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Tng GYQ, Koh J, Soh XC, Majeed NM, Hartanto A. Efficacy of digital mental health interventions for PTSD symptoms: A systematic review of meta-analyses. J Affect Disord 2024; 357:23-36. [PMID: 38679205 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.04.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present systematic review aimed to synthesize the results of meta-analyses which examine the effects of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and investigate whether intervention characteristics (i.e., technique, timeframe, and therapeutic guidance) and methodological characteristics including outcome measures and sample inclusion criteria (age, gender, socioeconomic status, country, comorbidity) moderate the efficacy of digital interventions. METHODS A systematic search of various sources (ECSCOhost PsycInfo, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCOhost ERIC, Google Scholar, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses) including five peer-reviewed journals was conducted to identify relevant meta-analyses up to December 2023, and 11 meta-analyses were included in the final review. RESULTS Overall, our review elucidates that DMHIs are appropriate for alleviating PTSD symptoms in adults, with more consistent evidence supporting the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based, compared to non-CBT-based, interventions when compared to control conditions. However, we found inconclusive evidence that the efficacy of DMHIs varied according to intervention timeframe, therapeutic guidance, or sample characteristics. LIMITATIONS A relatively limited number of different populations was sampled across meta-analyses. Further, while our review focused on PTSD symptoms to indicate the efficacy of digital interventions, other indices of effectiveness were not examined. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate the clinical utility of DMHIs for managing PTSD symptoms particularly when CBT-based intervention techniques are employed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jerica Koh
- Singapore Management University, Singapore
| | - Xun Ci Soh
- Singapore Management University, Singapore
| | - Nadyanna M Majeed
- Singapore Management University, Singapore; National University of Singapore, Singapore
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Blackie M, De Boer K, Seabrook L, Bates G, Nedeljkovic M. Digital-Based Interventions for Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Literature Review. Trauma Violence Abuse 2024:15248380241238760. [PMID: 38533796 DOI: 10.1177/15248380241238760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Research has shown that complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD) differs from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on core symptoms relating to the individual's sense of self, and this has driven the need for treatment approaches to address these specific features of cPTSD. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the increased use of digital-based interventions (DBIs) to treat mental illnesses, including trauma-related disorders. However, while evidence for the use of DBIs for PTSD has previously been synthesized, the current review is the first synthesis of research on the use of DBIs for cPTSD. A systematic search of Scopus, PsychINFO, and EBSCOhost was conducted, using search terms targeting "cPTSD" and "DBIs," to identify research on the use of DBIs to treat cPTSD symptoms. Ten papers were identified, which provided preliminary evidence for the efficacy of DBIs to reduce cPTSD symptoms. Further, DBIs were reported as acceptable by individuals with a history of complex trauma. The paper also provides insight into the therapeutic approaches adopted, digital modalities utilized, safety measures included, and whether/to what degree support was provided. While DBIs show promise for treating cPTSD, there is substantial room for advancement of the empirical evidence base for these approaches. Both clinical and research-based recommendations are provided separately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Blackie
- Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Liz Seabrook
- Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
| | - Glen Bates
- Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC, Australia
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Bröcker E, Scheffler F, Suliman S, Olff M, Seedat S. Participants' experiences of a counsellor-supported PTSD Coach intervention in a resource-constrained setting. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2024; 11:e36. [PMID: 38572257 PMCID: PMC10988172 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2024.34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
We explored participants' experiences of a counsellor-supported PTSD Coach mobile application intervention (PTSD Coach-CS) in a randomised controlled trial. PTSD Coach-CS participants, who received the intervention and self-completed a custom-designed questionnaire at intervention completion were included (n = 25; female = 20; ages 19-59; isiXhosa = 22). This questionnaire comprised questions regarding the feasibility, acceptability and potential impact of the PTSD Coach-CS intervention, and general psychological support in our setting. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged. (i) Participants' largely positive experiences of treatment procedures included the safe space created by the counsellor support in combination with the PTSD Coach application, allowing them to learn about and understand their lived experiences, and to accept their PTSD diagnoses. (ii) Positive perceptions of the PTSD Coach application, yet raising important concerns (e.g., lack of family involvement) for future consideration. (iii) Intervention-specific and systemic treatment barriers (e.g., stigma) providing important information to inform and increase the usefulness of the PTSD Coach-CS intervention. The findings suggest that the PTSD Coach-CS intervention may help address the need for access to suitable care for South African adults with PTSD. Some contextual barriers must be considered in further intervention implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erine Bröcker
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Freda Scheffler
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharain Suliman
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Hyzy M, Bond R, Mulvenna M, Bai L, Frey AL, Carracedo JM, Daly R, Leigh S. Don't judge a book or health app by its cover: User ratings and downloads are not linked to quality. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0298977. [PMID: 38437233 PMCID: PMC10911617 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0298977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyse the relationship between health app quality with user ratings and the number of downloads of corresponding health apps. MATERIALS AND METHODS Utilising a dataset of 881 Android-based health apps, assessed via the 300-point objective Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Applications (ORCHA) assessment tool, we explored whether subjective user-level indicators of quality (user ratings and downloads) correlate with objective quality scores in the domains of user experience, data privacy and professional/clinical assurance. For this purpose, we applied spearman correlation and multiple linear regression models. RESULTS For user experience, professional/clinical assurance and data privacy scores, all models had very low adjusted R squared values (< .02). Suggesting that there is no meaningful link between subjective user ratings or the number of health app downloads and objective quality measures. Spearman correlations suggested that prior downloads only had a very weak positive correlation with user experience scores (Spearman = .084, p = .012) and data privacy scores (Spearman = .088, p = .009). There was a very weak negative correlation between downloads and professional/clinical assurance score (Spearman = -.081, p = .016). Additionally, user ratings demonstrated a very weak correlation with no statistically significant correlations observed between user ratings and the scores (all p > 0.05). For ORCHA scores multiple linear regression had adjusted R-squared = -.002. CONCLUSION This study highlights that widely available proxies which users may perceive to signify the quality of health apps, namely user ratings and downloads, are inaccurate predictors for estimating quality. This indicates the need for wider use of quality assurance methodologies which can accurately determine the quality, safety, and compliance of health apps. Findings suggest more should be done to enable users to recognise high-quality health apps, including digital health literacy training and the provision of nationally endorsed "libraries".
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Hyzy
- School of Computing, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom
- ORCHA, Sci-Tech Daresbury, Violet V2, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond Bond
- School of Computing, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lu Bai
- School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Anna-Lena Frey
- ORCHA, Sci-Tech Daresbury, Violet V2, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | | | - Robert Daly
- ORCHA, Sci-Tech Daresbury, Violet V2, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Leigh
- ORCHA, Sci-Tech Daresbury, Violet V2, Daresbury, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
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Rinn A, Hannibal S, Goetsch S, Weise C, Lehr D. [Apps for tinnitus? A systematic review on quality, intervention components, and behavior change techniques]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2024; 67:203-214. [PMID: 38085358 PMCID: PMC10834554 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03805-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Various smartphone applications (apps) for people with tinnitus are available and promise tinnitus relief. Yet, it is difficult for people suffering from tinnitus and healthcare professionals to estimate their quality, potential, or risks. The current study aims to generate an overview of available tinnitus apps in the German language and to offer orientation for research and healthcare providers. METHOD The most prominent stores were searched systematically (November 2020-April 2021; Google Play Store and Apple App Store). Apps specifically developed for tinnitus were evaluated by two independent raters using multiple approaches: a) a quality screening was performed using the German version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS-G), b) intervention components were assessed using a newly developed list of categories, and c) implemented strategies for active tinnitus management were analyzed using behavior change techniques (BCTs). RESULTS The search yielded 1073 apps, of which 21 apps were analyzed. The apps' overall quality as assessed by MARS‑G was average (M = 3.37, SD = 039). A lot of apps offered sounds (n = 18) and information (n = 9) or assessed tinnitus characteristics (n = 13). Out of 93 BCTs, 24 were identified at least once. Only one app was evaluated in non-randomized trials. CONCLUSION Although a variety of apps are available, most of them focus on a few intervention components (e.g., sounds or information). Therefore, apps do not exploit their potential to impart important evidence-based content for tinnitus management. The app evaluation using multiple approaches points out potential for improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Rinn
- Fachbereich Psychologie, AE Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35032, Marburg, Deutschland.
- Abteilung für Gesundheitspsychologie und Angewandte Biologische Psychologie, Leuphana Universität Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Deutschland.
| | - Sandy Hannibal
- Abteilung für Gesundheitspsychologie und Angewandte Biologische Psychologie, Leuphana Universität Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Deutschland
| | - Sarah Goetsch
- Abteilung für Gesundheitspsychologie und Angewandte Biologische Psychologie, Leuphana Universität Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Deutschland
| | - Cornelia Weise
- Fachbereich Psychologie, AE Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Gutenbergstraße 18, 35032, Marburg, Deutschland
| | - Dirk Lehr
- Abteilung für Gesundheitspsychologie und Angewandte Biologische Psychologie, Leuphana Universität Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Deutschland
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Bröcker E, Olff M, Suliman S, Kidd M, Greyvenstein L, Seedat S. A counsellor-supported 'PTSD Coach' intervention versus enhanced Treatment-as-Usual in a resource-constrained setting: A randomised controlled trial. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2024; 11:e7. [PMID: 38283877 PMCID: PMC10808979 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2023.92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
To widen treatment access for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in resource-constrained South Africa, we evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of a counsellor-supported PTSD Coach mobile application (app) (PTSD Coach-CS) intervention on PTSD and associated sequelae in a community sample. Participants (female = 89%; black = 77%; aged 19-61) with PTSD were randomised to PTSD Coach-CS (n = 32) or enhanced Treatment-as-Usual (n = 30), and assessed with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS-5), PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 items, at pre- to post-treatment and follow-up (1 and 3 months). We also collected data on user experiences of the PTSD Coach app with self-administered surveys. We conducted an intent-to-treat analysis and linear mixed models. A significant (group × time) effect for the CAPS-5 (F3.136 = 3.33, p = 0.02) indicated a greater reduction in PTSD symptom severity over time for the intervention group with a significant between-group effect size detected at 3-month follow-up. Significant between-group effect sizes were detected in self-reported stress symptom reduction in the intervention group at post-treatment and 3-month follow-up. Participants perceived the app as helpful and were satisfied with the app. Findings suggest PTSD Coach-CS as a suitable low-cost intervention and potential treatment alternative for adults with PTSD in a resource-constrained country. Replication in larger samples is needed to fully support effectiveness. Pan African Trial Registry: PACTR202108755066871.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erine Bröcker
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sharain Suliman
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Martin Kidd
- Centre for Statistical Consultation, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University
| | - Lyrése Greyvenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
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Abstract
2022 was a year of crises, not just one but multiple intersecting crises that caused traumatic stress in billions of people worldwide. COVID-19 is still not over. New wars have started, and the climate change impact is bigger than ever. Will the Anthropocene be an era of continued crises? This past year the European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) has again tried to contribute to how to prevent or treat the consequences of these major crises as well as other events and we will continue to do so the year to come. For instance, we will have special issues or collections addressing these big issues, such as climate change and traumatic stress, or early intervention after trauma or in times of conflict. In this editorial, we also present the past year's excellent journal metrics regarding reach, impact, and quality and the ESTSS EJPT award finalists for best paper of 2022 and look forward to 2023. 2022 was a year of multiple intersecting crises causing traumatic stress to billions of people around the world. European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) aims to contribute to how to understand, prevent or treat the consequences of these major crises. EJPT's editorial team again achieved excellent journal metrics regarding reach, impact, and quality in 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam Neuroscience, & Amsterdam Public Health, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
- Miranda Olff Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, Amsterdam1105 AZ, Netherlands
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Hyzy M, Bond R, Mulvenna M, Bai L, Dix A, Daly R, Frey AL, Leigh S. Quality of Digital Health Interventions Across Different Health Care Domains: Secondary Data Analysis Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e47043. [PMID: 37995121 PMCID: PMC10704310 DOI: 10.2196/47043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are more than 350,000 digital health interventions (DHIs) in the app stores. To ensure that they are effective and safe to use, they should be assessed for compliance with best practice standards. OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to examine and compare the compliance of DHIs with best practice standards and adherence to user experience (UX), professional and clinical assurance (PCA), and data privacy (DP). METHODS We collected assessment data from 1574 DHIs using the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps Baseline Review (OBR) assessment tool. As part of the assessment, each DHI received a score out of 100 for each of the abovementioned areas (ie, UX, PCA, and DP). These 3 OBR scores are combined to make up the overall ORCHA score (a proxy for quality). Inferential statistics, probability distributions, Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon rank sum test, Cliff delta, and Dunn tests were used to conduct the data analysis. RESULTS We found that 57.3% (902/1574) of the DHIs had an Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA) score below the threshold of 65. The overall median OBR score (ORCHA score) for all DHIs was 61.5 (IQR 51.0-73.0) out of 100. A total of 46.2% (12/26) of DHI's health care domains had a median equal to or above the ORCHA threshold score of 65. For the 3 assessment areas (UX, DP, and PCA), DHIs scored the highest for the UX assessment 75.2 (IQR 70.0-79.6), followed by DP 65.1 (IQR 55.0-73.4) and PCA 49.6 (IQR 31.9-76.1). UX scores had the least variance (SD 13.9), while PCA scores had the most (SD 24.8). Respiratory and urology DHIs were consistently highly ranked in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Evidence Standards Framework tiers B and C based on their ORCHA score. CONCLUSIONS There is a high level of variability in the ORCHA scores of DHIs across different health care domains. This suggests that there is an urgent need to improve compliance with best practices in some health care areas. Possible explanations for the observed differences might include varied market maturity and commercial interests within the different health care domains. More investment to support the development of higher-quality DHIs in areas such as ophthalmology, allergy, women's health, sexual health, and dental care may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Hyzy
- School of Computing, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond Bond
- School of Computing, Ulster University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lu Bai
- School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Dix
- Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Daly
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA), Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Anna-Lena Frey
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA), Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Leigh
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA), Daresbury, United Kingdom
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Frey AL, Baines R, Hunt S, Kent R, Andrews T, Leigh S. Association Between the Characteristics of mHealth Apps and User Input During Development and Testing: Secondary Analysis of App Assessment Data. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e46937. [PMID: 37991822 PMCID: PMC10701645 DOI: 10.2196/46937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND User involvement is increasingly acknowledged as a central part of health care innovation. However, meaningful user involvement during the development and testing of mobile health apps is often not fully realized. OBJECTIVE This study aims to examine in which areas user input is most prevalent and whether there is an association between user inclusion and compliance with best practices for mobile health apps. METHODS A secondary analysis was conducted on an assessment data set of 1595 health apps. The data set contained information on whether the apps had been developed or tested with user input and whether they followed best practices across several domains. Background information was also available regarding the apps' country of origin, targeted condition areas, subjective user ratings, download numbers, and risk (as per the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Evidence Standards Framework [ESF]). Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U tests, and Pearson chi-square analyses were applied to the data. RESULTS User involvement was reported by 8.71% (139/1595) of apps for only the development phase, by 33.67% (537/1595) of apps for only the testing phase, by 21.88% (349/1595) of apps for both phases, and by 35.74% (570/1595) of apps for neither phase. The highest percentage of health apps with reported user input during development was observed in Denmark (19/24, 79%); in the condition areas of diabetes (38/79, 48%), cardiology (15/32, 47%), pain management (20/43, 47%), and oncology (25/54, 46%); and for high app risk (ESF tier 3a; 105/263, 39.9%). The highest percentage of health apps with reported user input during testing was observed in Belgium (10/11, 91%), Sweden (29/34, 85%), and France (13/16, 81%); in the condition areas of neurodiversity (42/52, 81%), respiratory health (58/76, 76%), cardiology (23/32, 72%), and diabetes (56/79, 71%); and for high app risk (ESF tier 3a; 176/263, 66.9%). Notably, apps that reported seeking user input during testing demonstrated significantly more downloads than those that did not (P=.008), and user inclusion was associated with better compliance with best practices in clinical assurance, data privacy, risk management, and user experience. CONCLUSIONS The countries and condition areas in which the highest percentage of health apps with user involvement were observed tended to be those with higher digital maturity in health care and more funding availability, respectively. This suggests that there may be a trade-off between developers' willingness or ability to involve users and the need to meet challenges arising from infrastructure limitations and financial constraints. Moreover, the finding of a positive association between user inclusion and compliance with best practices indicates that, where no other guidance is available, users may benefit from prioritizing health apps developed with user input as the latter may be a proxy for broader app quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lena Frey
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Baines
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, Daresbury, United Kingdom
- Centre for Health Technology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie Hunt
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Rachael Kent
- Department of Digital Humanities, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Andrews
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, Daresbury, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Leigh
- Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps, Daresbury, United Kingdom
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
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Paganini S, Meier E, Terhorst Y, Wurst R, Hohberg V, Schultchen D, Strahler J, Wursthorn M, Baumeister H, Messner EM. Stress Management Apps: Systematic Search and Multidimensional Assessment of Quality and Characteristics. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2023; 11:e42415. [PMID: 37642999 PMCID: PMC10498318 DOI: 10.2196/42415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic stress poses risks for physical and mental well-being. Stress management interventions have been shown to be effective, and stress management apps (SMAs) might help to transfer strategies into everyday life. OBJECTIVE This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the quality and characteristics of SMAs to give potential users or health professionals a guideline when searching for SMAs in common app stores. METHODS SMAs were identified with a systematic search in the European Google Play Store and Apple App Store. SMAs were screened and checked according to the inclusion criteria. General characteristics and quality were assessed by 2 independent raters using the German Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS-G). The MARS-G assesses quality (range 1 to 5) on the following four dimensions: (1) engagement, (2) functionality, (3) esthetics, and (4) information. In addition, the theory-based stress management strategies, evidence base, long-term availability, and common characteristics of the 5 top-rated SMAs were assessed and derived. RESULTS Of 2044 identified apps, 121 SMAs were included. Frequently implemented strategies (also in the 5 top-rated SMAs) were psychoeducation, breathing, and mindfulness, as well as the use of monitoring and reminder functions. Of the 121 SMAs, 111 (91.7%) provided a privacy policy, but only 44 (36.4%) required an active confirmation of informed consent. Data sharing with third parties was disclosed in only 14.0% (17/121) of the SMAs. The average quality of the included apps was above the cutoff score of 3.5 (mean 3.59, SD 0.50). The MARS-G dimensions yielded values above this cutoff score (functionality: mean 4.14, SD 0.47; esthetics: mean 3.76, SD 0.73) and below this score (information: mean 3.42, SD 0.46; engagement: mean 3.05, SD 0.78). Most theory-based stress management strategies were regenerative stress management strategies. The evidence base for 9.1% (11/121) of the SMAs could be identified, indicating significant group differences in several variables (eg, stress or depressive symptoms) in favor of SMAs. Moreover, 38.0% (46/121) of the SMAs were no longer available after a 2-year period. CONCLUSIONS The moderate information quality, scarce evidence base, constraints in data privacy and security features, and high volatility of SMAs pose challenges for users, health professionals, and researchers. However, owing to the scalability of SMAs and the few but promising results regarding their effectiveness, they have a high potential to reach and help a broad audience. For a holistic stress management approach, SMAs could benefit from a broader repertoire of strategies, such as more instrumental and mental stress management strategies. The common characteristics of SMAs with top-rated quality can be used as guidance for potential users and health professionals, but owing to the high volatility of SMAs, enhanced evaluation frameworks are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Paganini
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Evelyn Meier
- University of Education Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ramona Wurst
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Vivien Hohberg
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Clinical and Health Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jana Strahler
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Max Wursthorn
- Department of Public and Nonprofit Management, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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11
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Ting A, McLachlan C. Dr. Smartphone, can you support my trauma? An informatics analysis study of App Store apps for trauma- and stressor-related disorders. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15366. [PMID: 37187512 PMCID: PMC10178213 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Psychological trauma is prevalent in developed countries, with prevalence rates and treatment needs exceeding health system capacity. As telemedicine and out-of-patient care are promoted, there has been an expansion of digital apps to compliment therapeutic stages in psychological trauma. To date there are no reviews that have compared these apps and their clinical utility. This study aims to identify the availability of trauma- and stressor-related mhealth apps, assess their functionality, and review their therapeutic abilities. Methodology The authors conducted a systematic search using an iPhone 13 Pro in the Australian IOS App Store to extract trauma- and stressor-related apps that resulted from the search criteria. A cross-adaptation of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) and the Comprehensive App Evaluation Model (CAEM) were used as a framework to produce the mTrauma App Evaluation Conceptual Model and Informatics Framework. App content descriptors were analysed based on their general characteristics, usability, therapeutic focus, clinical utility, data integration. Following an applicability in concordance with psychological trauma-informed delivery. Results A total of 234 apps resulting from the search strategy were screened, with 81 apps that met the inclusion criteria. The majority of apps were marketed to 4+ to 17+ years of age, categorised as 'health and fitness', with the highest target markets observed for adolescents, children, parents, clinicians, and clients. A total of 43 apps (53.1%) contained a trauma-informed specified section, and 37 (45.7%) incorporated a section useful to support trauma-related symptoms. A significant number of apps there was an absence of therapeutic utility (in 32 apps (39.5%)). Most apps were supporting post-traumatic stress disorder-informed, cognitive behavioural therapy and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing. Provision of psychoeducation, courses, guided sessions, trainings, self-reflection/journaling, symptom management and progress tracking were highly present. Conclusions Trauma-informed mobile apps are available in the App Store, expanding in its target market reach and usability, with an increase of creative psychotherapies being introduced alongside conventional modalities. However, based on the app descriptors, the scarcity of evidenced-based testimonials and therapeutic applicability remains questionable for clinical validity. Although mhealth tools are marketed as trauma-related, current available apps employ a multifunctional approach to general psychological symptomatology, through to associated comorbid conditions and emphasizes on passive activity. For higher uptake on user engagement, clinical application and validity, trauma-apps require curated specification to fulfil its role as complimentary psychological treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Ting
- Centre for Healthy Futures, Torrens University Australia, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig McLachlan
- Centre for Healthy Futures, Torrens University Australia, Surry Hills, New South Wales, Australia
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Hensler I, Sveen J, Cernvall M, Arnberg FK. Longitudinal follow-up of the randomized controlled trial of access to the trauma-focused self-management app PTSD coach. Internet Interv 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
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13
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Deady M, Collins D, Gayed A, Harvey SB, Bryant R. The development of a smartphone app to enhance post-traumatic stress disorder treatment in high-risk workers. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231155680. [PMID: 36845080 PMCID: PMC9950612 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231155680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is highly prevalent in certain populations. However, evidence indicates that many individuals do not respond to treatment. Digital supports hold promise for increasing service provision and engagement but there is a lack of evidence on blended care options and still less research guiding the development of such tools. This study details the development and overarching framework used to build a smartphone app to support PTSD treatment. Methods The app was developed in line with the Integrate, Design, Assess, and Share (IDEAS) framework for the development of digital health interventions and involved clinicians (n=3), frontline worker clients (n=5) and trauma-exposed frontline workers (n=19). Integrated iterative rounds of testing were conducted via in-depth interviews, surveys, prototype testing and workshops, alongside app and content development. Results Clinicians and frontline workers both expressed a clear preference for the app to augment but not replace face-to-face therapy, with the aim of increasing between-session support, and facilitating homework completion. Content was adapted for app delivery from manualised therapy (trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Prototype versions of the app were well received, with both clinicians and clients reporting the app was easy to use, understandable, appropriate and highly recommendable. System Usability Scale (SUS) scores were on average in the excellent range (82/100). Conclusions This is one of the first studies to document the development of a blended care app designed specifically to augment clinical care for PTSD, and the first within a frontline worker population. Through a systematic framework with active end user consultation, a highly usable app was built to undergo subsequent evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Deady
- Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales,
Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Mark Deady, Black Dog Institute, Faculty of
Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Hospital Rd, Sydney, NSW
2031 Australia.
| | - Daniel Collins
- Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales,
Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aimee Gayed
- Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales,
Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Samuel B Harvey
- Black Dog Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales,
Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Richard Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South
Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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14
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Metcalf O, Gibson K, Fredrickson J, Finlayson-Short L, Varker T, O'Donnell M. Design, development and randomised controlled trial protocol of a smartphone-delivered version of 'SOLAR' for emergency service workers to manage stress and trauma. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e062710. [PMID: 36764725 PMCID: PMC9923250 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED IntroductionEmergency service workers are routinely exposed to stress and trauma, and there is a need to address mental health symptoms early to prevent chronic impairment and/or psychiatric disorder. Digital health innovations mean that face-to-face psychosocial interventions can now be delivered remotely, which is particularly appealing to populations who have strong preferences for digital delivery, such as emergency service workers. This two phase study aims to first adapt the Skills fOr Life Adjustment and Resilience (SOLAR) programme into a smartphone application ('app'), and then evaluate the effectiveness of this new app. METHODS AND ANALYSES First, focus groups and codesign activities with mental health professionals and emergency service workers will be conducted to develop and test the prototype smartphone version of SOLAR (ie, SOLAR-m). Second, a multicentre randomised controlled trial will investigate the effectiveness of the new app, compared with an active control app, in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression (primary outcome), as well as other indicators of mental health and work performance. Firefighters from one of the largest urban fire and rescue services in Australia who are currently experiencing distress will be invited to participate. After screening and baseline assessment, 240 will be randomised to receive either SOLAR-m or the control app for 5 weeks, with measurements pre, post and 3-month follow-up. Analyses will be conducted within an intention-to-treat framework using mixed modelling. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The current trial has received ethics approval from the University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee (2021-20632-18826-5). Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conferences, with a focus on how to expand the new app to other trauma-affected populations if proven effective. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ANZCTRN12621001141831.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Metcalf
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kari Gibson
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julia Fredrickson
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Laura Finlayson-Short
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tracey Varker
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Meaghan O'Donnell
- Phoenix Australia, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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15
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McLean C, Davis CA, Miller M, Ruzek J, Neri E. The Effects of an Exposure-Based Mobile App on Symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Veterans: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e38951. [PMID: 36331540 PMCID: PMC9675013 DOI: 10.2196/38951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Barriers to accessing in-person care can prevent veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from receiving trauma-focused treatments such as exposure therapy. Mobile apps may help to address unmet need for services by offering tools for users to self-manage PTSD symptoms. Renew is a mobile mental health app that focuses on exposure therapy and incorporates a social support function designed to promote user engagement. OBJECTIVE We examined the preliminary efficacy of Renew with and without support from a research staff member compared with waitlist among 93 veterans with clinically significant PTSD symptoms. We also examined the impact of study staff support on participant engagement with the app. METHODS In a pilot randomized controlled trial, we compared Renew with and without support from a research staff member (active use condition) with waitlist (delayed use condition) over 6 weeks. Participants were recruited through online advertisements. The Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5) was used to measure PTSD symptoms at pre, post, and 6-week follow-up. Usage data were collected to assess engagement with Renew. RESULTS Results indicated a small effect size (d=-0.39) favoring those in the active use conditions relative to the delayed use condition, but the between-group difference was not significant (P=.29). There were no differences on indices of app engagement between the 2 active use conditions. Exploratory analyses found that the number of support persons users added to the app, but not the number of support messages received, was positively correlated with app engagement. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest Renew may hold promise as a self-management tool to reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans. Involving friends and family in mobile mental health apps may help bolster engagement with no additional cost to public health systems. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04155736; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04155736.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen McLean
- National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Dissemination and Training Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Menlo Park, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - C Adrian Davis
- National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Dissemination and Training Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Madeleine Miller
- National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Dissemination and Training Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Josef Ruzek
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
| | - Eric Neri
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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16
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Messner EM, Sturm N, Terhorst Y, Sander LB, Schultchen D, Portenhauser A, Schmidbaur S, Stach M, Klaus J, Baumeister H, Walter BM. Mobile Apps for the Management of Gastrointestinal Diseases: Systematic Search and Evaluation Within App Stores. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e37497. [PMID: 36197717 PMCID: PMC9582913 DOI: 10.2196/37497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gastrointestinal diseases are associated with substantial cost in health care. In times of the COVID-19 pandemic and further digitalization of gastrointestinal tract health care, mobile health apps could complement routine health care. Many gastrointestinal health care apps are already available in the app stores, but the quality, data protection, and reliability often remain unclear. Objective This systematic review aimed to evaluate the quality characteristics as well as the privacy and security measures of mobile health apps for the management of gastrointestinal diseases. Methods A web crawler systematically searched for mobile health apps with a focus on gastrointestinal diseases. The identified mobile health apps were evaluated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). Furthermore, app characteristics, data protection, and security measures were collected. Classic user star rating was correlated with overall mobile health app quality. Results The overall quality of the mobile health apps (N=109) was moderate (mean 2.90, SD 0.52; on a scale ranging from 1 to 5). The quality of the subscales ranged from low (mean 1.89, SD 0.66) to good (mean 4.08, SD 0.57). The security of data transfer was ensured only by 11 (10.1%) mobile health apps. None of the mobile health apps had an evidence base. The user star rating did not correlate with the MARS overall score or with the individual subdimensions of the MARS (all P>.05). Conclusions Mobile health apps might have a positive impact on diagnosis, therapy, and patient guidance in gastroenterology in the future. We conclude that, to date, data security and proof of efficacy are not yet given in currently available mobile health apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Niklas Sturm
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.,Department of Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg at Breisgau, Germany
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexandra Portenhauser
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Simone Schmidbaur
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael Stach
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jochen Klaus
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Benjamin M Walter
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Mendi O, Kiymac Sari M, Stoyanov S, Mendi B. Development and validation of the Turkish version of the Mobile App Rating Scale - MARS-TR. Int J Med Inform 2022; 166:104843. [PMID: 35964383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2022.104843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of mobile health apps (MHAs) is growing rapidly. MHAs have great potential to improve health and health care. However, the quality of available MHAs remains unknown due to the lack of quality assessment regulations and standards for MHAs. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) is the most widely used instrument to assess the quality of MHAs, and available in English, Italian, Spanish, German, French, Arabic and Japanese. However, the scale is currently not available in the Turkish language. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to cross-culturally adapt the MARS into Turkish and evaluate the validity and reliability of the scale. METHODS The MARS was translated and adapted into Turkish according to the international guidelines. A total of 52 pregnancy tracking apps were evaluated by two independent raters. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha), inter-rater reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient [ICC]), convergent validity and concurrent validity were explored. Regarding convergent validity, MARS-TR scores were compared with the ENLIGHT scale. RESULTS The MARS-TR was highly aligned with the original MARS. The MARS-TR showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.95 for both raters) and excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.94; SEM = 0.02), with a smallest detectable change (95 % confidence level) of 0.05 points for the total score. Cronbach's alphas for the subscales ranged from 0.76 to 0.94 for the two raters. Correlations between the MARS-TR and ENLIGHT demonstrated adequate convergent validity (P < 0.05). No ceiling or floor effects were observed. CONCLUSION The results provide evidence that the Turkish version of MARS is a valid and reliable tool for researchers and experts to assess the quality of MHAs in Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onur Mendi
- Faculty of Medicine, Demiroglu Bilim University, Buyukdere Cad. No:120 Esentepe / Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Merve Kiymac Sari
- Florence Nightingale Hospital School of Nursing, Demiroglu Bilim University, Buyukdere Cad. Yazarlar Sok. No:27 Esentepe / Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Stoyan Stoyanov
- School of Design & School of Psychology, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), 5 Cordova Street, Milton, QLD 4064, Australia.
| | - Basak Mendi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Demiroglu Bilim University, Buyukdere Cad. Yazarlar Sok. No:27 Esentepe / Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey.
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18
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Steubl LS, Reimann J, Simon L, Terhorst Y, Stach M, Baumeister H, Sander LB, Messner EM. A systematic quality rating of available mobile health apps for borderline personality disorder. Borderline Personal Disord Emot Dysregul 2022; 9:17. [PMID: 35642024 DOI: 10.1186/s40479-022-00186-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health apps (MHAs) may offer a mean to overcome treatment barriers in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) mental health care. However, MHAs for BPD on the market lack transparency and quality assessment. METHODS European app stores were systematically searched, and two independent trained reviewers extracted relevant MHAs. Employed methods and privacy and security details documentation of included MHAs were extracted. MHAs were then assessed and rated using the German version of the standardized Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS-G). Mean values and standard deviations of all subscales (engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information, and therapeutic gain) and correlations with user ratings were calculated. RESULTS Of 2977 identified MHAs, 16 were included, showing average quality across the four main subscales (M = 3.25, SD = 0.68). Shortcomings were observed with regard to engagement (M = 2.87, SD = 0.99), potential therapeutic gain (M = 2.67, SD = 0.83), existing evidence base (25.0% of included MHAs were tested empirically), and documented privacy and security details. No significant correlations were found between user ratings and the overall total score of the MARS-G or MARS-G main subscales. CONCLUSIONS Available MHAs for BPD vary in quality and evidence on their efficacy, effectiveness, and possible adverse events is scarce. More substantial efforts to ensure the quality of MHAs available for patients and a focus on transparency, particularly regarding privacy and security documentation, are necessary.
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Geirhos A, Stephan M, Wehrle M, Mack C, Messner EM, Schmitt A, Baumeister H, Terhorst Y, Sander LB. Standardized evaluation of the quality and persuasiveness of mobile health applications for diabetes management. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3639. [PMID: 35256661 PMCID: PMC8901695 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07544-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluates diabetes self-management mobile health applications available from European app stores with respect to quality, concordance with recommended self-management tasks and implementation of persuasive system design principles. The European Play Store and Apple App Store were systematically searched and relevant apps were tested. Two raters independently assessed app quality using the Mobile Application Rating Scale and conducted a content analysis of provided persuasive system design principles and self-management tasks. A total of 2,269 mobile health applications were identified and 120 could be included in the evaluation. The overall quality was rated as moderate M = 3.20 (SD = 0.39, min = 2.31, max = 4.62), with shortcomings in the subcategories of engagement (M = 2.80, SD = 0.67) and information quality (M = 2.26, SD = 0.48). Scientific evidence is available for 8% of the apps. The reviewed apps implemented a median of three persuasive system design principles (range 0-15) and targeted a median of 4.5 (range 1-8) self-management tasks, however, with a lack of information about psychosocial coping strategies. Most available diabetes self-management apps lack a scientific evidence base. Persuasive system design features are underrepresented and may form a promising tool to improve app quality. Furthermore, the interaction of physical and behavioral health should be improved in existing diabetes self-management mobile health applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Geirhos
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - M Stephan
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - M Wehrle
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - C Mack
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - E-M Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - A Schmitt
- Research Institute of the Diabetes Academy Mergentheim, Diabetes Center Mergentheim (DZM), Bad Mergentheim, Germany
| | - H Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Y Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Engineering, Computer Science and Psychology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - L B Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.
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Hennemann S, Kuhn S, Witthöft M, Jungmann SM. Diagnostic Performance of an App-Based Symptom Checker in Mental Disorders: Comparative Study in Psychotherapy Outpatients. JMIR Ment Health 2022; 9:e32832. [PMID: 35099395 PMCID: PMC8844983 DOI: 10.2196/32832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies have become a common starting point for health-related information-seeking. Web- or app-based symptom checkers aim to provide rapid and accurate condition suggestions and triage advice but have not yet been investigated for mental disorders in routine health care settings. OBJECTIVE This study aims to test the diagnostic performance of a widely available symptom checker in the context of formal diagnosis of mental disorders when compared with therapists' diagnoses based on structured clinical interviews. METHODS Adult patients from an outpatient psychotherapy clinic used the app-based symptom checker Ada-check your health (ADA; Ada Health GmbH) at intake. Accuracy was assessed as the agreement of the first and 1 of the first 5 condition suggestions of ADA with at least one of the interview-based therapist diagnoses. In addition, sensitivity, specificity, and interrater reliabilities (Gwet first-order agreement coefficient [AC1]) were calculated for the 3 most prevalent disorder categories. Self-reported usability (assessed using the System Usability Scale) and acceptance of ADA (assessed using an adapted feedback questionnaire) were evaluated. RESULTS A total of 49 patients (30/49, 61% women; mean age 33.41, SD 12.79 years) were included in this study. Across all patients, the interview-based diagnoses matched ADA's first condition suggestion in 51% (25/49; 95% CI 37.5-64.4) of cases and 1 of the first 5 condition suggestions in 69% (34/49; 95% CI 55.4-80.6) of cases. Within the main disorder categories, the accuracy of ADA's first condition suggestion was 0.82 for somatoform and associated disorders, 0.65 for affective disorders, and 0.53 for anxiety disorders. Interrater reliabilities ranged from low (AC1=0.15 for anxiety disorders) to good (AC1=0.76 for somatoform and associated disorders). The usability of ADA was rated as high in the System Usability Scale (mean 81.51, SD 11.82, score range 0-100). Approximately 71% (35/49) of participants would have preferred a face-to-face over an app-based diagnostic. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings suggest that a widely available symptom checker used in the formal diagnosis of mental disorders could provide clinicians with a list of condition suggestions with moderate-to-good accuracy. However, diagnostic performance was heterogeneous between disorder categories and included low interrater reliability. Although symptom checkers have some potential to complement the diagnostic process as a screening tool, the diagnostic performance should be tested in larger samples and in comparison with further diagnostic instruments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severin Hennemann
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sebastian Kuhn
- Department of Digital Medicine, Medical Faculty OWL, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Michael Witthöft
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stefanie M Jungmann
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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21
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Gibney RN, Blackman C, Gauthier M, Fan E, Fowler R, Johnston C, Jeremy Katulka R, Marcushamer S, Menon K, Miller T, Paunovic B, Tanguay T. COVID-19 pandemic: the impact on Canada’s intensive care units. Facets (Ott) 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2022-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the precarious demand-capacity balance in Canadian hospitals, including critical care where there is an urgent need for trained health care professionals to dramatically increase ICU capacity. The impact of the pandemic on ICUs varied significantly across the country with provinces that implemented public health measures later and relaxed them sooner being impacted more severely. Pediatric ICUs routinely admitted adult patients. Non-ICU areas were converted to ICUs and staff were redeployed from other essential service areas. Faced with a lack of critical care capacity, triage plans for ICU admission were developed and nearly implemented in some provinces. Twenty eight percent of patients in Canadian ICUs who required mechanical ventilation died. Surviving patients have required prolonged ICU admission, hospitalization and extensive ongoing rehabilitation. Family members of patients were not permitted to visit, resulting in additional psychological stresses to patients, families, and healthcare teams. ICU professionals also experienced extreme psychological stresses from caring for such large numbers of critically ill patients, often in sub-standard conditions. This resulted in large numbers of health workers leaving their professions. This pandemic is not yet over, and it is likely that new pandemics will follow. A review and recommendations for the future are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- R.T. Noel Gibney
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Cynthia Blackman
- Dr. Cynthia Blackman and Associates, Edmonton, AB M5R 3R8, Canada
| | - Melanie Gauthier
- Faculty of Nursing, McGill University, Montréal, QC Canada
- President, Canadian Association of Critical Care Nurses, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Eddy Fan
- Interdisciplinary Division of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University Health Network, Toronto, ON M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Robert Fowler
- Interdisciplinary Division of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Curtis Johnston
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - R. Jeremy Katulka
- Department of Medicine, Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada
| | - Samuel Marcushamer
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Kusum Menon
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
- Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Tracey Miller
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Columbian Hospital, New Westminster, BC V3L 3W7, Canada
| | - Bojan Paunovic
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
- President, Canadian Critical Care Society, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | - Teddie Tanguay
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
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22
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Abstract
UNLABELLED A recent scandal in the Netherlands painfully underscored that sexual harassment and abuse are unfortunately still happening around the world, even after decades of advocacy on this issue and five years of #MeToo. To make progress in prevention and treatment we argue that we should address sexual violence from a public health perspective. Fruthermore, looking back on the past year, the COVID-19 pandemic was the dominant and potentially traumatic stressor affecting large populations around the world. Another big topic was that of the impact of climate change, we are only beginning to realize its impact on stress across the globe. The European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT), with its increasing global readership and scientific and social impact, is focusing on the traumatic stress aspects of these and many other events. Relatedly, neurobiological aspects are an important and growing focus of the journal in that they help us better understand the mechanisms behind the development of trauma-related disorders and their treatment. In this editorial, we present recent trends, new Open Science developments, journal metrics, the plans and themes for next year and the ESTSS EJPT award winners for best paper of 2021. HIGHLIGHTS Next years' research focus should be on sexual violence from a public health lens, climate change, and neurobiologal aspects of trauma-related disorders. The European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) calls or papers on these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Olff
- Department of Psychiatry, Amsterdam Neuroscience & Public Health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
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23
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Martín-Martín J, Muro-Culebras A, Roldán-Jiménez C, Escriche-Escuder A, De-Torres I, González-Sánchez M, Ruiz-Muñoz M, Mayoral-Cleries F, Biró A, Tang W, Nikolova B, Salvatore A, Cuesta-Vargas A. Evaluation of Android and Apple Store Depression Applications Based on Mobile Application Rating Scale. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:12505. [PMID: 34886232 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
There are a large number of mobile applications that allow the monitoring of health status. The quality of the applications is only evaluated by users and not by standard criteria. This study aimed to examine depression-related applications in major mobile application stores and to analyze them using the rating scale tool Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). A search of digital applications for the control of symptoms and behavioral changes in depression was carried out in the two reference mobile operating systems, Apple (App Store) and Android (Play Store), by means of two reviewers with a blind methodology between September and October 2019 in stores from Spain and the United Kingdom. Eighteen applications from the Android Play Store and twelve from the App Store were included in this study. The quality of the applications was evaluated using the MARS scale from 1 (inadequate) to 5 (excellent). The average score of the applications based on the MARS was 3.67 ± 0.53. The sections with the highest scores were “Functionality” (4.51) and “Esthetics” (3.98) and the lowest “Application Subjective quality” (2.86) and “Information” (3.08). Mobile Health applications for the treatment of depression have great potential to influence the health status of users; however, applications come to the digital market without health control.
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24
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Mack C, Terhorst Y, Stephan M, Baumeister H, Stach M, Messner EM, Bengel J, Sander LB. "Help in a Heartbeat?": A Systematic Evaluation of Mobile Health Applications (Apps) for Coronary Heart Disease. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:10323. [PMID: 34639623 PMCID: PMC8508430 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
For patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) lifestyle changes and disease management are key aspects of treatment that could be facilitated by mobile health applications (MHA). However, the quality and functions of MHA for CHD are largely unknown, since reviews are missing. Therefore, this study assessed the general characteristics, quality, and functions of MHA for CHD. Hereby, the Google Play and Apple App stores were systematically searched using a web crawler. The general characteristics and quality of MHA were rated with the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) by two independent raters. From 3078 identified MHA, 38 met the pre-defined criteria and were included in the assessment. Most MHA were affiliated with commercial companies (52.63%) and lacked an evidence-base. An overall average quality of MHA (M = 3.38, SD = 0.36) was found with deficiencies in information quality and engagement. The most common functions were provision of information and CHD risk score calculators. Further functions included reminders (e.g., for medication or exercises), feedback, and health management support. Most MHA (81.58%) had one or two functions and MHA with more features had mostly higher MARS ratings. In summary, this review demonstrated that a number of potentially helpful MHA for patients with CHD are commercially available. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence documenting their usability and clinical potential. Since it is difficult for patients and healthcare providers to find suitable and high-quality MHA, databases with professionally reviewed MHA are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mack
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, 89040 Ulm, Germany; (Y.T.); (H.B.); (E.-M.M.)
| | - Mirjam Stephan
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, 89040 Ulm, Germany; (Y.T.); (H.B.); (E.-M.M.)
| | - Michael Stach
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, Ulm University, 89040 Ulm, Germany;
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, 89040 Ulm, Germany; (Y.T.); (H.B.); (E.-M.M.)
| | - Jürgen Bengel
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
| | - Lasse B. Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg, Germany; (C.M.); (M.S.); (J.B.)
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25
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Domhardt M, Messner EM, Eder AS, Engler S, Sander LB, Baumeister H, Terhorst Y. Mobile-based interventions for common mental disorders in youth: a systematic evaluation of pediatric health apps. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2021; 15:49. [PMID: 34517896 PMCID: PMC8438844 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-021-00401-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The access to empirically-supported treatments for common mental disorders in children and adolescents is often limited. Mental health apps might extend service supplies, as they are deemed to be cost-efficient, scalable and appealing for youth. However, little is known about the quality of available apps. Therefore, we aimed to systematically evaluate current mobile-based interventions for pediatric anxiety, depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS Systematic searches were conducted in Google Play Store and Apple App Store to identify relevant apps. To be eligible for inclusion, apps needed to be: (1) designed to target either anxiety, depression or PTSD in youth (0-18 years); (2) developed for children, adolescents or caregivers; (3) provided in English or German; (4) operative after download. The quality of eligible apps was assessed with two standardized rating systems (i.e., Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS) and ENLIGHT) independently by two reviewers. RESULTS Overall, the searches revealed 3806 apps, with 15 mental health apps (0.39%) fulfilling our inclusion criteria. The mean overall scores suggested a moderate app quality (MARS: M = 3.59, SD = 0.50; ENLIGHT: M = 3.22, SD = 0.73). Moreover, only one app was evaluated in an RCT. The correlation of both rating scales was high (r = .936; p < .001), whereas no significant correlations were found between rating scales and user ratings (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS Our results point to a rather poor overall app quality, and indicate an absence of scientific-driven development and lack of methodologically sound evaluation of apps. Thus, future high-quality research is required, both in terms of theoretically informed intervention development and assessment of mental health apps in RCTs. Furthermore, institutionalized best-practices that provide central information on different aspects of apps (e.g., effectiveness, safety, and data security) for patients, caregivers, stakeholders and mental health professionals are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Domhardt
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Anna-Sophia Eder
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sophie Engler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Engelberger Str. 41, 79106, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
- Department of Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, 89069, Ulm, Germany.
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26
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Wirz C, Boettcher J, Knaevelsrud C, Heeke C. Sechs Jahre nach der „Flüchtlingskrise“ – Welche digitalen Interventionen stehen Geflüchteten mit psychischen Störungen zur Verfügung? Psychotherapeut 2021; 66:424-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s00278-021-00534-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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27
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Sander LB, Lemor ML, Van der Sloot RJA, De Jaegere E, Büscher R, Messner EM, Baumeister H, Terhorst Y. A Systematic Evaluation of Mobile Health Applications for the Prevention of Suicidal Behavior or Non-suicidal Self-injury. Front Digit Health 2021; 3:689692. [PMID: 34713162 PMCID: PMC8521855 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2021.689692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
People with suicidal ideation and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) behavior face numerous barriers to help-seeking, which worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mobile health applications (MHA) are discussed as one solution to improve healthcare. However, the commercial app markets are growing unregulated and rapidly, leading to an inscrutable market. This study evaluates the quality, features, functions, and prevention strategies of MHA for people with suicidal ideation and NSSI. An automatic search engine identified MHA for suicidal behavior and NSSI in the European commercial app stores. MHA quality and general characteristics were assessed using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). MHA of high quality (top 25%) were examined in detail and checked for consistency with established suicide prevention strategies. Of 10,274 identified apps, 179 MHA met the predefined inclusion criteria. Average MHA quality was moderate (M = 3.56, SD = 0.40). Most MHA provided emergency contact, but lacked security features. High-quality MHA were broadly consistent with the best-practice guidelines. The search revealed apps containing potentially harmful and triggering content, and no randomized controlled trial of any included MHA was found. Despite a large heterogeneity in the quality of MHA, high-quality MHA for suicidal behavior and NSSI are available in European commercial app stores. However, a lack of a scientific evidence base poses potential threats to users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse B. Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Lemor
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Racine J. A. Van der Sloot
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eva De Jaegere
- Department of Head and Skin, Flemish Centre of Expertise in Suicide Prevention, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Rebekka Büscher
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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28
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Davis SH, Winer JP, Gillespie SC, Mulder LA. The Refugee and Immigrant Core Stressors Toolkit (RICST): Understanding the Multifaceted Needs of Refugee and Immigrant Youth and Families Through a Four Core Stressors Framework. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 6:620-630. [PMID: 34258385 PMCID: PMC8267510 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-021-00218-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Research indicates that refugee and immigrant youth commonly face four core stressors during resettlement in a new country and culture: trauma, acculturative stress, resettlement stress, and isolation. This Four Core Stressors framework can be used to educate providers about these populations’ unique needs and support assessment of relevant socioecological factors influencing health. To facilitate education, training, and dissemination of this framework and complement existing provider resources, we developed the Refugee & Immigrant Core Stressors Toolkit (RICST), a free, web-based toolkit that provides an overview of the Four Core Stressors framework, assessment questions across the four domains, scaffolding to identify needs and points of triage, and recommended interventions. Public hosting of the RICST via REDCap began in March 2018. In addition to the toolkit, users are prompted to provide location of service delivery, intended purpose of use, and interface feedback. Between March 2018 and October 2020, the RICST was used over 2300 times across 6 continents. Most providers used the toolkit to learn more about the needs of refugee and immigrant youth in general, and several noted that it is a valuable educational tool for staff unfamiliar with these populations. Open-ended qualitative feedback indicated high usability. Amidst historically high levels of forced displacement, tools to support provider effectiveness in working with these populations are increasingly needed. The RICST shows promise as an educational, assessment, and treatment-planning tool for providers working with refugee and immigrant families globally. Future directions include location-specific resource mapping and culture-specific intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seetha H. Davis
- Trauma and Community Resilience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Jeffrey P. Winer
- Trauma and Community Resilience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Sarah C. Gillespie
- Institute of Child Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN USA
| | - Luna A. Mulder
- Trauma and Community Resilience Center, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
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29
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Holfelder M, Mulansky L, Schlee W, Baumeister H, Schobel J, Greger H, Hoff A, Pryss R. Medical Device Regulation Efforts for mHealth Apps during the COVID-19 Pandemic—An Experience Report of Corona Check and Corona Health. J 2021; 4:206-22. [DOI: 10.3390/j4020017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Within the healthcare environment, mobile health (mHealth) applications (apps) are becoming more and more important. The number of new mHealth apps has risen steadily in the last years. Especially the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an enormous amount of app releases. In most countries, mHealth applications have to be compliant with several regulatory aspects to be declared a “medical app”. However, the latest applicable medical device regulation (MDR) does not provide more details on the requirements for mHealth applications. When developing a medical app, it is essential that all contributors in an interdisciplinary team—especially software engineers—are aware of the specific regulatory requirements beforehand. The development process, however, should not be stalled due to integration of the MDR. Therefore, a developing framework that includes these aspects is required to facilitate a reliable and quick development process. The paper at hand introduces the creation of such a framework on the basis of the Corona Health and Corona Check apps. The relevant regulatory guidelines are listed and summarized as a guidance for medical app developments during the pandemic and beyond. In particular, the important stages and challenges faced that emerged during the entire development process are highlighted.
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30
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Paganini S, Terhorst Y, Sander LB, Catic S, Balci S, Küchler AM, Schultchen D, Plaumann K, Sturmbauer S, Krämer LV, Lin J, Wurst R, Pryss R, Baumeister H, Messner EM. Quality of Physical Activity Apps: Systematic Search in App Stores and Content Analysis. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e22587. [PMID: 34106073 PMCID: PMC8262667 DOI: 10.2196/22587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Physical inactivity is a major contributor to the development and persistence of chronic diseases. Mobile health apps that foster physical activity have the potential to assist in behavior change. However, the quality of the mobile health apps available in app stores is hard to assess for making informed decisions by end users and health care providers. Objective This study aimed at systematically reviewing and analyzing the content and quality of physical activity apps available in the 2 major app stores (Google Play and App Store) by using the German version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS-G). Moreover, the privacy and security measures were assessed. Methods A web crawler was used to systematically search for apps promoting physical activity in the Google Play store and App Store. Two independent raters used the MARS-G to assess app quality. Further, app characteristics, content and functions, and privacy and security measures were assessed. The correlation between user star ratings and MARS was calculated. Exploratory regression analysis was conducted to determine relevant predictors for the overall quality of physical activity apps. Results Of the 2231 identified apps, 312 met the inclusion criteria. The results indicated that the overall quality was moderate (mean 3.60 [SD 0.59], range 1-4.75). The scores of the subscales, that is, information (mean 3.24 [SD 0.56], range 1.17-4.4), engagement (mean 3.19 [SD 0.82], range 1.2-5), aesthetics (mean 3.65 [SD 0.79], range 1-5), and functionality (mean 4.35 [SD 0.58], range 1.88-5) were obtained. An efficacy study could not be identified for any of the included apps. The features of data security and privacy were mainly not applied. Average user ratings showed significant small correlations with the MARS ratings (r=0.22, 95% CI 0.08-0.35; P<.001). The amount of content and number of functions were predictive of the overall quality of these physical activity apps, whereas app store and price were not. Conclusions Apps for physical activity showed a broad range of quality ratings, with moderate overall quality ratings. Given the present privacy, security, and evidence concerns inherent to most rated apps, their medical use is questionable. There is a need for open-source databases of expert quality ratings to foster informed health care decisions by users and health care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Paganini
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse Bosse Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Selma Catic
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sümeyye Balci
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ann-Marie Küchler
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Katrin Plaumann
- Institute of Media Informatics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sarah Sturmbauer
- Chair of Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Lena Violetta Krämer
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jiaxi Lin
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ramona Wurst
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Pryss
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and Biometry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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Kahnbach L, Lehr D, Brandenburger J, Mallwitz T, Jent S, Hannibal S, Funk B, Janneck M. Quality and Adoption of COVID-19 Tracing Apps and Recommendations for Development: Systematic Interdisciplinary Review of European Apps. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e27989. [PMID: 33890867 PMCID: PMC8174558 DOI: 10.2196/27989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Simulation study results suggest that COVID-19 contact tracing apps have the potential to achieve pandemic control. Concordantly, high app adoption rates were a stipulated prerequisite for success. Early studies on potential adoption were encouraging. Several factors predicting adoption rates were investigated, especially pertaining to user characteristics. Since then, several countries have released COVID-19 contact tracing apps. OBJECTIVE This study's primary aim is to investigate the quality characteristics of national European COVID-19 contact tracing apps, thereby shifting attention from user to app characteristics. The secondary aim is to investigate associations between app quality and adoption. Finally, app features contributing to higher app quality were identified. METHODS Eligible COVID-19 contact tracing apps were those released by national health authorities of European Union member states, former member states, and countries of the European Free Trade Association, all countries with comparable legal standards concerning personal data protection and app use voluntariness. The Mobile App Rating Scale was used to assess app quality. An interdisciplinary team, consisting of two health and two human-computer interaction scientists, independently conducted Mobile App Rating Scale ratings. To investigate associations between app quality and adoption rates and infection rates, Bayesian linear regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS We discovered 21 national COVID-19 contact tracing apps, all demonstrating high quality overall and high-level functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. However, the average app adoption rate of 22.9% (SD 12.5%) was below the level recommended by simulation studies. Lower levels of engagement-oriented app design were detected, with substantial variations between apps. By regression analyses, the best-case adoption rate was calculated by assuming apps achieve the highest ratings. The mean best-case adoption rates for engagement and overall app quality were 39.5% and 43.6%, respectively. Higher adoption rates were associated with lower cumulative infection rates. Overall, we identified 5 feature categories (symptom assessment and monitoring, regularly updated information, individualization, tracing, and communication) and 14 individual features that contributed to higher app quality. These 14 features were a symptom checker, a symptom diary, statistics on COVID-19, app use, public health instructions and restrictions, information of burden on health care system, assigning personal data, regional updates, control over tracing activity, contact diary, venue check-in, chats, helplines, and app-sharing capacity. CONCLUSIONS European national health authorities have generally released high quality COVID-19 contact tracing apps, with regard to functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. However, the app's engagement-oriented design generally was of lower quality, even though regression analyses results identify engagement as a promising optimization target to increase adoption rates. Associations between higher app adoption and lower infection rates are consistent with simulation study results, albeit acknowledging that app use might be part of a broader set of protective attitudes and behaviors for self and others. Various features were identified that could guide further engagement-enhancing app development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Kahnbach
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
- Competencies for Digitally-Enhanced Individualized Practice Project, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Lehr
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | | | - Tim Mallwitz
- Institute for Interactive Systems, Technische Hochschule Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sophie Jent
- Department for Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Technische Hochschule Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Sandy Hannibal
- Department of Health Psychology and Applied Biological Psychology, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Burkhardt Funk
- Institute of Information Systems, Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Monique Janneck
- Institute for Interactive Systems, Technische Hochschule Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
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Thakur A, Choudhary D, Kumar B, Chaudhary A. A review on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): "Symptoms, Therapies and Recent Case Studies". Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 15:502-516. [PMID: 34036925 DOI: 10.2174/1874467214666210525160944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), previously known as battle fatigue syndrome or shell shock, is a severe mental disturbance condition that is normally triggered by the experience of some frightening/scary events or trauma where a person undergoes some serious physical or mental harm or threatened. PTSD is a long-life effect of the continuous occurrence of traumatic conditions which, leading the production of feelings of helplessness, intense fear, and horror in the person. There are various examples of events that can cause PTSD, such as physical, mental, or sexual assault at home or working place by others, unexpected death of a loved one, an accidental event, war, or some kind of natural disaster. Treatment of PTSD includes the removal or reduction of these emotional feelings or symptoms with the aim to improve the daily life functioning of a person. Problems which are needed to be considered in case of PTSD like ongoing trauma, abusive or bad relationships. Various drugs which are used for the treatment of PTSD include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (citalopram, fluvoxamine, fluoxetine, etc.); tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline and isocarboxazid); mood stabilizers (Divalproex and lamotrigine); atypical antipsychotics (aripiprazole and quetiapine), etc. In this review, we have covered the different risk factors, case studies related to various treatment options with different age group peoples in PTSD and their effects on them. We have also covered the symptoms and associated disorders which can play a key role in the development of PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing Street, Taipei 11031. Taiwan
| | - Diksha Choudhary
- Department of School of Pharmacy, Abhilashi University, Chail Chowk, tehsil Chachyot, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175028, India
| | - Bhupinder Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College of Pharmacy, Ghal Kalan, G.T Road, Moga, Punjab, India
| | - Amit Chaudhary
- Department of School of Pharmacy, Abhilashi University, Chail Chowk, tehsil Chachyot, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh 175028, India
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Terhorst Y, Messner EM, Schultchen D, Paganini S, Portenhauser A, Eder AS, Bauer M, Papenhoff M, Baumeister H, Sander LB. Systematic evaluation of content and quality of English and German pain apps in European app stores. Internet Interv 2021; 24:100376. [PMID: 33718002 PMCID: PMC7933737 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2021.100376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Pain spans a broad spectrum of diseases and types that are highly prevalent and cause substantial disease burden for individuals and society. Up to 40% of people affected by pain receive no or inadequate treatment. Providing a scalable, time-, and location-independent way for pain diagnostic, management, prevention and treatment mobile health applications (MHA) might be a promising approach to improve health care for pain. However, the commercial app market is rapidly growing and unregulated, resulting in an opaque market. Studies investigating the content, privacy and security features, quality and scientific evidence of the available apps are highly needed, to guide patients and clinicians to high quality MHA.Contributing to this challenge, the present study investigates the content, quality, and privacy features of pain apps available in the European app stores. METHODS An automated search engine was used to identify pain apps in the European Google Play and Apple App store. Pain apps were screened and checked for systematic criteria (pain-relatedness, functionality, availability, independent usability, English or German). Content, quality and privacy features were assessed by two independent reviewers using the German Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS-G). The MARS-G assesses quality on four objectives (engagement, functionality, aesthetics, information quality) and two subjective scales (perceived impact, subjective quality). RESULTS Out of 1034 identified pain apps 218 were included. Pain apps covered eight different pain types. Content included basic information, advice, assessment and tracking, and stand-alone interventions. The overall quality of the pain apps was average M = 3.13 (SD = 0.56, min = 1, max = 4.69). The effectiveness of less than 1% of the included pain apps was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial. Major problems with data privacy were present: 59% provided no imprint, 70% had no visible privacy policy. CONCLUSION A multitude of pain apps is available. Most MHA lack scientific evaluation and have serious privacy issues, posing a potential threat to users. Further research on evidence and improvements privacy and security are needed. Overall, the potential of pain apps is not exploited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, 89069 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, 89069 Ulm, Germany
| | - Sarah Paganini
- Department of Sport Psychology, University of Freiburg, Schwarzwaldstraße 175, 79117 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Portenhauser
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Anna-Sophia Eder
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Melanie Bauer
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, 89069 Ulm, Germany
| | - Mike Papenhoff
- Pain Medicine Clinic, BG Klinikum Duisburg, Grossenbaumer Allee 250, D-47249 Duisburg, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Lise-Meitner-Str. 16, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse Bosse Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Engelberger Str. 41, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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Abstract
Unlike high-intensity treatment, in which clients have face-to-face contact with a mental health specialist, clients in low-intensity treatment have limited or no contact with a specialist. Instead, their treatment is usually provided through self-help procedures, which are delivered via (guided) computer programs, books, or “mHealth" apps. Other treatments sometimes considered low-intensity are brief treatments, group therapy, and interventions delivered by nonspecialists. Advantages include effectiveness, accessibility, efficiency, and affordability. Concerns related to safety, engagement, and adherence to self-help programs may be addressed by (asynchronous) therapist guidance. This article describes low-intensity treatments and their relevance for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Hundreds of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have found self-help interventions to be efficacious, with many producing the same level of results as the traditional face-to-face procedure. Guided self-help cognitive behavioral therapy is recommended for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in the guidelines of both the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies. Only three self-help-EMDR RCTs have been conducted. This author advocates for reconceptualizing EMDR group therapy as “guided self-help-EMDR therapy,” because it is a highly manualized, heavily scripted treatment in which the client works independently on their own material. In this respect, it offers an excellent template for the future development of efficacious low-intensity EMDR interventions. Developing safe, easy-to-use, affordable, and readily available low-intensity interventions will make effective EMDR treatment available to many millions of people around the world.
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Rauschenberg C, Schick A, Hirjak D, Seidler A, Paetzold I, Apfelbacher C, Riedel-Heller SG, Reininghaus U. Evidence Synthesis of Digital Interventions to Mitigate the Negative Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Public Mental Health: Rapid Meta-review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e23365. [PMID: 33606657 PMCID: PMC7951054 DOI: 10.2196/23365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating evidence suggests the COVID-19 pandemic has negative effects on public mental health. Digital interventions that have been developed and evaluated in recent years may be used to mitigate the negative consequences of the pandemic. However, evidence-based recommendations on the use of existing telemedicine and internet-based (eHealth) and app-based mobile health (mHealth) interventions are lacking. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the theoretical and empirical base, user perspective, safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of digital interventions related to public mental health provision (ie, mental health promotion, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders) that may help to reduce the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A rapid meta-review was conducted. The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CENTRAL databases were searched on May 11, 2020. Study inclusion criteria were broad and considered systematic reviews and meta-analyses that investigated digital tools for health promotion, prevention, or treatment of mental health conditions and determinants likely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Overall, 815 peer-reviewed systematic reviews and meta-analyses were identified, of which 83 met the inclusion criteria. Our findings suggest that there is good evidence on the usability, safety, acceptance/satisfaction, and effectiveness of eHealth interventions. Evidence on mHealth apps is promising, especially if social components (eg, blended care) and strategies to promote adherence are incorporated. Although most digital interventions focus on the prevention or treatment of mental disorders, there is some evidence on mental health promotion. However, evidence on process quality, cost-effectiveness, and long-term effects is very limited. Conclusions There is evidence that digital interventions are particularly suited to mitigating psychosocial consequences at the population level. In times of physical distancing, quarantine, and restrictions on social contacts, decision makers should develop digital strategies for continued mental health care and invest time and efforts in the development and implementation of mental health promotion and prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rauschenberg
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Anita Schick
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Dusan Hirjak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andreas Seidler
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Isabell Paetzold
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Apfelbacher
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrich Reininghaus
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King´s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Rauschenberg C, Schick A, Goetzl C, Roehr S, Riedel-Heller SG, Koppe G, Durstewitz D, Krumm S, Reininghaus U. Social isolation, mental health, and use of digital interventions in youth during the COVID-19 pandemic: A nationally representative survey. Eur Psychiatry 2021; 64:e20. [PMID: 33686930 PMCID: PMC7985650 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2021.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Public health measures to curb SARS-CoV-2 transmission rates may have negative psychosocial consequences in youth. Digital interventions may help to mitigate these effects. We investigated the associations between social isolation, COVID-19-related cognitive preoccupation, worries, and anxiety, objective social risk indicators, and psychological distress, as well as use of, and attitude toward, mobile health (mHealth) interventions in youth. Methods Data were collected as part of the “Mental Health And Innovation During COVID-19 Survey”—a cross-sectional panel study including a representative sample of individuals aged 16–25 years (N = 666; Mage = 21.3; assessment period: May 5, 2020 to May 16, 2020). Results Overall, 38% of youth met criteria for moderate or severe psychological distress. Social isolation worries and anxiety, and objective risk indicators were associated with psychological distress, with evidence of dose–response relationships for some of these associations. For instance, psychological distress was progressively more likely to occur as levels of social isolation increased (reporting “never” as reference group: “occasionally”: adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 9.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.3–19.1, p < 0.001; “often”: aOR 22.2, CI 9.8–50.2, p < 0.001; “very often”: aOR 42.3, CI 14.1–126.8, p < 0.001). There was evidence that psychological distress, worries, and anxiety were associated with a positive attitude toward using mHealth interventions, whereas psychological distress, worries, and anxiety were associated with actual use. Conclusions Public health measures during pandemics may be associated with poor mental health outcomes in youth. Evidence-based digital interventions may help mitigate the negative psychosocial impact without risk of viral infection given there is an objective need and subjective demand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rauschenberg
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Anita Schick
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Goetzl
- Department of Psychiatry II, University of Ulm and BKH Guenzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Susanne Roehr
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health (ISAP), 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, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Georgia Koppe
- Department of Theoretical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Daniel Durstewitz
- Department of Theoretical Neuroscience, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Silvia Krumm
- Department of Psychiatry II, University of Ulm and BKH Guenzburg, Ulm, Germany
| | - Ulrich Reininghaus
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Portenhauser AA, Terhorst Y, Schultchen D, Sander LB, Denkinger MD, Stach M, Waldherr N, Dallmeier D, Baumeister H, Messner EM. Mobile Apps for Older Adults: Systematic Search and Evaluation Within Online Stores. JMIR Aging 2021; 4:e23313. [PMID: 33605884 PMCID: PMC8081158 DOI: 10.2196/23313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Through the increasingly aging population, the health care system is confronted with various challenges such as expanding health care costs. To manage these challenges, mobile apps may represent a cost-effective and low-threshold approach to support older adults. Objective This systematic review aimed to evaluate the quality, characteristics, as well as privacy and security measures of mobile apps for older adults in the European commercial app stores. Methods In the European Google Play and App Store, a web crawler systematically searched for mobile apps for older adults. The identified mobile apps were evaluated by two independent reviewers using the German version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale. A correlation between the user star rating and overall rating was calculated. An exploratory regression analysis was conducted to determine whether the obligation to pay fees predicted overall quality. Results In total, 83 of 1217 identified mobile apps were included in the analysis. Generally, the mobile apps for older adults were of moderate quality (mean 3.22 [SD 0.68]). Four mobile apps (5%) were evidence-based; 49% (41/83) had no security measures. The user star rating correlated significantly positively with the overall rating (r=.30, P=.01). Obligation to pay fees could not predict overall quality. Conclusions There is an extensive quality range within mobile apps for older adults, indicating deficits in terms of information quality, data protection, and security precautions, as well as a lack of evidence-based approaches. Central databases are needed to identify high-quality mobile apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A Portenhauser
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.,Department of Psychological Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Michael D Denkinger
- Agaplesion Bethesda Clinic, Geriatric Research, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael Stach
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Natalie Waldherr
- Agaplesion Bethesda Clinic, Geriatric Research, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dhayana Dallmeier
- Agaplesion Bethesda Clinic, Geriatric Research, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.,Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapists have been faced with the choice of either abruptly terminating therapy with their clients or moving to working remotely, usually by videoconferencing. This poses particular challenges to therapists who may have never worked online. The standard EMDR protocol can be effectively delivered remotely when therapists are aware of how to make necessary adaptations. Based on clinical and supervision practice, this article describes ways in which EMDR therapists can adapt their ways of working in order to work effectively with clients remotely. This ensures that clients can still benefit from this effective and evidence-based treatment during a global health crisis. It suggests a number of ways in which bilateral stimulation can be achieved remotely, as well as discussing special considerations which arise with online therapeutic work. It considers adaptations which need to be made at each stage of EMDR therapy. It uses case examples from children and adults to illustrate how these adaptations work in real life. The case examples discussed in this article are illustrative of the techniques and adaptations necessary for remote EMDR and therefore reflect composites rather than individuals.
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Röhr S, Jung FU, Pabst A, Grochtdreis T, Dams J, Nagl M, Renner A, Hoffmann R, König HH, Kersting A, Riedel-Heller SG. A Self-Help App for Syrian Refugees With Posttraumatic Stress (Sanadak): Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2021; 9:e24807. [PMID: 33439140 PMCID: PMC7935251 DOI: 10.2196/24807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Syrian refugees residing in Germany often develop posttraumatic stress as a result of the Syrian civil war, their escape, and postmigration stressors. At the same time, there is a lack of adequate treatment options. The smartphone-based app Sanadak was developed to provide cognitive behavioral therapy–based self-help in the Arabic language for Syrian refugees with posttraumatic stress. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the app. Methods In a randomized controlled trial, eligible individuals were randomly allocated to the intervention group (IG; app use) or control group (CG; psychoeducational reading material). Data were collected during structured face-to-face interviews at 3 assessments (preintervention/baseline, postintervention/after 4 weeks, follow-up/after 4 months). Using adjusted mixed-effects linear regression models, changes in posttraumatic stress and secondary outcomes were investigated as intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analysis. Cost-effectiveness was evaluated based on adjusted mean total costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and cost-effectiveness acceptability curves using the net benefit approach. Results Of 170 screened individuals (aged 18 to 65 years), 133 were eligible and randomized to the IG (n=65) and CG (n=68). Although there was a pre-post reduction in posttraumatic stress, ITT showed no significant differences between the IG and CG after 4 weeks (Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale for DSM-5, Diff –0.90, 95% CI –0.24 to 0.47; P=.52) and after 4 months (Diff –0.39, 95% CI –3.24 to 2.46; P=.79). The same was true for PP. Regarding secondary outcomes, ITT indicated a treatment effect for self-stigma: after 4 weeks (Self-Stigma of Mental Illness Scale/SSMIS–stereotype agreement: d=0.86, 95% CI 0.46 to 1.25; stereotype application: d=0.60, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.99) and after 4 months (d=0.52, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.92; d=0.50, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.90), the IG showed significantly lower values in self-stigma than the CG. ITT showed no significant group differences in total costs and QALYs. The probability of cost-effectiveness was 81% for a willingness-to-pay of €0 per additional QALY but decreased with increasing willingness-to-pay. Conclusions Sanadak was not more effective in reducing mild to moderate posttraumatic stress in Syrian refugees than the control condition nor was it likely to be cost-effective. Therefore, Sanadak is not suitable as a standalone treatment. However, as the app usability was very good, no harms detected, and stigma significantly reduced, Sanadak has potential as a bridging aid within a stepped and collaborative care approach. Trial Registration German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00013782; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00013782 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s12888-019-2110-y
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Röhr
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Global Brain Health Institute, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Franziska U Jung
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Pabst
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Grochtdreis
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Judith Dams
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Nagl
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anna Renner
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Rahel Hoffmann
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hans-Helmut König
- Department of Health Economics and Health Services Research, Hamburg Center for Health Economics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anette Kersting
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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He L, Geng Y, Pan Y, Tian J, He X, Deng X, Duan W, Peng H. Study protocol for a network meta-analysis of digital-technology-based psychotherapies for PTSD in adults. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038951. [PMID: 33303442 PMCID: PMC7733188 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies on various types of digital-technology-based psychotherapies (DTPs) have indicated that they are effective for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom relief among adults. The intervention efficacy or effectiveness hierarchy, however, is still not clear. Therefore, we propose to conduct a network meta-analysis to assess the relative effectiveness of various types of DTPs. We aim to establish the differential effectiveness of these therapies in terms of symptom reduction and provide high-quality evidence for treating PTSD. METHODS AND ANALYSES We will search Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE, HealthSTAR, the Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, PubMed, the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, clinical trials (eg, ClinicalTrials.gov) and other academic platforms for relevant studies, mainly in English and Chinese (as we plan to conduct a trial on PTSD patients in Wuhan, China, based on the results of this network meta-analysis), from inception to October 2020. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses investigating the effectiveness of any DTPs for PTSD patients for any controlled condition will be included. The number of intervention sessions and the research duration are unlimited; the effects for different durations will be tested via sensitivity analysis. For this project, the primary measure of outcome will be PTSD symptoms at the end of treatment using raw scores for one widely used PTSD scale, PCL-5. Secondary outcome measures will include (1) dropout rate; (2) effectiveness at longest follow-up, but not more than 12 months and (3) patients' functional recovery ratio (such as the return-to-work ratio or percentage of sick leave). Bayesian network meta-analysis will be conducted for all relative outcome measures. We will perform subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis to see whether the results are influenced by study characteristics. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessments, Development, and Evaluation framework will be adopted to evaluate the quality of evidence contributing to network estimates of the primary outcome. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The researchers of the primary trials already have had ethical approval for the data used in our study. We will present the results of this meta-analysis at academic conferences and publish them in peer-reviewed journals. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42020173253.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longtao He
- Research Institute of Social Development, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yanling Geng
- Department of Social Work, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shanxi, China
| | - Yangu Pan
- Research Institute of Social Development, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinhui Tian
- Evidence-Based Medicine Centre & School of Basic Science, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xinyu He
- School of Social Development, Xihua University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiangshu Deng
- Research Institute of Social Development, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wenjie Duan
- Department of Social Work, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Huamin Peng
- Department of Social Work and Social Policy, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
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Schultchen D, Terhorst Y, Holderied T, Stach M, Messner EM, Baumeister H, Sander LB. Stay Present with Your Phone: A Systematic Review and Standardized Rating of Mindfulness Apps in European App Stores. Int J Behav Med 2020; 28:552-560. [PMID: 33215348 PMCID: PMC8384800 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-020-09944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mindfulness-based interventions show positive effects on physical and mental health. For a better integration of mindfulness techniques in daily life, the use of apps may be promising. However, only a few studies have examined the quality of mindfulness apps using a validated standardized instrument. This review aims to evaluate the content, quality, and privacy features of mindfulness-focused apps from European commercial app stores. METHODS An automated search engine (webcrawler) was used to identify mindfulness-focused apps in the European Apple App- and Google Play store. Content, quality, and privacy features were evaluated by two independent reviewers using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). The MARS assesses the subscales engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information quality. RESULTS Out of 605 identified apps, 192 met the inclusion criteria. The overall quality was moderate (M = 3.66, SD = 0.48). Seven apps were tested in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Most of the apps showed a lack of data security and no privacy policy. The five apps with the highest ratings are from a credible source, include a privacy policy, and are also based on standardized mindfulness and behavior change techniques. CONCLUSIONS The plethora of often low-quality apps in commercial app stores makes it difficult for users to identify a suitable app. Above that, the lack of scientific verification of effectiveness and shortcomings in privacy protection and security poses potential risks. So far, the potential of mindfulness-focused apps is not exploited in commercial app stores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Schultchen
- Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 41, Ulm, Germany.
| | - Yannik Terhorst
- Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany.,Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Tanja Holderied
- Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 41, Ulm, Germany
| | - Michael Stach
- Institute of Databases and Information Systems, Ulm University, James-Franck-Ring, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 47, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Institute of Psychology, Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Albert-Ludwigs-University of Freiburg, Engelbersger Str. 41, 79085, Freiburg, Germany
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Terhorst Y, Philippi P, Sander LB, Schultchen D, Paganini S, Bardus M, Santo K, Knitza J, Machado GC, Schoeppe S, Bauereiß N, Portenhauser A, Domhardt M, Walter B, Krusche M, Baumeister H, Messner EM. Validation of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241480. [PMID: 33137123 PMCID: PMC7605637 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health apps (MHA) have the potential to improve health care. The commercial MHA market is rapidly growing, but the content and quality of available MHA are unknown. Instruments for the assessment of the quality and content of MHA are highly needed. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) is one of the most widely used tools to evaluate the quality of MHA. Only few validation studies investigated its metric quality. No study has evaluated the construct validity and concurrent validity. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the construct validity, concurrent validity, reliability, and objectivity, of the MARS. METHODS Data was pooled from 15 international app quality reviews to evaluate the metric properties of the MARS. The MARS measures app quality across four dimensions: engagement, functionality, aesthetics and information quality. Construct validity was evaluated by assessing related competing confirmatory models by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Non-centrality (RMSEA), incremental (CFI, TLI) and residual (SRMR) fit indices were used to evaluate the goodness of fit. As a measure of concurrent validity, the correlations to another quality assessment tool (ENLIGHT) were investigated. Reliability was determined using Omega. Objectivity was assessed by intra-class correlation. RESULTS In total, MARS ratings from 1,299 MHA covering 15 different health domains were included. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed a bifactor model with a general factor and a factor for each dimension (RMSEA = 0.074, TLI = 0.922, CFI = 0.940, SRMR = 0.059). Reliability was good to excellent (Omega 0.79 to 0.93). Objectivity was high (ICC = 0.82). MARS correlated with ENLIGHT (ps<.05). CONCLUSION The metric evaluation of the MARS demonstrated its suitability for the quality assessment. As such, the MARS could be used to make the quality of MHA transparent to health care stakeholders and patients. Future studies could extend the present findings by investigating the re-test reliability and predictive validity of the MARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannik Terhorst
- Department of Research Methods, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Paula Philippi
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lasse B. Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, Albert-Ludwigs-University Freiburg, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Dana Schultchen
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sarah Paganini
- Department of Sport Psychology, Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Marco Bardus
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Karla Santo
- Academic Research Organization, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
- Westmead Applied Research Centre, Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Cardiovascular Division, The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Johannes Knitza
- Department of Internal Medicine 3 – Rheumatology and Immunology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gustavo C. Machado
- Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephanie Schoeppe
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Appleton Institute, Physical Activity Research Group, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia
| | - Natalie Bauereiß
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alexandra Portenhauser
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Matthias Domhardt
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Benjamin Walter
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Krusche
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Messner
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, University Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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Neumayr C, Voderholzer U, Schlegl S. Psych-APP-Therapie: Smartphonebasierte Interventionen in der Psychotherapie – Eine systematische Übersichtsarbeit. Verhaltenstherapie 2020. [DOI: 10.1159/000510954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
<b><i>Hintergrund:</i></b> Technologiebasierte Interventionen haben in der Psychotherapie an Bedeutung gewonnen. Ein versorgungsrelevanter Ansatz sind Mental Health Apps. Ziel dieser systematischen Übersichtsarbeit ist es (1) international evaluierte Apps zu den Störungsbildern Depressionen, Angststörungen und Essstörungen zu identifizieren, (2) deren Verfügbarkeit in deutschen App-Stores sowie (3) in deutscher Sprache zu prüfen und (4) ihre Effektivitätsergebnisse aus randomisiert-kontrollierten (Pilot-)Studien (RCTs) darzustellen. <b><i>Methode:</i></b> Die Übersichtsarbeit wurde in Anlehnung an das PRISMA Statement durchgeführt und ausgewertet. Eine systematische Recherche (2007–2018) der Datenbanken PubMed, PsychINFO sowie PSYNDEX wurde durchgeführt. Zudem fand eine Beurteilung der methodischen Qualität sowie der Effektivitätsergebnisse der (Pilot-)RCTs statt. <b><i>Ergebnisse:</i></b> Es wurden 2’571 Abstracts identifiziert und 47 Publikationen eingeschlossen (<i>N</i> = 32 unterschiedliche Apps; <i>N</i> = 24 [Pilot-]RCTs). Die Qualität der (Pilot-)RCTs ist überwiegend als gut bis moderat einzustufen. Die Ergebnisse waren heterogen (keine bis große Effekte [Cohens <i>d</i>] zwischen den Gruppen: –0,01; KI [–0,36; 0,34] bis 1,49; KI [1,00; 1,99]). Vier Apps mit einer Evaluation durch (Pilot-)RCTs sind in den deutschen App-Stores verfügbar – eine in deutscher Sprache. <b><i>Schlussfolgerungen:</i></b> Es liegt international eine Vielzahl von ersten App-Evaluationen zu den Störungsbildern vor, die Verfügbarkeit ausreichend evaluierter deutschsprachiger Apps in den deutschen App-Stores ist aber extrem limitiert. Englischsprachige, bereits evaluierte Apps könnten in das Deutsche übersetzt und – genauso wie schon verfügbare, aber nicht evaluierte deutschsprachige Apps – in RCTs inkl. Katamnesedaten evaluiert werden. So könnten smartphonebasierte Interventionen im Rahmen des “Digitalen-Versorgungs-Gesetzes” als ergänzendes Element in der Psychotherapie an Bedeutung gewinnen.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) carries a high disease burden worldwide, yet significant barriers exist to providing and accessing treatment for PTSD, particularly in refugee populations and in low- and middle-income countries. There is emerging evidence that self-administered psychological therapies, such as those accessed via online and mobile applications, are efficacious for many mental illnesses and increase access to treatment. Online and mobile applications offering self-help tools for eye movement desensitisation reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an internationally recommended treatment for PTSD, are already widely distributed to the public. AIMS To present a commentary evaluating the potential benefits and risks of self-administered EMDR therapy: first, by conducting a search for existing peer-reviewed evidence relating to self-administered EMDR therapy; second, by presenting existing evidence for other self-help psychotherapies and evaluating what additional insight this could provide into the potential efficacy, safety, tolerability and accessibility of self-administered EMDR therapy; and, third, by describing the conflicting views of EMDR experts on the topic. METHOD A search was conducted for articles related to internet, mobile, book or computerised self-help EMDR therapy. The following databases were searched systematically: Medline, PsycInfo, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL, Psychology and Behavioural Sciences, Cochrane Database and the EMDR Library. RESULTS Only one small primary research study was found relating to self-administered EMDR therapy. The results indicated significantly reduced symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, distress and disability between pre-treatment and 3 month follow-up. No serious adverse events were reported. However, substantial methodological issues were discovered. CONCLUSIONS There is evidence that self-administered psychotherapies, in general, can be safe, effective and highly accessible. However, controversies persist regarding the safety and potential efficacy of self-administered EMDR therapy, and more robust research is needed. It is vital that methods are found to improve worldwide access to effective PTSD treatment, particularly given the current scale of migration to flee civil unrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Z Waterman
- Mental Health Research UK MD(Res) student at King's College London, UK, RCPsych Working Group on the Health of Refugees and Asylum Seekers, and ST5 Higher Trainee in Psychiatry at the Maudsley Hospital, London, UK
| | - Maxwell Cooper
- academic general practitioner who has worked with asylum seekers and refugees in Glasgow and Brighton, UK
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Marshall JM, Dunstan DA, Bartik W. Treating Psychological Trauma in the Midst of COVID-19: The Role of Smartphone Apps. Front Public Health 2020; 8:402. [PMID: 33014955 PMCID: PMC7461952 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
With the COVID-19 pandemic confronting health systems worldwide, medical practitioners are treating a myriad of physical symptoms that have, sadly, killed many thousands of people. There are signs that the public is also experiencing psychological trauma as they attempt to navigate their way through the COVID-19 restrictions impinging on many aspects of society. With unprecedented demand for health professionals' time, people who are unable to access face-to-face assistance are turning to smartphone apps to help them deal with symptoms of trauma. However, the evidence for smartphone apps to treat trauma is limited, and clinicians need to be aware of the limitations and unresolved issues involved in using mental health apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie M Marshall
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Debra A Dunstan
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Warren Bartik
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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Abstract
Delivering trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy to patients with PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic poses challenges. The therapist cannot meet with the patient in person to guide them through trauma-focused work and other treatment components, and patients are restricted in carrying out treatment-related activities and behavioural experiments that involve contact with other people. Whilst online trauma-focused CBT treatments for PTSD have been developed, which overcome some of these barriers in that they can be delivered remotely, they are not yet routinely available in clinical services in countries, such as the UK. Cognitive therapy for PTSD (CT-PTSD) is a trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy that is acceptable to patients, leads to high rates of recovery and is recommended as a first-line treatment for the disorder by international clinical practice guidelines. Here we describe how to deliver CT-PTSD remotely so that patients presenting with PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic can still benefit from this evidence-based treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Wild
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Emma Warnock-Parkes
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Hannah Murray
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Alice Kerr
- Department of Psychology, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Graham Thew
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Nick Grey
- Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK
| | - David M. Clark
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Anke Ehlers
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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