1
|
Owczarzak J, Monton O, Fuller S, Burlaka J, Kiriazova T, Morozova O, Dumchev K. "Will you need this health at all? Will you be alive?": using the bioecological model of mass trauma to understand HIV care experiences during the war in Ukraine. J Int AIDS Soc 2024; 27 Suppl 3:e26307. [PMID: 39030874 PMCID: PMC11258484 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has severely impacted the healthcare system, including the provision of HIV care. The ongoing war is a human-caused mass trauma, a severe ecological and psychosocial disruption that greatly exceeds the coping capacity of the community. The bioecological model of mass trauma builds on Bronfenbrenner's concept of interaction between nested systems to argue that social context determines the impact of life events on the individual and how an individual responds. This paper uses the bioecological model of mass trauma to explore the impact of Russia's aggression against Ukraine and the ongoing war on HIV-positive people who use drugs in Ukraine, a particularly vulnerable population that may be negatively affected by disruptions to social networks, healthcare infrastructure and economic conditions caused by mass trauma. METHODS Data were collected between September and November 2022. A convenience sample of 18 HIV-positive people who use drugs were recruited from community organizations that work with people living with HIV, drug treatment programmes, and HIV clinics through direct recruitment and participant referral. A total of nine men and nine women were recruited; the age ranged from 33 to 62 years old (mean = 46.44). Participants completed a single interview that explored how the war had affected their daily lives and access to HIV care and other medical services; their relationships with healthcare providers and social workers; and medication access, supply and adherence. Data were analysed using the Framework Method for thematic analysis. RESULTS The war had a profound impact on the social, emotional and financial support networks of participants. Changes in social networks, coupled with limited job opportunities and rising prices, intensified financial difficulties for participants. Relocating to different regions of Ukraine, staying at somebody else's home, and losing connections with social workers impacted medication adherence and created lengthy treatment gaps. Participants also experienced a decreased supply of antiretroviral therapy, concerns about accessing medication for opioid use disorder, and overwhelming fears associated with the war, which overshadowed their HIV-related health concerns and negatively impacted medication adherence. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis reveals the complex impact of war on social networks and healthcare access. Maintaining support networks and competent healthcare providers will be essential amid the ongoing war.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill Owczarzak
- Department of Health, Behavior & SocietyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Olivia Monton
- Department of EpidemiologyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Shannon Fuller
- Department of Health, Behavior & SocietyJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | - Julia Burlaka
- Department of Mental HealthJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public HealthBaltimoreMarylandUSA
| | | | - Olga Morozova
- Biological Sciences DivisionDepartment of Public Health SciencesUniversity of ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ma X, Kawakami A, Inui T. Impact of Long Working Hours on Mental Health Status in Japan: Evidence from a National Representative Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:842. [PMID: 39063419 PMCID: PMC11276854 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21070842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Using the 2010-2019 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (CSLC) conducted in Japan, we examined the impact of long working hours on mental health in Japan while addressing the endogeneity issue arising from non-random selection bias. We assessed the variations in the effects of long working hours on mental health across different groups. The results show that first, individuals working longer hours (55 h or more per week) exhibited a higher likelihood of developing mental illness than those working regular hours or fewer hours. Second, the negative effect of long working hours on mental health is more pronounced among non-regular workers than among regular workers. Third, the effect of long working hours on mental health varies among different demographic groups, with a greater impact observed among women, managers, non-regular workers, employees in small- or large-sized firms, and those in smaller cities compared to their counterparts. Thus, to enhance worker productivity, the Japanese government should address the issue of long working hours to improve employees' mental well-being. Initiatives aimed at promoting work-life balance, family-friendly policies, and measures to ameliorate working conditions are expected to help mitigate the challenges associated with long working hours and mental health issues, especially among non-regular workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Ma
- Faculty of Economics, Hosei University, 4342 Machita-shi Aiharamachi, Tokyo 194-0298, Japan
| | - Atushi Kawakami
- Faculty of Economics, Toyo University, Tokyo 112-8606, Japan;
| | - Tomohiko Inui
- Faculty of International Social Sciences, Gakushuin University, Tokyo 171-8588, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Raeber F, Haldemann MI, Ray S, Huber J, Firima E, Fernandez LG, Amstutz A, Gerber F, Labhardt ND, Belus JM. Community-based models of care for adolescent and adult depression, suicidal behavior, anxiety, trauma, and substance use in Africa: a scoping review. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1241403. [PMID: 38406302 PMCID: PMC10885163 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1241403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Community-based care (CBC), where care is delivered outside of the traditional health facility setting, has been proposed to narrow the mental health (MH) and substance use (SU) treatment gap in Africa. Objective This scoping review aims to comprehensively summarize CBC models addressing adolescent and adult MH (depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal behavior) and (non-tobacco) SU problems in Africa. Methods We searched PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Medline Ovid. Studies and protocols were included if they reported on CBC intervention's effects on MH or SU symptoms/ diagnoses, acceptability, feasibility, or patient engagement in care, regardless of whether the intervention itself was designed specifically for MH or SU. Results Among 11,477 screened publications, 217 were eligible. Of the unique intervention studies (n = 206), CBC models were classified into the following approaches (non-mutually exclusive): psychotherapeutic (n = 144), social (n = 81), lifestyle/physical health (n = 55), economic (n = 26), and psychopharmacological (n = 2). While quantitative results suggest possible efficacy of CBC models, description of CBC location was often poor. Fewer interventions addressed suicidal behavior (n = 12), the needs of adolescents (n = 49), or used traditional healers or religious figures as providers (n = 3). Conclusion Many CBC models have been tested on MH and SU in Africa and should be critically appraised and meta-analyzed in subsequent reviews, where possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Raeber
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Maria-Inés Haldemann
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Somidha Ray
- Research Consultant, International Center for Research on Women, New Delhi, India
| | - Jacqueline Huber
- Swiss TPH Library, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Emmanuel Firima
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Lucia Gonzalez Fernandez
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Alain Amstutz
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felix Gerber
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Niklaus D. Labhardt
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer M. Belus
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Research, University and University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kisaakye P, Kafuko A, Bukuluki P. Lifetime violence and suicidal ideation among young women (18-24 years) in Uganda: Results from a population-based survey. Front Glob Womens Health 2023; 4:1063846. [PMID: 37139174 PMCID: PMC10150090 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2023.1063846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Violence is a major global public health issue that threatens the physical and mental health of victims. Of particular concern is the increasing evidence which suggests that violence is strongly associated with suicidal behavior including ideation. Methods This study uses data from the 2015 Violence Against Children Survey (VACS). This study seeks to highlight the relationship between lifetime violence and suicidal ideation using a nationally representative sample of 1,795 young women (18-24 years) in Uganda. Results Results indicate that respondents who experienced lifetime sexual violence (aOR = 1.726; 95%CI = 1.304-2.287), physical violence (aOR = 1.930; 95%CI = 1.293-2.882) or emotional violence (aOR = 2.623; 95%CI = 1.988-3.459) were more likely to experience suicidal ideation. Respondents who were not married (aOR = 1.607; 95%CI = 1.040-2.484), not having too much trust with community members (aOR = 1.542; 95%CI = 1.024-2.320) or not having a close relationship with biological parents (aOR = 1.614; 95%CI = 1.230-2.119) were more likely to experience suicidal ideation. Respondents who did not engage in work in the past 12 months prior to the survey (aOR = 0.629; 95%CI = 0.433-0.913) were less likely to experience suicidal ideation. Conclusion The results can be used to inform policy and programming and for integration of mental health and psychosocial support in programming for prevention and response to violence against young women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kisaakye
- Department of Population Studies, School of Statistics and Planning, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Agatha Kafuko
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, School of Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paul Bukuluki
- Department of Social Work and Social Administration, School of Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Østergaard MLD, Aponte-Canencio DM, Barajas Ortiz Y, Velez Botero HJ, Simon Modvig J, Brasholt M. Vulnerability factors in conflict-related mental health. Med Confl Surviv 2023; 39:63-80. [PMID: 36593439 DOI: 10.1080/13623699.2022.2156232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Societies marked by armed conflict face huge challenges in mental health care provision due to lowered resources and destruction of infrastructure along with an increased need for care. This especially affects the vulnerable groups already facing bigger challenges in terms of higher disease burden and limited access to care. AIM To examine how the association between conflict-related trauma and mental health is affected by different factors affecting the individual's vulnerability, and to address the provision of and barriers in access to mental health services in conflict and post-conflict contexts. MATERIALS AND METHODS Scoping literature review based on a focused literature search in PubMed and DIGNITY Documentation Centre and Library. RESULTS Population mental health may be affected by violence and by general hardship by (1) causing new mental health conditions, predominantly PTSD, depression and anxiety, and (2) exacerbating pre-existing mental health conditions. Violence, stigmatization, social and physical capital, gender and access to health care were identified as the main vulnerability factors affecting the association between conflict and mental health conditions. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The associations between violence, vulnerability and mental health might be overlapping and multi-directed. Vulnerability is considered an effect-modifier on the associations between conflict/trauma and mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yenny Barajas Ortiz
- Department of Promotion and Prevention, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | | | - Marie Brasholt
- DIGNITY - Danish institute Against Torture, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Ma X. Impact of Long Working Hours on Mental Health: Evidence from China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1641. [PMID: 36674394 PMCID: PMC9866749 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Although previous studies have examined the impact of long working hours on mental health in China, they have not addressed the initial value and reverse causality issues. To bridge this gap in the literature, I conducted a dynamic longitudinal analysis to investigate the association between long working hours and the risk of mental illness nationwide. Using three-wave longitudinal data from the China Family Panel Studies conducted in 2014, 2016, and 2018, I adopted dynamic regression models with lagged long working hours variables to examine their association with the risk of mental illness. The results indicate that long working hours have positive and significant (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05) associations with the risk of mental illness (OR: 1.12~1.22). The effect is more significant for women, white-collar workers, and employees in micro-firms, compared with their counterparts (i.e., men, pink- and blue-collar workers, employees of large firms, and self-employed individuals). The results provide empirical evidence of the effects of long working hours on mental health in China, confirming the need to enforce the regulations regarding standard working hours and monitor regulatory compliance by companies, as these factors are expected to improve mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Ma
- Faculty of Economics, Hosei University, 4342 Machita-shi Aiharamachi, Tokyo 194-0298, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jansen S, Niyonsenga J, Ingabire CM, Jansen A, Nzabonimpa E, Ingabire N, Kangabe J, Sarabwe E, Richters A, Rutayisire T, Nsabimana E. Evaluating the impact of Community-Based Sociotherapy on social dignity in post-genocide Rwanda: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:1035. [PMID: 36539840 PMCID: PMC9768903 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06994-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community-Based Sociotherapy (CBS) is an approach that was introduced in Rwanda in 2005, with the aim of improving psychosocial well-being among its participants and facilitating reconciliation processes. Over the years, CBS has been adapted contextually and the effectiveness of the approach has been measured in different ways, using qualitative and quantitative study designs. This study specifically assesses the effectiveness of CBS in terms of fostering the social dignity of participants as the primary outcome. METHODS/DESIGN A cluster randomized controlled trial design with person-level outcomes whereas the CBS treatment is delivered at the cluster level. A total of 1200 eligible participants will be randomly assigned to two groups in a 1:1 ratio. Participants in the intervention group will receive the CBS intervention, while the control group will be waitlisted. The primary outcome measure is a self-designed and psychometrically validated Social Dignity Scale. The secondary outcome measures will be the WHO (Five) Well-Being Index (WHO-5), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5), the Self-reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), and the perceived parental self-efficacy scale. The primary analysis will be performed following an intention to treat analysis, using generalized estimating equation modeling. DISCUSSION We expect this cluster randomized controlled trial to provide insight into the effectiveness of CBS on social dignity and secondary psychosocial outcomes among its group participants, who have different socio-historical backgrounds including genocide survivors, perpetrators, bystanders and their descendants, people in conflicts (family/community), and local leaders. This study will inform CBS implementers, policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders on the role of social dignity in interventions that focus on psychosocial healing. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN ISRCTN11199072. It was registered on 2 April 2022.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Jansen
- grid.10818.300000 0004 0620 2260Mental Health & Behaviour Research Group, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Japhet Niyonsenga
- grid.10818.300000 0004 0620 2260Mental Health & Behaviour Research Group, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda ,grid.10818.300000 0004 0620 2260Department of Clinical Psychology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Epaphrodite Nsabimana
- grid.10818.300000 0004 0620 2260Mental Health & Behaviour Research Group, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
van Sint Fiet A, de la Rie S, van der Aa N, Bloemen E, Wind T. The relevance of social capital and sense of coherence for mental health of refugees. SSM Popul Health 2022; 20:101267. [PMID: 36281249 PMCID: PMC9587331 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2022.101267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Migration puts refugees in a completely new social context when simultaneously some have to deal with previously experienced traumatic events and post-migration stressors. Social capital and sense of coherence could be key resources to improve mental health of refugees. This study aims to examine the interplay between social capital (structural and cognitive), sense of coherence and mental health of refugees in the Netherlands. Objective The present study was conducted to i) examine if social capital (structural and cognitive) and mental health are related in a population of Dutch refugees, and ii) test if sense of coherence has a moderating and/or a mediating effect on this relation. Method Data were collected through questionnaires (n = 154) in a cross-sectional survey at different locations throughout the Netherlands. The data were analysed with multiple regression analyses and nonparametric bootstrapping using SPSS. Results Social capital (structural and cognitive) was positively related to mental health. In addition a positive relation between sense of coherence and mental health of refugees was found. The relationship between cognitive social capital and mental health was completely mediated by sense of coherence. No moderation effect of sense of coherence on the relation between social capital and mental health was found. Conclusions The current study contributed to understanding the social mechanism that determines refugee mental health: participating in social groups (structural social capital) and having supportive and trusting relationships (cognitive social capital), whilst experiencing life as comprehensible, manageable, and meaningful (sense of coherence) are positively related to better mental health of refugees. Findings indicate that preventive interventions aiming to enhance refugees' mental health may be more effective when targeting and promoting both social capital and sense of coherence, from a relatively early stage after arrival in the Netherlands.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Simone de la Rie
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, Nienoord 5, 1112 XE, Diemen, the Netherlands
| | - Niels van der Aa
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, Nienoord 5, 1112 XE, Diemen, the Netherlands
| | - Evert Bloemen
- Pharos, Dutch Centre of Expertise on Health Disparities, Arthur van Schendelstraat 600, 3511 MJ, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Tim Wind
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Center, Nienoord 5, 1112 XE, Diemen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ona G, Berrada A, Bouso JC. Communalistic use of psychoactive plants as a bridge between traditional healing practices and Western medicine: A new path for the Global Mental Health movement. Transcult Psychiatry 2022; 59:638-651. [PMID: 34665080 DOI: 10.1177/13634615211038416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Global Mental Health (GMH) movement aims to provide urgently needed treatment to those with mental illness, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Due to the complexity of providing mental health services to people from various cultures, there is much debate among GMH advocates regarding the best way to proceed. While biomedical interventions offer some degree of help, complementary approaches should focus on the social/community aspects. Many cultures conduct traditional rituals involving the communal use of psychoactive plants. We propose that these practices should be respected, protected, and promoted as valuable tools with regard to mental health care at the community level. The traditional use of psychoactive plants promotes community engagement and participation, and they are relatively affordable. Furthermore, the worldviews and meaning-making systems of local population are respected. The medical systems surrounding the use of psychoactive plants can be explained in biomedical terms, and many recently published clinical trials have demonstrated their therapeutic potential. Psychoactive plants and associated rituals offer potential benefits as complementary aspects of mental health services. They should be considered as such by international practitioners and advocates of the GMH movement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Genís Ona
- ICEERS - International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Medical Anthropology Research Center (MARC), 16777Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Ali Berrada
- Unidad de Medicina Interna, 16548Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Carlos Bouso
- ICEERS - International Center for Ethnobotanical Education, Research, and Service, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Anthropology, Philosophy and Social Work, Medical Anthropology Research Center (MARC), 16777Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Breedvelt JJF, Tiemeier H, Sharples E, Galea S, Niedzwiedz C, Elliott I, Bockting CL. The effects of neighbourhood social cohesion on preventing depression and anxiety among adolescents and young adults: rapid review. BJPsych Open 2022; 8:e97. [PMID: 35642359 PMCID: PMC9230698 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2022.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests that increasing neighbourhood social cohesion can prevent mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. However, it is unknown whether this is the case for adolescents and young adults. AIMS To investigate whether neighbourhood social cohesion can prevent depression and anxiety, and identify interventions that can increase neighbourhood cohesion in young people. METHOD We conducted a rapid review for an overview of the available literature. PubMed, Campbell Collaboration, KSR Ltd and grey literature databases were searched from inception up to 10 July 2020. When synthesising the results, we applied a hierarchy of evidence, prioritising study designs that allowed for the most ability to infer causality. Risk of bias was assessed with the ROBIS tool and Joanna Briggs Institute risk-of-bias assessment. A narrative review and two workshops with young people were conducted to inform what future interventions may look like. RESULTS Forty-two peer-reviewed publications, including two systematic reviews, 13 longitudinal studies and 27 cross-sectional studies, were identified. Prospective longitudinal studies found that neighbourhood social cohesion factors (safety, trust, positive social connections, helping others and a lack of crime and violence) were associated with fewer depressive symptoms. Future interventions to increase neighbourhood cohesion should involve creating safe and attractive community centres, accessible and safe outdoor spaces, community activity groups and online communities. CONCLUSIONS Neighbourhood social cohesion has the potential to protect mental health. The next step is to conduct intervention studies to evaluate the effects on onset prevention. Clinicians should consider the impact cohesion can have on mental health, and signpost to community initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Josefien J. F. Breedvelt
- Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and National Centre for Social Research, UK
| | - Henning Tiemeier
- Maternal and Child Center of Excellence, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Sandro Galea
- Boston University School of Public Health, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Iris Elliott
- Department of Policy and Research, Irish Human Rights & Equality Commission, Ireland
| | - Claudi L. Bockting
- Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands; and Centre for Urban Mental Health, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Soofizad G, Rakhshanderou S, Ramezankhani A, Ghaffari M. The Concept of Social Health From an Iranian Perspective: A Qualitative Exploration. Front Public Health 2022; 10:797777. [PMID: 35619809 PMCID: PMC9127504 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.797777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective As one of the health aspects, social health is less well-known than physical and mental aspects. In order to better understand this aspect and considering the importance of social context in its conceptualizing, the present study was performed aiming at explaining the social health and identification of its various aspects in the perspective of Iranian adults. Methodology The present study was conducted in 2021 with a qualitative approach and with the participation of Iranian adults and social health professionals. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 36 participants who were selected by purposive sampling. The obtained data were analyzed using qualitative (conventional) content analysis and Granheim and Lundman method in the MAXQDA-2020. Guba and Lincoln criteria were observed to evaluate the quality of research results. Results Using data analysis, 3 main categories and 17 subcategories were obtained, including: (1) Conceptual scope of social health (social health as social capital, social health as mental health, social health as moral health), (2) Characteristics of social health (biologic, continual, acquired, evolutionary, relative), and (3) Social health dimensions (openness to interactions, social adaptability, social dutifulness, social self-esteem, mutual trust, communicational capability, social optimism, enjoying social support, public-oriented personality). Conclusion Since social health has a conceptual scope, it is important to try to strengthen and reproduce the dimensions of social health and at the same time use planning, policymaking and appropriate interventions to improve and to promote the dimensions of social health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Goli Soofizad
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sakineh Rakhshanderou
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ramezankhani
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohtasham Ghaffari
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang W, Chen X, Yan H, Yu B, Li S. Association between social capital and suicide ideation, plan and attempt among men living with HIV in China. J Affect Disord 2021; 280:173-179. [PMID: 33212409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.11.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Better understanding of the relationship between social capital and risk of suicide is essential for suicide prevention and control among people living with HIV (PLWH). METHODS Participants were 494 male PLWH recruited with a venue-based method from Wuhan in China. Data were collected using a self-reported questionnaire during November 2015 and January 2016. Social capital was measured using the short-version Personal Social Capital Scale. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between social capital and suicidal ideations post HIV+ diagnosis and in the past month, as well as suicide plan and attempt. RESULTS Scatter plots showed a nonlinear trend in the prevalence of the three suicide measures along with social capital. Logistic regression analyses stratified by quartiles of social capital indicated a significant nonlinear association between social capital and the risk of suicide. The estimated odds ratio [95% CI] of suicidal ideation was 0.87 [0.51.1.42], 0.68 [0.40, 1.14] and 0.24 [0.12, 0.46] for the second, third and fourth quartile of social capital scores respectively with the first quartile as the reference. Similar results were observed for suicidal ideation in the past month and suicidal plan/attempt. CONCLUSIONS Findings of this study suggest that social capital is only associated with lower suicidal ideation at very high levels of social capital. If verified with longitudinal data, this finding suggests an effective suicide prevention intervention among male PLWH must foster social capital to a level greater than average.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China; School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Xinguang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Hong Yan
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Bin Yu
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Shiyue Li
- School of Health Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Adams C. Toward an institutional perspective on social capital health interventions: lay community health workers as social capital builders. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2020; 42:95-110. [PMID: 31674684 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This article argues that social capital health research should move beyond a mere focus on social cohesion and network perspectives to integrate an institutional approach into the development of social capital health interventions. An institutional perspective, which is unique in its emphasis on linking social capital in addition to the bonding and bridging forms, contextualises social capital, allowing researchers to confront the complexity of social relationships. This perspective allows for the construction of interventions that draw on the resources of diverse actors, particularly the state. One intervention strategy with the potential to create community linkages involves lay community health workers (LCHWs), individuals who are trained to perform a variety of health-related functions but lack a formal professional health education. This article begins with a review of the institutional social capital-building literature. It then goes on to briefly review the social capital and health literature and discuss the state of intervention research. Thereafter, it describes LCHWs and discusses studies that have utilised LCHWs to tackle community health problems. In doing so, this article presents an institutional-based systematic framework for how LCHWs can build social capital, including a discussion of the ways in which LCHWs can successfully promote bonding, bridging and linking social capital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Adams
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Muhlenberg College, Allentown, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Barnes-Ceeney K, Gideon L, Leitch L, Yasuhara K. Recovery After Genocide: Understanding the Dimensions of Recovery Capital Among Incarcerated Genocide Perpetrators in Rwanda. Front Psychol 2019; 10:637. [PMID: 31040801 PMCID: PMC6476899 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Utilizing survey data from 302 men and women incarcerated in the Rwandan correctional system for the crime of genocide, and structured interviews with 75 prisoners, this mixed methods study draws on the concept of recovery capital to understand how individuals convicted of genocide navigate post-genocide healing. Genocide smashes physical and human capital and perverts social and cultural capital. Experiencing high levels of posttraumatic stress symptoms with more than two-thirds of the sample scoring above typical civilian cut-off levels, raised levels of depression, and high levels of anxiety, and failing physical health, the genocide perpetrators require multiple sources of recovery capital to foster internal resilience as they look forward to rebuilding their own lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Barnes-Ceeney
- Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, United States
| | - Lior Gideon
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, NY, United States
| | - Laurie Leitch
- Threshold GlobalWorks, LLC, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kento Yasuhara
- Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Sciences, University of New Haven, West Haven, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Recovering from the Ebola crisis: 'Social Reconnection Groups' in a rural Liberian community. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2019; 6:e17. [PMID: 31531227 PMCID: PMC6737586 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2019.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2014/2015, International Medical Corps (IMC) operated two Ebola Treatment Units (ETUs) in Liberia and three in Sierra Leone when the Ebola virus disease epidemic killed over 11,000 people across Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea. As Ebola cases declined in Liberia, IMC Psychosocial teams transitioned to working in communities highly affected by the epidemic. This article describes IMC's experience with developing and implementing a community-based mental health and psychosocial group intervention in a rural, severely affected Liberian town - Mawah - where 46 out of approximately 800 community members were infected, 39 of whom died. In this paper, we present how the group intervention, named 'Social Reconnection Groups', was developed and implemented. We then discuss intervention strengths, challenges, key lessons learnt and recommendations for how Social Reconnection Groups can be adapted for use in similar settings.
Collapse
|
16
|
Otake Y. Community Resilience and Long-Term Impacts of Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Northern Rwanda. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:E94. [PMID: 30356006 PMCID: PMC6313522 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6040094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2018] [Revised: 10/07/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, discussions have considered how mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) can build upon local resilience in war-affected settings. To contribute to the knowledge in this field, the paper explored the gap between MHPSS and local communities in terms of perceived mental health problems and healing processes, and how the gap could be filled. Qualitative research was conducted in northern Rwanda with 43 participants between 2015 and 2016. Findings revealed how three particular gaps can isolate MHPSS recipients in their local community. First, whereas MHPSS applies bio-psychological frameworks to post-genocide mental health, community conceptualisations emphasise social aspects of suffering. Second, unlike MHPSS which encourages 'talking' about trauma, 'practicing' mutual support plays a major role in the community healing process. Third, MHPSS focuses on one part of the community (those who share the same background) and facilitates their healing in intervention groups. However, healing in natural communities continues in everyday life, through mutual support among different people. Despite these gaps, MHPSS recipients can be (re)integrated into the community through sharing suffering narratives and sharing life with other community members. The paper highlights the ways in which MHPSS could inclusively support different social groups in the overall geographical community, allowing members to preserve the existing reciprocity and recover collective life through their own initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Otake
- School of Anthropology & Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6PE, UK.
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, 5-3-1 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Social capital interventions in public health: A systematic review. Soc Sci Med 2018; 212:203-218. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
18
|
Embracing Uncertainty to Enable Transformation: The Process of Engaging in Trialogue for Mental Health Communities in Ireland. Int J Integr Care 2018; 18:3. [PMID: 30127687 PMCID: PMC6095077 DOI: 10.5334/ijic.3085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Community-based participatory approaches are valuable methods for improving outcomes and effectively integrating care among mental health communities. Trialogue is one such approach which uses Open Dialogue methods with groups of three or more people from different backgrounds who deal with mental health systems. Theory and Method: The current study employed a participatory action research design, which prospectively documented the processes and challenges of participating in Trialogue Meetings. Individuals from participating communities took part in interviews, focus groups or Open Dialogue discussions across three cycles of research. Results: Three prospective themes were identified from participants’ dialogue across the three cycles of research relating to the experience of participating in Trialogue, the development of Open Dialogue skills and the growth of individual Trialogue communities. Conclusions and Discussion: The findings demonstrate that, where desirable conditions are present, Trialogue Meetings are worthwhile and sustainable community-based participatory approaches which encourage disclosure and dialogue surrounding mental health, and may assist in improved integration of care between mental health stakeholders. In particular, Trialogue Meetings stimulate the development of Open Dialogue skills, provide a platform for “vital” and “transformative” self-expression with the potential for positive mental health outcomes and may facilitate the growth of communities surrounding mental health.
Collapse
|
19
|
Flores EC, Fuhr DC, Bayer AM, Lescano AG, Thorogood N, Simms V. Mental health impact of social capital interventions: a systematic review. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2018; 53:107-119. [PMID: 29234826 PMCID: PMC6040224 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-017-1469-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mental disorders are a major contributor to the global burden of disease and disability, and can be extremely costly at both individual and community level. Social capital, (SC) defined as an individual's social relationships and participation in community networks, may lower the risk of mental disorders while increasing resilience capacity, adaptation and recovery. SC interventions may be a cost-effective way of preventing and ameliorating these conditions. However, the impact of these SC interventions on mental health still needs research. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of SC-based interventions to investigate their effect on mental health outcomes from controlled, quasi-experimental studies or pilot trials. We searched twelve academic databases, three clinical trials registries, hand-searched references and contacted field experts. Studies' quality was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias tools for randomized and non-randomized studies. RESULTS Seven studies were included in the review, published between 2006 and 2016. There was substantial heterogeneity in the definitions of both SC and mental disorders among the studies, preventing us from calculating pooled effect sizes. The interventions included community engagement and educative programs, cognitive processing therapy and sociotherapy for trauma survivors, and neighbourhood projects. CONCLUSIONS There are paucity of SC interventions investigating the effect on mental health outcomes. This study showed that both SC scores and mental health outcomes improved over time but there was little evidence of benefit compared to control groups in the long term. Further high-quality trials are needed, especially among adverse populations to assess sustainability of effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine C Flores
- Centre of Global Mental Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, LG20, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
- Facultad de Salud Pública y Administración, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, Urb. Ingeniería-San Martín de Porres, Lima, Peru.
| | - Daniela C Fuhr
- Centre of Global Mental Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, LG20, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Angela M Bayer
- Facultad de Salud Pública y Administración, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, Urb. Ingeniería-San Martín de Porres, Lima, Peru
- David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Andres G Lescano
- Facultad de Salud Pública y Administración, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, Urb. Ingeniería-San Martín de Porres, Lima, Peru
| | - Nicki Thorogood
- Centre of Global Mental Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, LG20, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Victoria Simms
- Centre of Global Mental Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, LG20, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Adjaye-Gbewonyo K, Kawachi I, Subramanian SV, Avendano M. High social trust associated with increased depressive symptoms in a longitudinal South African sample. Soc Sci Med 2017; 197:127-135. [PMID: 29232620 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2017] [Revised: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have documented a protective association between social trust and mental and physical health, but gaps in knowledge remain. Debates regarding the contextual versus individual nature of social trust are ongoing; research from low- and middle-income countries is lacking, and study designs have been limited for causal inference. To address these gaps, we examined the association between social trust and depressive symptoms using three waves of the National Income Dynamics Study, a longitudinal South African survey. We used individual fixed-effects models to assess the association between changes in scores on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale Short Form (CES-D-10) and in individual-level and district-level personalized and generalized trust among 15,670 individuals completing at least two waves of the NIDS adult questionnaire. High individual-level generalized trust was unexpectedly associated with increased depressive symptoms scores while district generalized trust did not show an association. We also found a cross-level interaction between individual and district-level personalized trust. High individual trust was associated with increased depressive symptoms scores when district trust was low; however, as district-level trust increased, higher individual trust was associated with reduced depressive symptoms. Our unexpected results suggest that trust may not always be beneficial for depressive symptoms, but rather, that its effects may depend on context. In the South African setting where social trust is low, being very likely to trust may be associated with worse depressive symptoms in some circumstances.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kafui Adjaye-Gbewonyo
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Kresge 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Ichiro Kawachi
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Kresge 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - S V Subramanian
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Kresge 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mauricio Avendano
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Kresge 7th Floor, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, King's College London, Strand Campus, Strand, London WC2R2LS, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Sharer M, Cluver L, Shields JJ, Ahearn F. The power of siblings and caregivers: under-explored types of social support among children affected by HIV and AIDS. AIDS Care 2017; 28 Suppl 2:110-7. [PMID: 27392006 PMCID: PMC5004198 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2016.1178942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Children affected by HIV and AIDS have significantly higher rates of mental health problems than unaffected children. There is a need for research to examine how social support functions as a source of resiliency for children in high HIV-prevalence settings such as South Africa. The purpose of this research was to explore how family social support relates to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress (PTS). Using the ecological model as a frame, data were drawn from a 2011 cross-sectional study of 1380 children classified as either orphaned by AIDS and/or living with an AIDS sick family member. The children were from high-poverty, high HIV-prevalent rural and urban communities in South Africa. Social support was analyzed in depth by examining the source (e.g. caregiver, sibling) and the type (e.g. emotional, instrumental, quality). These variables were entered into multiple regression analyses to estimate the most parsimonious regression models to show the relationships between social support and depression, anxiety, and PTS symptoms among the children. Siblings emerged as the most consistent source of social support on mental health. Overall caregiver and sibling support explained 13% variance in depression, 12% in anxiety, and 11% in PTS. Emotional support was the most frequent type of social support associated with mental health in all regression models, with higher levels of quality and instrumental support having the strongest relation to positive mental health outcomes. Although instrumental and quality support from siblings were related to positive mental health, unexpectedly, the higher the level of emotional support received from a sibling resulted in the child reporting more symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTS. The opposite was true for emotional support provided via caregivers, higher levels of this support was related to lower levels of all mental health symptoms. Sex was significant in all regressions, indicating the presence of moderation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Sharer
- a John Snow Research & Training Institute , Arlington , VA, USA.,b The National Catholic School of Social Service , The Catholic University of America , Washington , DC , USA
| | - Lucie Cluver
- c Department of Social Policy & Intervention , University of Oxford , Oxford , UK.,d Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health , University of Cape Town , Cape Town , South Africa
| | - Joseph J Shields
- b The National Catholic School of Social Service , The Catholic University of America , Washington , DC , USA
| | - Frederick Ahearn
- b The National Catholic School of Social Service , The Catholic University of America , Washington , DC , USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Silove D, Ventevogel P, Rees S. The contemporary refugee crisis: an overview of mental health challenges. World Psychiatry 2017; 16:130-139. [PMID: 28498581 PMCID: PMC5428192 DOI: 10.1002/wps.20438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 269] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been an unprecedented upsurge in the number of refugees worldwide, the majority being located in low-income countries with limited resources in mental health care. This paper considers contemporary issues in the refugee mental health field, including developments in research, conceptual models, social and psychological interventions, and policy. Prevalence data yielded by cross-sectional epidemiological studies do not allow a clear distinction to be made between situational forms of distress and frank mental disorder, a shortcoming that may be addressed by longitudinal studies. An evolving ecological model of research focuses on the dynamic inter-relationship of past traumatic experiences, ongoing daily stressors and the background disruptions of core psychosocial systems, the scope extending beyond the individual to the conjugal couple and the family. Although brief, structured psychotherapies administered by lay counsellors have been shown to be effective in the short term for a range of traumatic stress responses, questions remain whether these interventions can be sustained in low-resource settings and whether they meet the needs of complex cases. In the ideal circumstance, a comprehensive array of programs should be provided, including social and psychotherapeutic interventions, generic mental health services, rehabilitation, and special programs for vulnerable groups. Sustainability of services, ensuring best practice, evidence-based approaches, and promoting equity of access must remain the goals of future developments, a daunting challenge given that most refugees reside in settings where skills and resources in mental health care are in shortest supply.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derrick Silove
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, and Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, Academic Mental Health Centre, Southwestern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | - Peter Ventevogel
- Public Health Section, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Susan Rees
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, and Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, Academic Mental Health Centre, Southwestern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hassanzadeh J, Asadi-Lari M, Baghbanian A, Ghaem H, Kassani A, Rezaianzadeh A. Association between social capital, health-related quality of life, and mental health: a structural-equation modeling approach. Croat Med J 2016; 57:58-65. [PMID: 26935615 PMCID: PMC4800324 DOI: 10.3325/cmj.2016.57.58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim To explore the association(s) between demographic factors, socioeconomic status (SES), social capital, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and mental health among residents of Tehran, Iran. Methods The pooled data (n = 31 519) were extracted from a population-based survey Urban Health Equity Assessment and Response Tool-2 (Urban HEART-2) conducted in Tehran in 2011. Mental health, social capital, and HRQoL were assessed using the 28-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), social capital questionnaire, and Short-Form Health Survey (SF-12), respectively. The study used a multistage sampling method. Social capital, HRQoL, and SES were considered as latent variables. The association between these latent variables, demographic factors, and mental health was determined by structural-equation modeling (SEM). Results The mean age and mental health score were 44.48 ± 15.87 years and 23.33 ± 11.10 (range, 0-84), respectively. The prevalence of mental disorders was 41.76% (95% confidence interval 41.21-42.30). The SEM model showed that age was directly associated with social capital (P = 0.016) and mental health (P = 0.001). Sex was indirectly related to mental health through social capital (P = 0.018). SES, HRQoL, and social capital were associated both directly and indirectly with mental health status. Conclusion This study suggests that changes in social capital and SES can lead to positive changes in mental health status and that individual and contextual determinants influence HRQoL and mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Aziz Kassani
- Aziz Kassani, Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Hassanzadeh J, Asadi-Lari M, Ghaem H, Kassani A, Niazi M, Menati R. The Association of Poor Mental Health Status and Sociocultural Factors in Men: A Population-Based Study in Tehran, Iran. Am J Mens Health 2016; 12:96-103. [PMID: 26883076 DOI: 10.1177/1557988316630720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental ill-health has increased among Iranian men in the recent years. Mental health is complexly determined by sociocultural, psychological, demographic characteristics, and some health-risk behaviors such as smoking. This study aimed to explore the association(s) between demographic factors, smoking status, social capital, and poor mental health status in a sample of Iranian men. The data were derived from a survey titled "Urban Health Equity Assessment and Response Tool-2" in Tehran, Iran ( n = 11,064). A multistage sampling method was applied in the study. The General Health Questionnaire-28 was used to assess poor mental health status (range = 0-84, scores higher than 23 indicated poor mental health status). The data were analyzed using t test, chi-square test, and multivariate logistic regression. The means of age and family size were 47.14 ± 17.26 years (range = 20-91) and 3.54 ± 1.32 individuals (range = 1-15), respectively. The majority of the participants were employed (57%, n = 6,361). The prevalence of poor mental health was 36.36%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [35.46, 37.26]. The components of social capital were positively associated with poor mental health status. Family size (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.93; 95% CI [0.90, 0.96]), job status (unemployed vs. employed, AOR = 1.34; 95% CI [1.16, 1.55]), marital status (widowed and divorced vs. single, AOR = 1.09; 95% CI [1.02, 1.17]), education level (illiterate vs. academic, AOR = 1.18; 95% CI [1.09, 1.29]), and smoking status (smokers vs. nonsmokers, AOR = 1.46; 95% CI [1.31, 1.62]) were directly associated with poor mental health status in the logistic regression model. These results suggest that social capital could be an important approach for men to attain suitable mental health and reduce mental disorders. The high prevalence of poor mental health in men merits more attention in mental health policy and program planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Haleh Ghaem
- 1 Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aziz Kassani
- 1 Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lindström M, Giordano GN. The 2008 financial crisis: Changes in social capital and its association with psychological wellbeing in the United Kingdom - A panel study. Soc Sci Med 2016; 153:71-80. [PMID: 26889949 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2016.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The global financial crisis of 2008 was described by the IMF as the worst recession since the Great Depression. This historic event provided the backdrop to this United Kingdom (UK) longitudinal study of changes in associations between social capital and psychological wellbeing. Past longitudinal studies have reported that the presence of social capital may buffer against adverse mental health outcomes. This study adds to existing literature by employing data from the British Household Panel Survey and tracking the same individuals (N = 11,743) pre- and immediately post-crisis (years 2007-09). With longitudinal, multilevel logistic regression modelling, we aimed to compare the buffering effects of individual-level social capital (generalised trust and social participation) against worse psychological wellbeing (GHQ-12) during and immediately after the 2008 financial crisis. After comparing the same individuals over time, results showed that stocks of social capital (generalised trust) were significantly depleted across the UK during the crisis, from 40% trusting others in 2007 to 32% in 2008. Despite this drop, the buffering effect of trust against worse psychological wellbeing was pronounced in 2008; those not trusting had an increased risk of worse psychological wellbeing in 2008 compared with the previous year in fully adjusted models (OR = 1.49, 95% CI (1.34-1.65). Levels of active participation increased across the timeframe of this study but were not associated with psychological health. From our empirical evidence, decision makers should be made aware of how events such as the crisis (and the measures taken to counter its effects) could negatively impact on a Nation's trust levels. Furthermore, past research implies that the positive effects of trust on psychological wellbeing evident in this study may only be short-term; therefore, decision makers should also prioritise policies that restore trust levels to improve the psychological wellbeing of the population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Lindström
- Social Medicine and Health Policy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden; Centre for Economic Demography (CED), P.O. Box 7083, SE-SE-220 07, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Giuseppe N Giordano
- Social Medicine and Health Policy, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden; Centre for Economic Demography (CED), P.O. Box 7083, SE-SE-220 07, Lund, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Jansen S, White R, Hogwood J, Jansen A, Gishoma D, Mukamana D, Richters A. The "treatment gap" in global mental health reconsidered: sociotherapy for collective trauma in Rwanda. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2015; 6:28706. [PMID: 26589258 PMCID: PMC4654767 DOI: 10.3402/ejpt.v6.28706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The "treatment gap" (TG) for mental disorders refers to the difference that exists between the number of people who need care and those who receive care. The concept is strongly promoted by the World Health Organization and widely used in the context of low- and middle-income countries. Although accepting the many demonstrable benefits that flow from this approach, it is important to critically reflect on the limitations of the concept of the TG and its implications for building capacity for mental health services in Rwanda. OBJECTIVE The article highlights concerns that the evidence base for mental health interventions is not globally valid, and problematizes the preponderance of psychiatric approaches in international guidelines for mental health. Specifically, the risk of medicalization of social problems and the limited way in which "community" has been conceptualized in global mental health discourses are addressed. Rather than being used as a method for increasing economic efficiency (i.e., reducing healthcare costs), "community" should be promoted as a means of harnessing collective strengths and resources to help promote mental well-being. This may be particularly beneficial for contexts, like Rwanda, where community life has been disrupted by collective violence, and the resulting social isolation constitutes an important determinant of mental distress. CONCLUSIONS Moving forward there is a need to consider alternative paradigms where individual distress is understood as a symptom of social distress, which extends beyond the more individually oriented TG paradigm. Sociotherapy, an intervention used in Rwanda over the past 10 years, is presented as an example of how communities of support can be built to promote mental health and psychosocial well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Jansen
- Center for Mental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda;
| | - Ross White
- Mental Health and Well-being, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Angela Jansen
- Community Based Sociotherapy Program, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Darius Gishoma
- Center for Mental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Donatilla Mukamana
- Center for Mental Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Annemiek Richters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam School for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Stahlman S, Grosso A, Ketende S, Sweitzer S, Mothopeng T, Taruberekera N, Nkonyana J, Baral S. Depression and Social Stigma Among MSM in Lesotho: Implications for HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infection Prevention. AIDS Behav 2015; 19:1460-9. [PMID: 25969182 PMCID: PMC4858167 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-015-1094-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Social stigma is common among men who have sex with men (MSM) across Sub-Saharan Africa, and may influence risks for HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) via its association with depression. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 530 MSM in Lesotho accrued via respondent-driven sampling. Using generalized structural equation models we examined associations between stigma, social capital, and depression with condom use and testing positive for HIV/STIs. Depression was positively associated with social stigma experienced or perceived as a result of being MSM. In contrast, increasing levels of social cohesion were negatively associated with depression. Social stigma was associated with testing positive for HIV; however, this association did not appear to be mediated by depression or condom use. These data suggest a need for integrated HIV and mental health care that addresses stigma and discrimination and facilitates positive social support for MSM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shauna Stahlman
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health and Human Rights, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, E7133, 615 N. Washington St., Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|