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Bucci S, Berry N, Ainsworth J, Berry K, Edge D, Eisner E, Emsley R, Forbes G, Hassan L, Lewis S, Machin M, Haddock G. Effects of Actissist, a digital health intervention for early psychosis: A randomized clinical trial. Psychiatry Res 2024; 339:116025. [PMID: 38870774 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
Schizophrenia affects 24 million people worldwide. Digital health interventions drawing on psychological principles have been developed, but their effectiveness remains unclear. This parallel, assessor-blinded, randomized clinical trial aimed to investigate whether a cognitive behaviour therapy-informed digital health intervention (Actissist app) confers added benefit on psychotic symptoms over and above remote symptom monitoring (ClinTouch app). Participants recruited from UK community health services were randomized 1:1 to receive either Actissist plus treatment as usual (TAU) or ClinTouch plus TAU. Eligible participants were adults with schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis within five years of first episode onset meeting a criterion level of positive symptoms severity. The primary outcome was Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) symptoms total score at 12 weeks post-randomization. Intention-to-treat analysis included 172 participants, with 149 participants (86.6 %) providing primary outcome data. Actissist plus TAU was not associated with greater reduction than an active control remote symptom monitoring app (ClinTouch) in PANSS total score at post-randomization. There were no significant effects between groups across secondary measures. There were no serious adverse reactions. Both groups improved on the primary psychotic symptoms measure at primary end-point and on secondary measures over time. The Actissist app is safe but not superior to digital symptom monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Bucci
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
| | - Natalie Berry
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK
| | - John Ainsworth
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Katherine Berry
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Dawn Edge
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Emily Eisner
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Richard Emsley
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Gordon Forbes
- Department of Biostatistics and Health Informatics, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, Institute of Psychiatry, London, UK
| | - Lamiece Hassan
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK
| | - Shôn Lewis
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthew Machin
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gillian Haddock
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, School of Health Sciences, Manchester, UK; Department of Research and Innovation, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Lee JJ, Kim J, Lee SK. Trends of fear and anger on YouTube during the initial stage of the COVID-19 outbreak in South Korea. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1496. [PMID: 38835010 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19023-6] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most widespread and threatening health crisis experienced by the Korean society. Faced with an unprecedented threat to survival, society has been gripped by social fear and anger, questioning the culpability of this pandemic. This study explored the correlation between social cognitions and negative emotions and their changes in response to the severe events stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea. METHODS The analysis was based on a cognitive-emotional model that links fear and anger to the social causes that trigger them and used discursive content from comments posted on YouTube's COVID-19-related videos. A total of 182,915 comments from 1,200 videos were collected between January and December 2020. We performed data analyses and visualizations using R, Netminer 4.0, and Gephi software and calculated Pearson's correlation coefficients between emotions. RESULTS YouTube videos were analyzed for keywords indicating cognitive assessments of major events related to COVID-19 and keywords indicating negative emotions. Eight topics were identified through topic modeling: causes and risks, perceptions of China, media and information, infection prevention rules, economic activity, school and infection, political leaders, and religion, politics, and infection. The correlation coefficient between fear and anger was 0.462 (p < .001), indicating a moderate linear relationship between the two emotions. Fear was the highest from January to March in the first year of the COVID-19 outbreak, while anger occurred before and after the outbreak, with fluctuations in both emotions during this period. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed that social cognitions and negative emotions are intertwined in response to major events related to the COVID-19 pandemic, with each emotion varying individually rather than being ambiguously mixed. These findings could aid in developing social cognition-emotion-based public health strategies through education and communication during future pandemic outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Joon Lee
- Sookmyung Research Institute of Humanities, Sookmyung Women's University, 100 Cheongparo 47 gel, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, 04310, South Korea
| | - Jongwoo Kim
- BK21Four Program, Department of Sociology, Yonsei University, 3-101, 84 Mapo-daero 11 gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul, 04133, South Korea
| | - Soo-Kyoung Lee
- Seoul National University, Bigdata Convergence and Open Sharing System 1, Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, 08826, South Korea.
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Dennard S, Patel R, Garety P, Edwards C, Gumley A. A systematic review of users experiences of using digital interventions within psychosis: a thematic synthesis of qualitative research. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02692-4. [PMID: 38802509 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02692-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report. RESULTS A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants' relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals' awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection. CONCLUSIONS Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made.
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Marshall P, Booth M, Coole M, Fothergill L, Glossop Z, Haines J, Harding A, Johnston R, Jones S, Lodge C, Machin K, Meacock R, Nielson K, Puddephatt JA, Rakic T, Rayson P, Robinson H, Rycroft-Malone J, Shryane N, Swithenbank Z, Wise S, Lobban F. Understanding the Impacts of Online Mental Health Peer Support Forums: Realist Synthesis. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e55750. [PMID: 38722680 PMCID: PMC11117133 DOI: 10.2196/55750] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online forums are widely used for mental health peer support. However, evidence of their safety and effectiveness is mixed. Further research focused on articulating the contexts in which positive and negative impacts emerge from forum use is required to inform innovations in implementation. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop a realist program theory to explain the impacts of online mental health peer support forums on users. METHODS We conducted a realist synthesis of literature published between 2019 and 2023 and 18 stakeholder interviews with forum staff. RESULTS Synthesis of 102 evidence sources and 18 interviews produced an overarching program theory comprising 22 context-mechanism-outcome configurations. Findings indicate that users' perceptions of psychological safety and the personal relevance of forum content are foundational to ongoing engagement. Safe and active forums that provide convenient access to information and advice can lead to improvements in mental health self-efficacy. Within the context of welcoming and nonjudgmental communities, users may benefit from the opportunity to explore personal difficulties with peers, experience reduced isolation and normalization of mental health experiences, and engage in mutual encouragement. The program theory highlights the vital role of moderators in creating facilitative online spaces, stimulating community engagement, and limiting access to distressing content. A key challenge for organizations that host mental health forums lies in balancing forum openness and anonymity with the need to enforce rules, such as restrictions on what users can discuss, to promote community safety. CONCLUSIONS This is the first realist synthesis of online mental health peer support forums. The novel program theory highlights how successful implementation depends on establishing protocols for enhancing safety and strategies for maintaining user engagement to promote forum sustainability. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42022352528; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=352528.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Marshall
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Millissa Booth
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Coole
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Fothergill
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Glossop
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jade Haines
- IT Corporate Services, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Harding
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Rose Johnston
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Jones
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Lodge
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Machin
- Survivor Research Network, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Meacock
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Kristi Nielson
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jo-Anne Puddephatt
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara Rakic
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Rayson
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Robinson
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jo Rycroft-Malone
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Shryane
- Social Statistics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Swithenbank
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Wise
- IT Corporate Services, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Lobban
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Figueroa CA, Pérez-Flores NJ, Guan KW, Stiles-Shields C. Diversity, equity and inclusion considerations in mental health apps for young people: protocol for a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081673. [PMID: 38719322 PMCID: PMC11086474 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081673] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION After COVID-19, a global mental health crisis affects young people, with one in five youth experiencing mental health problems worldwide. Delivering mental health interventions via mobile devices is a promising strategy to address the treatment gap. Mental health apps are effective for adolescent and young adult samples, but face challenges such as low real-world reach and under-representation of minoritised youth. To increase digital health uptake, including among minoritised youth, there is a need for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) considerations in the development and evaluation of mental health apps. How well DEI is integrated into youth mental health apps has not been comprehensively assessed. This scoping review aims to examine to what extent DEI considerations are integrated into the design and evaluation of youth mental health apps and report on youth, caregiver and other stakeholder involvement. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will identify studies published in English from 2009 to 29 September 2023 on apps for mental health in youth. We will use PubMed, Global Health, APA PsycINFO, SCOPUS, CINAHL PLUS and the Cochrane Database and will report according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-Scoping Review Extension guidelines. Papers eligible for inclusion must be peer-reviewed publications in English involving smartphone applications used by adolescents or young adults aged 10-25, with a focus on depression, anxiety or suicidal ideation. Two independent reviewers will review and extract articles using a template developed by the authors. We will analyse the data using narrative synthesis and descriptive statistics. This study will identify gaps in the literature and provide a roadmap for equitable and inclusive mental health apps for youth. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval is not required. Findings will be disseminated through academic, industry, community networks and scientific publications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Figueroa
- Policy, Technology and Management, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
- School of Social Welfare, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Nancy J Pérez-Flores
- Brown School of Social Work, Washington University in St Louis, St Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kathleen W Guan
- Policy, Technology and Management, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Colleen Stiles-Shields
- Institute for Juvenile Research and Department of Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Patrickson B, Shams L, Fouyaxis J, Strobel J, Schubert KO, Musker M, Bidargaddi N. Evolving Adult ADHD Care: Preparatory Evaluation of a Prototype Digital Service Model Innovation for ADHD Care. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:582. [PMID: 38791796 PMCID: PMC11121032 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21050582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the prevalence of ADHD and the gaps in ADHD care in Australia, this study investigates the critical barriers and driving forces for innovation. It does so by conducting a preparatory evaluation of an ADHD prototype digital service innovation designed to help streamline ADHD care and empower individual self-management. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with ADHD care consumers/participants and practitioners explored their experiences and provided feedback on a mobile self-monitoring app and related service innovations. Interview transcripts were double coded to explore thematic barriers and the enablers for better ADHD care. RESULTS Fifteen interviews (9 consumers, 6 practitioners) revealed barriers to better ADHD care for consumers (ignorance and prejudice, trust, impatience) and for practitioners (complexity, sustainability). Enablers for consumers included validation/empowerment, privacy, and security frameworks, tailoring, and access. Practitioners highlighted the value of transparency, privacy and security frameworks, streamlined content, connected care between services, and the tailoring of broader metrics. CONCLUSIONS A consumer-centred approach to digital health service innovation, featuring streamlined, private, and secure solutions with enhanced mobile tools proves instrumental in bridging gaps in ADHD care in Australia. These innovations should help to address the gaps in ADHD care in Australia. These innovations should encompass integrated care, targeted treatment outcome data, and additional lifestyle support, whilst recognising the tensions between customised functionalities and streamlined displays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronwin Patrickson
- Digital Health Research Lab, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; (L.S.); (J.F.); (J.S.)
| | - Lida Shams
- Digital Health Research Lab, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; (L.S.); (J.F.); (J.S.)
| | - John Fouyaxis
- Digital Health Research Lab, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; (L.S.); (J.F.); (J.S.)
| | - Jörg Strobel
- Digital Health Research Lab, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; (L.S.); (J.F.); (J.S.)
- Division of Mental Health, Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network, 29 North St, Angaston 5353, Australia
| | - Klaus Oliver Schubert
- Division of Mental Health, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, 7-9 Park Terrace, Salisbury 5108, Australia;
- Discipline of Psychiatry, Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide 5005, Australia
- The Headspace Adelaide Early Psychosis, Sonder, 173 Wakefield St, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Mike Musker
- Clinical Health Sciences, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Research and Education Group, University of South Australia, City East, Centenary Building, North Terrace, Adelaide 5000, Australia;
| | - Niranjan Bidargaddi
- Digital Health Research Lab, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia; (L.S.); (J.F.); (J.S.)
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Saha K, Jaidka K, Kim J, Suh J. Editorial: Digital mental health and wellbeing under crisis. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1404444. [PMID: 38742146 PMCID: PMC11089231 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1404444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Koustuv Saha
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kokil Jaidka
- Department of Communications and New Media, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jennifer Kim
- School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jina Suh
- Microsoft Research, Redmond, WA, United States
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Abouzeid N, Lal S. The role of sociodemographic factors on the acceptability of digital mental health care: A scoping review protocol. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301886. [PMID: 38669278 PMCID: PMC11051634 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many individuals experiencing mental health complications face barriers when attempting to access services. To bridge this care gap, digital mental health innovations (DMHI) have proven to be valuable additions to in-person care by enhancing access to care. An important aspect to consider when evaluating the utility of DMHI is perceived acceptability. However, it is unclear whether diverse sociodemographic groups differ in their degree of perceived acceptability of DMHI. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to synthesize evidence on the role of sociodemographic factors (e.g., age, gender) in the perceived acceptability of DMHI among individuals seeking mental health care. METHODS Guided by the JBI Manual of Evidence Synthesis, chapter on Scoping Review, a search strategy developed according to the PCC framework will be implemented in MEDLINE and then adapted to four electronic databases (i.e., CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and EMBASE). The study selection strategy will be piloted by two reviewers on subsets of 30 articles until agreement among reviewers reaches 90%, after which one reviewer will complete the remaining screening of titles and abstracts. The full-text screening, data extraction strategy, and charting tool will be completed by one reviewer and then validated by a second member of the team. Main findings will be presented using tables and figures. EXPECTED CONTRIBUTIONS This scoping review will examine the extent to which sociodemographic factors have been considered in the digital mental health literature. Also, the proposed review may help determine whether certain populations have been associated with a lower level of acceptability within the context of digital mental health care. This investigation aims to favor equitable access to DMHI among diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagi Abouzeid
- School of Rehabilitation, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Youth Mental Health and Technology Lab, University of Montréal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Shalini Lal
- School of Rehabilitation, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Youth Mental Health and Technology Lab, University of Montréal Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Douglas Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Chang CL, Sinha C, Roy M, Wong JCM. AI-Led Mental Health Support (Wysa) for Health Care Workers During COVID-19: Service Evaluation. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e51858. [PMID: 38640476 PMCID: PMC11034576 DOI: 10.2196/51858] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on health care workers' mental health, in particular, cannot be ignored. Not only did the pandemic exacerbate mental health challenges through elevated stress, anxiety, risk of infection, and social isolation, but regulations to minimize infection additionally hindered the conduct of traditional in-person mental health care. OBJECTIVE This study explores the feasibility of using Wysa, an artificial intelligence-led mental health app, among health care workers. METHODS A national tertiary health care cluster in Singapore piloted the use of Wysa among its own health care workers to support the management of their mental well-being during the pandemic (July 2020-June 2022). The adoption of this digital mental health intervention circumvented the limitations of in-person contact and enabled large-scale access to evidence-based care. Rates and patterns of user engagement were evaluated. RESULTS Overall, the opportunity to use Wysa was well-received. Out of the 527 staff who were onboarded in the app, 80.1% (422/527) completed a minimum of 2 sessions. On average, users completed 10.9 sessions over 3.80 weeks. The interventions most used were for sleep and anxiety, with a strong repeat-use rate. In this sample, 46.2% (73/158) of health care workers reported symptoms of anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment-7 [GAD-7]), and 15.2% (24/158) were likely to have symptoms of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-2 [PHQ-2]). CONCLUSIONS Based on the present findings, Wysa appears to strongly engage those with none to moderate symptoms of anxiety. This evaluation demonstrates the viability of implementing Wysa as a standard practice among this sample of health care workers, which may support the use of similar digital interventions across other communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christel Lynne Chang
- Yeo Boon Khim Mind Science Centre, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - John Chee Meng Wong
- Yeo Boon Khim Mind Science Centre, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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O'Kane KMK, Otamendi T, Silverberg ND, Choi E, Sicard V, Zemek R, Healey K, Brown O, Butterfield L, Smith A, Goldfield G, Kardish R, Saab BJ, Ledoux AA, Cairncross M. Development of Therapeutic Alliance and Social Presence in a Digital Intervention for Pediatric Concussion: Qualitative Exploratory Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e49133. [PMID: 38517472 PMCID: PMC10998177 DOI: 10.2196/49133] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the promising benefits of self-guided digital interventions for adolescents recovering from concussion, attrition rates for such interventions are high. Evidence suggests that adults can develop therapeutic alliance with self-guided digital interventions, which is in turn associated with intervention engagement. However, no research has examined whether adolescents develop therapeutic alliance with self-guided digital interventions and what factors are important to its development. Additionally, social presence-the extent to which digital encounters feel like they are occurring in person-may be another relevant factor to understanding the nature of the connection between adolescents and a self-guided digital intervention, though this has yet to be explored. OBJECTIVE This qualitative study explored the extent to which adolescents recovering from concussion developed therapeutic alliance and social presence during their use of a self-guided digital mindfulness-based intervention. Additionally, this study aimed to determine factors important to adolescents' development of therapeutic alliance and social presence with the intervention. METHODS Adolescents aged between 12 and 17.99 years who sustained a concussion were recruited from 2 sites: a pediatric emergency department up to 48 hours after a concussion and a tertiary care clinic over 1 month following a concussion to capture adolescents who had both acute and persisting symptoms after concussion. Participants (N=10) completed a 4-week mindfulness-based intervention delivered through a smartphone app. Within the app, participants listened to audio recordings of mindfulness guides (voice actors) narrating psychoeducation and mindfulness practices. At 4 weeks, participants completed questionnaires and a semistructured interview exploring their experience of therapeutic alliance and social presence with the mindfulness guides in the intervention. RESULTS Themes identified within the qualitative results revealed that participants developed therapeutic alliance and social presence by "developing a genuine connection" with their mindfulness guides and "sensing real people." Particularly important to the development of therapeutic alliance and social presence were the mindfulness guides' "personal backgrounds and voices," such that participants felt more connected to the guides by knowing information about them and through the guides' calm tone of voice in audio recordings. Quantitative findings supported qualitative results; participants' average score for therapeutic alliance was far above the scale midpoint, while the mixed results for social presence measures aligned with qualitative findings that participants felt that the mindfulness guides seemed real but not quite as real as an in-person connection would. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that adolescents can develop therapeutic alliance and social presence when using digital interventions with no direct human contact. Adolescents' development of therapeutic alliance and social presence with self-guided digital interventions can be bolstered by increasing human-like qualities (eg, real voices) within interventions. Maximizing therapeutic alliance and social presence may be a promising way to reduce attrition in self-guided digital interventions while providing accessible treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiarah M K O'Kane
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Thalia Otamendi
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Noah D Silverberg
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Esther Choi
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Veronik Sicard
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Roger Zemek
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Katherine Healey
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Olivier Brown
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lauren Butterfield
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Andra Smith
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gary Goldfield
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel Kardish
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Andrée-Anne Ledoux
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Molly Cairncross
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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11
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Yen KY, Cheng JY, Li JQ, Toh ZA, He HG. The effectiveness of digital psychosocial interventions on psychological distress, depression, anxiety, and health-related quality of life in patients with gynaecological cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:240. [PMID: 38512538 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08415-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with gynaecological cancer often experience psychological issues due to multiple stressors. Psychological disturbances have debilitating effects on patients with gynaecological cancer. In recent decades, digital psychosocial interventions have rapidly advanced and been incorporated into mental health interventions. Digital psychosocial interventions could provide patients with several benefits over traditional in-person interventions, including convenience, anonymity, flexible scheduling, and geographic mobility. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesize the effectiveness of digital psychosocial intervention in reducing psychological distress, depression, and anxiety and improving health-related quality of life in patients with gynaecological cancer. METHODS Three-step extensive search was performed on 22 December 2022 from nine bibliographic databases, trial registries and grey literature. Experimental studies involving patients with gynaecological cancer utilizing digital psychosocial interventions for the improvement of mental health outcomes were included. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4 software. Heterogeneity was analysed by Cochran's Q test and I2. Subgroup analyses were attempted to evaluate relative effect sizes of subgroup features. RESULTS Meta-analysis of nine studies revealed small effect size in reduction of depression post-intervention (d = 0.24, 95% CI - 0.46 to - 0.02) and medium effect size in reduction of psychological distress post-intervention (d = 0.51, 95% CI - 0.81 to - 0.21) and follow-up (d = 0.65, 95% CI - 1.25 to - 0.05) compared to the control group. The effects of digital psychosocial interventions on anxiety and health-related quality of life were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Digital psychosocial interventions probably reduced psychological distress and slightly reduced depression amongst patients with gynaecological cancer compared to the control group, which can be integrated into clinical practice. Additional trials with rigorous methodology and bigger sample sizes are needed to validate findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42023389502).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yoong Yen
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Health, National Healthcare Group, Singapore, Singapore
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Bock MD11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Jing Ying Cheng
- Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Yishun Health, National Healthcare Group, Singapore, Singapore
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Bock MD11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Jin-Qiu Li
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Bock MD11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Department of Nursing, Zhuhai Campus, Zunyi Medical University, Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Zheng An Toh
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Bock MD11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Division of Nursing, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hong-Gu He
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Level 2, Clinical Research Centre, Bock MD11, 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, 117597, Singapore.
- National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore.
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12
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Opie JE, Vuong A, Welsh ET, Gray R, Pearce N, Marchionda S, Mutch R, Khalil H. Outcomes of Best-Practice Guided Digital Mental Health Interventions for Youth and Young Adults with Emerging Symptoms: Part I. A Systematic Review of Socioemotional Outcomes and Recommendations. Clin Child Fam Psychol Rev 2024:10.1007/s10567-024-00469-4. [PMID: 38489101 DOI: 10.1007/s10567-024-00469-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Youth-specific digital mental health interventions (DMHI) represent an emerging field of study, and aim to increase access, improve socioemotional outcomes, and, where required, support triage to targeted interventions. However, prior reviews have reported inconsistent findings on the clinical effectiveness of such interventions in young adults (12-25 years). Further, shortfalls remain for the impact of guided interventions based on the mode of delivery and the type of human support personnel (e.g., professional or peer) guiding the intervention. In response, this systematic review, co-designed with Australia's leading mental health organization, aims to assess the effectiveness of guided digital programs in improving youth socioemotional outcomes. Included studies involve young people experiencing mental ill-health, receiving brief (i.e., 1-12 sessions), digitally delivered (at least partially) psychological interventions that were guided or partially guided, tested in a type of experimental study, with a socioemotional outcome. Specific socioemotional outcomes examined were depression, anxiety, stress, wellbeing, mindfulness, and quality of life. A systematic search of the contemporary published and grey literature identified 22,482 records with 32 relevant records published between 2018 and 2023. A narrative synthesis guided integration of findings. Results demonstrated strong evidence for the effectiveness of guided interventions on socioemotional outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, stress) yet these effects were short-lived. When factoring in the use of different control groups (i.e., active vs. inactive), inconsistent effects were observed for the socioemotional outcomes of depression, anxiety, and stress. The mode of delivery (i.e., asynchronous, synchronous, combined) and the type of human support personnel did not appear to impact socioemotional outcomes. Results indicate efficacious brief digital interventions for depression and anxiety include refresher/follow-up content, goal setting content, and relapse prevention content. In contrast, poor efficacy is associated with interventions that include homework tasks, self-monitoring, and log-keeping content.PROSPERO, ID CRD42023405812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica E Opie
- School of Psychology & Public Health, The Bouverie Centre, La Trobe University, 8 Gardiner Street, Brunswick, Melbourne, VA, 3056, Australia.
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia.
| | - An Vuong
- School of Psychology & Public Health, The Bouverie Centre, La Trobe University, 8 Gardiner Street, Brunswick, Melbourne, VA, 3056, Australia
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
| | - Ellen T Welsh
- School of Psychology & Public Health, The Bouverie Centre, La Trobe University, 8 Gardiner Street, Brunswick, Melbourne, VA, 3056, Australia
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
| | - Richard Gray
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
| | - Natalie Pearce
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
- Latrobe University, Bendigo, VIC, 3551, Australia
| | - Sonia Marchionda
- School of Psychology & Public Health, The Bouverie Centre, La Trobe University, 8 Gardiner Street, Brunswick, Melbourne, VA, 3056, Australia
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
| | | | - Hanan Khalil
- La Trobe University, Melbourne, VA, 3000, Australia
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13
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Stiles-Shields C, Reyes KM, Lennan N, Zhang J, Archer J, Julion WA, Shalowitz MU. Community Teens' COVID-19 Experience: Implications for Engagement Moving Forward. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2024; 31:143-152. [PMID: 37803094 PMCID: PMC11174976 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-023-09975-z] [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] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
Data collected from pediatric primary care settings during the pandemic suggest an increase in internalizing symptoms and disparities in care based upon minoritized identity status(es). To inform care moving forward, the current study characterized the pandemic and related technology usage experiences of teenaged pediatric patients from communities with high hardship indexes. As part of a larger mixed-methods study, 17 teens (Mean age = 15.99 ± .99) and 10 caregivers independently voiced experiences related to the pandemic during remote focus group and interview sessions. Thematic analyses were used to assess qualitative data; descriptive analyses were used to characterize qualitative data. Despite no direct queries about the pandemic, 41% of teens and 40% of caregivers described their lived experiences during the pandemic. Two subthemes emerged within the primary theme of COVID-19: (1) Wellness/Mental Health and (2) Smartphone Use and Utility. Although distress and negative effects were voiced, questionnaire data indicated normative psychosocial functioning for both teen self-report and caregiver proxy report. Informed by the voiced experiences of teens and their caregivers from communities with high hardship indexes, methods for better assessing and managing internalizing symptoms in teen patients are presented. A multi-modal and multi-informant approach that leverages technology to garner information about teens' experiences and deliver care may help improve the well-being of teens in communities systemically burdened with disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Stiles-Shields
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Illinois at Chicago, 1747 West Roosevelt Road, Chicago, IL, 60608, USA.
- Section of Community Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA.
| | - Karen M Reyes
- Section of Community Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
| | - Nia Lennan
- Section of Community Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
| | - Jim Zhang
- Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, USA
| | - Joseph Archer
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA
| | - Wrenetha A Julion
- Department of Women, Children and Family Nursing, Rush University College of Nursing, Chicago, USA
| | - Madeleine U Shalowitz
- Section of Community Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, USA
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14
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Riboldi I, Calabrese A, Piacenti S, Capogrosso CA, Paioni SL, Bartoli F, Carrà G, Armes J, Taylor C, Crocamo C. Understanding University Students' Perspectives towards Digital Tools for Mental Health Support: A Cross-country Study. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health 2024; 20:e17450179271467. [PMID: 38660572 PMCID: PMC11037510 DOI: 10.2174/0117450179271467231231060255] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Background Organisational and individual barriers often prevent university students from seeking mental health support. Digital technologies are recognised as effective in managing psychological distress and as a source of health-related information, thus representing useful options to address mental health needs in terms of accessibility and cost-effectiveness. However, university students' experiences and perspectives towards such interventions are little known. Objectives We thus aimed to expand the existing base of scientific knowledge, focusing on this special population. Methods Data were from the qualitative component of "the CAMPUS study", longitudinally assessing the mental health of students at the University of Milano-Bicocca (Italy) and the University of Surrey (UK). We conducted in-depth interviews and thematically analysed the transcripts using the framework approach. Results An explanatory model was derived from five themes identified across 33 interviews (15 for Italy, 18 for the UK). Students perceived that social media, apps, and podcasts could deliver relevant mental health content, ranging from primary to tertiary prevention. Wide availability and anonymity were perceived as advantages that make tools suitable for preventive interventions, to reduce mental health stigma, and as an extension of standard treatment. These goals can be hindered by disadvantages, namely lower efficacy compared to face-to-face contact, lack of personalisation, and problematic engagement. Individual and cultural specificities might influence awareness and perspectives on the use of digital technologies for mental health support. Conclusion Although considering some specific features, digital tools could be a useful instrument to support the mental health needs of students. Since personal contact remains crucial, digital tools should be integrated with face-to-face interventions through a multi-modal approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Riboldi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Angela Calabrese
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Susanna Piacenti
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
| | | | - Susanna Lucini Paioni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Francesco Bartoli
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, Maple House 149, London W1T 7BN, UK
| | - Jo Armes
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Health and Sciences, University of Surrey, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Cath Taylor
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Health and Sciences, University of Surrey, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Cristina Crocamo
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Via Cadore 48, Monza 20900, Italy
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15
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Stephan J, Gehrmann J, Stullich A, Hoffmann L, Richter M. Development, piloting and evaluation of an app-supported psychosocial prevention intervention to strengthen participation in working life: a study protocol of a mixed-methods approach. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081390. [PMID: 38367971 PMCID: PMC10875476 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081390] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rates of incapacity to work due to mental disorders have increased in many European countries. The consequences of persistent stress can impact individuals' physical and psychological well-being and gradually develop into chronic stress. Mental disorders or symptoms of burn-out syndrome can have severe consequences. Mental disorders leading to work incapacity significantly burden the health system. Prevention interventions can protect against burn-out, depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. Digital health is a promising approach to increase the utilisation of effective prevention interventions. This mixed-methods study evaluates a newly developed app-supported psychosocial prevention intervention called 'RV Fit Mental Health' to strengthen participation in working life. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The study uses a three-stage parallel mixed-methods design. This study accompanies the development (stage 1), piloting (stage 2) and evaluation (stage 3) of the new intervention. Within the stages, there is a quantitative as well as a qualitative research strand. Employed persons with an incipient mental disorder will be included. Additionally, experts within the project or connected areas will be included. Quantitative data will be analysed using multifactorial variance analyses in a pre-post design. Qualitative data will be analysed using qualitative content analysis. The study is a comprehensive research approach to investigate the development, piloting and evaluation of an app-supported psychosocial app-based prevention intervention. The rigour of the study will be achieved through data triangulation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION All participants will receive detailed study information and give written informed consent before data collection. Ethical approval was obtained from the Technical University of Munich Ethics Committee. All data collection will follow all legislative rules regarding data protection, also following the Declaration of Helsinki. The study results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS DRKS00030818 and DRKS00033080.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Stephan
- Chair of Social Determinants of Health, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Health and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jan Gehrmann
- Chair of Social Determinants of Health, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Health and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Institute of General Practice and Health Services Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Clinical Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ananda Stullich
- Chair of Social Determinants of Health, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Health and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Laura Hoffmann
- Chair of Social Determinants of Health, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Health and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthias Richter
- Chair of Social Determinants of Health, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Department Health and Sport Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
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16
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Posselt J, Baumann E, Dierks ML. A qualitative interview study of patients' attitudes towards and intention to use digital interventions for depressive disorders on prescription. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1275569. [PMID: 38375490 PMCID: PMC10875127 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1275569] [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: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Depressive disorders are an emerging public health topic. Due to their increasing prevalence, patients with depressive disorders suffer from the lack of therapeutic treatment. Digital health interventions may offer an opportunity to bridge waiting times, supplement, or even substitute in-person treatment. Among others, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) explains that actual technology use is affected by users' behavioural intention. However, patients' perspectives on digital interventions are rarely discussed within the specific context of primary care provided by general practitioners (GP) and need further exploration. Method A qualitative study design with semi-structured interviews was used to explore DTx-acceptance of patients with mild or moderate depression (n = 17). The audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and thematically analysed by qualitative content analysis. Results Patients' performance expectancies reveal that DTx are not perceived as a substitute for face-to-face treatment. Effort expectancies include potential advantages and efforts concerning technical, motivational, and skill-based aspects. Moreover, we identified health status and experience with depressive disorders as other determinants and potential barriers to patients' DTx acceptance: Difficult stages of depression or long-time experience are perceived hurdles for DTx use. GPs' recommendations were just partly relevant for patients and varied according to patients' consultancy preferences. But still, GPs have a crucial role for access due to prescription. GPs' influence on patients' DTx acceptance varies between three situations: (1) pre-use for consultation, (2) pre-use for access and (3) during DTx-use. Further, GPs' guidance could be especially relevant for patients during DTx-use in routine care. Discussion The UTAUT-based exploration suggests that acceptance determinants should be considered independently and embedded in personal and situational aspects. DTx require a healthcare professional to prescribe or diagnose the disease, unlike other digital offerings. We identified prescription- and depression-related determinants, exceeding existing theoretical constructs. GPs' guidance can compensate for some barriers to DTx use e.g., by increasing commitment and motivational support to strengthen patients' acceptance. Conclusion We argue for a multidimensional integration of acceptance determinants for further development of health technology acceptance research. Future research should specify how DTx can be integrated into routine care to strengthen user acceptance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Posselt
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eva Baumann
- Department of Journalism and Communication Research, Hanover University of Music, Drama and Media, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Dierks
- Institute for Epidemiology, Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
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17
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Krisher L, Boeldt DL, Sigmon CAN, Rimel SE, Newman LS. Pragmatic Approach to the Assessment and Use of Digital Mental Health Interventions for Health Workers. Am J Public Health 2024; 114:171-179. [PMID: 38354345 PMCID: PMC10916727 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2023.307505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Symptoms of poor mental health among working people, especially health workers, are on the rise in the United States, contributing to a burgeoning market of thousands of mental health technology products, few of which have undergone rigorous evaluation. Most research on these products focuses on deploying digital mental health interventions as ancillary support in clinical practice and community settings. Little is known of the effectiveness of these tools when employers offer them. We describe the landscape of digital mental health interventions, providing an overview of mental health conditions that are addressed with technology-based solutions in the workplace and the products and services available. We argue for employers to apply a methodical approach to evaluating and selecting technologies for their organizations, and we review relevant frameworks for evaluation. Considering the rapidly evolving landscape of digital mental health interventions, we offer evidence-informed recommendations to organizations and decision-makers seeking to support workplace mental health and well-being, and we advocate the development of products that help organizations assess how they can mitigate workplace conditions that may contribute to poorer mental health. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S2):S171-S179. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307505).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay Krisher
- Lyndsay Krisher is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora. Debra L. Boeldt, Chloe A. Nicksic Sigmon, and Sarah E. Rimel are with the National Mental Health Innovation Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Lee S. Newman is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Debra L Boeldt
- Lyndsay Krisher is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora. Debra L. Boeldt, Chloe A. Nicksic Sigmon, and Sarah E. Rimel are with the National Mental Health Innovation Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Lee S. Newman is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Chloe A Nicksic Sigmon
- Lyndsay Krisher is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora. Debra L. Boeldt, Chloe A. Nicksic Sigmon, and Sarah E. Rimel are with the National Mental Health Innovation Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Lee S. Newman is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Sarah E Rimel
- Lyndsay Krisher is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora. Debra L. Boeldt, Chloe A. Nicksic Sigmon, and Sarah E. Rimel are with the National Mental Health Innovation Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Lee S. Newman is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
| | - Lee S Newman
- Lyndsay Krisher is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora. Debra L. Boeldt, Chloe A. Nicksic Sigmon, and Sarah E. Rimel are with the National Mental Health Innovation Center, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. Lee S. Newman is with the Center for Health, Work & Environment and the Department of Environmental & Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora
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Chiauzzi E, Williams A, Mariano TY, Pajarito S, Robinson A, Kirvin-Quamme A, Forman-Hoffman V. Demographic and clinical characteristics associated with anxiety and depressive symptom outcomes in users of a digital mental health intervention incorporating a relational agent. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:79. [PMID: 38291369 PMCID: PMC10826101 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05532-6] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) may reduce treatment access issues for those experiencing depressive and/or anxiety symptoms. DMHIs that incorporate relational agents may offer unique ways to engage and respond to users and to potentially help reduce provider burden. This study tested Woebot for Mood & Anxiety (W-MA-02), a DMHI that employs Woebot, a relational agent that incorporates elements of several evidence-based psychotherapies, among those with baseline clinical levels of depressive or anxiety symptoms. Changes in self-reported depressive and anxiety symptoms over 8 weeks were measured, along with the association between each of these outcomes and demographic and clinical characteristics. METHODS This exploratory, single-arm, 8-week study of 256 adults yielded non-mutually exclusive subsamples with either clinical levels of depressive or anxiety symptoms at baseline. Week 8 Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8) changes were measured in the depressive subsample (PHQ-8 ≥ 10). Week 8 Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) changes were measured in the anxiety subsample (GAD-7 ≥ 10). Demographic and clinical characteristics were examined in association with symptom changes via bivariate and multiple regression models adjusted for W-MA-02 utilization. Characteristics included age, sex at birth, race/ethnicity, marital status, education, sexual orientation, employment status, health insurance, baseline levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms, and concurrent psychotherapeutic or psychotropic medication treatments during the study. RESULTS Both the depressive and anxiety subsamples were predominantly female, educated, non-Hispanic white, and averaged 38 and 37 years of age, respectively. The depressive subsample had significant reductions in depressive symptoms at Week 8 (mean change =-7.28, SD = 5.91, Cohen's d = -1.23, p < 0.01); the anxiety subsample had significant reductions in anxiety symptoms at Week 8 (mean change = -7.45, SD = 5.99, Cohen's d = -1.24, p < 0.01). No significant associations were found between sex at birth, age, employment status, educational background and Week 8 symptom changes. Significant associations between depressive and anxiety symptom outcomes and sexual orientation, marital status, concurrent mental health treatment, and baseline symptom severity were found. CONCLUSIONS The present study suggests early promise for W-MA-02 as an intervention for depression and/or anxiety symptoms. Although exploratory in nature, this study revealed potential user characteristics associated with outcomes that can be investigated in future studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION This study was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (#NCT05672745) on January 5th, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Chiauzzi
- Woebot Health, 535 Mission Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - Andre Williams
- Woebot Health, 535 Mission Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - Timothy Y Mariano
- Woebot Health, 535 Mission Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
- RR&D Center for Neurorestoration and Neurotechnology, VA Providence Healthcare System, Providence, RI, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sarah Pajarito
- Woebot Health, 535 Mission Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
| | - Athena Robinson
- Woebot Health, 535 Mission Street, 14th Floor, San Francisco, CA, 94105, USA
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Zhang L, Hou XY, Liu Y. Measuring Mental Health Service Accessibility for Indigenous Populations: a Systematic Review. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-023-01899-6. [PMID: 38270837 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01899-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Indigenous populations have experienced inequality of accessing mental health services compared with their non-Indigenous counterparts, although the way of measuring mental health service accessibility for Indigenous populations is unclear. This systematic review examines measures of mental health service accessibility for Indigenous people, including the diversity of mental health services that are available to them and the barriers to accessing mental healthcare. Using a systematic search procedure, we identified 27 studies that explored Indigenous populations' mental health service access. Our review shows that 18 studies used interview-based methods to explore how Indigenous people use mental health services, and only nine studies used quantitative methods to measure the uptake of mental health services. While advanced methods for quantifying geographical access to healthcare services are widely available, these methods have not been applied in the current literature to explore the potential access to mental health services by Indigenous populations. This is partially due to limited understanding of how Indigenous populations seek mental healthcare, barriers that prevent Indigenous people from accessing diverse types of mental health services, and scarcity of data that are available to researchers. Future research could focus on developing methods to support spatially explicit measuring of accessibility to mental health services for Indigenous populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Zhang
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Xiang-Yu Hou
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yan Liu
- School of the Environment, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Meyerhoff J, Beltzer M, Popowski S, Karr CJ, Nguyen T, Williams JJ, Krause CJ, Kumar H, Bhattacharjee A, Mohr DC, Kornfield R. Small Steps over time: A longitudinal usability test of an automated interactive text messaging intervention to support self-management of depression and anxiety symptoms. J Affect Disord 2024; 345:122-130. [PMID: 37866736 PMCID: PMC10841983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.10.119] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) offer potential solutions for addressing mental health care gaps, but often suffer from low engagement. Text messaging is one promising medium for increasing access and sustaining user engagement with DMHIs. This paper examines the Small Steps SMS program, an 8-week, automated, adaptive text message-based intervention for depression and anxiety. METHODS We conducted an 8-week longitudinal usability test of the Small Steps SMS program, recruiting 20 participants who met criteria for major depressive disorder and/or generalized anxiety disorder. Participants used the automated intervention for 8 weeks and completed symptom severity and usability self-report surveys after 4 and 8 weeks of intervention use. Participants also completed individual interviews to provide feedback on the intervention. RESULTS Participants responded to automated messages on 70 % of study days and with 85 % of participants sending responses to messages in the 8th week of use. Usability surpassed established cutoffs for software that is considered acceptable. Depression symptom severity decreased significantly over the usability test, but reductions in anxiety symptoms were not significant. Participants noted key areas for improvement including addressing message volume, aligning message scheduling to individuals' availability, and increasing the customizability of content. LIMITATIONS This study does not contain a control group. CONCLUSIONS An 8-week automated interactive text messaging intervention, Small Steps SMS, demonstrates promise with regard to being a feasible, usable, and engaging method to deliver daily mental health support to individuals with symptoms of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah Meyerhoff
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America.
| | - Miranda Beltzer
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Sarah Popowski
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Chris J Karr
- Audacious Software, 3900 N. Fremont St., Unit B, Chicago, IL 60613, United States of America
| | - Theresa Nguyen
- Mental Health America, 500 Montgomery Street, Suite 820, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States of America
| | - Joseph J Williams
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2E4, Canada
| | - Charles J Krause
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Harsh Kumar
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2E4, Canada
| | - Ananya Bhattacharjee
- Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2E4, Canada
| | - David C Mohr
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Rachel Kornfield
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Department of Preventive Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 750 N Lake Shore Drive, 10th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
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Buss JF, Steinberg JS, Banks G, Horani D, Rutter LA, Wasil AR, Ramirez I, Lorenzo-Luaces L. Availability of Internet-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies for Depression: A Systematic Review. Behav Ther 2024; 55:201-211. [PMID: 38216233 PMCID: PMC10787155 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2023.06.003] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
We examined the availability and components of internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapies (iCBTs) for depression tested in randomized-controlled trials (RCTs). The objectives of this literature review were to determine the extent to which research-validated iCBTs were available to the public, as well as to determine their therapeutic content. A literature review of RCTs for iCBTs was conducted on July 30, 2021. For each iCBT, interventions were rated by content and compared to commercially available smartphone apps. Our search yielded 80 studies using 41 unique iCBTs. Of these, only 6 (15%) were completely available to the public, more than half were not publicly available (46%), and the remaining 39% were available to the public with some restrictions (e.g., those based on the user's geographical location). When comparing iCBTs evaluated in RCTs to commercially available smartphone apps, we found that iCBTs were more likely to contain psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, problem solving, and interpersonal communication components. iCBTs from RCTs contain evidence-based content but few are available to the public. Extending beyond efficacy, attention should be paid to the dissemination of iCBTs.
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Ehrt-Schäfer Y, Rusmir M, Vetter J, Seifritz E, Müller M, Kleim B. Feasibility, Adherence, and Effectiveness of Blended Psychotherapy for Severe Mental Illnesses: Scoping Review. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e43882. [PMID: 38147373 PMCID: PMC10777283 DOI: 10.2196/43882] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blended psychotherapy (bPT) combines face-to-face psychotherapy with digital interventions to enhance the effectiveness of mental health treatment. The feasibility and effectiveness of bPT have been demonstrated for various mental health issues, although primarily for patients with higher levels of functioning. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to investigate the feasibility, adherence, and effectiveness of bPT for the treatment of patients with severe mental illnesses (SMIs). METHODS Following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines, we conducted searches in PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and PsycArticles for studies published until March 23, 2023. RESULTS Out of 587 screened papers, we incorporated 25 studies encompassing 23 bPT interventions, involving a total of 2554 patients with SMI. The intervention formats and research designs exhibited significant variation. Our findings offer preliminary evidence supporting the feasibility of bPT for SMI, although there is limited research on adherence. Nevertheless, the summarized studies indicated promising attrition rates, spanning from 0% to 37%, implying a potential beneficial impact of bPT on adherence to SMI treatment. The quantity of evidence on the effects of bPT for SMI was limited and challenging to generalize. Among the 15 controlled trials, 4 concluded that bPT interventions were effective compared with controls. However, it is noteworthy that 2 of these studies used the same study population, and the control groups exhibited significant variations. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our review suggests that while bPT appears promising as a treatment method, further research is necessary to establish its effectiveness for SMI. We discuss considerations for clinical implementation, directions, and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamina Ehrt-Schäfer
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Milan Rusmir
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Johannes Vetter
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mario Müller
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Birgit Kleim
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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23
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Zhang DW, Johnstone SJ, Sauce B, Arns M, Sun L, Jiang H. Remote neurocognitive interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder - Opportunities and challenges. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 127:110802. [PMID: 37257770 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2023.110802] [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: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Improving neurocognitive functions through remote interventions has been a promising approach to developing new treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Remote neurocognitive interventions may address the shortcomings of the current prevailing pharmacological therapies for AD/HD, e.g., side effects and access barriers. Here we review the current options for remote neurocognitive interventions to reduce AD/HD symptoms, including cognitive training, EEG neurofeedback training, transcranial electrical stimulation, and external cranial nerve stimulation. We begin with an overview of the neurocognitive deficits in AD/HD to identify the targets for developing interventions. The role of neuroplasticity in each intervention is then highlighted due to its essential role in facilitating neuropsychological adaptations. Following this, each intervention type is discussed in terms of the critical details of the intervention protocols, the role of neuroplasticity, and the available evidence. Finally, we offer suggestions for future directions in terms of optimizing the existing intervention protocols and developing novel protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da-Wei Zhang
- Department of Psychology/Center for Place-Based Education, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China; Department of Psychology, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia.
| | - Stuart J Johnstone
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia; Brain & Behaviour Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia
| | - Bruno Sauce
- Department of Biological Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Martijn Arns
- Research Institute Brainclinics, Brainclinics Foundation, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Department of Experimental Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands; NeuroCare Group, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Li Sun
- Peking University Sixth Hospital/Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders, Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Han Jiang
- College of Special Education, Zhejiang Normal University, Hangzhou, China
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Kalman JL, Burkhardt G, Samochowiec J, Gebhard C, Dom G, John M, Kilic O, Kurimay T, Lien L, Schouler-Ocak M, Vidal DP, Wiser J, Gaebel W, Volpe U, Falkai P. Digitalising mental health care: Practical recommendations from the European Psychiatric Association. Eur Psychiatry 2023; 67:e4. [PMID: 38086744 PMCID: PMC10790232 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2023.2466] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The digitalisation of mental health care is expected to improve the accessibility and quality of specialised treatment services and introduce innovative methods to study, assess, and monitor mental health disorders. In this narrative review and practical recommendation of the European Psychiatric Association (EPA), we aim to help healthcare providers and policymakers to navigate this rapidly evolving field. We provide an overview of the current scientific and implementation status across two major domains of digitalisation: i) digital mental health interventions and ii) digital phenotyping, discuss the potential of each domain to improve the accessibility and outcomes of mental health services, and highlight current challenges faced by researchers, clinicians, and service users. Furthermore, we make several recommendations meant to foster the widespread adoption of evidence-based digital solutions for mental health care in the member states of the EPA. To realise the vision of a digitalised, patient-centred, and data-driven mental health ecosystem, a number of implementation challenges must be considered and addressed, spanning from human, technical, ethical-legal, and economic barriers. The list of priority areas and action points our expert panel has identified could serve as a playbook for this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janos L. Kalman
- Institute of Psychiatric Phenomics and Genomics (IPPG), University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Gerrit Burkhardt
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Jerzy Samochowiec
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Miriam John
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Ozge Kilic
- Department of Psychiatry, Bezmialem Vakıf University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tamas Kurimay
- North-Buda Saint John Central Hospital, Buda Family Centred Mental Health Centre, Department of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Teaching Department of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lars Lien
- National Advisory Unit on Concurrent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Disorders, Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar, Norway, Faculty of Social and Health Sciences, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Meryam Schouler-Ocak
- Psychiatric University Clinic of Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital, Berlin, Germany
| | - Diego Palao Vidal
- Mental Health Service, Parc Taulí University Hospital, Unitat Mixta de Neurociència Traslacional I3PT-INc-UAB, Sabadell, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry and Forensic Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jan Wiser
- CNWL NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Wolfgang Gaebel
- WHO Collaborating Centre DEU-131, VR-Klinikum Düsseldorf, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Neurosciences/DIMSC, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Peter Falkai
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LMU University Hospital, Munich, Germany
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25
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Rollwage M, Habicht J, Juechems K, Carrington B, Viswanathan S, Stylianou M, Hauser TU, Harper R. Using Conversational AI to Facilitate Mental Health Assessments and Improve Clinical Efficiency Within Psychotherapy Services: Real-World Observational Study. JMIR AI 2023; 2:e44358. [PMID: 38875569 DOI: 10.2196/44358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most mental health care providers face the challenge of increased demand for psychotherapy in the absence of increased funding or staffing. To overcome this supply-demand imbalance, care providers must increase the efficiency of service delivery. OBJECTIVE In this study, we examined whether artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled digital solutions can help mental health care practitioners to use their time more efficiently, and thus reduce strain on services and improve patient outcomes. METHODS In this study, we focused on the use of an AI solution (Limbic Access) to support initial patient referral and clinical assessment within the UK's National Health Service. Data were collected from 9 Talking Therapies services across England, comprising 64,862 patients. RESULTS We showed that the use of this AI solution improves clinical efficiency by reducing the time clinicians spend on mental health assessments. Furthermore, we found improved outcomes for patients using the AI solution in several key metrics, such as reduced wait times, reduced dropout rates, improved allocation to appropriate treatment pathways, and, most importantly, improved recovery rates. When investigating the mechanism by which the AI solution achieved these improvements, we found that the provision of clinically relevant information ahead of clinical assessment was critical for these observed effects. CONCLUSIONS Our results emphasize the utility of using AI solutions to support the mental health workforce, further highlighting the potential of AI solutions to increase the efficiency of care delivery and improve clinical outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Tobias U Hauser
- Limbic Limited, London, United Kingdom
- Max Planck University College London Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical School and University Hospital, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tubingen, Germany
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Tubingen, Germany
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26
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Mahmoud H, Naal H, Mitchell B, Arenivar L. Presenting a Framework for Telebehavioral Health Implementation. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:825-837. [PMID: 37955800 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-023-01470-4] [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] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This paper presents OPTIC as a framework to guide the conceptualization and implementation of telebehavioral health (TBH) in a comprehensive, structured, and accessible manner. RECENT FINDINGS There is a need for comprehensive frameworks for TBH implementation, yet current models and frameworks described in the literature have limitations. Many studies highlight favorable outcomes of TBH during COVID-19, along with increased adoption. However, despite the plethora of publications on general telehealth implementation, knowledge is disparate, inconsistent, not comprehensive, and not TBH-specific. The framework incorporates five components: Originating site, Patient population, Teleclinician, Information and communication technologies, and Cultural and regulatory context. These components, abbreviated using the acronym OPTIC, are discussed, with examples of implementation considerations under each component throughout the project cycle. The value and larger implications of OPTIC are discussed as a foundation for stakeholders involved with TBH, in addition to key performance indicators, and considerations for quality enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam Mahmoud
- Department of Psychiatry, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Hady Naal
- Global Health Institute, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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27
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Winter HR, Norton AR, Burley JL, Wootton BM. Remote cognitive behaviour therapy for social anxiety disorder: A meta-analysis. J Anxiety Disord 2023; 100:102787. [PMID: 37890219 DOI: 10.1016/j.janxdis.2023.102787] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Remote cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for social anxiety disorder (SAD) has the potential to improve access to treatment by reducing economic, geographic, and psychological barriers. The aim of this study was to use a meta-analytic approach to examine the efficacy of the different remote CBT methods for treating SAD. A systematic electronic database search was used to identify 31 studies (n = 2905; mean age range: 24.73-41.65 years; mean female representation = 60.2 %). Pooled within-group analyses indicated large effect sizes from pre-treatment to post-treatment (Hedges' g = 1.06; 95 % CI: 0.96-1.16) and pre-treatment to follow up (g = 1.18; 95 % CI: 1.03-1.33) for remote CBT. Internet-delivered CBT (g = 1.08; 95 % CI: 0.98-1.19) and application-delivered CBT (g = 1.19; 95 % CI: 0.75-1.64) produced large within-group effect sizes. Bibliotherapy-delivered CBT (g = 0.79; 95 % CI: 0.45-1.13) produced medium within-group effect sizes. Pooled between-group findings indicate that remote CBT treatments were more effective than passive control (g = 0.87; 95 % CI: 0.70-1.03) and non-CBT remote treatments (g = 0.41; 95 % CI: 0.17-0.66), and were at least as effective, or slightly more effective, than face-to-face CBT treatments (g = 0.34; 95 % CI: 0.14-0.54). These findings have important implications for the dissemination of remote and stepped-care treatments for SAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halaina R Winter
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Alice R Norton
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; Clinical Psychology Unit, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Jade L Burley
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Bethany M Wootton
- Discipline of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia.
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28
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Parsons CE, Purves KL, Davies MR, Mundy J, Bristow S, Eley TC, Breen G, Hirsch CR, Young KS. Seeking help for mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal analysis of adults' experiences with digital technologies and services. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2023; 2:e0000402. [PMID: 38055730 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic brought about dramatic changes in how patients access healthcare from its outset. Lockdown restrictions and remote working led to a proliferation of digital technologies and services, which also impacted mental health provisions. Against the backdrop of new and changing support services, along with an unprecedented emphasis on mental health, relatively little is known about how adults sought out and received support for their mental health during this period. With a sample of 27,574 adults assessed longitudinally online over 12 months of the pandemic in the UK, we analysed reports of help-seeking for mental health, as well as sources of treatment or support and the perceived helpfulness of treatments received. We observed that the proportions of participants who reported seeking help remained relatively consistent throughout the 12-month period (ranging from 12.6% to 17.0%). Online talking therapies were among the most frequently sought sources (15.3%), whereas online self-guided treatments were among the least frequently sought sources (5%). Telephone lines, both NHS and non-governmental, had marked treatment 'gaps'. These treatment gaps, where individuals sought treatment but did not receive it, were especially evident for men and older adults. Our findings underscore online talking therapies as being a widely-sought and helpful source of mental health support. This is important given the current global need for accessible treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Parsons
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Interacting Minds Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kirstin L Purves
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Molly R Davies
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Mundy
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shannon Bristow
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Thalia C Eley
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Gerome Breen
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Colette R Hirsch
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine S Young
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Maudsley Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, United Kingdom
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29
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Azoz S, Peters M, Jones G. Are We Prepared for the CDK4/6 Revolution With HR+/HER2- Breast Cancers?: The Importance of Patient Adherence to Adjuvant Therapies. Breast Cancer (Auckl) 2023; 17:11782234231215192. [PMID: 38034323 PMCID: PMC10685741 DOI: 10.1177/11782234231215192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Seyla Azoz
- Customer Experience and Engagement, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Martin Peters
- Customer Experience and Engagement, Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Graham Jones
- Customer Experience and Engagement, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, Tufts University Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
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30
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Zhao X, Schueller SM, Kim J, Stadnick NA, Eikey E, Schneider M, Zheng K, Mukamel DB, Sorkin DH. Real-World Adoption of Mental Health Support Among Adolescents: Cross-Sectional Analysis of the California Health Interview Survey. J Pediatr Psychol 2023:jsad082. [PMID: 37978854 DOI: 10.1093/jpepsy/jsad082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aim to examine: (a) the extent to which patterns of adoption of counseling services and digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) shifted in recent years (2019-2021); (b) the impact of distress on adoption of mental health support; and (c) reasons related to adolescents' low adoption of DMHIs when experiencing distress. METHODS Data were from three cohorts of adolescents aged 12-17 years (n = 847 in 2019; n = 1,365 in 2020; n = 1,169 in 2021) recruited as part of the California Health Interview Survey. We estimated logistic regression models to examine the likelihood of using mental health support as a function of psychological distress, sociodemographic characteristics, and cohorts. We also analyzed adolescents' self-reported reasons for not trying DMHIs as a function of distress. RESULTS The proportion of adolescents reporting elevated psychological distress (∼50%) was higher than those adopting counseling services (<20%) or DMHIs (<10%). A higher level of distress was associated with a greater likelihood of receiving counseling (OR = 1.15), and using DMHIs to connect with a professional (Odds ratio (OR) = 1.11) and for self-help (OR = 1.17). Among those experiencing high distress, adolescents' top reason for not adopting an online tool was a lack of perceived need (19.2%). CONCLUSION Adolescents' main barriers to DMHI adoption included a lack of perceived need, which may be explained by a lack of mental health literacy. Thoughtful marketing and dissemination efforts are needed to increase mental health awareness and normalize adoption of counseling services and DMHIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhao
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Stephen M Schueller
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Jeongmi Kim
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Nicole A Stadnick
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, USA
- Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute, Dissemination and Implementation Science Center, University of California San Diego, USA
- Child and Adolescent Services Research Center, USA
| | - Elizabeth Eikey
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California, USA
- The Design Lab, University of California San Diego, USA
| | | | - Kai Zheng
- Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Dana B Mukamel
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Dara H Sorkin
- Department of General Internal Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
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Dias RDL, Shalaby R, Agyapong B, Vuong W, Gusnowski A, Surood S, Greenshaw AJ, Agyapong VIO. The effectiveness of CBT-based daily supportive text messages in improving female mental health during COVID-19 pandemic: results from the Text4Hope program. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 4:1182267. [PMID: 38025982 PMCID: PMC10667914 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2023.1182267] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated gender disparities in mental health, particularly impacting women. To address this, Alberta, Canada, launched Text4Hope, a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy-based text messaging intervention, to provide support and resources for psychological challenges during the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Text4Hope in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, sleeping disturbances, and suicidal ideation among female subscribers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study employed both an uncontrolled longitudinal design and a controlled cohort design. The uncontrolled longitudinal study analyzed a one-year dataset (n = 9,545) of clinical outcomes, comparing mean differences in mental health symptoms from baseline to 6 weeks after subscription. The controlled cohort design compared two groups, with (n = 1,763) and without (n = 567) intervention exposure during the same period. Data were collected through self-administered online surveys completed at baseline and six weeks after subscription. Sociodemographic information and validated scales (e.g., 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)) were used to assess mental health outcomes. Results The results from the longitudinal study indicated a significant reduction in anxiety prevalence and anxiety symptoms, with a 19.63% decrease in GAD-7 mean score and a 32.02% decrease in likely anxiety from baseline to six weeks. Depressive symptoms and perceived stress also showed a significant reduction (p < 0.001), albeit to a lesser extent. In the controlled cohort study, the intervention group had significantly (p < 0.001) lower PHQ-9 [19.5 (SD 7.05)], GAD-7 [7.5 (SD 5.27)], and CMH [35.53 (SD 18.45)] scores. Additionally, the study found substantial differences (p < 0.001) in suicidal ideation (26.1 vs. 15.7) between groups but no significant differences in sleep disruption. Discussion These findings suggest that Text4Hope could be an effective intervention for reducing stress, depression, suicidal ideation, and particularly anxiety symptoms among women during public emergencies. The study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of text messaging interventions in supporting mental health during crisis situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel da Luz Dias
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Wesley Vuong
- Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - April Gusnowski
- Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Shireen Surood
- Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Andrew James Greenshaw
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Vincent I. O. Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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Dahne J, Wahlquist AE, Kustanowitz J, Natale N, Fahey M, Graboyes EM, Diaz VA, Carpenter MJ. Behavioral Activation-Based Digital Smoking Cessation Intervention for Individuals With Depressive Symptoms: Randomized Clinical Trial. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e49809. [PMID: 37910157 PMCID: PMC10652199 DOI: 10.2196/49809] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common among adults who smoke cigarettes. Existing depression-specific cessation interventions have limited reach and are unlikely to improve smoking prevalence rates among this large subgroup of smokers. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether a mobile app-based intervention tailored for depression paired with a mailed sample of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is efficacious for treating depression and promoting smoking cessation. METHODS A 2-arm nationwide remote randomized clinical trial was conducted in the United States. Adults (N=150) with elevated depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-8≥10) who smoked were enrolled. The mobile app ("Goal2Quit") provided behavioral strategies for treating depression and quitting smoking based on Behavioral Activation Treatment for Depression. Goal2Quit participants also received a 2-week sample of combination NRT. Treatment as usual participants received a self-help booklet for quitting smoking that was not tailored for depression. Primary end points included Goal2Quit usability, change in depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II) across 12 weeks, and smoking cessation including reduction in cigarettes per day, incidence of 24-hour quit attempts, floating abstinence, and 7-day point prevalence abstinence (PPA). RESULTS In total, 150 participants were enrolled between June 25, 2020, and February 23, 2022, of which 80 were female (53.3%) and the mean age was 38.4 (SD 10.3) years. At baseline, participants on average reported moderate depressive symptoms and smoked a mean of 14.7 (SD 7.5) cigarettes per day. Goal2Quit usability was strong with a mean usability rating on the System Usability Scale of 78.5 (SD 16.9), with 70% scoring above the ≥68 cutoff for above-average usability. Retention data for app use were generally strong immediately following trial enrollment and declined in subsequent weeks. Those who received Goal2Quit and the NRT sample reported lower mean depressive symptoms over the trial duration as compared to treatment as usual (difference of mean 3.72, SE 1.37 points less; P=.01). Across time points, all cessation outcomes favored Goal2Quit. Regarding abstinence, Goal2Quit participants reported significantly higher rates of 7-day PPA at weeks 4 (11% vs 0%; P=.02), 8 (7-day PPA: 12% vs 0%; P=.02), and 12 (16% vs 2%; P=.02). CONCLUSIONS A mobile app intervention tailored for depression paired with a sample of NRT was effective for depression treatment and smoking cessation. Findings support the utility of this intervention approach for addressing the currently unmet public health treatment need for tailored, scalable depression-specific cessation treatments. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03837379; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03837379.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Dahne
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Amy E Wahlquist
- Center for Rural Health Research, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | | | - Noelle Natale
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Margaret Fahey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Evan M Graboyes
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Vanessa A Diaz
- Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Matthew J Carpenter
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
- Hollings Cancer Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
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Faria M, Zin STP, Chestnov R, Novak AM, Lev-Ari S, Snyder M. Mental Health for All: The Case for Investing in Digital Mental Health to Improve Global Outcomes, Access, and Innovation in Low-Resource Settings. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6735. [PMID: 37959201 PMCID: PMC10649112 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Mental health disorders are an increasing global public health concern that contribute to morbidity, mortality, disability, and healthcare costs across the world. Biomedical and psychological research has come a long way in identifying the importance of mental health and its impact on behavioral risk factors, physiological health, and overall quality of life. Despite this, access to psychological and psychiatric services remains widely unavailable and is a challenge for many healthcare systems, particularly those in developing countries. This review article highlights the strengths and opportunities brought forward by digital mental health in narrowing this divide. Further, it points to the economic and societal benefits of effectively managing mental illness, making a case for investing resources into mental healthcare as a larger priority for large non-governmental organizations and individual nations across the globe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Faria
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
- Department of Psychology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Health and Development, United Nations Development Programme, 1219 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.T.P.Z.); (R.C.)
| | - Stella Tan Pei Zin
- Health and Development, United Nations Development Programme, 1219 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.T.P.Z.); (R.C.)
| | - Roman Chestnov
- Health and Development, United Nations Development Programme, 1219 Geneva, Switzerland; (S.T.P.Z.); (R.C.)
| | - Anne Marie Novak
- Department of Health Promotion, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Shahar Lev-Ari
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
- Department of Health Promotion, Tel Aviv University School of Medicine, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel;
| | - Michael Snyder
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA;
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Petersén E, Augustsson H, Berman AH. Problematic substance use among patients in a Swedish outpatient psychiatry setting: staff and manager perceptions of digital options for increased intervention access. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2023; 18:65. [PMID: 37875999 PMCID: PMC10594773 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-023-00421-x] [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: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 50% of the patients who globally seek help in psychiatry have been assessed with problematic substance use or been diagnosed with substance use disorder (SUD). Given the high treatment gap for mental health care, in particular SUD, these individuals risk poorer treatment outcomes in psychiatry. Integrated treatment for psychiatric and SUD disorders has been proposed to reduce the treatment gap for SUD, but access to integrated treatment is low. Digital interventions addressing SUD in psychiatry could potentially make treatment available to patients who otherwise would not have access. In this study "digital interventions" comprise an umbrella term covering all kinds of interventions from minimal motivational app-based interventions to internet-based interventions with and without human guidance, up to remote sessions in telepsychiatry. This study aims to explore healthcare staff perceptions of referring patients to digital interventions for reducing problematic substance use, whether or not diagnosed as SUD, in the psychiatric outpatient setting. METHOD The study was exploratory with a qualitative design. Data were collected in the Swedish outpatient psychiatry setting, via individual semi-structured interviews with managers, and focus groups with healthcare staff. An adapted form of phenomenological hermeneutical analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Three themes emerged from the analysis. The first theme was Encountering obstacles on the path to future implementation of digital interventions, with sub-themes: Lacking resources and Feeling concerned about technical solutions. The second theme was Searching for ways forward to achieve increased access to care, with sub-themes: Blended care could facilitate integrated care and Addressing variations in patients' technical skills. The third theme was Taking steps towards the future, with sub-themes: Wanting to know more about digital interventions and Formulating a vision for the future. CONCLUSIONS The study reveals a concern that implementing digital interventions in psychiatry will create additional work or be technically challenging. The staff see significant advantages from the patient perspective, but they feel that they themselves need training in implementing digital interventions. In order to establish constructive implementation of digital interventions for SUD in psychiatry, staff attitudes and concerns need to be considered and addressed. This study was conducted within the Swedish healthcare system and the findings may not generalize to other countries with differing healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Petersén
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Hanna Augustsson
- Procome Research Group, Medical Management Centre, Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anne H Berman
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ng HS, Koczwara B, Beatty L. Patterns of mental health service utilisation in people with cancer compared with people without cancer: analysis of the Australian National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. J Cancer Surviv 2023:10.1007/s11764-023-01472-4. [PMID: 37792161 DOI: 10.1007/s11764-023-01472-4] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the patterns of mental health service utilisation between people with and without cancer. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study using data of all respondents aged ≥ 25 years from the Australian National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2020-2021 conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Comparisons were made between the two groups (cancer versus non-cancer) using logistic regression models. RESULTS The study comprised 318 people with cancer (55% female) and 4628 people without cancer (54% female). Cancer survivors had a higher prevalence of reporting poor health (38% versus 16%) and mental distress (18% versus 14%) than people without cancer. There were no significant differences between people with and without cancer in the odds of consulting general practitioner, psychiatrist and other health professionals for mental health, although people with cancer were significantly more likely to consult a psychologist than people without cancer (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.64, 95%CI = 1.05-2.48). While the odds of being hospitalised for physical health was significantly higher in cancer survivors than people without cancer (aOR = 2.32, 95%CI = 1.78-3.01), there was only a negligible number of people reported being hospitalised for mental health between the two groups. Several factors were associated with higher odds of mental health service utilisation including younger age, unpartnered marital status and presence of a current mental condition. CONCLUSIONS Alarmingly, despite experiencing higher prevalence of poor health status and mental distress, cancer survivors did not utilise more mental health services than the general population. That is, there is a higher degree of untreated, or undertreated, distress in cancer than in the general population. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Further research to identify optimal approaches of mental health care delivery for cancer survivors are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huah Shin Ng
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- SA Pharmacy, Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- SA Pharmacy, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Bogda Koczwara
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Lisa Beatty
- Flinders University Institute for Mental Health and Wellbeing, College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Desroches ML. Digital mental health interventions with individual support may complement mental health services for adults with intellectual disabilities. Evid Based Nurs 2023; 26:158. [PMID: 37308283 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2023-103736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Desroches
- Community Nursing, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747, USA
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Altaf Dar M, Maqbool M, Ara I, Zehravi M. The intersection of technology and mental health: enhancing access and care. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2023; 35:423-428. [PMID: 37602724 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2023-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
In recent times, technology has increasingly become a central force in shaping the landscape of mental health care. The integration of various technological advancements, such as teletherapy, virtual care platforms, mental health apps, and wearable devices, holds great promise in improving access to mental health services and enhancing overall care. Technology's impact on mental health care is multi-faceted. Teletherapy and virtual care have brought about a revolution in service delivery, eliminating geographical barriers and offering individuals convenient and flexible access to therapy. Mobile mental health apps empower users to monitor their emotional well-being, practice mindfulness, and access self-help resources on the move. Furthermore, wearable devices equipped with biometric data can provide valuable insights into stress levels and sleep patterns, potentially serving as valuable indicators of mental health status. However, integrating technology into mental health care comes with several challenges and ethical considerations. Bridging the digital divide is a concern, as not everyone has equal access to technology or the necessary digital literacy. Ensuring privacy and data security is crucial to safeguard sensitive client information. The rapid proliferation of mental health apps calls for careful assessment and regulation to promote evidence-based practices and ensure the delivery of quality interventions. Looking ahead, it is vital to consider future implications and adopt relevant recommendations to fully harness technology's potential in mental health care. Continuous research is essential to evaluate the efficacy and safety of digital interventions, fostering collaboration between researchers, mental health professionals, and technology developers. Proper training on ethical technology utilization is necessary for mental health practitioners to maintain therapeutic boundaries while leveraging technological advancements responsibly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Altaf Dar
- Department of Pharmacology, CT Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, PTU, Jalandhar Punjab, Baramulla, India
| | - Mudasir Maqbool
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India
| | - Irfat Ara
- Regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Mehrukh Zehravi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy Girls Section, Prince Sattam Bin Abdul Aziz University, Alkharj, Saudia Arabia
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Forman-Hoffman VL, Pirner MC, Flom M, Kirvin-Quamme A, Durden E, Kissinger JA, Robinson A. Engagement, Satisfaction, and Mental Health Outcomes Across Different Residential Subgroup Users of a Digital Mental Health Relational Agent: Exploratory Single-Arm Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e46473. [PMID: 37756047 PMCID: PMC10568381 DOI: 10.2196/46473] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental illness is a pervasive worldwide public health issue. Residentially vulnerable populations, such as those living in rural medically underserved areas (MUAs) or mental health provider shortage areas (MHPSAs), face unique access barriers to mental health care. Despite the growth of digital mental health interventions using relational agent technology, little is known about their use patterns, efficacy, and favorability among residentially vulnerable populations. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore differences in app use, therapeutic alliance, mental health outcomes, and satisfaction across residential subgroups (metropolitan, nonmetropolitan, or rural), MUAs (yes or no), and MHPSAs (yes or no) among users of a smartphone-based, digital mental health intervention, Woebot LIFE (WB-LIFE). WB-LIFE was designed to help users better understand and manage their moods and features a relational agent, Woebot, that converses through text-based messages. METHODS We used an exploratory study that examined data from 255 adults enrolled in an 8-week, single-arm trial of WB-LIFE. Analyses compared levels of app use and therapeutic alliance total scores as well as subscales (goal, task, and bond), mental health outcomes (depressive and anxiety symptoms, stress, resilience, and burnout), and program satisfaction across residential subgroups. RESULTS Few study participants resided in nonmetropolitan (25/255, 10%) or rural (3/255, 1%) areas, precluding estimates across this variable. Despite a largely metropolitan sample, nearly 39% (99/255) resided in an MUA and 55% (141/255) in an MHPSA. There were no significant differences in app use or satisfaction by MUA or MHPSA status. There also were no differences in depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, resilience, or burnout, with the exception of MUA participants having higher baseline depressive symptoms among those starting in the moderate range or higher (Patient Health Questionnaire-8 item scale≥10) than non-MUA participants (mean 16.50 vs 14.41, respectively; P=.01). Although working alliance scores did not differ by MHPSA status, those who resided in an MUA had higher goal (2-tailed t203.47=2.21; P=.03), and bond (t203.47=1.94; P=.05) scores at day 3 (t192.98=2.15; P=.03), and higher goal scores at week 8 (t186.19=2.28; P=.02) as compared with those not living in an MUA. CONCLUSIONS Despite the study not recruiting many participants from rural or nonmetropolitan populations, sizable proportions resided in an MUA or an MHPSA. Analyses revealed few differences in app use, therapeutic alliance, mental health outcomes (including baseline levels), or satisfaction across MUA or MHPSA status over the 8-week study. Findings suggest that vulnerable residential populations may benefit from using digital agent-guided cognitive behavioral therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05672745; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05672745.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Megan Flom
- Woebot Health, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Fundoiano-Hershcovitz Y, Breuer Asher I, Ritholz MD, Feniger E, Manejwala O, Goldstein P. Specifying the Efficacy of Digital Therapeutic Tools for Depression and Anxiety: Retrospective, 2-Cohort, Real-World Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e47350. [PMID: 37738076 PMCID: PMC10559191 DOI: 10.2196/47350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are the main sources of work and social disabilities as well as health-related problems around the world. Digital therapeutic solutions using cognitive behavioral therapy have demonstrated efficacy in depression and anxiety. A common goal of digital health apps is to increase user digital engagement to improve outcomes. However, there is a limited understanding of the association between digital platform components and clinical outcomes. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to investigate the contribution of specific digital engagement tools to mental health conditions. We hypothesized that participation in coaching sessions and breathing exercises would be associated with a reduction in depression and anxiety. METHODS Depression and general anxiety symptoms were evaluated in real-world data cohorts using the digital health platform for digital intervention and monitoring change. This retrospective real-world analysis of users on a mobile platform-based treatment followed two cohorts of people: (1) users who started with moderate levels of depression and completed at least 2 depression assessments (n=519) and (2) users who started with moderate levels of anxiety and completed at least 2 anxiety assessments (n=474). Levels of depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) and anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7) were tracked throughout the first 16 weeks. A piecewise mixed-effects model was applied to model the trajectories of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 mean scores in 2 segments (1-6 weeks and 7-16 weeks). Finally, simple slope analysis was used for the interpretation of the interactions probing the moderators: coaching sessions and breathing exercises in both depression and anxiety cohorts. RESULTS Analysis revealed a significant decrease in depression symptoms (β=-.37, 95% CI -0.46 to 0.28; P≤.001) during the period of weeks 1-6 of app use, which was maintained during the period of 7-16 weeks. Coach interaction significantly moderated the reduction in depression symptoms during the period of weeks 1-6 (β=-.03, 95% CI -0.05 to -0.001; P=.02). A significant decrease in anxiety symptoms (β=-.41, 95% CI -0.50 to -0.33; P≤.001) was revealed during the period of 1-6 weeks, which was maintained during the period of 7-16 weeks. Breathing exercises significantly moderated the reduction in anxiety symptoms during the period of 1-6 weeks (β=-.07, 95% CI -0.14 to -0.01; P=.04). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated general improvement followed by a period of stability of depression and anxiety symptoms associated with cognitive behavioral therapy-based digital intervention. Interestingly, engagement with a coaching session but not a breathing exercise was associated with a reduction in depression symptoms. Moreover, breathing exercise but not engagement with a coaching session was associated with a reduction of anxiety symptoms. These findings emphasize the importance of using a personalized approach to behavioral health during digital health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marilyn D Ritholz
- Joslin Diabetes Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | - Pavel Goldstein
- Integrative Pain Laboratory (iPainLab), School of Public Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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Lukka L, Palva JM. The Development of Game-Based Digital Mental Health Interventions: Bridging the Paradigms of Health Care and Entertainment. JMIR Serious Games 2023; 11:e42173. [PMID: 37665624 PMCID: PMC10507521 DOI: 10.2196/42173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Game elements are increasingly used to improve user engagement in digital mental health interventions, and specific game mechanics may yield therapeutic effects per se and thereby contribute to digital mental health intervention efficacy. However, only a few commercial game-based interventions are available. We suggest that the key challenge in their development reflects the tension between the 2 underlying paradigms, health care and entertainment, which have disparate goals and processes in digital development. We describe 3 approaches currently used to negotiate the 2 paradigms: the gamification of health care software, designing serious games, and purpose shifting existing entertainment games. We advanced an integrative framework to focus attention on 4 key themes in intervention development: target audience, engagement, mechanisms of action, and health-related effectiveness. On each theme, we show how the 2 paradigms contrast and can complement each other. Finally, we consider the 4 interdependent themes through the new product development phases from concept to production. Our viewpoint provides an integrative synthesis that facilitates the research, design, and development of game-based digital mental health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauri Lukka
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
| | - J Matias Palva
- Department of Neuroscience and Biomedical Engineering, Aalto University, Espoo, Finland
- Neuroscience Center, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroimaging, School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Uhlhaas PJ, Davey CG, Mehta UM, Shah J, Torous J, Allen NB, Avenevoli S, Bella-Awusah T, Chanen A, Chen EYH, Correll CU, Do KQ, Fisher HL, Frangou S, Hickie IB, Keshavan MS, Konrad K, Lee FS, Liu CH, Luna B, McGorry PD, Meyer-Lindenberg A, Nordentoft M, Öngür D, Patton GC, Paus T, Reininghaus U, Sawa A, Schoenbaum M, Schumann G, Srihari VH, Susser E, Verma SK, Woo TW, Yang LH, Yung AR, Wood SJ. Towards a youth mental health paradigm: a perspective and roadmap. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3171-3181. [PMID: 37580524 PMCID: PMC10618105 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02202-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Most mental disorders have a typical onset between 12 and 25 years of age, highlighting the importance of this period for the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of mental ill-health. This perspective addresses interactions between risk and protective factors and brain development as key pillars accounting for the emergence of psychopathology in youth. Moreover, we propose that novel approaches towards early diagnosis and interventions are required that reflect the evolution of emerging psychopathology, the importance of novel service models, and knowledge exchange between science and practitioners. Taken together, we propose a transformative early intervention paradigm for research and clinical care that could significantly enhance mental health in young people and initiate a shift towards the prevention of severe mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Uhlhaas
- Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Christopher G Davey
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Urvakhsh Meherwan Mehta
- Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Jai Shah
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - John Torous
- Division of Digital Psychiatry and Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Shelli Avenevoli
- Office of the Director, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tolulope Bella-Awusah
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Andrew Chanen
- Orygen: National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric Y H Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Christoph U Correll
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Departments of Psychiatry and Molecular Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hostra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Northwell Health, Glen Oaks, NY, USA
| | - Kim Q Do
- Centre for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Helen L Fisher
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sophia Frangou
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ian B Hickie
- Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Matcheri S Keshavan
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kerstin Konrad
- Child Neuropsychology Section, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, RWTH, Aachen, Germany
- JARA-Brain Institute II, Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, Research Center Jülich, Jülich, Germany
| | - Francis S Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Cornell Medicall College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Cindy H Liu
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Brigham and Women's Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Beatriz Luna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen: National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- CORE-Copenhagen Research Centre for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, University of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Medicine, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Dost Öngür
- McLean Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - George C Patton
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Tomáš Paus
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine and Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ulrich Reininghaus
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Mannheim, Germany
- Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Akira Sawa
- The John Hopkins Schizophrenia Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Michael Schoenbaum
- Division of Service and Intervention Research, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gunter Schumann
- Centre for Population Neuroscience and Stratified Medicine, ISTBI, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Vinod H Srihari
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Program for Specialized Treatment Early in Psychosis (STEP), New Haven, VIC, USA
| | - Ezra Susser
- Departments of Epidemiology and Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Swapna K Verma
- Department of Psychosis, Institute of Mental Health, Buangkok, Singapore
- Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - T Wilson Woo
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Laboratory for Cellular Neuropathology, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lawrence H Yang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, New York University, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alison R Yung
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen: National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Benjet C, Zainal NH, Albor Y, Alvis-Barranco L, Carrasco-Tapias N, Contreras-Ibáñez CC, Cudris-Torres L, de la Peña FR, González N, Guerrero-López JB, Gutierrez-Garcia RA, Jiménez-Peréz AL, Medina-Mora ME, Patiño P, Cuijpers P, Gildea SM, Kazdin AE, Kennedy CJ, Luedtke A, Sampson NA, Petukhova MV, Kessler RC. A Precision Treatment Model for Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety and Depression Among University Students: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2023; 80:768-777. [PMID: 37285133 PMCID: PMC10248814 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2023.1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Importance Guided internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (i-CBT) is a low-cost way to address high unmet need for anxiety and depression treatment. Scalability could be increased if some patients were helped as much by self-guided i-CBT as guided i-CBT. Objective To develop an individualized treatment rule using machine learning methods for guided i-CBT vs self-guided i-CBT based on a rich set of baseline predictors. Design, Setting, and Participants This prespecified secondary analysis of an assessor-blinded, multisite randomized clinical trial of guided i-CBT, self-guided i-CBT, and treatment as usual included students in Colombia and Mexico who were seeking treatment for anxiety (defined as a 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder [GAD-7] score of ≥10) and/or depression (defined as a 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9] score of ≥10). Study recruitment was from March 1 to October 26, 2021. Initial data analysis was conducted from May 23 to October 26, 2022. Interventions Participants were randomized to a culturally adapted transdiagnostic i-CBT that was guided (n = 445), self-guided (n = 439), or treatment as usual (n = 435). Main Outcomes and Measures Remission of anxiety (GAD-7 scores of ≤4) and depression (PHQ-9 scores of ≤4) 3 months after baseline. Results The study included 1319 participants (mean [SD] age, 21.4 [3.2] years; 1038 women [78.7%]; 725 participants [55.0%] came from Mexico). A total of 1210 participants (91.7%) had significantly higher mean (SE) probabilities of joint remission of anxiety and depression with guided i-CBT (51.8% [3.0%]) than with self-guided i-CBT (37.8% [3.0%]; P = .003) or treatment as usual (40.0% [2.7%]; P = .001). The remaining 109 participants (8.3%) had low mean (SE) probabilities of joint remission of anxiety and depression across all groups (guided i-CBT: 24.5% [9.1%]; P = .007; self-guided i-CBT: 25.4% [8.8%]; P = .004; treatment as usual: 31.0% [9.4%]; P = .001). All participants with baseline anxiety had nonsignificantly higher mean (SE) probabilities of anxiety remission with guided i-CBT (62.7% [5.9%]) than the other 2 groups (self-guided i-CBT: 50.2% [6.2%]; P = .14; treatment as usual: 53.0% [6.0%]; P = .25). A total of 841 of 1177 participants (71.5%) with baseline depression had significantly higher mean (SE) probabilities of depression remission with guided i-CBT (61.5% [3.6%]) than the other 2 groups (self-guided i-CBT: 44.3% [3.7%]; P = .001; treatment as usual: 41.8% [3.2%]; P < .001). The other 336 participants (28.5%) with baseline depression had nonsignificantly higher mean (SE) probabilities of depression remission with self-guided i-CBT (54.4% [6.0%]) than guided i-CBT (39.8% [5.4%]; P = .07). Conclusions and Relevance Guided i-CBT yielded the highest probabilities of remission of anxiety and depression for most participants; however, these differences were nonsignificant for anxiety. Some participants had the highest probabilities of remission of depression with self-guided i-CBT. Information about this variation could be used to optimize allocation of guided and self-guided i-CBT in resource-constrained settings. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04780542.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Benjet
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nur Hani Zainal
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yesica Albor
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Lorena Cudris-Torres
- Programa de Psicología, Fundación Universitaria del Area Andina, Valledupar, Colombia
| | - Francisco R. de la Peña
- Unidad de Fomento a la Investigacion, Direccion de Servicios Clínicos, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Noé González
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | - Ana Lucía Jiménez-Peréz
- Facultad de Ciencias Administrativas y Sociales, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Ensenada, Mexico
| | - Maria Elena Medina-Mora
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pamela Patiño
- Center for Global Mental Health, National Institute of Psychiatry Ramón de la Fuente Muñiz, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro-, and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sarah M. Gildea
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alan E. Kazdin
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Chris J. Kennedy
- Center for Precision Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alex Luedtke
- Department of Statistics, University of Washington, Seattle
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Nancy A. Sampson
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Maria V. Petukhova
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ronald C. Kessler
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Cohen ZD, Schueller SM. Expanding, improving, and understanding behaviour research and therapy through digital mental health. Behav Res Ther 2023; 167:104358. [PMID: 37418857 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2023.104358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary D Cohen
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Stephen M Schueller
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA; Department of Informatics, University of California, Irvine, USA
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Weitzel EC, Schwenke M, Schomerus G, Schönknecht P, Bleckwenn M, Mehnert-Theuerkauf A, Riedel-Heller SG, Löbner M. E-mental health in Germany - what is the current use and what are experiences of different types of health care providers for patients with mental illnesses? Arch Public Health 2023; 81:133. [PMID: 37461064 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01150-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a new and effective support option, e-mental health interventions can be useful in complementing treatment in mental health care. To date, little is known about how health care providers use these programs to treat patients with mental illnesses in Germany. The present study aims to examine the use of and experiences with e-mental health interventions from the point of view of different types of health care providers for patients with mental illnesses. METHODS Data from a cross-sectional survey of routine care health care providers in Germany in 2021 were analysed. In this survey, data were collected from n = 107 general practitioners (GPs), n = 114 specialist doctors, n = 102 psychotherapists, and n = 102 inpatient clinicians. Assessments included professional use of digital media, as well as knowledge, use and experiences regarding e-mental health interventions in care of people with mental illness. RESULTS In the total sample of n = 425, 65.6% (n = 279) were female. The study participants had an average age of 47.7 years (SD = 11.0) and their average work experience was 20.0 years (SD = 11.1). Overall, the majority (83.8%, n = 353) had heard of e-mental health interventions, but few felt well informed. Only 28.5% (n = 121) had already used e-mental health interventions for treatment support. The most commonly recommended e-mental health interventions in the sample were deprexis (39.7%, n = 48), moodgym (24.8%, n = 30), and iFightDepression (22.3%, n = 27). The use was predominantly considered to be helpful and satisfactory. Insufficient knowledge about e-mental health interventions and lack of informational materials for patients were reported as relevant barriers to the use of e-mental health interventions. CONCLUSIONS E-mental health interventions can be a useful support option, but they are rarely used in the treatment of patients with mental illnesses. There is a need to disseminate information specific to the various types of health care providers. Tailored implementation strategies need to be developed in order to capitalize on the potential of effective e-mental health interventions and to improve health care for patients with mental illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Caroline Weitzel
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, Leipzig, 04103, Germany.
| | - Maria Schwenke
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, Leipzig, 04103, Germany
| | - Georg Schomerus
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Schönknecht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Affiliated Hospital Arnsdorf, Technical University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Markus Bleckwenn
- Department of General Practice, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Mehnert-Theuerkauf
- Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, Leipzig, 04103, Germany
| | - Margrit Löbner
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Philipp-Rosenthal-Straße 55, Leipzig, 04103, Germany
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Miller-Rosales C, Morden NE, Brunette MF, Busch SH, Torous JB, Meara ER. Provision of Digital Health Technologies for Opioid Use Disorder Treatment by US Health Care Organizations. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2323741. [PMID: 37459098 PMCID: PMC10352858 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.23741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Digital health technologies may expand organizational capacity to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). However, it remains unclear whether these technologies serve as substitutes for or complements to traditional substance use disorder (SUD) treatment resources in health care organizations. Objective To characterize the use of patient-facing digital health technologies for OUD by US organizations with accountable care organization (ACO) contracts. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study analyzed responses to the 2022 National Survey of Accountable Care Organizations (NSACO), collected between October 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, from US organizations with Medicare and Medicaid ACO contracts. Data analysis was performed between December 15, 2022, and January 6, 2023. Exposures Treatment resources for SUD (eg, an addiction medicine specialist, sufficient staff to treat SUD, medications for OUD, a specialty SUD treatment facility, a registry to identify patients with OUD, or a registry to track mental health for patients with OUD) and organizational characteristics (eg, organization type, Medicaid ACO contract). Main Outcomes and Measures The main outcomes included survey-reported use of 3 categories of digital health technologies for OUD: remote mental health therapy and tracking, virtual peer recovery support programs, and digital recovery support for adjuvant cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Statistical analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models. Results Overall, 276 of 505 organizations responded to the NSACO (54.7% response rate), with a total of 304 respondents. Of these, 161 (53.1%) were from a hospital or health system, 74 (24.2%) were from a physician- or medical group-led organization, and 23 (7.8%) were from a safety-net organization. One-third of respondents (101 [33.5%]) reported that their organization used at least 1 of the 3 digital health technology categories, including remote mental health therapy and tracking (80 [26.5%]), virtual peer recovery support programs (46 [15.1%]), and digital recovery support for adjuvant CBT (27 [9.0%]). In an adjusted analysis, organizations with an addiction medicine specialist (average marginal effect [SE], 32.3 [4.7] percentage points; P < .001) or a registry to track mental health (average marginal effect [SE], 27.2 [3.8] percentage points; P < .001) were more likely to use at least 1 category of technology compared with otherwise similar organizations lacking these capabilities. Conclusions and Relevance In this cross-sectional study of 276 organizations with ACO contracts, organizations used patient-facing digital health technologies for OUD as complements to available SUD treatment capabilities rather than as substitutes for unavailable resources. Future studies should examine implementation facilitators to realize the potential of emerging technologies to support organizations facing health care practitioner shortages and other barriers to OUD treatment delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy E. Morden
- Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire
- UnitedHealthcare, Minnetonka, Minnesota
| | - Mary F. Brunette
- Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, New Hampshire
- Department of Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
- Bureau of Mental Health Services, New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Concord
| | - Susan H. Busch
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - John B. Torous
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ellen R. Meara
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
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Georgiou EZ, Skondra M, Charalampopoulou M, Felemegkas P, Pachi A, Stafylidou G, Papazachariou D, Perneczky R, Thomopoulos V, Politis A, Leroi I, Economou P, Alexopoulos P. Validation of the test for finding word retrieval deficits (WoFi) in detecting Alzheimer's disease in a naturalistic clinical setting. Eur J Ageing 2023; 20:29. [PMID: 37389678 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-023-00772-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Detecting impaired naming capacity contributes to the detection of mild (MildND) and major (MajorND) neurocognitive disorder due to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The Test for Finding Word retrieval deficits (WoFi) is a new, 50-item, auditory stimuli-based instrument. OBJECTIVE The study aimed to adapt WoFi to the Greek language, to develop a short version of WoFi (WoFi-brief), to compare the item frequency and the utility of both instruments with the naming subtest of the widely used Addenbrooke's cognitive examination III (ACEIIINaming) in detecting MildND and MajorND due to AD. METHODS This cross-sectional, validation study included 99 individuals without neurocognitive disorder, as well as 114 and 49 patients with MildND and MajorND due to AD, respectively. The analyses included categorical principal components analysis using Cramer's V, assessment of the frequency of test items based on corpora of television subtitles, comparison analyses, Kernel Fisher discriminant analysis models, proportional odds logistic regression (POLR) models and stratified repeated random subsampling used to recursive partitioning to training and validation set (70/30 ratio). RESULTS WoFi and WoFi-brief, which consists of 16 items, have comparable item frequency and utility and outperform ACEIIINaming. According to the results of the discriminant analysis, the misclassification error was 30.9%, 33.6% and 42.4% for WoFi, WoFi-brief and ACEIIINaming, respectively. In the validation regression model including WoFi the mean misclassification error was 33%, while in those including WoFi-brief and ACEIIINaming it was 31% and 34%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS WoFi and WoFi-brief are more effective in detecting MildND and MajorND due to AD than ACEIIINaming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni-Zacharoula Georgiou
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Maria Skondra
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Marina Charalampopoulou
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Felemegkas
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Asimina Pachi
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Georgia Stafylidou
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Papazachariou
- Department of Philology, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Robert Perneczky
- Division of Mental Health in Older Adults and Alzheimer Therapy and Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Munich, Germany
- Ageing Epidemiology (AGE) Research Unit, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, The Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, London, UK
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Munich, Munich, Germany
- Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neurosciences (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Vasileios Thomopoulos
- Large-Scale Machine Learning and Cloud Data Engineering Laboratory (ML@Cloud-Lab), Department of Computer Engineering and Informatics, School of Engineering, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Antonios Politis
- First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neuropsychiatry, Johns Hopkins Medical School, Baltimore, USA
| | - Iracema Leroi
- Global Brain Health Institute, Medical School, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Polychronis Economou
- Department of Civil Engineering (Statistics), School of Engineering, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Alexopoulos
- Mental Health Services, Patras University General Hospital, Department of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Patras, Greece.
- Global Brain Health Institute, Medical School, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Republic of Ireland.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Klinikum rechts der isar, Faculty of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Patras Dementia Day Care Centre, Patras, Greece.
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Stiles-Shields C, Ramos G, Ortega A, Psihogios AM. Increasing digital mental health reach and uptake via youth partnerships. NPJ MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 2:9. [PMID: 37483392 PMCID: PMC10361731 DOI: 10.1038/s44184-023-00030-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Youth in the United States are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis. Yet, brick-and-mortar mental healthcare, such as face-to-face therapy, is overwhelmingly inaccessible to youth despite research advances in youth mental health. Digital Mental Health tools (DMH), the use of technologies to deliver mental health assessments and interventions, may help to increase mental healthcare accessibility. However, for a variety of reasons, evidence-based DMH have not been successful in reaching youth in real-world settings, particularly those who are most encumbered with access barriers to mental healthcare. This Comment therefore focuses on increasing DMH reach and uptake by young people, particularly among minoritized youth, by engaging in community-based youth partnerships. This idea recognizes and grows from decades' worth of community-based participatory research and youth partnerships successfully conducted by other disciplines (e.g., social work, public health, urban planning, education). Increasing uptake and engagement is an issue that is unlikely to be solved by adult-driven theory and design. As such, we emphasize the necessity of reframing youth input into DMH design and deployment from one-time participants to integral community-based partners. Indeed, recognizing and valuing their expertise to equitably address DMH implementation challenges, youth should help to pose the very questions that they will help to answer throughout the design and implementation planning for DMH moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Stiles-Shields
- Institute for Juvenile Research, Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Health Equity using Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Giovanni Ramos
- Montefiore Medical Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Adrian Ortega
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
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Beames JR, Werner-Seidler A, Hodgins M, Brown L, Fujimoto H, Bartholomew A, Maston K, Huckvale K, Zbukvic I, Torok M, Christensen H, Batterham PJ, Calear AL, Lingam R, Boydell KM. Implementing a Digital Depression Prevention Program in Australian Secondary Schools: Cross-Sectional Qualitative Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2023; 6:e42349. [PMID: 37307051 DOI: 10.2196/42349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common during adolescence and is associated with adverse educational, employment, and health outcomes in later life. Digital programs are increasingly being implemented in schools to improve and protect adolescent mental health. Although digital depression prevention programs can be effective, there is limited knowledge about how contextual factors influence real-world delivery at scale in schools. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the contextual factors that influence the implementation of the Future Proofing Program (FPP) from the perspectives of school staff. The FPP is a 2-arm hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial evaluating whether depression can be prevented at scale in schools, using an evidence-based smartphone app delivered universally to year 8 students (13-14 years of age). METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 23 staff from 20 schools in New South Wales, Australia, who assisted with the implementation of the FPP. The interviews were guided by our theory-driven logic model. Reflexive thematic analysis, using both deductive and inductive coding, was used to analyze responses. RESULTS Staff perceived the FPP as a novel ("innovative approach") and appropriate way to address an unmet need within schools ("right place at the right time"). Active leadership and counselor involvement were critical for planning and engaging; teamwork, communication, and staff capacity were critical for execution ("ways of working within schools"). Low student engagement and staffing availability were identified as barriers for future adoption and implementation by schools ("reflecting on past experiences"). CONCLUSIONS Four superordinate themes pertaining to the program, implementation processes, and implementation barriers were identified from qualitative responses by school staff. On the basis of our findings, we proposed a select set of recommendations for future implementation of digital prevention programs delivered at scale in schools. These recommendations were designed to facilitate an organizational change and help staff to implement digital mental health programs within their schools. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Michael Hodgins
- Population Child Health Clinical Research Group, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lyndsay Brown
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hiroko Fujimoto
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Kate Maston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kit Huckvale
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabel Zbukvic
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- Population Child Health Clinical Research Group, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Sander LB, Beisemann M, Karyotaki E, van Ballegooijen W, Cuijpers P, Teismann T, Doebler P, Domhardt M, Baumeister H, Büscher R. Effects of digital cognitive behavioral therapy for depression on suicidal thoughts and behavior: Protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285622. [PMID: 37289758 PMCID: PMC10249902 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital cognitive behavioral therapy (i-CBT) interventions for the treatment of depression have been extensively studied and shown to be effective in the reduction of depressive symptoms. However, little is known about their effects on suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB). Information on the impact of digital interventions on STB are essential for patients' safety because most digital interventions are self-help interventions without direct support options in case of a suicidal crisis. Therefore, we aim to conduct a meta-analysis of individual participant data (IPDMA) to investigate the effects of i-CBT interventions for depression on STB and to explore potential effect moderators. METHODS Data will be retrieved from an established and annually updated IPD database of randomized controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of i-CBT interventions for depression in adults and adolescents. We will conduct a one-stage and a two-stage IPDMA on the effects of these interventions on STB. All types of control conditions are eligible. STB can be measured using specific scales (e.g., Beck scale suicide, BSS) or single items from depression scales (e.g., item 9 of the PHQ-9) or standardized clinical interviews. Multilevel linear regression will be used for specific scales, and multilevel logistic regression will be used for treatment response or deterioration, operationalized as a change in score by at least one quartile from baseline. Exploratory moderator analyses will be conducted at participant, study, and intervention level. Two independent reviewers will assess the risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2. CONCLUSION This IPDMA will harness the available data to assess the effects (response and deterioration) of i-CBT interventions for depression interventions on STB. Information about changes in STB is essential to estimate patients' safety when engaging in digital treatment formats. TRIAL REGISTRATION We will pre-register this study with the open science framework after article acceptance to ensure consistency between online registration and the published trial protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Bosse Sander
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marie Beisemann
- Department of Statistics, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Eirini Karyotaki
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wouter van Ballegooijen
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tobias Teismann
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Philipp Doebler
- Department of Statistics, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Matthias Domhardt
- Institute of Psychology and Education, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Institute of Psychology and Education, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rebekka Büscher
- Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Lagera PGD, Chan SR, Yellowlees PM. Asynchronous Technologies in Mental Health Care and Education. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN PSYCHIATRY 2023; 10:1-13. [PMID: 37360962 PMCID: PMC10157570 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-023-00286-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review Patients, providers, and trainees should understand the current types of asynchronous technologies that can be used to enhance the delivery and accessibility of mental health care. Asynchronous telepsychiatry (ATP) removes the need for real time communication between the clinician and patient, which improves efficiency and enables quality specialty care. ATP can be applied as distinct consultative and supervisory models in clinician-to-clinician, clinician-to-patient, and patient-to-mobile health settings. Recent findings This review is based on research literature and the authors' clinical and medical training, using experiences with asynchronous telepsychiatry from before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our studies demonstrate that ATP provides positive outcomes in the clinician-to-patient model with demonstrated feasibility, outcomes and patient satisfaction. One author's medical education experience in the Philippines during COVID-19 highlights the potential to utilize asynchronous technology in areas with limitations to online learning. We emphasize the need to teach media skills literacy around mental health to students, coaches, therapists, and clinicians when advocating for mental well-being. Several studies have demonstrated the feasibility of incorporating asynchronous e-tools such as self-guided multimedia and artificial intelligence for data collection at the clinician-to-clinician and patient-to-mobile health level. In addition, we offer fresh perspectives on recent trends in asynchronous telehealth in wellness, applying concepts such as "tele-exercise" and "tele-yoga." Summary Asynchronous technologies continue to be integrated into mental health care services and research. Future research must ensure that the design and the usability of this technology puts the patient and provider first.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Gail D. Lagera
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Clinical Informatics, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Steven R. Chan
- Division of Hospital Medicine, Clinical Informatics, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, CA USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, Davis, CA USA
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