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Guertler D, Krause K, Moehring A, Bischof G, Batra A, Freyer-Adam J, Ulbricht S, Rumpf HJ, Wurm S, Cuijpers P, Lucht M, John U, Meyer C. E-Health intervention for subthreshold depression: Reach and two-year effects of a randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2023; 339:33-42. [PMID: 37392942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.06.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is evidence for e-Health interventions for full-blown depression. Little is known regarding commonly untreated subthreshold depression in primary care. This randomized controlled multi-centre trial assessed reach and two-year-effects of a proactive e-Health intervention (ActiLife) for patients with subthreshold depression. METHODS Primary care and hospital patients were screened for subthreshold depression. Over 6 months, ActiLife participants received three individualized feedback letters and weekly messages promoting self-help strategies against depression, e.g., dealing with unhelpful thoughts or behavioural activation. The primary outcome depressive symptom severity (Patient Health Questionnaire;PHQ-8) and secondary outcomes were assessed 6, 12 and 24 months. RESULTS Of those invited, n = 618(49.2 %) agreed to participate. Of them, 456 completed the baseline interview and were randomized to ActiLife (n = 227) or assessment only (n = 226). Generalised estimation equation analyses adjusting for site, setting and baseline depression revealed that depressive symptom severity declined over time, with no significant group differences at 6 (mean difference = 0.47 points; d = 0.12) and 24 months (mean difference = -0.05 points; d = -0.01). Potential adverse effects were observed at 12 months, with higher depressive symptom severity for ActiLife than control participants (mean difference = 1.33 points; d = 0.35). No significant differences in rates of reliable deterioration or reliable improvement of depressive symptoms were observed. ActiLife increased applied self-help strategies at 6 (mean difference = 0.32; d = 0.27) and 24 months (mean difference = 0.22; d = 0.19), but not at 12 months (mean difference = 0.18; d = 0.15). LIMITATIONS Self-report measures and lack of information on patients' mental health treatment. DISCUSSION ActiLife yielded satisfactory reach and increased the use of self-help strategies. Data were inconclusive in terms of depressive symptom changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Guertler
- Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany.
| | - K Krause
- Evangelic Hospital Bethania, Greifswald, Germany
| | - A Moehring
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany; Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Methods in Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - G Bischof
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - A Batra
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - J Freyer-Adam
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany; Institute for Medical Psychology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - S Ulbricht
- Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany
| | - H J Rumpf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - S Wurm
- Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - P Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Lucht
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Helios Hanseklinikum Stralsund, Stralsund, Germany; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - U John
- Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany
| | - C Meyer
- Institute for Community Medicine, Department of Prevention Research and Social Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany; DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Greifswald, Germany
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Pilkington K, Wieland LS. Self-care for anxiety and depression: a comparison of evidence from Cochrane reviews and practice to inform decision-making and priority-setting. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:247. [PMID: 32778171 PMCID: PMC7418416 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03038-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-care refers to a range of activities and approaches undertaken by an individual to maintain health and manage ill-health which may include various complementary or alternative approaches. The purpose of this study was to identify the self-care approaches used by the general public for depression and anxiety, assess the usefulness of Cochrane reviews for informing decisions on self-care and highlight any gaps in the evidence. METHODS Searches were carried out for surveys of self-care for anxiety and/or depression and for Cochrane reviews and protocols of interventions with potential for use in self-care. Data was extracted from each review and Plain Language Summaries assessed for content, consistency and readability. Interventions reported in surveys and in Cochrane reviews were compared and effectiveness of each assessed. RESULTS Surveys from 10 countries reported a variety of self-care interventions, 17 of which appeared in 2 or more surveys and which included dietary supplements, herbal medicines, mind-body therapies and various forms of exercise. Twenty-two reviews and 5 protocols on potential self-care interventions were identified, the majority in depression. Twelve interventions were judged effective or promising, most with small effect sizes. Readability of summaries was highly variable: half were written at college/university level. Several commonly used approaches were not covered by Cochrane reviews. CONCLUSIONS This study has revealed the interventions currently used by the general public which are judged effective or promising based on Cochrane reviews. Some disparity is highlighted between interventions used in practice and the availability of reliable evidence, and in the presentation of effectiveness and safety. Being able to direct patients to reliable, accessible information is a positive step in ensuring effective patient-centered, evidence-informed care. Addressing gaps, ensuring consistency and increasing usability of evidence intended for the general public will support this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Pilkington
- School of Health and Care Professions, University of Portsmouth, James Watson West, 2 King Richard 1st Road, Portsmouth, P01 2FR, UK.
| | - Lisa Susan Wieland
- Center for Integrative Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 520 West Lombard Street, East Hall, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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Polacsek M, Boardman GH, McCann TV. Factors influencing self-management of depression in older adults: a qualitative study. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:939-946. [PMID: 30621440 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1562538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: A considerable body of work addresses prevalence and treatment options for depression in older adults. However, less is known about their capacity to self-manage their depression. Effective self-management of depression has the potential to improve individuals' quality of life through information, empowerment and perceived control, while enabling more efficient health service utilisation. The aim of this paper was to identify the barriers and facilitators to self-management of depression in older adults.Method: A qualitative study comprising in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 32 older adults with a diagnosis of moderate depression.Results: Three over-arching themes captured the barriers and facilitators to participants' capacity to self-manage their depression. Perspectives on age and depression represented how views of older age and mental health influenced the approach to self-management. Ability to access the health care system concerned the ability to identify and engage with different services and support. Individual capacity for self-management reflected participants' views on and the resources required for effective self-management.Conclusion: This study offers a better understanding of the factors that positively or negatively influence older adults' ability to self-manage their depression. Strategies to improve self-management should address misconceptions about age and depression, and older adults' interest in and capacity to embrace self-management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Polacsek
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,National Ageing Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gayelene H Boardman
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Terence V McCann
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Wang X, Lin H, Jiang X, Ma M, Shi D, Fan C, Shao Y, Wu S, Yu L, Li D, He J, Chen Y. Effect of Electroacupuncture and Counseling on Sub-Threshold Depression: A Study Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:346. [PMID: 32411031 PMCID: PMC7198880 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sub-threshold depression is common and could impair function, as well as increase the risk of developing major depression. Despite evidence of efficacy for electroacupuncture (EA) and counseling in the treatment of sub-threshold depression, the sample size is insufficient and the level of evidence remains low. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sub-threshold depression treatments by comparing the treatment effects among EA, counseling, and combination therapy, as well as to further study their mechanism. METHODS This study is a multicenter, randomized, single blind clinical trial that will be conducted in settings at four clinical centers in China. The randomized controlled trial (RCT) will examine the effectiveness of EA intervention, compared with counseling and combination therapy. A total of 138 sub-threshold depression patients (18 to 55 years of age with Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) score ≥ 14 points and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD-17) score: 7 points ≤ HAMD total score <17 points) will be recruited. The participants will be randomly assigned to receive the above treatments. The interventions will be delivered over a 6-week period (EA: 3 times a week for 6 weeks; 30 min a session. Counseling: once a week for 6 weeks; 50-60 min a session). The primary outcome measure will be the HAMD-17; BDI-II. The secondary outcome measures will be: Self-rating Depression Scale (SDS), Self-rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The assessments will occur at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 weeks and a follow-up period. Recruitment will commence in March 2020 and is anticipated to occur over a 2-year period. DISCUSSION This study intends to conduct a multicenter randomized controlled trial to compare the effectiveness among EA, counseling and the combined therapy in the treatment of patients with sub-threshold depression, and to further study the mechanisms of effect. CHINESE CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY REGISTRATION www.chictr.org.cn/, identifier ChiCTR1900028530.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haixiong Lin
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiumin Jiang
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minna Ma
- Student Mental Health Counseling Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Shi
- Student Mental Health Counseling Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chun Fan
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yin Shao
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shengwei Wu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Danian Li
- Rehabilitation Center, Counseling Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun He
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Rehabilitation Center, Counseling Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongjun Chen
- South China Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Psychiatric Disorders, Guangzhou, China
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5
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Identifying Strategies for Decreasing Work-Related Stress Among Working Men: An International Delphi Consensus Study. J Occup Environ Med 2019; 62:171-178. [PMID: 31834139 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000001797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective was to identify helpful, feasible strategies that can be implemented by working men to decrease work-related stress. METHODS An international Delphi consensus study was conducted with four panels of stakeholders. Three rounds of surveys were sent to panellists who rated the helpfulness and feasibility of strategies. Strategies were considered to have reached consensus if 80+% of at least three panels "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that the strategies were helpful or feasible. RESULTS Eighty-one strategies reached consensus out of a total 127 for helpfulness in decreasing work-related stress. Eleven strategies did not reach consensus in any of the vignettes. Only two strategies reached consensus for feasibility. CONCLUSION While many strategies are perceived as helpful for decreasing workplace stress, the feasibility of the strategies likely depends on an individual's particular needs and context.
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Hofmann H, Kohlmann CW. Dimensionality of mental health activities in a German sample. Health Promot Int 2019; 34:1106-1116. [PMID: 30256934 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/day078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
For the promotion of mental health and the reduction of mental impairment, a person's behavior is of vital importance. Therefore, the assessment of mental health behavior is crucial in the development of suitable interventions. The present study investigates 14 self-help strategies compiled by Morgan and Jorm (Self-help strategies that are helpful for sub-threshold depression: a Delphi consensus study. J Affect Disord2009;115: 196-200) as items of a self-report scale to assess mental health promoting behavior. Dimensionality and psychometrics of mental health activities were examined in a sample of 852 German adults (76% female). After exploratory factor analyses (EFAs, n = 543), several factor structure possibilities were subsequently tested by confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs, n = 309). Based on these results, psychometric properties were calculated. Factor analyses result in a three-factor solution with the subscales positive orientation, physical engagement and emotion regulation. CFAs indicate a good model fit. The total scale showed acceptable reliability. Correlations with indicators of positive mental health were higher than with those of mental impairment. Moreover, correlations support the three-factor structure of the instrument. Women scored higher than men in the total scale, due to differences in the subscale emotion regulation. Although some modifications were performed, the results of our analyses suggest that the self-help strategies introduced by Morgan and Jorm (2009) are indeed useful items for a brief scale to assess mental health activity. The identification of the multidimensionality is an important step in supporting the work of mental health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Hofmann
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Education, Oberbettringer Str. 200, 73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany
| | - Carl-Walter Kohlmann
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Education, Oberbettringer Str. 200, 73525 Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany
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Meadows GN, Prodan A, Patten S, Shawyer F, Francis S, Enticott J, Rosenberg S, Atkinson JA, Fossey E, Kakuma R. Resolving the paradox of increased mental health expenditure and stable prevalence. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2019; 53:844-850. [PMID: 31238699 PMCID: PMC6724452 DOI: 10.1177/0004867419857821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A doubling of Australian expenditure on mental health services over two decades, inflation-adjusted, has reduced prevalence of neither psychological distress nor mental disorders. Low rates of help-seeking, and inadequate and inequitable delivery of effective care may explain this partially, but not fully. Focusing on depressive disorders, drawing initially on ideas from the work of philosopher and socio-cultural critic Ivan Illich, we use evidence-based medicine statistics and simulation modelling approaches to develop testable hypotheses as to how iatrogenic influences on the course of depression may help explain this seeming paradox. Combined psychological treatment and antidepressant medication may be available, and beneficial, for depressed people in socioeconomically advantaged areas. But more Australians with depression live in disadvantaged areas where antidepressant medication provision without formal psychotherapy is more typical; there also are urban/non-urban disparities. Depressed people often engage in self-help strategies consistent with psychological treatments, probably often with some benefit to these people. We propose then, if people are encouraged to rely heavily on antidepressant medication only, and if they consequently reduce spontaneous self-help activity, that the benefits of the antidepressant medication may be more than offset by reductions in beneficial effects as a consequence of reduced self-help activity. While in advantaged areas, more comprehensive service delivery may result in observed prevalence lower than it would be without services, in less well-serviced areas, observed prevalence may be higher than it would otherwise be. Overall, then, we see no change. If the hypotheses receive support from the proposed research, then implications for service prioritisation and delivery could include a case for wider application of recovery-oriented practice. Critically, it would strengthen the case for action to correct inequities in the delivery of psychological treatments for depression in Australia so that combined psychological therapy and antidepressant medication, accessible and administered within an empowering framework, should be a nationally implemented standard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham N Meadows
- Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Adult Mental Health, Monash Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Graham N Meadows, Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Dandenong Hospital, 126 - 128 Cleeland St, Dandenong VIC 3175 Australia.
| | - Ante Prodan
- Computing & ICT Organisational Unit, School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Decision Analytics, Sax Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Scott Patten
- Department of Community Health Sciences and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Frances Shawyer
- Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sarah Francis
- Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Joanne Enticott
- Southern Synergy, Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia,Department of General Practice, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sebastian Rosenberg
- Brain and Mind Centre, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jo-An Atkinson
- Department of Community Health Sciences and Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada,Menzies Centre for Health Policy, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Simulation for Policy, The Australian Prevention Partnership Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ellie Fossey
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ritsuko Kakuma
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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8
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Baldofski S, Kohls E, Bauer S, Becker K, Bilic S, Eschenbeck H, Kaess M, Moessner M, Salize HJ, Diestelkamp S, Voß E, Rummel-Kluge C. Efficacy and cost-effectiveness of two online interventions for children and adolescents at risk for depression (E.motion trial): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial within the ProHEAD consortium. Trials 2019; 20:53. [PMID: 30646944 PMCID: PMC6334409 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-018-3156-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a serious mental health problem and is common in children and adolescents. Online interventions are promising in overcoming the widespread undertreatment of depression and in improving the help-seeking behavior in children and adolescents. METHODS The multicentre, randomized controlled E.motion trial is part of the German ProHEAD consortium (Promoting Help-seeking using E-technology for ADolescents). The objective of the trial is to investigate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of two online interventions to reduce depressive symptomatology in high-risk children and adolescents with subsyndromal symptoms of depression in comparison to an active control group. Participants will be randomized to one of three conditions: (1) Intervention 1, a clinician-guided self-management program (iFightDepression®); (2) Intervention 2, a clinician-guided group chat intervention; and (3) Control intervention, a psycho-educational website on depressive symptoms. Interventions last six weeks. In total, N = 363 children and adolescents aged ≥ 12 years with Patient Health Questionnaire-9 modified for Adolescents (PHQ-A) scores in the range of 5-9 will be recruited at five study sites across Germany. Online questionnaires will be administered before onset of the intervention, at the end of the intervention, and at the six-month follow-up. Further, children and adolescents will participate in the baseline screening and the one- and two-year school-based follow-up assessments integrated in the ProHEAD consortium. The primary endpoint is depression symptomatology at the end of intervention as measured by the PHQ-A score. Secondary outcomes include depression symptomatology at all follow-ups, help-seeking attitudes, and actual face-to-face help-seeking, adherence to and satisfaction with the interventions, depression stigma, and utilization and cost of interventions. DISCUSSION This study represents the first randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigating efficacy and cost-effectiveness of two online interventions in children and adolescents aged ≥ 12 years at risk for depression. It aims to provide a better understanding of the help-seeking behavior of children and adolescents, potential benefits of E-mental health interventions for this age group, and new insights into so far understudied aspects of E-mental health programs, such as potential negative effects of online interventions. This knowledge will be used to tailor and improve future help offers and programs for children and adolescents and ways of treatment allocation. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register for Clinical Trials (DRKS), DRKS00014668 . Registered on 4 May 2018. International trial registration took place through the "international clinical trials registry platform" with the secondary ID S-086/2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Baldofski
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, Semmelweisstraße 10, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Kohls
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, Semmelweisstraße 10, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stephanie Bauer
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katja Becker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of Marburg and Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Marburg Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior (MCMBB), Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Sally Bilic
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Heike Eschenbeck
- Department of Psychology, University of Education Schwäbisch Gmünd, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany
| | - Michael Kaess
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Markus Moessner
- Center for Psychotherapy Research, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans Joachim Salize
- Mental Health Services Research Group, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Silke Diestelkamp
- German Center for Addiction Research in Childhood and Adolescence (DZSKJ), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Elke Voß
- Mental Health Services Research Group, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim/Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christine Rummel-Kluge
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, Semmelweisstraße 10, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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9
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Zhang Y, Wang P. Interactions and user-perceived helpfulness in diet information social questions & answers. Health Info Libr J 2016; 33:295-307. [PMID: 27870318 DOI: 10.1111/hir.12158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online health information seeking using social questions and answers (Social Q&A) sites has been increasingly popular in recent years. It calls for better understanding of health information seeking behaviour and interactions between information seekers and information providers. OBJECTIVES The study investigates how diet information seekers interact with information providers on WebMD Answers, which is a Social Q&A site devoted to health-related topics, and examines the factors that constitute a 'helpful' answer from an information seeker's perspective. METHODS Bales' interaction process analysis was applied as the framework to analyse 568 diet-related Q&As from WebMD Answers to identify interaction patterns. RESULTS Most diet information seekers post questions anonymously and without any detailed description. Individual experts or health organisations provide most answers. Overall, answers are positively received and had a high satisfaction rating. It was also found that information seeker-perceived helpfulness does not depend on who answered the question but to how an information seeker posted the question. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that answers at WebMD Answers are helpful for diet information seekers. It sheds new light on the interactions during the Q&A process, preferred site functions and important factors that contribute to perceived helpful answers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhang
- School of Library and Information Science, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Peilin Wang
- School of Management, Anhui University, Hefei, China
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10
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Becofsky K, Baruth M, Wilcox S. Physical activity mediates the relationship between program participation and improved mental health in older adults. Public Health 2015; 132:64-71. [PMID: 26318601 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2015.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is an implicit assumption that increased physical activity (PA) levels are responsible for the mental health benefits resulting from participation in PA programs. Other factors associated with participation may in fact be responsible. The purpose of this study was to examine whether changes in PA mediated the effects of two PA programs (Active Choices [AC] and Active Living Every Day [ALED]) on mental health outcomes. STUDY DESIGN Secondary data analyses of quasi-experimental study. METHODS A sub-sample of older adults who participated in AC (n = 744) and ALED (n = 853) were included in the current analyses. MacKinnon's product of coefficients was used to test change in PA as a mediator of the relationship between program dose and change in mental health outcomes (depressive symptoms, stress, and number of days with poor mental health). RESULTS Change in PA explained 19% (AC) and 13% (ALED) of the absolute effects of program dose on depressive symptoms, 18% (AC) and 14% (ALED) of the effects on stress, and 37% (ALED) of the effects on days with poor mental health. CONCLUSIONS Mounting evidence from both epidemiological studies and controlled trials suggests that PA can improve mental health. This study adds that increasing PA levels may improve mental health in older adults in 'real-world' settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Becofsky
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
| | - M Baruth
- Department of Health Sciences, Saginaw Valley State University, 7400 Bay Road, University Center, MI 48710, USA
| | - S Wilcox
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA; Prevention Research Center, University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
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van Grieken RA, Kirkenier ACE, Koeter MWJ, Schene AH. Helpful self-management strategies to cope with enduring depression from the patients' point of view: a concept map study. BMC Psychiatry 2014; 14:331. [PMID: 25495848 PMCID: PMC4272551 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-014-0331-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 11/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the development of various self-management programmes that attempt to ameliorate symptoms of patients with chronic major depressive disorder (MDD), little is known about what these patients perceive as helpful in their struggle during daily live. The present study aims to explore what patients believe they can do themselves to cope with enduring MDD besides professional treatment, and which self-management strategies patients perceive as being most helpful to cope with their MDD. METHODS We used concept mapping, a method specifically designed for the conceptualisation of a specific subject, in this case patients' point of view (n = 25) on helpful self-management strategies in their coping with enduring MDD. A purposive sample of participants was invited at the Academic Medical Center and through requests on several MDD-patient websites in the Netherlands. Participants generated strategies in focus group discussions which were successively clustered on a two-dimensional concept map by hierarchical cluster analysis. RESULTS Fifty strategies were perceived as helpful. They were combined into three meta-clusters each comprising two clusters: A focus on the depression (sub clusters: Being aware that my depression needs active coping and Active coping with professional treatment); An active lifestyle (sub clusters: Active self-care, structure and planning and Free time activities) and Participation in everyday social life (sub clusters: Social engagement and Work-related activities). CONCLUSIONS MDD patients believe they can use various strategies to cope with enduring MDD in daily life. Although current developments in e-health occur, patients emphasise on face-to-face treatments and long-term relations, being engaged in social and working life, and involving their family, friends, colleagues and clinicians in their disease management. Our findings may help clinicians to improve their knowledge about what patients consider beneficial to cope with enduring MDD and to incorporate these suggested self-management strategies in their treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa A van Grieken
- Department of Psychiatry, Program for Mood Disorders, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Anneloes C E Kirkenier
- Department of Psychiatry, Program for Mood Disorders, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Maarten W J Koeter
- Department of Psychiatry, Program for Mood Disorders, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Aart H Schene
- Department of Psychiatry, Program for Mood Disorders, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 5, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Reinier Postlaan 6, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Geert Grooteplein Noord 21, 6525 EZ, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
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Shin EH, Ha J, Lim SW, Kwak SJ, Ryu SG, Ryu SH, Cho SJ, Paik JW, Lee BC, Oh KS. The use and perceived helpfulness of self-help interventions for depressive symptoms and sub-threshold depression: comparisons among the general population, patients with depression, and psychiatrists. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2014; 23:99-108. [PMID: 24535831 PMCID: PMC6878534 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.1430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2012] [Revised: 12/21/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the patterns of use and perceived helpfulness of self-help interventions for depressive symptoms and sub-threshold depression in Korean samples drawn from the general population, patients with depression, and psychiatrists. A total of 1000 adults from the community, 114 patients with sub-threshold or mild depression, and 201 psychiatrists were asked to complete questionnaires about the use and helpfulness of 20 self-help interventions for depression chosen via the Delphi method. Psychiatrists (82.6%) and the general population (67.2%) were more likely to prefer self-help methods than were patients with depressive disorders (28.4%). Lifestyle change and psychological approaches were the preferred interventions among those with depressive disorders. Although the general population was more likely to prefer to use health supplements and dietary interventions, the perceived helpfulness of these approaches was generally lower than that of the other interventions. Although self-help strategies have been widely used, psychiatrists, patients with depression, and the general population differ with respect to their preferred intervention. Members of the general population were more likely than were psychiatrists and patients to use not consensually accepted interventions. The evidence-based use of self-help strategies for depression should be promoted by providing information about their effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Hee Shin
- National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency, Seoul, Korea
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13
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van Grieken RA, Kirkenier ACE, Koeter MWJ, Nabitz UW, Schene AH. Patients' perspective on self-management in the recovery from depression. Health Expect 2013; 18:1339-48. [PMID: 23910797 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-management appears to be a promising approach in the case of depression, which helps to stimulate patients' autonomy. However, a good and systematic description of the concept self-management from the patients' perspective, to our knowledge, has not yet been performed. OBJECTIVE To determine: (i) what strategies patients think they can use themselves to recover from depression, (ii) which main themes of self-management strategies can be detected, and (iii) which of these strategies patients perceive as being most helpful. METHODS We used concept mapping to explore the experiences of patients who recently recovered from a depressive episode. Patients generated self-management strategies in focus group discussions. The strategies were clustered on a two-dimensional concept map by a hierarchical cluster analysis. RESULTS Patients generated 50 strategies that formed eight clusters: (i) proactive attitude towards depression and treatment, (ii) daily life strategies and rules, (iii) explanation of disease to others, (iv) remaining socially engaged, (v) engaging in activities, (vi) structured attention to oneself, (vii) contact with fellow sufferers, and (viii) other. Behavioural and cognitive strategies and a proactive attitude towards treatment were considered as the most helpful. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION From the patients' perspective, there is a wide range of self-management strategies that they can use - and perceive as helpful- to contribute to their own recovery. Professionals could encourage patients to take an active role in achieving recovery. Further research could open new roads to improve patients' active contributions to current treatments for depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos A van Grieken
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anneloes C E Kirkenier
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten W J Koeter
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Udo W Nabitz
- Department of Research, Arkin, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aart H Schene
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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14
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Morgan AJ, Jorm AF, Mackinnon AJ. Self-Help for Depression via E-mail: A Randomised Controlled Trial of Effects on Depression and Self-Help Behaviour. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66537. [PMID: 23805231 PMCID: PMC3689826 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Accepted: 05/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-help or self-management strategies are commonly used to deal with depression, but not all are thought to be helpful. A previous study found that sub-threshold depression symptoms were improved by an e-mail intervention that encouraged the use of evidence-based self-help strategies. AIM To investigate whether these e-mails were effective for adults with a range of depression symptomatology including major depression. METHOD The study was a parallel-group randomised controlled trial. Adult participants with any level of depressive symptoms were recruited over the internet from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand and the United States. Participants were randomised to receive a series of e-mails either promoting the use of evidence-based self-help strategies or containing depression information as a control. E-mails were sent automatically twice a week for six weeks. Depression symptoms were assessed with the self-rated Patient Health Questionnaire depression scale (PHQ-9). RESULTS 1736 participants with a wide range of symptom severity were recruited and assigned to active (n = 862) and control (n = 874) groups. However, there was a significant attrition rate, with 66.9% lost to follow-up at post-intervention. Both groups showed large improvements in depression symptoms overall, with no significant difference in improvement at the end of the study (mean difference in improvement 0.35 points, 95% CI: -0.57 to 1.28, d = 0.11, 95% CI: -0.06 to 0.27), although there was a small effect at the study mid-point. Results were similar for the sub-group of participants with major depression. The active group showed small to moderate improvements in self-help behaviour (d = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.56). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that the e-mails were able to increase participants' use of evidence-based self-help, but that this did not improve depression more than an attention control. CLINICALTRIALSGOV NCT01399502.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J. Morgan
- Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony F. Jorm
- Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew J. Mackinnon
- Orygen Youth Health Research Centre, Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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García-Toro M, Ibarra O, Gili M, Serrano MJ, Oliván B, Vicens E, Roca M. Four hygienic-dietary recommendations as add-on treatment in depression: a randomized-controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2012; 140:200-3. [PMID: 22516309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2012.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 03/21/2012] [Accepted: 03/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modifying diet, exercise, sunlight exposure and sleep patterns may be useful in the treatment of depression. METHOD Eighty nonseasonal depressive outpatients on anti-depressant treatment were randomly assigned either to the active or control group. Four hygienic-dietary recommendations were prescribed together. Outcome measures were blinded assessed before and after the six month intervention period. RESULTS A better evolution of depressive symptoms, a higher rate of responder and remitters and a lesser psychopharmacological prescription was found in the active group. LIMITATIONS Small sample size. Lacked homogeneity concerning affective disorders (major depression, dysthimia, bipolar depression). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests lifestyle recommendations can be used as an effective antidepressant complementary strategy in daily practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro García-Toro
- Servicio de Psiquiatría, Hospital Son Llatzer, C/ Carretera de Manacor Km. 4, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
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