Rüsch N, Staiger T, Waldmann T, Dekoj MC, Brosch T, Gabriel L, Bahemann A, Oexle N, Klein T, Nehf L, Becker T. Efficacy of a peer-led group program for unemployed people with mental health problems: Pilot randomized controlled trial.
Int J Soc Psychiatry 2019;
65:333-337. [PMID:
31056997 DOI:
10.1177/0020764019846171]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
People with long-term unemployment and mental health problems often find it difficult to take active steps toward help-seeking and job search and to navigate the complex system of available services. Likewise, job center staff would welcome interventions to improve the reintegration of long-term unemployed individuals with mental health problems into the labor market.
AIM
To examine the efficacy of a peer-led group program that supports unemployed people with mental health problems in terms of help-seeking, job search and recovery.
METHODS
Based on participatory research, a four-session group program was designed and evaluated in a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 42 participants, randomized to the program ( n = 23) or treatment as usual ( n = 19). Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), 3 weeks (T1), 6 weeks (T2) and 6 months later (T3).
RESULTS
There were no significant intervention effects on primary outcomes (job search self-efficacy and help-seeking). But compared to the control group, intervention participants showed significant improvements in depressive symptoms ( p = .02) and recovery ( p = .04) at T2 with medium effect sizes. There were trend-level positive program effects on self-stigma, hopelessness and secrecy.
CONCLUSION
This pilot RCT provides initial evidence for the efficacy of a peer-led group program to improve symptoms and recovery among unemployed participants with mental health problems.
Collapse