delivered this to seven members of the same refugee community with a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder at a local community center, and this was evaluated using a pre-post design and a focus-group with the intervention recipients.
Results
Despite the small sample size, over the course of the intervention there was significant decrease in trauma and anxiety symptoms, and a close to significant decrease in depression. Moreover, the focus group participants generally spoke positively about their experiences.
Conclusions
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the viability of lay counselors delivering narrative exposure therapy to refugees with posttraumatic stress disorder in a complex urban setting. The findings suggest that this approach has promise and support the case for a randomized control trial of narrative exposure therapy delivered in this manner in such a setting.
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Turrini G, Tedeschi F, Cuijpers P, Del Giovane C, Kip A, Morina N, Nosè M, Ostuzzi G, Purgato M, Ricciardi C, Sijbrandij M, Tol W, Barbui C. A network meta-analysis of psychosocial interventions for refugees and asylum seekers with PTSD. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:e005029. [PMID: 34088735 PMCID: PMC8183228 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-005029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Refugees and asylum seekers are vulnerable to common mental disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using a network meta-analysis (NMA) approach, the present systematic review compared and ranked psychosocial interventions for the treatment of PTSD in adult refugees and asylum seekers. METHODS Randomised studies of psychosocial interventions for adult refugees and asylum seekers with PTSD were systematically identified. PTSD symptoms at postintervention was the primary outcome. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) and ORs were pooled using pairwise and NMA. Study quality was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) tool, and certainty of evidence was assessed through the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis application. RESULTS A total of 23 studies with 2308 participants were included. Sixteen studies were conducted in high-income countries, and seven in low-income or middle-income countries. Most studies were at low risk of bias according to the Cochrane RoB tool. NMA on PTSD symptoms showed that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) (SMD=-1.41; 95% CI -2.43 to -0.38) and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) (SMD=-1.30; 95% CI -2.40 to -0.20) were significantly more effective than waitlist (WL). CBT was also associated with a higher decrease in PTSD symptoms than treatment as usual (TAU) (SMD -1.51; 95% CI -2.67 to -0.36). For all other interventions, the difference with WL and TAU was not significant. CBT and EMDR ranked best according to the mean surface under the cumulative ranking. Regarding acceptability, no intervention had less dropouts than inactive interventions. CONCLUSION CBT and EMDR appeared to have the greatest effects in reducing PTSD symptoms in asylum seekers and refugees. This evidence should be considered in guidelines and implementation packages to facilitate dissemination and uptake in refugee settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Turrini
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Tedeschi
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Cinzia Del Giovane
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ahlke Kip
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Munster, Germany
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Munster, Germany
| | - Michela Nosè
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Chiara Ricciardi
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wietse Tol
- Section of Global Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Kobenhavn, Denmark
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Peter C. Alderman Program for Global Mental Health, HealthRight International, New York, New York, USA
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Cochrane Global Mental Health and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Schnitzer G, Holttum S, Huet V. A systematic literature review of the impact of art therapy upon post-traumatic stress disorder. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ART THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/17454832.2021.1910719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Schnitzer
- Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Tunbridge Wells, UK
| | - Sue Holttum
- Salomons Institute for Applied Psychology, Canterbury Christ Church University, Tunbridge Wells, UK
- British Association of Art Therapists, London, UK
| | - Val Huet
- British Association of Art Therapists, London, UK
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A systematic review and meta-analysis of psychological interventions to improve mental wellbeing. Nat Hum Behav 2021; 5:631-652. [PMID: 33875837 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01093-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Our current understanding of the efficacy of psychological interventions in improving mental states of wellbeing is incomplete. This study aimed to overcome limitations of previous reviews by examining the efficacy of distinct types of psychological interventions, irrespective of their theoretical underpinning, and the impact of various moderators, in a unified systematic review and meta-analysis. Four-hundred-and-nineteen randomized controlled trials from clinical and non-clinical populations (n = 53,288) were identified for inclusion. Mindfulness-based and multi-component positive psychological interventions demonstrated the greatest efficacy in both clinical and non-clinical populations. Meta-analyses also found that singular positive psychological interventions, cognitive and behavioural therapy-based, acceptance and commitment therapy-based, and reminiscence interventions were impactful. Effect sizes were moderate at best, but differed according to target population and moderator, most notably intervention intensity. The evidence quality was generally low to moderate. While the evidence requires further advancement, the review provides insight into how psychological interventions can be designed to improve mental wellbeing.
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Bentley JA, Feeny NC, Dolezal ML, Klein A, Marks LH, Graham B, Zoellner LA. Islamic Trauma Healing: Integrating Faith and Empirically Supported Principles in a Community-Based Program. COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL PRACTICE 2021; 28:167-192. [PMID: 34025104 PMCID: PMC8136181 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpra.2020.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Access to adequate, much less state-of-the-art, mental health care is a global problem. Natural disasters, civil war, and terrorist conflict have forcibly displaced millions of Muslims and have resulted in a remarkable level of individual and communitywide trauma exposure. As a result, many are at risk for posttraumatic stress and other trauma-related disorders. Many religiously oriented Muslims traditionally rely on Islamic principles and teachings, as well as their community, to cope with and address trauma-related distress. Islamic Trauma Healing is a six-session, lay-led group intervention developed within a Somali Muslim community that integrates evidence-based trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy principles with cultural and religious practices aimed to enhance uptake and create an easily up-scalable intervention for a wide range of trauma. In sessions, narratives of prophets who have undergone trauma (e.g., Prophet Ayyub, faith during hard times) present Islamic principles and facilitate cognitive shifts. Group members spend individual time turning to Allah in dua (i.e., informal prayer), focused on exposure to trauma memories. Program themes arc across suffering to healing to growth following trauma. This paper describes the core theoretical principles and methods in the Islamic Trauma Healing program. We also describe leader perspectives and the program's train-the-trainer model, in which lay leaders are trained to further disseminate the program and allow Islamic Trauma Healing to be owned and sustained by the Muslim community.
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Dolezal ML, Alsubaie MK, Sheikh I, Rosencrans P, Walker RS, Zoellner LA, Bentley JA. Differences in Posttraumatic and Psychosocial Outcomes Among Refugees, Asylum Seekers, and Internally Displaced Persons. J Nerv Ment Dis 2021; 209:28-34. [PMID: 33093357 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced persons differ in their experiences, potentially affecting posttraumatic outcomes such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, posttraumatic cognitions, and posttraumatic growth (PTG), as well as psychosocial outcomes such as social connection, discrimination, and well-being. We explored these differences in a sample of N = 112 Muslim displaced persons. Results from planned contrasts indicated that refugees reported more PTSD symptoms (t[46.63] = 3.04, p = 0.004, d = 0.77) and more PTG (t[94] = 2.71, p = 0.008, d = 0.61) than asylum seekers. Higher posttraumatic cognitions predicted less social connections across displacement immigration category. The strength of this relationship was more pronounced for asylum seekers than refugees (b = -0.43, p = 0.014). Refugees may focus more on direct threats from others, resulting in more PTSD symptoms, whereas asylum seekers' uncertainty may pose a greater threat, exacerbating posttraumatic beliefs that drive social disconnection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Dolezal
- School of Psychology, Family, and Community, Seattle Pacific University
| | | | | | - Peter Rosencrans
- University of Washington Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress, Seattle, Washington
| | - Rosemary S Walker
- University of Washington Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress, Seattle, Washington
| | - Lori A Zoellner
- University of Washington Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jacob A Bentley
- School of Psychology, Family, and Community, Seattle Pacific University
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Wu S, Renzaho AMN, Hall BJ, Shi L, Ling L, Chen W. Time-varying associations of pre-migration and post-migration stressors in refugees' mental health during resettlement: a longitudinal study in Australia. Lancet Psychiatry 2021; 8:36-47. [PMID: 33156999 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30422-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the time-varying association of pre-migration and post-migration stressors in refugees' mental health could help in designing tailored health promotion services at different resettlement stages and improving the efficiency of resource allocation. In this study, we explored these time-varying associations. METHODS We used data from the first four waves (October, 2013, to February, 2017) of a national refugee-based longitudinal study, the Building a New Life in Australia (BNLA) project. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and high risk of severe mental illness (HR-SMI) were used to assess mental health. The independent variables included the number of potentially traumatic events experienced during the pre-migration process, and a range of post-migration stressors. We used logistic regression models to analyse the relative importance of variables and time-varying associations between the pre-migration potentially traumatic events, post-migration resettlement stressors, and refugees' mental health. Analyses were stratified by gender, and sociodemographic covariates included age, marital status, education level, country of birth, and weekly income. RESULTS 2399 participants were surveyed in Wave 1 of the BNLA project in 2013-14, of whom 2009 (83·7%) responded in Wave 2 in 2014-15, 1894 (78·9%) in Wave 3 in 2015-16, and 1929 (80·4%) in Wave 4 in 2016-17. The three most important factors associated with mental health in each wave differed for male and female refugees, but the socioeconomic stressors of loneliness and adjustment to life in Australia were consistently prominent. Positive associations between socioeconomic stressors and mental ill-health were found for both genders, with a peak at Wave 2 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] among men, 1·60 [95% CI 1·26-2·03], p=0.0001 for PTSD; AOR 1·86 [1·35-2·55], p=0·0001 for HR-SMI; and among women, AOR 1·81 [1·27-2·57], p=0·0009 for PTSD; AOR 2·24 [1·49-3·38], p=0·0001 for HR-SMI). Associations between loneliness and mental health fluctuated, but were significant for both genders in Wave 4 (among men, AOR 1·90 [1·21-2·99], p=0·0051 for PTSD; AOR 3·70 [2·18-6·27], p<0·0001 for HR-SMI; and among women, AOR 3·65 [2·08-6·39], p<0·0001 for PTSD; AOR 3·68 [2·02-6·69], p<0·0001 for HR-SMI). The association between difficulties in adjustment to life in Australia and male refugees' mental ill-health increased continuously during the resettlement period. INTERPRETATION Gender-specific and time-sensitive services should be considered to improve refugees' mental health. For both genders, improved economic conditions that complement social security benefits deserve attention and are relevant throughout the resettlement process. At the later stage of resettlement, services to reduce loneliness could be carried out, and reducing stressors related to adjustment to life in the host country is especially needed for male refugees. FUNDING None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxian Wu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Zhejiang Provincial Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, China
| | - Andre M N Renzaho
- School of Social Sciences, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Brian J Hall
- Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; New York University (Shanghai), Shanghai, China; Department of Health, Behaviour and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lishuo Shi
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Ling
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China; School of Social Sciences, Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia.
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Vindbjerg E, Carlsson J, Mortensen EL, Makransky G, Nielsen T. A Rasch-based validity study of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire. J Affect Disord 2020; 277:697-705. [PMID: 32911220 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.08.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ) is the predominant questionnaire for assessing PTSD in trauma-affected refugees. Although the scale is increasingly used for measuring treatment outcomes, it has never been specifically validated for such use. The current study does so by testing the HTQ with the Rasch model. METHODS The analysis is based on 641 Arabic and Persian speaking refugees, diagnosed with PTSD and undergoing psychiatric treatment in Denmark. The responses were tested against the assumptions of the Rasch model, including unidimensionality, local independence and the absence of differential item function across subgroups. RESULTS Results reveal two subscales that, when accounting for local dependence and differential item functioning, meet criteria for the Rasch model in the included samples: An arousal/intrusion subscale and an avoidance/numbing subscale. LIMITATIONS The included sample was highly chronic and suffered from major depressive disorder. Results may not be fully representative of less chronic populations, e.g. recently arrived refugees. CONCLUSIONS We recommend the use of the arousal/intrusion subscale and the avoidance/numbing subscale as an optimized way of summarizing responses to the HTQ, which remains simple to administer while effectively summarizing all the information available in the scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Vindbjerg
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jessica Carlsson
- Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Mental Health Centre Ballerup, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Lykke Mortensen
- Department of Public Health and Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Tine Nielsen
- UCL University College, Department of Applied Research in Education and Social Sciences, Odense, Denmark
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Siehl S, Robjant K, Crombach A. Systematic review and meta-analyses of the long-term efficacy of narrative exposure therapy for adults, children and perpetrators. Psychother Res 2020; 31:695-710. [PMID: 33205713 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2020.1847345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a short-term trauma-focused intervention originally developed for treating survivors of war and torture. The neurobiological theoretical foundations of NET would suggest that the approach should have long term beneficial effects. We tested this assumption and also provided an extensive overview of all NET studies for adults, for children (KIDNET), and for perpetrators (Forensic Offender Rehabilitation NET; FORNET).Method: Following a systematic literature review, we conducted meta-analyses with all studies that had control conditions, and with all Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). We assessed between-groups short- (< 6 months) and long-term (≥ 6 months) effect sizes for symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression.Results: In a total of 56 studies from 30 countries comparing 1370 participants treated with NET to 1055 controls, we found large between group effect sizes regarding the reduction of PTSD symptoms in favor of NET. Analyses of RCTs with active controls yielded small to medium effect sizes in the short-term, and large effect sizes in the long-term.Conclusions: NET, KIDNET, and FORNET yield beneficial and sustainable treatment results for severely traumatized individuals living in adverse circumstances. Studies in highly developed health care systems comparing NET with other evidence-based trauma-focused interventions are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Siehl
- Institute of Cognitive and Clinical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Graduate School of Economic and Social Sciences, University of Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany.,Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Katy Robjant
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Non-Governmental Organization vivo international e.V., Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Psychology at the University of Konstanz, Experimental Clinical Psychology with a Teaching Focus on Clinical Psychology of Childhood and Adolescence.,Non-Governmental Organization Psychologues sans Frontières, Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Université Lumière de Bujumbura, Bujumbura, Burundi
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Rometsch C, Denkinger JK, Engelhardt M, Windthorst P, Graf J, Nikendei C, Zipfel S, Junne F. Care providers' views on burden of psychosomatic symptoms of IS-traumatized female refugees participating in a Humanitarian Admission Program in Germany: A qualitative analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239969. [PMID: 33017408 PMCID: PMC7535032 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatized refugees often suffer from diverse psychosomatic symptoms. Female Yazidi refugees from Northern Iraq who survived attacks of the so-called "Islamic State" were brought to Germany to receive special medical and psychotherapeutic treatment in a unique worldwide humanitarian admission program (HAP). Here, we report on their psychosomatic symptoms and helpful strategies from the perspective of care providers. METHODS Care providers (N = 84) in this HAP were interviewed in an individual setting as well as in focus groups to gather information about the HAP beneficiaries' psychosomatic symptoms. Data analysis followed Qualitative Content Analysis by Mayring. RESULTS The care providers reported five main psychological burdens of the Yazidis: 1) insecurity regarding loss, 2) worries about family members, 3) ambivalence about staying in Germany or returning to Iraq, 4) life between two worlds and 5) re-actualization of the traumatic experiences. The predominant psychological symptoms the care providers noticed were fear, depressive symptoms, feelings of guilt, and sleep and eating disorders. Regarding somatic symptoms, the care providers mainly received complaints about pain in the head, back, chest and stomach. Helpful strategies for providing adequate health care were care providers' cooperating with physicians, precise documentation of beneficiaries' symptoms, and additional support in directing the beneficiaries through the health care system. Regarding psychotherapy, interpreters help to overcome language barriers, onsite psychotherapy, flexible therapy appointments, psychoeducational methods, time for stabilization, and support in coping with daily life aspects. In the care providers' experience, psychotherapists have to build a relationship of trust. After grief therapy, a trauma-specific therapy in a culturally adapted way is possible. CONCLUSION The HAP is a unique model health care program to offer highly traumatized refugees medical and psychological help. Care providers reported on several (psycho-)somatic symptoms of the traumatized women. The strategies the HAP care providers perceived as helpful can be recommended for similar projects in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Rometsch
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Jana Katharina Denkinger
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Martha Engelhardt
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Petra Windthorst
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Johanna Graf
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Christoph Nikendei
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Florian Junne
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
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Melton H, Meader N, Dale H, Wright K, Jones-Diette J, Temple M, Shah I, Lovell K, McMillan D, Churchill R, Barbui C, Gilbody S, Coventry P. Interventions for adults with a history of complex traumatic events: the INCiTE mixed-methods systematic review. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-312. [PMID: 32924926 DOI: 10.3310/hta24430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with a history of complex traumatic events typically experience trauma and stressor disorders and additional mental comorbidities. It is not known if existing evidence-based treatments are effective and acceptable for this group of people. OBJECTIVE To identify candidate psychological and non-pharmacological treatments for future research. DESIGN Mixed-methods systematic review. PARTICIPANTS Adults aged ≥ 18 years with a history of complex traumatic events. INTERVENTIONS Psychological interventions versus control or active control; pharmacological interventions versus placebo. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, common mental health problems and attrition. DATA SOURCES Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) (1937 onwards); Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (from inception); EMBASE (1974 to 2017 week 16); International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970 onwards); MEDLINE and MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print and In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations (1946 to present); Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress (PILOTS) (1987 onwards); PsycINFO (1806 to April week 2 2017); and Science Citation Index (1900 onwards). Searches were conducted between April and August 2017. REVIEW METHODS Eligible studies were singly screened and disagreements were resolved at consensus meetings. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and a bespoke version of a quality appraisal checklist used by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. A meta-analysis was conducted across all populations for each intervention category and for population subgroups. Moderators of effectiveness were assessed using metaregression and a component network meta-analysis. A qualitative synthesis was undertaken to summarise the acceptability of interventions with the relevance of findings assessed by the GRADE-CERQual checklist. RESULTS One hundred and four randomised controlled trials and nine non-randomised controlled trials were included. For the qualitative acceptability review, 4324 records were identified and nine studies were included. The population subgroups were veterans, childhood sexual abuse victims, war affected, refugees and domestic violence victims. Psychological interventions were superior to the control post treatment for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (standardised mean difference -0.90, 95% confidence interval -1.14 to -0.66; number of trials = 39) and also for associated symptoms of depression, but not anxiety. Trauma-focused therapies were the most effective interventions across all populations for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Multicomponent and trauma-focused interventions were effective for negative self-concept. Phase-based approaches were also superior to the control for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression and showed the most benefit for managing emotional dysregulation and interpersonal problems. Only antipsychotic medication was effective for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms; medications were not effective for mental comorbidities. Eight qualitative studies were included. Interventions were more acceptable if service users could identify benefits and if they were delivered in ways that accommodated their personal and social needs. LIMITATIONS Assessments about long-term effectiveness of interventions were not possible. Studies that included outcomes related to comorbid psychiatric states, such as borderline personality disorder, and populations from prisons and humanitarian crises were under-represented. CONCLUSIONS Evidence-based psychological interventions are effective and acceptable post treatment for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and depression and anxiety in people with complex trauma. These interventions were less effective in veterans and had less of an impact on symptoms associated with complex post-traumatic stress disorder. FUTURE WORK Definitive trials of phase-based versus non-phase-based interventions with long-term follow-up for post-traumatic stress disorder and associated mental comorbidities. STUDY REGISTRATION This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42017055523. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 43. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hollie Melton
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Nick Meader
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Holly Dale
- School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Kath Wright
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | | | | | | | - Karina Lovell
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Dean McMillan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - Corrado Barbui
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Simon Gilbody
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Peter Coventry
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK.,Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
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Schneider A, Pfeiffer A, Conrad D, Elbert T, Kolassa IT, Wilker S. Does cumulative exposure to traumatic stressors predict treatment outcome of community-implemented exposure-based therapy for PTSD? Eur J Psychotraumatol 2020; 11:1789323. [PMID: 33062203 PMCID: PMC7534285 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2020.1789323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is associated with high levels of functional impairments such as difficulties in academic or occupational performance and in social relationships. With an increasing number of traumatic event types experienced (trauma load), PTSD risk increases in a dose-dependent manner. Accordingly, high rates of PTSD can impair the reconstruction process in post-conflict societies. In order to meet these high needs for mental health services in societies with little access to professional care, task shifting approaches and community-based interventions have been suggested. Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) has been developed as a short and pragmatic exposure-based PTSD treatment that can be easily trained to lay personnel. Yet, it remains unclear whether NET can be effectively provided by trained lay counsellors even at high levels of trauma load. Objective: To investigate whether trauma load influences the treatment effectiveness of NET provided by trained and supervised local lay counsellors. Method: Linear mixed models were calculated to investigate the influence of trauma load on treatment effectiveness in a sample of N = 323 rebel war survivors from Northern Uganda with PTSD. Results: We found a strong reduction of PTSD symptoms following NET, which was not influenced by trauma load. However, individuals with higher levels of trauma load reported higher PTSD symptoms before therapy as well as 4 and 10 months following treatment completion compared to individuals with lower trauma load. Conclusions: Treatment with NET by lay counsellors is effective independent of trauma load. However, individuals with higher trauma load have a higher probability to show residual symptoms, which might require additional time, sessions or treatment modules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Schneider
- Clinical & Biological Psychology, Ulm University, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anett Pfeiffer
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Daniela Conrad
- Clinical & Biological Psychology, Ulm University, Konstanz, Germany.,Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Clinical Psychology and Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Sarah Wilker
- Clinical & Biological Psychology, Ulm University, Konstanz, Germany.,Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University, Konstanz, Germany
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Psychological and pharmacological interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder and comorbid mental health problems following complex traumatic events: Systematic review and component network meta-analysis. PLoS Med 2020; 17:e1003262. [PMID: 32813696 PMCID: PMC7446790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1003262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complex traumatic events associated with armed conflict, forcible displacement, childhood sexual abuse, and domestic violence are increasingly prevalent. People exposed to complex traumatic events are at risk of not only posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also other mental health comorbidities. Whereas evidence-based psychological and pharmacological treatments are effective for single-event PTSD, it is not known if people who have experienced complex traumatic events can benefit and tolerate these commonly available treatments. Furthermore, it is not known which components of psychological interventions are most effective for managing PTSD in this population. We performed a systematic review and component network meta-analysis to assess the effectiveness of psychological and pharmacological interventions for managing mental health problems in people exposed to complex traumatic events. METHODS AND FINDINGS We searched CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, MEDLINE, Published International Literature on Traumatic Stress, PsycINFO, and Science Citation Index for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs of psychological and pharmacological treatments for PTSD symptoms in people exposed to complex traumatic events, published up to 25 October 2019. We adopted a nondiagnostic approach and included studies of adults who have experienced complex trauma. Complex-trauma subgroups included veterans; childhood sexual abuse; war-affected; refugees; and domestic violence. The primary outcome was reduction in PTSD symptoms. Secondary outcomes were depressive and anxiety symptoms, quality of life, sleep quality, and positive and negative affect. We included 116 studies, of which 50 were conducted in hospital settings, 24 were delivered in community settings, seven were delivered in military clinics for veterans or active military personnel, five were conducted in refugee camps, four used remote delivery via web-based or telephone platforms, four were conducted in specialist trauma clinics, two were delivered in home settings, and two were delivered in primary care clinics; clinical setting was not reported in 17 studies. Ninety-four RCTs, for a total of 6,158 participants, were included in meta-analyses across the primary and secondary outcomes; 18 RCTs for a total of 933 participants were included in the component network meta-analysis. The mean age of participants in the included RCTs was 42.6 ± 9.3 years, and 42% were male. Nine non-RCTs were included. The mean age of participants in the non-RCTs was 40.6 ± 9.4 years, and 47% were male. The average length of follow-up across all included studies at posttreatment for the primary outcome was 11.5 weeks. The pairwise meta-analysis showed that psychological interventions reduce PTSD symptoms more than inactive control (k = 46; n = 3,389; standardised mean difference [SMD] = -0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.02 to -0.63) and active control (k-9; n = 662; SMD = -0.35, 95% CI -0.56 to -0.14) at posttreatment and also compared with inactive control at 6-month follow-up (k = 10; n = 738; SMD = -0.45, 95% CI -0.82 to -0.08). Psychological interventions reduced depressive symptoms (k = 31; n = 2,075; SMD = -0.87, 95% CI -1.11 to -0.63; I2 = 82.7%, p = 0.000) and anxiety (k = 15; n = 1,395; SMD = -1.03, 95% CI -1.44 to -0.61; p = 0.000) at posttreatment compared with inactive control. Sleep quality was significantly improved at posttreatment by psychological interventions compared with inactive control (k = 3; n = 111; SMD = -1.00, 95% CI -1.49 to -0.51; p = 0.245). There were no significant differences between psychological interventions and inactive control group at posttreatment for quality of life (k = 6; n = 401; SMD = 0.33, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.66; p = 0.021). Antipsychotic medicine (k = 5; n = 364; SMD = -0.45; -0.85 to -0.05; p = 0.085) and prazosin (k = 3; n = 110; SMD = -0.52; -1.03 to -0.02; p = 0.182) were effective in reducing PTSD symptoms. Phase-based psychological interventions that included skills-based strategies along with trauma-focused strategies were the most promising interventions for emotional dysregulation and interpersonal problems. Compared with pharmacological interventions, we observed that psychological interventions were associated with greater reductions in PTSD and depression symptoms and improved sleep quality. Sensitivity analysis showed that psychological interventions were acceptable with lower dropout, even in studies rated at low risk of attrition bias. Trauma-focused psychological interventions were superior to non-trauma-focused interventions across trauma subgroups for PTSD symptoms, but effects among veterans and war-affected populations were significantly reduced. The network meta-analysis showed that multicomponent interventions that included cognitive restructuring and imaginal exposure were the most effective for reducing PTSD symptoms (k = 17; n = 1,077; mean difference = -37.95, 95% CI -60.84 to -15.16). Our use of a non-diagnostic inclusion strategy may have overlooked certain complex-trauma populations with severe and enduring mental health comorbidities. Additionally, the relative contribution of skills-based intervention components was not feasibly evaluated in the network meta-analysis. CONCLUSIONS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we observed that trauma-focused psychological interventions are effective for managing mental health problems and comorbidities in people exposed to complex trauma. Multicomponent interventions, which can include phase-based approaches, were the most effective treatment package for managing PTSD in complex trauma. Establishing optimal ways to deliver multicomponent psychological interventions for people exposed to complex traumatic events is a research and clinical priority.
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Sambucini D, Aceto P, Begotaraj E, Lai C. Efficacy of Psychological Interventions on Depression Anxiety and Somatization in Migrants: A Meta-analysis. J Immigr Minor Health 2020; 22:1320-1346. [PMID: 32712851 PMCID: PMC7683473 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-020-01055-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Many studies reveal the effectiveness of different psychological interventions on the adult refugees reporting mental health distress. Aim of this metanalysis was to test the efficacy of different psychological treatments on the depressive, anxiety and somatization symptoms on refugees and asylum seekers. Fifty-two studies, since 1997 to 2019, were included in the systematic review and 27 of those were included in the metanalysis. Studies providing a pre and post treatment methodological design were included. All treatments reported significant effects on the three outcomes. Qualitative observations showed a probability to have a significant pre-post treatment effects on trials with outcome of depression (56%), anxiety (44%), and somatization (42%). Cognitive behavioral treatment resulted the most effective treatment. The status of refugee compared to the status of asylum seeker seems to have a great effect on the effectiveness of the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Sambucini
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Aceto
- A. Gemelli University Polyclinic, IRCSS Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Sacred Heart Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Edvaldo Begotaraj
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Lai
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli, 1, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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Understanding Supporting and Hindering Factors in Community-Based Psychotherapy for Refugees: A Realist-Informed Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17134618. [PMID: 32604990 PMCID: PMC7369747 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Culture, tradition, structural violence, and mental health-related stigma play a major role in global mental health for refugees. Our aim was to understand what factors determine the success or failure of community-based psychotherapy for trauma-affected refugees and discuss implications for primary health care programs. Using a systematic realist-informed approach, we searched five databases from 2000 to 2018. Two reviewers independently selected RCTs for inclusion, and we contacted authors to obtain therapy training manuals. Fifteen articles and 11 training manuals met our inclusion criteria. Factors that improved symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD included providing culturally adapted care in a migrant-sensitive setting, giving a role to other clinical staff (task-shifting), and intervention intensity. Precarious asylum status, constraining program monitoring requirements, and diverse socio-cultural and gender needs within a setting may reduce the effectiveness of the program. Primary care programs may enable community based mental health care and may reduce mental health-related stigma for refugees and other migrants. More research is needed on the cultural constructs of distress, programs delivered in primary care, and the role of cultural and language interpretation services in mental health care.
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25
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Raghuraman S, Stuttard N, Hunt N. Evaluating narrative exposure therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder and depression symptoms: A meta-analysis of the evidence base. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 28:1-23. [PMID: 32525597 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is an intervention for trauma spectrum disorders. Originally developed to treat refugee populations, NET has since been tested for efficacy across different settings. In this review, the NET evidence base is examined through a retrieval, synthesis and appraisal of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published since 2002. Two independent reviewers (S. R. and N. S.) searched online databases including EMBASE, PsycINFO and PubMed. Twenty-four RCTs were selected for a meta-analysis of three outcomes: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis and PTSD and depression symptoms. All outcomes were analysed at short-term (3-4 months), midterm (6-7 months) and long-term (≥12 months) data points. A random-effects model was applied to yield standardized mean differences (SMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) as indicators of NET treatment effect. Subgroup analyses for type of trauma and type of control groups were conducted to examine potential heterogeneity. For the NET group, moderate effect sizes for PTSD symptom severity were observed at midterm and long term and at midterm for depression symptom severity. The number of PTSD diagnoses decreased significantly in the short term for the NET condition, but this was not sustained at the long term. Caution must be exercised when interpreting these results due to high heterogeneity estimates and low quality of evidence across trials. Potential small-study effects further complicate the interpretation of the findings. Recommendations are made for augmenting statistical significance research with qualitative analyses of NET efficacy to better inform clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Raghuraman
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nathan Stuttard
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Nigel Hunt
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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26
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Kip A, Priebe S, Holling H, Morina N. Psychological interventions for posttraumatic stress disorder and depression in refugees: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 27:489-503. [PMID: 32191370 DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Millions of refugees around the globe suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or depression. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine the efficacy of psychological interventions for PTSD and/or depression in refugees. The meta-analysis was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42017071384). A search using the Medline, PsycINFO, and PILOTS databases was conducted in January 2019, resulting in 17 RCTs, of which 14 were conducted with adult refugees (1,108 participants) and 3 with young refugees (<18 years; 151 participants). Further inclusion criteria were at least 10 participants completing an active psychological intervention for PTSD, depression, or both and less than 50% of participants receiving concurrent psychotropic drugs. Random effects models showed that active interventions for adult PTSD yielded a medium to large aggregated effect size (g = 0.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.26, 1.28]) at posttreatment when compared with passive and active control conditions. Active interventions for adult depression also produced large controlled effect sizes at posttreatment (g = 0.82; 95% CI [0.24, 1.40]). The effects appeared to persist over the average follow-up period of 6 months. The findings suggest that psychological interventions can effectively reduce symptoms of both PTSD and depression in adult refugees. However, the considerable heterogeneity between studies indicates that the efficacy may vary significantly. Future studies should aim to explore the substantial heterogeneity in effect sizes between studies with adult refugees. Additionally, more trials with young refugees suffering from PTSD or depression are needed to determine treatment efficacy for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahlke Kip
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Heinz Holling
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nexhmedin Morina
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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27
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Grech P, Grech R. A Comparison of Narrative Exposure Therapy and Non-Trauma-Focused Treatment in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2020; 41:91-101. [PMID: 31661649 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2019.1650853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Background: Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) is a relatively new treatment that may be beneficial as a standalone approach or as an adjunct for use in individuals who suffer from simple or complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).Aims: The main objective of this review was to explore the effectiveness of NET in remediating PTSD symptoms as compared to Non Trauma-Focused-Therapy (NTFT).Methods: A systematic search in Medline, PsycINFO, EMBASE and The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) was carried out. Reference lists of papers and grey literature were hand searched. Experimental studies that compare NET to NTFT with no preference to age, gender or nationality of participants that include a baseline and 3-6 month measurement of PTSD outcomes using tools with good psychometric properties were included. The search resulted in 10 randomised controlled trials. Data extraction, collection and analysis was then carried out by the authors.Results: In all of the studies, the difference in the PTSD symptoms' mean score after 3-6 months between the NET group and the NTFT group was in favour of NET. However, the level of significance was attained in six of the studies only. The overall effect size (standardised mean difference) of the trials is 0.684 in favour of NET (p < .001).Conclusions: NET was shown to be superior to NTFT in post-traumatic stress disorder. The most important recommendations are in relation to research and target the methodological limitations of existing studies in particular the small sample sizes, lack of blindness and inadequate rigour during the trials. More research is needed to further explore the benefits of NET for different populations and trauma-types.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reuben Grech
- Medical Imaging Department, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
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28
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Exploring the effectiveness of the Tree of Life in promoting the therapeutic growth or refugee women living with HIV. ARTS IN PSYCHOTHERAPY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aip.2019.101602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Efficacy and acceptability of psychosocial interventions in asylum seekers and refugees: systematic review and meta-analysis. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2019; 28:376-388. [PMID: 30739625 PMCID: PMC6669989 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796019000027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED AimsIn the past few years, there has been an unprecedented increase in the number of forcibly displaced migrants worldwide, of which a substantial proportion is refugees and asylum seekers. Refugees and asylum seekers may experience high levels of psychological distress, and show high rates of mental health conditions. It is therefore timely and particularly relevant to assess whether current evidence supports the provision of psychosocial interventions for this population. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy and acceptability of psychosocial interventions compared with control conditions (treatment as usual/no treatment, waiting list, psychological placebo) aimed at reducing mental health problems in distressed refugees and asylum seekers. METHODS We used Cochrane procedures for conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs. We searched for published and unpublished RCTs assessing the efficacy and acceptability of psychosocial interventions in adults and children asylum seekers and refugees with psychological distress. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive and anxiety symptoms at post-intervention were the primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes include: PTSD, depressive and anxiety symptoms at follow-up, functioning, quality of life and dropouts due to any reason. RESULTS We included 26 studies with 1959 participants. Meta-analysis of RCTs revealed that psychosocial interventions have a clinically significant beneficial effect on PTSD (standardised mean difference [SMD] = -0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.01 to -0.41; I2 = 83%; 95% CI 78-88; 20 studies, 1370 participants; moderate quality evidence), depression (SMD = -1.02; 95% CI -1.52 to -0.51; I2 = 89%; 95% CI 82-93; 12 studies, 844 participants; moderate quality evidence) and anxiety outcomes (SMD = -1.05; 95% CI -1.55 to -0.56; I2 = 87%; 95% CI 79-92; 11 studies, 815 participants; moderate quality evidence). This beneficial effect was maintained at 1 month or longer follow-up, which is extremely important for populations exposed to ongoing post-migration stressors. For the other secondary outcomes, we identified a non-significant trend in favour of psychosocial interventions. Most evidence supported interventions based on cognitive behavioural therapies with a trauma-focused component. Limitations of this review include the limited number of studies collected, with a relatively low total number of participants, and the limited available data for positive outcomes like functioning and quality of life. CONCLUSIONS Considering the epidemiological relevance of psychological distress and mental health conditions in refugees and asylum seekers, and in view of the existing data on the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions, these interventions should be routinely made available as part of the health care of distressed refugees and asylum seekers. Evidence-based guidelines and implementation packages should be developed accordingly.
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30
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Lies J, Jones L, Ho R. The management of post-traumatic stress disorder and associated pain and sleep disturbance in refugees. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2019. [DOI: 10.1192/bja.2019.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYMore than 68 million people worldwide have been forcibly displaced and one-third of these are refugees. This article offers an overview of the current literature and reviews the epidemiology and evidence-based psychological and pharmacological management of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disturbance and pain in refugees and asylum seekers. It also considers the relationship between sleep disturbance and PTSD and explores concepts of pain in relation to physical and psychological trauma and distress. During diagnosis, clinicians must be aware of ethnic variation in the somatic expression of distress. Treatments for PTSD, pain and sleep disturbance among refugees and asylum seekers are essentially the same as those used in the general population, but treatment strategies must allow for cultural and contextual factors, including language barriers, loss of freedom and threat of repatriation.LEARNING OBJECTIVESAfter reading this article you will be able to:
•recognise the challenges faced by the large number of refugees worldwide•understand the relationship between PTSD, sleep disturbance and pain in refugees•broadly understand the evidence for psychological and pharmacological therapy for treating PTSD, sleep disturbance and pain in refugees.DECLARATION OF INTERESTNone.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Posttraumatic stress disorder is a chronic, heterogeneous disorder for which a multitude of psychotherapies, pharmaceuticals, and immerging treatment programs are available. Majority of efficacy studies focus on Caucasian male military populations, which may be a reason why not all patients respond to treatment with long-term positive outcomes. Additionally, effects of treatment on symptom clusters have been neglected. This work reviews treatment of PTSD and its symptom clusters exclusively in civilian populations, which have been historically under-examined in the literature. RECENT FINDINGS Exposure therapy stands at the forefront of successful PTSD treatment and offers a more cost-effective solution to pharmacotherapy; however, refugees and patients with comorbid depression may not experience such strong benefits. For exposure therapy and other forms of psychotherapy, non-inferiority studies point to promise of internet-delivered and telemedicine-based methods for reaching populations that may not have access to in-person care. SSRIs are the most widely used pharmaceutical treatment for PTSD; moderate initial benefits are observed yet long-term retention and outcomes may be enhanced by adjunct treatment. Again, refugees are a group that experiences lesser benefit. Research has begun to explore efficacy of treatments for individual symptom clusters, with hyperarousal benefiting most from currently available modalities. Avoidance, intrusion, negative thoughts and beliefs, and dissociation are symptoms requiring more research for focused interventions. Treatment of PTSD has evolved to (1) include equivalent proportions of men and women, along with focused female-exclusive cohorts; (2) explore novel methods of treatment online and in various cultural contexts; and (3) less focus on medication as evidenced by current clinical trials. In addition to further efficacy and safety studies in more diverse ethnic populations, work is needed to examine what therapies are best for targeting specific symptom clusters of PTSD. This research will drive precision treatment, and such research is beginning to point towards underlying mechanisms of pathology and change.
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32
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Lely JCG, Smid GE, Jongedijk RA, W Knipscheer J, Kleber RJ. The effectiveness of narrative exposure therapy: a review, meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2019; 10:1550344. [PMID: 31007868 PMCID: PMC6450467 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2018.1550344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is a short-term psychological treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that has been investigated in various contexts among traumatized refugees and other trauma survivors. Sustained treatment results have been reported, but the methodological quality of the trials needs a more thorough examination. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of NET for survivors of trauma, using a quality assessment, an updated meta-analysis, and a meta-regression analysis. Method: Following a systematic literature selection, the methodological quality of the included studies was assessed; Non-controlled and controlled effect sizes (Hedges' g) were estimated using a random effects model. Predictor analyses were performed. Non-controlled effect sizes for PTSD and depression included symptom change at post-treatment and follow-up time-points. Controlled effect sizes included post-treatment comparisons of NET with non-active and active comparators: both trauma-focused (TF) and non-trauma-focused (non-TF) interventions. Results: The selected studies showed high external validity; methodological quality was equivalent to other guideline-supported TF interventions. In 16 randomized controlled trials, involving 947 participants, large non-controlled effect sizes were found for PTSD symptoms, at post-treatment (g = 1.18, 95% confidence interval [0.87; 1.50]) and follow-up (g = 1.37 [0.96; 1.77]). For depression symptoms, medium non-controlled effect sizes were found, at post-treatment (g = 0.47 [0.23; 0.71]) and follow-up (g = 0.60 [0.26; 0.94]). Post-treatment, NET outperformed non-active comparators and non-TF active comparators for PTSD, but not the combined active comparators. For depression, NET only outperformed non-active comparators. Advancing age predicted better treatment results for PTSD and depression symptoms; a history of migration predicted smaller treatment results for depression symptoms. Conclusions:The findings of this meta-analysis suggest that patients and providers may expect sustained treatment results from NET. Controlled comparisons with other guideline-supported TF interventions are not yet available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jeroen W Knipscheer
- Foundation Centrum '45, Diemen, The Netherlands.,Arq Psychotrauma Expert Group, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Rolf J Kleber
- Arq Psychotrauma Expert Group, Diemen, The Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Wells R, Lawsin C, Hunt C, Said Youssef O, Abujado F, Steel Z. An ecological model of adaptation to displacement: individual, cultural and community factors affecting psychosocial adjustment among Syrian refugees in Jordan. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2018; 5:e42. [PMID: 30637115 PMCID: PMC6315281 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2018.30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Revised: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need for ecological approaches to guide global mental health programmes that can appropriately address the personal, family, social and cultural needs of displaced populations. A transactional ecological model of adaptation to displacement was developed and applied to the case of Syrian refugees living in Jordan. METHODS Syrian and Jordanian psychosocial workers (n = 29) supporting the Syrian refugee community in Jordan were interviewed in three waves (2013-2016). A grounded-theory approach was used to develop a model of key local concepts of distress. Emergent themes were compared with the ecological model, including the five ADAPT pillars identified by Silove (2013). RESULTS The application of the ecological concept of niche construction demonstrated how the adaptive functions of a culturally significant concept of dignity (karama) are moderated by gender and displacement. This transactional concept brought to light the adaptive capacities of many Syrian women while highlighting the ways that stigma may restrict culturally sanctioned opportunities for others, in particular men. By examining responses to potentially traumatic events at the levels of individual, family/peers, society and culture, adaptive responses to environmental change can be included in the formulation of distress. The five ADAPT pillars showed congruence with the psychosocial needs reported in the community. CONCLUSIONS The transactional concepts in this model can help clinicians working with displaced people to consider and formulate a broader range of causal factors than is commonly included in individualistic therapy approaches. Researchers may use this model to develop testable hypotheses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Wells
- Clinical Psychology Unit, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Trauma and Mental Health Unity, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- St John of God Health Care, Richmond Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Caroline Hunt
- Clinical Psychology Unit, School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | - Zachary Steel
- Trauma and Mental Health Unity, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- St John of God Health Care, Richmond Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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Abuelezam NN, El-Sayed AM, Galea S. The Health of Arab Americans in the United States: An Updated Comprehensive Literature Review. Front Public Health 2018; 6:262. [PMID: 30255009 PMCID: PMC6141804 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Arab Americans are a historically understudied minority group in the United States and their health needs and risks have been poorly documented. We aim to provide an updated comprehensive review of the literature on Arab American physical and mental health and provide suggestions for future work in this field. Methods: A comprehensive review of the English language medical and public health literature published prior to 2017 identified through multiple database searches was conducted with search terms describing Arab Americans and health outcomes and behaviors. The literature was qualitatively summarized by health behavior (vaccination, tobacco use, drug and alcohol use, and physical activity), health outcome (diabetes, mental health, cardiovascular disease, cancer, women's, and child health), and populations at increased risk of poor health outcomes (adolescents and the elderly). Results: The majority of studies identified exploring Arab American health have been published since 2009 with an increase in the number of longitudinal and intervention studies done with this population. The majority of research is being undertaken among individuals living in ethnic enclaves due to the lack of an ethnic or racial identifier that may help identify Arab Americans from population-based studies. Studies highlight the conflicting evidence in the prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease based on study sample, an increased understanding of cancer incidence and barriers to identification, and an increased level of knowledge regarding mental health and sexual health needs in the population. Information on health behaviors has also increased, with a better understanding of physical activity, alcohol and drug use, and vaccination. Conclusion: More research on Arab American health is needed to identify risks and needs of this marginalized population given the current social and political climate in the United States, especially with regard to acculturation status and immigrant generation status. We provide recommendations on approaches that may help improve our understanding of Arab American health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia N Abuelezam
- Boston College, William F. Connell School of Nursing, Chestnut Hill, MA, United States
| | | | - Sandro Galea
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
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Gensichen J, Schultz S, Adrion C, Schmidt K, Schauer M, Lindemann D, Unruh N, Kosilek RP, Schneider A, Scherer M, Bergmann A, Heintze C, Joos S, Briegel J, Scherag A, König HH, Brettschneider C, Schulze TG, Mansmann U, Linde K, Lühmann D, Voigt K, Gehrke-Beck S, Koch R, Zwissler B, Schneider G, Gerlach H, Kluge S, Koch T, Walther A, Atmann O, Oltrogge J, Sauer M, Schnurr J, Elbert T. Effect of a combined brief narrative exposure therapy with case management versus treatment as usual in primary care for patients with traumatic stress sequelae following intensive care medicine: study protocol for a multicenter randomized controlled trial (PICTURE). Trials 2018; 19:480. [PMID: 30201053 PMCID: PMC6131807 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2853-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Traumatic events like critical illness and intensive care are threats to life and bodily integrity and pose a risk factor for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD affects the quality of life and morbidity and may increase health-care costs. Limited access to specialist care results in PTSD patients being treated in primary care settings. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is based on the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and has shown positive effects when delivered by health-care professionals other than psychologists. The primary aims of the PICTURE trial (from "PTSD after ICU survival") are to investigate the effectiveness and applicability of NET adapted for primary care with case management in adults diagnosed with PTSD after intensive care. METHODS/DESIGN This is an investigator-initiated, multi-center, primary care-based, randomized controlled two-arm parallel group, observer-blinded superiority trial conducted throughout Germany. In total, 340 adult patients with a total score of at least 20 points on the posttraumatic diagnostic scale (PDS-5) 3 months after receiving intensive care treatment will be equally randomized to two groups: NET combined with case management and improved treatment as usual (iTAU). All primary care physicians (PCPs) involved will be instructed in the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD according to current German guidelines. PCPs in the iTAU group will deliver usual care during three consultations. In the experimental group, PCPs will additionally be trained to deliver an adapted version of NET (three sessions) supported by phone-based case management by a medical assistant. At 6 and 12 months after randomization, structured blinded telephone interviews will assess patient-reported outcomes. The primary composite endpoint is the absolute change from baseline at month 6 in PTSD symptom severity measured by the PDS-5 total score, which also incorporates the death of any study patients. Secondary outcomes cover the domains depression, anxiety, disability, health-related quality-of-life, and cost-effectiveness. The principal analysis is by intention to treat. DISCUSSION If the superiority of the experimental intervention over usual care can be demonstrated, the combination of brief NET and case management could be a treatment option to relieve PTSD-related symptoms and to improve primary care after intensive care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03315390 . Registered on 10 October 2017. German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00012589 . Registered on 17 October 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jochen Gensichen
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Susanne Schultz
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Adrion
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology (IBE), LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Konrad Schmidt
- Institute of General Practice of the Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.,Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Bachstr. 18, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Maggie Schauer
- Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Daniela Lindemann
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Natalia Unruh
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Robert P Kosilek
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Antonius Schneider
- Institute of General Practice, Technical University of Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Orleansstr. 47, 81667, Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Scherer
- Department of General Practice / Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Haus West 37, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Antje Bergmann
- Department of General Practice/Clinic of General Medicine - Medical clinic III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph Heintze
- Institute of General Practice of the Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefanie Joos
- Institute for General Practice and Interprofessional Health Care, University Clinic Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Josef Briegel
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Andre Scherag
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Bachstr. 18, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Brettschneider
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas G Schulze
- Institute of Psychiatric Phenomics and Genomics, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Mansmann
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry, and Epidemiology (IBE), LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Klaus Linde
- Institute of General Practice, Technical University of Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Orleansstr. 47, 81667, Munich, Germany
| | - Dagmar Lühmann
- Department of General Practice / Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Haus West 37, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Karen Voigt
- Department of General Practice/Clinic of General Medicine - Medical clinic III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Sabine Gehrke-Beck
- Institute of General Practice of the Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Charité Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Roland Koch
- Institute for General Practice and Interprofessional Health Care, University Clinic Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Zwissler
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerhard Schneider
- Clinic for Anesthesiology, Technical University of Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Orleansstr. 47, 81667, Munich, Germany
| | - Herwig Gerlach
- Clinic for Anesthesiology, Operative Intensive Care and Pain Management, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Rudower Str. 49, 12351, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Kluge
- Center for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thea Koch
- Clinic of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Andreas Walther
- Clinic for Anesthesiology and Operative Intensive Care, Klinikum Stuttgart - Katharinenhospital, Kriegsbergerstr. 60, 70174, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oxana Atmann
- Institute of General Practice, Technical University of Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Orleansstr. 47, 81667, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan Oltrogge
- Department of General Practice / Primary Care, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Haus West 37, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Maik Sauer
- Department of General Practice/Clinic of General Medicine - Medical clinic III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Julia Schnurr
- Institute for General Practice and Interprofessional Health Care, University Clinic Tübingen, Osianderstr. 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Clinical Psychology, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
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Thompson CT, Vidgen A, Roberts NP. Psychological interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder in refugees and asylum seekers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Psychol Rev 2018; 63:66-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Beck BD, Lund ST, Søgaard U, Simonsen E, Tellier TC, Cordtz TO, Laier GH, Moe T. Music therapy versus treatment as usual for refugees diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2018; 19:301. [PMID: 29848343 PMCID: PMC5977477 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-2662-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meta-analyses of studies on psychological treatment of refugees describe highly varying outcomes, and research on multi-facetted and personalized treatment of refugees with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is needed. Music therapy has been found to affect arousal regulation and emotional processing, and a pilot study on the music therapy method Trauma-focused Music and Imagery (TMI) with traumatized refugees resulted in significant changes of trauma symptoms, well-being and sleep quality. The aim of the trial is to test the efficacy of TMI compared to verbal psychotherapy. METHODS A randomized controlled study with a non-inferiority design is carried out in three locations of a regional outpatient psychiatric clinic for refugees. Seventy Arabic-, English- or Danish-speaking adult refugees (aged 18-67 years) diagnosed with PTSD are randomized to 16 sessions of either music therapy or verbal therapy (standard treatment). All participants are offered medical treatment, psychoeducation by nurses, physiotherapy or body therapy and social counseling as needed. Outcome measures are performed at baseline, post therapy and at 6 months' follow-up. A blind assessor measures outcomes post treatment and at follow-up. Questionnaires measuring trauma symptoms (HTQ), quality of life (WHO-5), dissociative symptoms (SDQ-20, DSS-20) and adult attachment (RAAS) are applied, as well as physiological measures (salivary oxytocin, beta-endorphin and substance P) and participant evaluation of each session. DISCUSSION The effect of music therapy can be explained by theories on affect regulation and social engagement, and the impact of music on brain regions affected by PTSD. The study will shed light on the role of therapy for the attainment of a safe attachment style, which recently has been shown to be impaired in traumatized refugees. The inclusion of music and imagery in the treatment of traumatized refugees hopefully will inform the choice of treatment method and expand the possibilities for improving refugee health and integration. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov ID number NCT03574228, registered retrospectively on 28 June 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bolette Daniels Beck
- Department of Communication and Psychology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinic for Traumatized Refugees, Køge, Region Zealand Denmark
| | - Steen Teis Lund
- Clinic for Traumatized Refugees, Køge, Region Zealand Denmark
| | - Ulf Søgaard
- Department of Specialized Functions, Psychiatry, Køge, Region Zealand Denmark
| | - Erik Simonsen
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, SUND, Copenhagen University, København, Denmark
- Research Unit in Psychiatry, Slagelse, Region Zealand Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Torben Moe
- Clinic for Traumatized Refugees, Køge, Region Zealand Denmark
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Kayrouz R, Dear BF, Kayrouz B, Karin E, Gandy M, Titov N. Meta-analysis of the efficacy and acceptability of cognitive-behavioural therapy for Arab adult populations experiencing anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Cogn Behav Ther 2018; 47:412-430. [PMID: 29714106 DOI: 10.1080/16506073.2018.1445124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A meta-analysis of the literature of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) with Arab adult populations experiencing anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was conducted. Nine studies (n = 536) met the eligibility criteria. Three of the nine studies (33%) were randomised control trials using waitlist control groups. All studies (100%) reported a statistically significant reduction in psychological symptoms at post-treatment with large effect sizes for anxiety (effect size, 95% confidence interval) (1.44 [1.29, 1.59]), depression (1.26 [1.16, 1.35]) and PTSD (2.08 [1.94, 2.23]). Six out of the nine studies (67%) collated follow-up data and reported that reductions of psychological symptoms were maintained at follow-up. An average dropout rate of 26% indicated good overall acceptability. Five out of nine (55%) of the trials reported diagnostic remission rates and of those trials the mean remission rate was 31%). Five of the nine eligible studies (55%) delivered remotely via Internet or telephone were found to have similar effect sizes as face-to-face CBT. The current meta-analysis indicates the potential of CBT, delivered either face-to-face or via internet, as efficacious and acceptable interventions for the treatment of anxiety, depression and PTSD for Arab adult populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rony Kayrouz
- a eCentreClinic, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Blake F Dear
- a eCentreClinic, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Bechara Kayrouz
- b Department of Psychology , Western Sydney University , Milperra , Australia
| | - Eyal Karin
- a eCentreClinic, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Milena Gandy
- a eCentreClinic, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
| | - Nickolai Titov
- a eCentreClinic, Department of Psychology , Macquarie University , Sydney , Australia
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Tucker P, Pfefferbaum B, Nitiéma P, Wendling TL, Brown S. Do Direct Survivors of Terrorism Remaining in the Disaster Community Show Better Long-Term Outcome than Survivors Who Relocate? Community Ment Health J 2018; 54:429-437. [PMID: 28849350 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-017-0160-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about whether, compared to terrorism survivors who relocated to another area, better long-term outcome occurs in terrorism survivors who remain in the community, which may offer social support and formal services as well as ongoing trauma reminders and adversities. A cross-sectional telephone survey of OKC bombing survivors 19 years later assessed current symptoms of PTSD, anxiety and depression; posttraumatic growth; life satisfaction; medical conditions; alcohol use and smoking. We interviewed 138 survivors-114 (82.6%) remaining in OKC area and 24 (17.4%) relocated. Remaining survivors had higher PTS, anxiety and depression and lower posttraumatic growth scores than relocated survivors, and more remaining survivors disagreed with being satisfied with life, with differences not statistically significant. Groups did not differ in major medical problems except heart disease, not significantly different after adjusting for gender. Groups did not differ significantly in smoking or alcohol use. Contrary to expectations, remaining within the community after terrorism was not associated with better long-term psychological or medical outcome. Possible factors relevant to the literature are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phebe Tucker
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, WP 3440, 920 SL Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, USA.
| | - Betty Pfefferbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, WP 3440, 920 SL Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Pascal Nitiéma
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, WP 3440, 920 SL Young Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Tracy L Wendling
- Oklahoma State Department of Health, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
| | - Sheryll Brown
- Oklahoma State Department of Health, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK, 73117, USA
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Uy KK, Okubo Y. Re-Storying the Trauma Narrative: Fostering Posttraumatic Growth in Cambodian Refugee Women. WOMEN & THERAPY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/02703149.2018.1425025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Kara Uy
- Department of Student Health and Psychological Services, Evergreen Valley College, San Jose, California
| | - Yuki Okubo
- Department of Psychology, Salisbury University, Salisbury, Maryland
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Tribe RH, Sendt KV, Tracy DK. A systematic review of psychosocial interventions for adult refugees and asylum seekers. J Ment Health 2017; 28:662-676. [PMID: 28485636 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2017.1322182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Background: Europe is in the midst of the largest refugee migration since the Second World War; there is an urgent need to provide an updated systematic review of the current best evidence for managing mental distress in refugee populations.Aims: The aim of this review is to provide an exhaustive summary of the current literature on psychosocial interventions, both trauma- and non-trauma-focused, for refugee populations experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive or anxiety symptoms. To produce recommendations for future research and current clinical practice.Method: Searches were conducted in PubMed, PsychINFO (Hosted by Ovid), PILOTS and Social Services Abstracts; 5305 articles were screened and 40 were included.Results: This review found medium to high quality evidence supporting the use of narrative exposure therapy (NET). A lack of culturally adapted treatments was apparent and there was less evidence to support standard cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) and multidisciplinary treatments.Conclusion: NET produced positive outcomes in refugees from a diverse range of backgrounds and trauma types. There is a general dearth of research in all intervention types: further research should include more "real-world" multidisciplinary interventions that better model clinical practice. Recommendations for evaluating local need, and creating a culturally sensitive workforce are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel H Tribe
- Division of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London, London, UK.,Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK and
| | - Kyra-Verena Sendt
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK and
| | - Derek K Tracy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK and.,Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Nosè M, Ballette F, Bighelli I, Turrini G, Purgato M, Tol W, Priebe S, Barbui C. Psychosocial interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder in refugees and asylum seekers resettled in high-income countries: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0171030. [PMID: 28151992 PMCID: PMC5289495 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0171030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in refugees and asylum seekers resettled in high-income countries presents specific challenges. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for this group. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of randomised trials, CINAHL, EMBASE, PILOTS, PsycINFO, PubMed and Web of Science up to July 2016. Studies included randomised and controlled clinical trials comparing psychosocial interventions with waiting list or treatment as usual in adult refugees and asylum seekers with PTSD resettled in high-income countries. PTSD symptoms post-intervention was the primary outcome. We computed standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). This study is registered with PROSPERO: CRD42015027843. Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. Psychosocial interventions were effective in decreasing PTSD symptoms relative to control groups (SMD -1·03, 95% CI -1·55 to -0·51; number needed to treat 4·4; I2 86%; 95% CI 77 to 91). Narrative exposure therapy, a manualized short-term variant of cognitive behavioural therapy with a trauma focus, was the best-supported intervention (5 RCTs, 187 participants, SMD -0·78, 95% CI -1·18 to -0·38, I2 37%; 95% CI 0 to 77). Methodological quality of the included studies was limited. Overall, psychosocial interventions for asylum seekers and refugees with PTSD resettled in high-income countries were found to provide significant benefits in reducing PTSD symptoms. Yet, the number of studies is small and their methodological quality limited, so that more rigorous trials should be conducted in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Nosè
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Ballette
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Irene Bighelli
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Turrini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Wietse Tol
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Services Development, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Volpe EM, Quinn CR, Resch K, Sommers MS, Wieling E, Cerulli C. Narrative Exposure Therapy: A Proposed Model to Address Intimate Partner Violence-Related PTSD in Parenting and Pregnant Adolescents. FAMILY & COMMUNITY HEALTH 2017; 40:258-277. [PMID: 26422231 PMCID: PMC4811746 DOI: 10.1097/fch.0000000000000072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Pregnant and parenting adolescents experience high rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and its sequelae posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) is an innovative intervention that has demonstrated strong preliminary evidence in improving mental health. The specific aims of this article are 3-fold: (1) provide a brief background about IPV-related PTSD and depression among pregnant and parenting adolescents; (2) describe NET's theoretical principles, its therapeutic process, and provide a review of existing evidence; and (3) discuss NET as a potential treatment to address the mental health burden among adolescents experiencing IPV-related PTSD and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen M. Volpe
- University at Buffalo, State University of New York, School of
Nursing, 3435 Main St, Buffalo, New York 14214,
| | - Camille R. Quinn
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine & Dentistry,
University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Boulevard, Rochester,
NY 14642,
| | - Kathryn Resch
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine & Dentistry,
University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Boulevard, Rochester,
NY 14642,
| | - Marilyn S. Sommers
- Medical-Surgical Nursing, University of Pennsylvania School of
Nursing, 418 Curie Boulevard, Fagin Hall, Room 402, Philadelphia, PA 19104
(w) 215-746-8320,
| | - Elizabeth Wieling
- Family Social Science, University of Minnesota, 293 McNH, 1985
Buford Avenue, St Paul, MN 55108,
| | - Catherine Cerulli
- Director of Susan B. Anthony Center for Woman’s Leadership,
Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine & Dentistry, University
of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14642,
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Intensely Exposed Oklahoma City Terrorism Survivors: Long-term Mental Health and Health Needs and Posttraumatic Growth. J Nerv Ment Dis 2016; 204:203-9. [PMID: 26751732 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000000456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we explore directly exposed terrorism survivors' mental health and health status, healthcare utilization, alcohol and tobacco use, and posttraumatic growth 18½ years postdisaster. Telephone surveys compared terrorism survivors and nonexposed community control subjects, using Hopkins Symptom Checklist, Breslau's PTSD screen, Posttraumatic Growth Inventory, and Health Status Questionnaire 12. Statistical analyses included multivariable logistic regression and linear modeling. Survivors, more than 80% injured, reported more anxiety and depression symptoms than did control subjects, with survivors' anxiety and depression associated with heavy drinking (≥5 drinks) and worse mental health and social functioning. While survivors had continued posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms (32 [23.2%] met probable posttraumatic stress disorder threshold), they also reported posttraumatic growth. Survivors had more care from physical, speech, respiratory, and occupational therapists. In this unprecedented long-term assessment, survivors' psychiatric symptoms, alcohol use, and ancillary health service utilization suggest unmet mental health and health needs. Extended recovery efforts might benefit from maximizing positive growth and coping.
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Sloan DM, Sawyer AT, Lowmaster SE, Wernick J, Marx BP. Efficacy of Narrative Writing as an Intervention for PTSD: Does the Evidence Support Its Use? JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOTHERAPY 2015; 45:215-225. [PMID: 26640295 PMCID: PMC4669193 DOI: 10.1007/s10879-014-9292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Although a number of effective psychotherapies for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are available, there is a need to develop alternative treatments for those who may not respond optimally to these treatments or who may not have access to clinicians who can competently deliver them. Narrative writing, which involves repeated recounting about a traumatic event in writing, is one treatment that deserves further examination as a potential alternative. In this paper, we describe the most commonly used narrative writing treatment protocols for those with either a diagnosis of PTSD or probable PTSD and discuss the available efficacy data for each of these protocols. We conclude with recommendations for using narrative writing to treat those with PTSD and offer recommendations for future work in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise M. Sloan
- National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alice T. Sawyer
- VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sara E. Lowmaster
- VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeremy Wernick
- VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
| | - Brian P. Marx
- National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 S. Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Hecker T, Hermenau K, Crombach A, Elbert T. Treating Traumatized Offenders and Veterans by Means of Narrative Exposure Therapy. Front Psychiatry 2015; 6:80. [PMID: 26157395 PMCID: PMC4475792 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2015.00080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Violent offenders and soldiers are at high risk of developing appetitive aggression and trauma-related disorders, which reduce successful integration into societies. Narrative exposure therapy (NET) for forensic offender rehabilitation (FORNET) aims at reducing symptoms of traumatic stress (e.g., posttraumatic stress disorder) and controlling readiness for aggressive behavior. It follows the logic of the evidence-based trauma-focused NET with special emphasis on violent acts in past and future behavior. In NET, the therapist guides the client by means of exposure through his traumatic experiences in chronological order linking the negative emotions, such as fear, shame, and disgust, to the past context and integrating the traumatic experiences into the autobiographical memory. During FORNET, we also encourage verbalization of any positive emotions and experiences linked to past violent and aggressive behaviors. This recall of positive emotions (linked to the there and then) is contrasted with feelings that emerge during the narration process (here and now). In this way, the therapist helps the client to anchor the whole range of sensory and bodily experiences, cognitions, and emotions to the contextual cues. Over the process of the therapy, we support the client to begin the role change from a violent offender to a citizen, who is capable of living a non-violent and socially adjusted life. Finally, the client develops visions and wishes for the future to support a successful integration into society. Several studies with veterans and violent youths have proven the feasibility of FORNET, found evidence of a positive outcome (recovered mental health, fewer offenses committed, less drug intake, and improved integration into civil society), and highlighted the importance of addressing the whole range of experiences while treating violent offenders or veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Hecker
- Department of Psychology, Division of Psychopathology and Clinical Intervention, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
| | - Katharin Hermenau
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anselm Crombach
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Thomas Elbert
- Vivo International (www.vivo.org)
- Department of Psychology, Division of Clinical Neuropsychology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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Patel N, Kellezi B, Williams ACDC. Psychological, social and welfare interventions for psychological health and well-being of torture survivors. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2014; 2014:CD009317. [PMID: 25386846 PMCID: PMC11026826 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009317.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Torture is widespread, with potentially broad and long-lasting impact across physical, psychological, social and other areas of life. Its complex and diverse effects interact with ethnicity, gender, and refugee experience. Health and welfare agencies offer varied rehabilitation services, from conventional mental health treatment to eclectic or needs-based interventions. This review is needed because relatively little outcome research has been done in this field, and no previous systematic review has been conducted. Resources are scarce, and the challenges of providing services can be considerable. OBJECTIVES To assess beneficial and adverse effects of psychological, social and welfare interventions for torture survivors, and to compare these effects with those reported by active and inactive controls. SEARCH METHODS Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were identified through a search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and the Cochrane Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Specialised Register (CCDANCTR), the Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Information Database (LILACS), the Open System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe (OpenSIGLE), the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO ICTRP) and Published International Literature On Traumatic Stress (PILOTS) all years to 11 April 2013; searches of Cochrane resources, international trial registries and the main biomedical databases were updated on 20 June 2014. We also searched the Online Library of Dignity (Danish Institute against Torture), reference lists of reviews and included studies and the most frequently cited journals, up to April 2013 but not repeated for 2014. Investigators were contacted to provide updates or details as necessary. SELECTION CRITERIA Full publications of RCTs or quasi-RCTs of psychological, social or welfare interventions for survivors of torture against any active or inactive comparison condition. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We included all major sources of grey literature in our search and used standard methodological procedures as expected by The Cochrane Collaboration for collecting data, evaluating risk of bias and using GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) methods to assess the quality of evidence. MAIN RESULTS Nine RCTs were included in this review. All were of psychological interventions; none provided social or welfare interventions. The nine trials provided data for 507 adults; none involved children or adolescents. Eight of the nine studies described individual treatment, and one discussed group treatment. Six trials were conducted in Europe, and three in different African countries. Most people were refugees in their thirties and forties; most met the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at the outset. Four trials used narrative exposure therapy (NET), one cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and the other four used mixed methods for trauma symptoms, one of which included reconciliation methods. Five interventions were compared with active controls, such as psychoeducation; four used treatment as usual or waiting list/no treatment; we analysed all control conditions together. Duration of therapy varied from one hour to longer than 20 hours with a median of around 12 to 15 hours. All trials reported effects on distress and on PTSD, and two reported on quality of life. Five studies followed up participants for at least six months.No immediate benefits of psychological therapy were noted in comparison with controls in terms of our primary outcome of distress (usually depression), nor for PTSD symptoms, PTSD caseness, or quality of life. At six-month follow-up, three NET and one CBT study (86 participants) showed moderate effect sizes for intervention over control in reduction of distress (standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.07 to -0.19) and of PTSD symptoms (SMD -0.52, 95% CI -0.97 to -0.07). However, the quality of evidence was very low, and risk of bias resulted from researcher/therapist allegiance to treatment methods, effects of uncertain asylum status of some people and real-time non-standardised translation of assessment measures. No measures of adverse events were described, nor of participation, social functioning, quantity of social or family relationships, proxy measures by third parties or satisfaction with treatment. Too few studies were identified for review authors to attempt sensitivity analyses. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Very low-quality evidence suggests no differences between psychological therapies and controls in terms of immediate effects on post-traumatic symptoms, distress or quality of life; however, NET and CBT were found to confer moderate benefits in reducing distress and PTSD symptoms over the medium term (six months after treatment). Evidence was of very low quality, mainly because non-standardised assessment methods using interpreters were applied, and sample sizes were very small. Most eligible trials also revealed medium to high risk of bias. Further, attention to the cultural appropriateness of interventions or to their psychometric qualities was inadequate, and assessment measures used were unsuitable. As such, these findings should be interpreted with caution.No data were available on whether symptom reduction enabled improvements in quality of life, participation in community life, or in social and family relationships in the medium term. Details of adverse events and treatment satisfaction were not available immediately after treatment nor in the medium term. Future research should aim to address these gaps in the evidence and should include larger sample sizes when possible. Problems of torture survivors need to be defined far more broadly than by PTSD symptoms, and recognition given to the contextual influences of being a torture survivor, including as an asylum seeker or refugee, on psychological and social health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nimisha Patel
- University of East LondonSchool of PsychologyRomford Road, StratfordLondonUKE15 4LZ
- International Centre for Health and Human RightsLondonUK
| | - Blerina Kellezi
- University of NottinghamSchool of Medicine, Division of Primary CareTower Building, University ParkNottinghamUKNG7 2RD
- Univeristy of OxfordCentre for CriminologyOxfordUK
| | - Amanda C de C Williams
- International Centre for Health and Human RightsLondonUK
- University College LondonResearch Department of Clinical, Educational & Health PsychologyGower StreetLondonUKWC1E 6BT
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