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Mathews F, Ford TJ, White S, Ukoumunne OC, Newlove-Delgado T. Children and young people's reported contact with professional services for mental health concerns: a secondary data analysis. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:2647-2655. [PMID: 38172370 PMCID: PMC11272805 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02328-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Children and young people's mental health services have been under increasing pressure following COVID-19. Understanding, for which channels help is sought from, will highlight services needing support. This study aims to explore the professional services that parents of children, and young people get help from when they have a concern for the child's/their mental health. Secondary analysis of data is taken from Mental Health of Children and Young People in England Survey, 2017. 7608 reports of mental health-related contact with professional services from parents of 5-16 year-olds and self-reports from young people aged 17-19 were available. Service contact was reported by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) diagnosis, age, gender and ethnicity. Less than two-thirds of children and young people with a DSM-V diagnosis (63.5% (95% CI 58.6-68.1) aged 5-10, and 64.0% (95% CI 59.4-68.4) aged 11-16) reported contact with any professional services. The figure was lower for those aged 17-19; 50.1% (95% CI 42.8-58.2), p = 0.005. Children and young people aged 5-16 from Black (11.7%; 95% CI 2.4-41.4), Asian (55.1%; 95% CI 34.7-73.9) and Mixed (46.0%; 95% CI 32.4-60.3) ethnic groups reported less contact with professional services compared to those from the White group (66.9%; 95% CI 63.5-70.2). Patterns of service access during the three main educational stages aid with understanding service need during childhood. These lower levels of reported service access for young people aged 17-19 with a DSM-V diagnosis and those in ethnic minority groups demand further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tamsin Jane Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Simon White
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Obioha Chukwunyere Ukoumunne
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration South West Peninsula, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
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Blanco D, Roberts RM, Gannoni A, Cook S. Assessment and treatment of mental health conditions in children and adolescents: A systematic scoping review of how virtual reality environments have been used. Clin Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 29:1070-1086. [PMID: 37738029 PMCID: PMC11188554 DOI: 10.1177/13591045231204082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing interest in the use of virtual reality environments (VREs) in psychological treatment and assessment. Most research has focused on the application of VREs in adult psychological disorders with fewer studies focusing on its applicability with children and adolescents. A systematic scoping review was undertaken of research assessing how VREs have been used in the treatment and assessment of childhood mental health disorders to provide an overview of the current state of the literature and identify future research directions. METHOD Systematic searches of online databases were conducted in PsycInfo, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. RESULTS Eleven studies met eligibility criteria and were included in this review, with the majority focusing on VRE interventions for anxiety-related disorders. There is also emerging support for VRE deep breathing training for anxiety, VRE assisted treatment of internet gaming disorder and anorexia nervosa, and VRE assessment of body image evaluation in anorexia nervosa. Most studies were pilot and feasibility studies with only three randomised-controlled trials (RCT). CONCLUSIONS The current literature shows some promise for the use of VRE assessments and interventions of childhood mental health problems, particularly for anxiety-related disorders such as social anxiety and specific phobias. However, high-quality RCTs are now needed to establish effectiveness of VREs in this population, and how it compares to existing evidence-based approaches, given its promise to improve both engagement and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Blanco
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | | | - Anne Gannoni
- Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services, Women’s & Children’s Health Network, Australia
| | - Steve Cook
- School of Humanities, University of Adelaide, Australia
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Calear AL, Batterham PJ, McCallum SM, Banfield M, Moore E, Johnson N, Morse AR. Designing a Web-Based Navigation Tool to Support Access to Youth Mental Health Services: Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e48945. [PMID: 38236625 PMCID: PMC10835581 DOI: 10.2196/48945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many young people with mental health problems do not readily seek help or receive treatment and support. One way to address low help-seeking behavior is to improve access to information on mental health services and how to navigate the mental health system via a web-based tool. Seeking input from the end users (young people and parents or caregivers) on key features of the tool is imperative to ensure that it is relevant, engaging, and likely to meet their needs and expectations. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate young person and parent or caregiver views on the design, content, functioning, and user experience of a web-based mental health navigation tool to support connection to mental health services for children and young people aged up to 25 years. METHODS A total of 4 online focus groups were conducted: 2 with young people aged 16 years and older (total n=15) and 2 with parents or caregivers (total n=13). Focus groups were structured around a series of guiding questions to explore participants' views on content, features, user experience, and design of a mental health navigation website. Focus groups were audio recorded with detailed notes taken. In addition, 53 young people aged 16-25 years and 97 parents or caregivers completed an online survey, comprising closed- and open-ended questions; open-ended responses were included with the focus group data in the qualitative analysis. All qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS A total of 2 topic areas and 7 themes were developed. The first topic area covered the types of information needs of young people and parents. Identified themes concerned the scope of the navigation website, as well as the provision of up-to-date and practical information on how to navigate the whole help-seeking process. The second topic area covered website features that would be beneficial and included the consideration of the website design; search engines; supported navigation; and forums, reviews, and user accounts. CONCLUSIONS This study provides important insights into the navigation needs of young people and parents or caregivers in seeking mental health services. Key findings identified through this research have directly informed the development of MindMap, a web-based youth navigation tool providing a searchable database of local services, including a clear description, their location, and potential wait times. The website can be navigated independently or with support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Sonia M McCallum
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Michelle Banfield
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Moore
- Office for Mental Health and Wellbeing, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
| | - Natalie Johnson
- Office for Mental Health and Wellbeing, ACT Health, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alyssa R Morse
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Bassi E, Bright K, Norman L, Pintson K, Daniel S, Sidhu S, Gondziola J, Bradley J, Fersovitch M, Stamp L, Moskovic K, LaMonica H, Iorfino F, Gaskell T, Tomlinson S, Johnson D, Dimitropoulos G. Perceptions of mental health providers of the barriers and facilitators of using and engaging youth in digital mental-health-enabled measurement based care. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241253093. [PMID: 38726214 PMCID: PMC11080807 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241253093] [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] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives Increased rates of mental health disorders and substance use among youth and young adults have increased globally, furthering the strain on an already burdened mental health system. Digital solutions have been proposed as a potential option for the provision of timely mental health services for youth, with little research exploring mental health professional views about using such innovative tools. In Alberta, Canada, we are evaluating the implementation and integration of a digital mental health (dMH) platform into existing service pathways. Within this paper we seek to explore mental health professionals' perceptions of the barriers and facilitators that may influence their utilization of digital MH-enabled measurement-based care (MBC) with the youth who access their services. Methods A qualitative, descriptive methodology was used to inductively generate themes from focus groups conducted with mental health professionals from specialized mental health services and primary care networks in Alberta. Results As mental health professionals considered the barriers and facilitators of using dMH with youth, they referenced individual and family barriers and facilitators to consider. Providers highlighted perceived barriers, including: first, cultural stigma, family apprehension about mental health care, and parental access to dMH and MBC as deterrents to providers adopting digital platforms in routine care; second, perceptions of increased responsibility and liability for youth in crisis; third, perception that some psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders in youth are not amenable to dMH; fourth, professionals contemplated youth readiness to engage with dMH-enabled MBC. Participants also highlighted pertinent facilitators to dMH use, noting: first, the suitability of dMH for youth with mild mental health concerns; second, youth motivated to report their changes in mental health symptoms; and lastly, youth proficiency and preference for dMH options. Conclusions By identifying professionals' perceptions of barriers and facilitators for youth users, we may better understand how to address misconceptions about who is eligible and appropriate for dMH through training and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- E.M. Bassi
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - K.S. Bright
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, Community, and Education, Mount Royal University, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy, and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, College of Health Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - L.G. Norman
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - K. Pintson
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - S. Daniel
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - S. Sidhu
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - J. Gondziola
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - J. Bradley
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - M. Fersovitch
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - L. Stamp
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - K. Moskovic
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - H.M. LaMonica
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - F. Iorfino
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - T. Gaskell
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - S. Tomlinson
- Provincial Addiction and Mental Health, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - D.W. Johnson
- Departments of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Emergency Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Maternal Newborn Child and Youth Strategic Clinical Network, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - G. Dimitropoulos
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Calgary Eating Disorders Program, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Young AS, Findling RL, Riehm KE, Seegan P, Crum RM, Mojtabai R, Chiappini EA, Youngstrom EA, Fristad MA, Arnold LE, Birmaher B, Horwitz SM. Adequacy of Children's Psychopharmacology Services: Variations by Race and Clinical Characteristics. Psychiatr Serv 2023; 74:1218-1226. [PMID: 37287230 PMCID: PMC10983772 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20220375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An expert consensus approach was used to determine the adequacy of children's psychopharmacology and to examine whether adequacy varied by demographic or clinical characteristics. METHODS Data were from the baseline interview of 601 children, ages 6-12 years, who had visited one of nine outpatient mental health clinics and participated in the Longitudinal Assessment of Manic Symptoms study. Children and parents were interviewed with the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia and the Service Assessment for Children and Adolescents to assess the child's psychiatric symptoms and lifetime mental health services use, respectively. An expert consensus approach informed by published treatment guidelines was used to determine the adequacy of children's psychotropic medication treatment. RESULTS Black children (compared with White children; OR=1.84, 95% CI=1.53-2.23) and those with anxiety disorders (vs. no anxiety disorder; OR=1.55, 95% CI=1.08-2.20) were more likely to receive inadequate pharmacotherapy; those whose caregivers had a bachelor's degree or more education (vs. those who had a high school education, general equivalency diploma, or less than high school education; OR=0.74, 95% CI=0.61-0.89) were less likely to receive inadequate pharmacotherapy. CONCLUSIONS The consensus rater approach permitted use of published treatment efficacy data and patient characteristics (e.g., age, diagnoses, history of recent hospitalizations, and psychotherapy) to assess adequacy of pharmacotherapy. These results replicate findings of racial disparities reported in previous research using traditional methods to determine treatment adequacy (e.g., with a minimum number of treatment sessions) and highlight the continued need for research on racial disparities and strategies to improve access to high-quality care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Young
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Robert L Findling
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Kira E Riehm
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Paige Seegan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Rosa M Crum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Erika A Chiappini
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Eric A Youngstrom
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Mary A Fristad
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - L Eugene Arnold
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Boris Birmaher
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
| | - Sarah M Horwitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore (Young, Seegan, Crum, Mojtabai, Chiappini); Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore (Young, Riehm, Crum, Mojtabai); Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond (Findling); Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City (Riehm); Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Helping Give Away Psychological Science, Chapel Hill, North Carolina (Youngstrom); Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Health, Ohio State University, Columbus (Fristad, Arnold); Division of Child & Family Psychiatry and Big Lots Behavioral Health Services, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio (Fristad); Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh (Birmaher); Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York City (Horwitz)
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Shidhaye R. Global priorities for improving access to mental health services for adolescents in the post-pandemic world. Curr Opin Psychol 2023; 53:101661. [PMID: 37566961 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Although several mental health conditions have their onset during adolescence, a very small proportion of adolescents receive adequate evidence-based interventions. There are both demand and supply-side barriers to accessing mental healthcare. The problem has been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the general life, health care services, and mental health of children, adolescents, and young adults across the globe. Despite multiple implementation challenges, interventions delivered in school settings and using digital health technologies can improve access to mental health care for adolescents, especially given the reverberations of the COVID era. While designing adolescent mental health programs, special emphasis needs to be on equity and trying to reach out to adolescents who need services the most.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Shidhaye
- Department of Psychiatry, Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences, Loni, Maharashtra 413736, India; Department of Health, Ethics, and Society, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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Brazel M. Patients languishing in emergency departments: A descriptive analysis of mental health-related emergency department presentations in Australia between 2016-17 and 2020-21. Australas Psychiatry 2023; 31:646-651. [PMID: 37583264 PMCID: PMC10566215 DOI: 10.1177/10398562231195438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the context of concerns regarding hospital access block, this paper provides a descriptive longitudinal analysis of mental health-related ED episodes in Australian public hospitals between 2016-17 and 2020-21. METHOD We descriptively analysed Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data for mental health-related ED presentations, outcomes and 5-year trends for Australian public hospitals. RESULTS There were more than 300,000 Australian mental health-related ED presentations in 2020-21. Presentations increased by an average annual rate of 2.8% between 2016-17 and 2020-21, commonly involving first responder (police, paramedic) attendance. From 2016-17 to 2020-21, the average annual rate of mental health-related ED presentations receiving a triage category of resuscitation increased by 13.7%, emergency by 9.4% and urgent by 4.7%. 90% of MH-related ED presentations were completed within 14 h, which was longer than the 90th percentile for all ED presentations (up to 8 h). CONCLUSIONS Current mental health policies have not stemmed the rising tide of ED presentations. Mental health-related ED presentations are increasing in number and severity, likely due to health systemic and societal factors. Psychiatry patients stay longer in EDs than other patients. Healthcare reforms should be targeted to provide the best outcome based on principles of equity of access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Brazel
- Matthew Brazel, Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, School of Medicine and Psychology, The Australian National University, Building 4, Level 2, The Canberra Hospital, PO Box 11, Garran 2605, ACT, Australia.
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Spoelma MJ, Sicouri GL, Francis DA, Songco AD, Daniel EK, Hudson JL. Estimated Prevalence of Depressive Disorders in Children From 2004 to 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Pediatr 2023; 177:1017-1027. [PMID: 37639261 PMCID: PMC10463172 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2023.3221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Importance Depression during childhood (ie, age <13 years) poses a major health burden. Recent changes in environmental and lifestyle factors may increase children's risk of mental health problems. This has been reported for anxiety disorders, but it is unclear whether this occurs for depressive disorders. Objective To provide prevalence estimates for the depressive disorders (ie, major depressive disorder [MDD], dysthymia, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder [DMDD], and overall) in children, and whether they have changed over time. Data Sources The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using terms related to depressive disorders, children, and prevalence. This was supplemented by a systematic gray literature search. Study Selection Studies were required to provide population prevalence estimates of depressive disorder diagnoses (according to an established taxonomy and standardized interviews) for children younger than 13 years, information about participants' year of birth, and be published in English. Data Extraction and Synthesis Data extraction was compliant with the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. A total of 12 985 nonduplicate records were retrieved, and 154 full texts were reviewed. Data were analyzed from 2004 (the upper limit of a previous review) to May 27, 2023. Multiple proportional random-effects meta-analytic and mixed-effects meta-regression models were fit. Main Outcomes and Measures Pooled prevalence rates of depressive disorders, prevalence rate differences between males vs females and high-income countries (HICs) vs low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), and moderating effects of time or birth cohort. Results A total of 41 studies were found to meet the inclusion criteria. Pooled prevalence estimates were obtained for 1.07% (95% CI, 0.62%-1.63%) for depressive disorders overall, 0.71% (95% CI, 0.48%-0.99%) for MDD, 0.30% (95% CI, 0.08%-0.62%) for dysthymia, and 1.60% (95% CI, 0.28%-3.90%) for DMDD. The meta-regressions found no significant evidence of an association with birth cohort, and prevalence rates did not differ significantly between males and females or between HICs and LMICs. There was a low risk of bias overall, except for DMDD, which was hindered by a lack of studies. Conclusions and Relevance In this systematic review and meta-analysis, depression in children was uncommon and did not increase substantially between 2004 and 2019. Future epidemiologic studies using standardized interviews will be necessary to determine whether this trend will continue into and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Spoelma
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gemma L. Sicouri
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Deanna A. Francis
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annabel D. Songco
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Emily K. Daniel
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer L. Hudson
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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9
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Subotic-Kerry M, Werner-Seidler A, Corkish B, Batterham PJ, Sicouri G, Hudson J, Christensen H, O'Dea B, Li SH. Protocol for a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effect of a CBT-I smartphone application (Sleep Ninja®) on insomnia symptoms in children. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:684. [PMID: 37730577 PMCID: PMC10510253 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05185-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep is necessary for healthy development and mental wellbeing. Despite this, many children do not get the recommended duration of sleep each night, and many experience sleep problems. Although treatable, existing interventions for sleep disturbance are time-consuming, burdensome for families, and focus on providing behavioural strategies to parents rather than upskilling children directly. To address this gap, we modified Sleep Ninja®, an evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) smartphone app for adolescent sleep disturbance, to be appropriate for 10 to 12 year olds. Here, we describe the protocol for a randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effect of Sleep Ninja on insomnia and other outcomes, including depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness, and explore effects on the emergence of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), compared to an active control group. METHODS We aim to recruit 214 children aged 10 to 12 years old experiencing disturbed sleep. Participants will be screened for inclusion, complete the baseline assessment, and then be randomly allocated to receive Sleep Ninja, or digital psychoeducation flyers (active control) for 6-weeks. The primary outcome, insomnia symptoms, along with depression, anxiety, sleep quality, and daytime sleepiness will be assessed at 6-weeks (primary endpoint), 3-months, and 9-months post-baseline (secondary and tertiary endpoints, respectively). A mixed model repeated measures analytic approach will be used to conduct intention-to-treat analyses to determine whether reductions in insomnia and secondary outcomes are greater for those receiving Sleep Ninja relative to the control condition at the primary and secondary endpoints. The difference in relative risk for MDD onset will be explored at 9-months and compared between conditions. DISCUSSION This is the first clinical trial examining the effects of a CBT-I smartphone app in children experiencing sleep disturbance. Results will provide empirical evidence about the effects of Sleep Ninja on insomnia and other mental health outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12623000587606). UNIVERSAL TRIAL NUMBER U1111-1294-4167.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Subotic-Kerry
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A Werner-Seidler
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - B Corkish
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - P J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - G Sicouri
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - J Hudson
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - H Christensen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - B O'Dea
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S H Li
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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10
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Ribeiro WS, Romeo R, King D, Owens S, Gronholm PC, Fisher HL, Laurens KR, Evans-Lacko S. Influence of stigma, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics on mental health-related service use and associated costs among young people in the United Kingdom. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2023; 32:1363-1373. [PMID: 35088184 PMCID: PMC10326138 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-01947-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This study examined the influence of stigma, psychopathology, and sociodemographic characteristics on mental health-related service use and costs related to service use in a cohort of young people in the UK. Using data from a community sample of young people aged 9-17 years and their caregivers, we assessed 407 young people's use of services due to mental health problems, young people's psychopathology, demographic characteristics, maternal education and caregivers' stigma-related beliefs. Unit costs related to services were gathered from national annual compendia and other widely used sources. We assessed predictors of service use through logistic regression analysis and developed generalised linear models to identify factors associated with costs of mental health-related service utilisation. Persistent psychopathology, socioeconomic disadvantage, and low caregiver intended stigma-related behaviour were associated with increased likelihood of service use among young people. Older age and socioeconomic disadvantage were associated with increased costs. Different factors influenced contact with services and the cost associated with their use - persistent psychopathology and socioeconomic disadvantage increased, and caregivers' intended stigma-related behaviour decreased the likelihood of using services, whereas socioeconomic disadvantage and older age were associated with increased costs. Social determinants of mental health problems play an important role in the use and costs of different types of mental health-related services for young people. Discordance between drivers of service use and costs implies that young people who are more likely to access services due to mental health problems do not necessarily receive care at the intensity they need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wagner Silva Ribeiro
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK.
| | - Renee Romeo
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Derek King
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK
| | | | - Petra C Gronholm
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Helen L Fisher
- Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kristin R Laurens
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Sara Evans-Lacko
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, London School of Economics and Political Science, Houghton Street, London, WC2A 2AE, UK
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11
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Chitty KM, Sawyer MG, Carter G, Lawrence D. Use of Medicare Benefit Scheme mental health services in young people who experienced self-harm and/or suicidal behaviours: Data from the Young Minds Matter survey. Australas Psychiatry 2023:10398562231163415. [PMID: 36935217 DOI: 10.1177/10398562231163415] [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] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine healthcare utilisation patterns in a sample of young people with self-reported experiences of self-harm and/or suicidal behaviours. METHODS A national survey examining mental health in a nationally representative sample of young Australians aged 12-17 years, linked to routinely collected healthcare and dispensing data. For respondents that self-reported experience of self-harm, suicidal ideation, suicidal plan and/or suicide attempt, we assessed attendance at a Medicare Benefits Scheme (MBS) subsidised MH service or non-MH general practitioner (GP) attendance at three time periods: 1) ever, 2) in the 12 months prior to completing the survey and 3) after completing the survey until 31 Dec 2015. We also assessed correlates associated with attendance and non-attendance at a MH service. RESULTS The study included 311 young people. MH services were attended in the 12 months before the survey by 38.3% with attempted suicide, 28.7% with a suicidal plan, 28.9% with suicidal ideation and 29.4% with self-harm. MH treatment administered by a GP was the most common MH service (25%); followed treatment by psychologist (15%) and psychiatrist (5%). Attendance at a MH service was observed highest alongside more severe self-reported depression. CONCLUSIONS Potential underutilisation of MBS MH services by young people with self-harm and/or suicidal behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M Chitty
- Biomedical Informatics and Digital Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, 4334The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Gifford Sawyer
- Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, School of Paediatrics and Child Health, 1066University of Adelaide, Stirling, WA, Australia
| | - Gregory Carter
- Conjoint Professor in Psychiatry in the Faculty of Health Sciences, 5982University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - David Lawrence
- Professor of Mental Health, School of Population Health, 1649Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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12
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Savaglio M, Yap MB, O'Donnell R, Skouteris H. Targeted community-based programmes for children's mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of the Australian literature. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2023; 57:197-212. [PMID: 36113092 DOI: 10.1177/00048674221124506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE No synthesis of the Australian evidence regarding targeted prevention and early intervention for mental health concerns among young children exists. This review aimed to (1) describe the types of targeted community-based mental health programmes evaluated in Australia to support children aged 1-9 years exhibiting internalising and/or externalising symptoms and (2) examine their impact on children's internalising and externalising symptoms and disorder diagnosis. METHOD A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted (PROSPERO: CRD42021255257). Four databases (PsycINFO, PsycArticles, MEDLINE and CINAHL) were searched for Australian studies published in the past 10 years that quantitatively evaluated the impact of a targeted programme on children's mental health. The National Institute of Health Quality Assessment Tools were used to evaluate the study quality. RESULTS Forty-two studies were included; the majority (67%) were medium quality. The mean sample size was 142 (SD = 170), children's average age was 5.78 years (SD = 2.44) and 58% were male. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were underrepresented. Studies evaluated 16 programmes that targeted (1) externalising symptoms (n = 20 studies, n = 6 programmes), (2) internalising symptoms (n = 14 studies, n = 7 programmes) or (3) both, termed transdiagnostic programmes (n = 8 studies, n = 3 programmes). Externalising programmes achieved a significant moderate mean reduction in externalising behaviours (standardised mean differences = -0.56), internalising programmes yielded a small mean improvement in anxiety symptoms (standardised mean differences = -0.25) and 57% reduced odds of anxiety disorder diagnosis. Evidence supporting transdiagnostic programmes was inconclusive. CONCLUSION Parenting-focused programmes targeting young children's internalising or externalising behaviours have the largest local evidence base supporting their effectiveness. Limitations include a lack of engagement with fathers, triangulation of outcomes, homogeneity and implementation reporting. Greater implementation and evaluation of community-driven integrated and systemic approaches that identify, engage and support Australia's most disadvantaged cohorts of young children and their families are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Savaglio
- Health and Social Care Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Marie Bh Yap
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Renee O'Donnell
- Health and Social Care Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Helen Skouteris
- Health and Social Care Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Warwick Business School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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13
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Stakeholder engagement to inform evidence-based treatment implementation for children’s mental health: a scoping review. Implement Sci Commun 2022; 3:82. [PMID: 35906675 PMCID: PMC9338493 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-022-00327-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a pervasive mental health treatment gap for children across the globe. Engaging stakeholders in child mental health evidence-based treatment (EBT) implementation projects may increase the likelihood of successful EBT implementation, thereby better addressing the treatment gap. However, little is known about the extent of stakeholder engagement to inform the implementation of child mental health EBTs. Methods We conducted a scoping review to characterize stakeholder engagement in child mental health EBT implementation projects, including what stakeholders are engaged, how they are engaged, when they are engaged, where they are engaged (i.e., location of projects), why they are engaged, and the reported impacts of stakeholder engagement. We searched seven databases: MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL Complete, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection. To be included, studies had to report on some form of stakeholder engagement that was undertaken to inform or explain the implementation of a child mental health EBT. We performed data extraction and synthesis to describe key study and stakeholder characteristics, stakeholder engagement methods and rationales, reported impacts of stakeholder engagement, and quality of reporting on stakeholder engagement. Results In total, 122 manuscripts met our inclusion criteria, from which we identified a total of 103 unique child mental health EBT implementation projects. Projects spanned 22 countries, which included low-, lower-middle, upper-middle, and high-income countries. The largest number of projects was in the USA and conducted in public mental health settings. Most projects engaged EBT providers during the active implementation phase and with limited depth, often gathering information from stakeholders without sharing decision-making power in implementation efforts. Across projects, impacts of stakeholder engagement spanned all of Proctor and colleague’s implementation outcomes. Conclusions Given that stakeholder engagement is often shallow and with limited shared decision-making, additional effort should be made to increase engagement to preempt challenges to EBT implementation and ensure implementation success. Such efforts may ensure the just distribution of power in EBT implementation efforts. Trial registration All procedures were pre-registered on the Open Science Framework prior to conducting the literature search (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/GR9AP). Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43058-022-00327-w.
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14
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Li SH, Achilles MR, Subotic-Kerry M, Werner-Seidler A, Newby JM, Batterham PJ, Christensen H, Mackinnon AJ, O’Dea B. Protocol for a randomised controlled trial evaluating the effectiveness of a CBT-based smartphone application for improving mental health outcomes in adolescents: the MobiliseMe study. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:746. [PMID: 36451142 PMCID: PMC9710004 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04383-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a leading cause of disability in adolescents, however few receive evidence-based treatment. Despite having the potential to overcome barriers to treatment uptake and adherence, there are very few CBT-based smartphone apps for adolescents. To address this gap, we developed ClearlyMe®, a self-guided CBT smartphone app for adolescent depression and anxiety. ClearlyMe® consists of 37 brief lessons containing core CBT elements, accessed either individually or as part of a 'collection'. Here, we describe the protocol for a randomised controlled trial aiming to evaluate the effect of ClearlyMe® on depressive symptoms and secondary outcomes, including engagement, anxiety and wellbeing, when delivered with and without guided support compared to an attention matched control. METHODS We aim to recruit 489 adolescents aged 12-17 years with mild to moderately-severe depressive symptoms. Participants will be screened for inclusion, complete the baseline assessment and are then randomly allocated to receive ClearlyMe® (self-directed use), ClearlyMe® with guided SMS support (guided use) or digital psychoeducation (attention-matched control). Depressive symptoms and secondary outcomes will be assessed at 6-weeks (primary endpoint) and 4-months post-baseline (secondary endpoint). Engagement, conceptualised as uptake, adherence and completion, will also be assessed 6-weeks post-baseline. Mixed-effects linear modelling will be used to conduct intention-to-treat analyses to determine whether reductions in depressive symptoms and secondary outcomes are greater for conditions receiving ClearlyMe® relative to control at 6-weeks and 4-months post-baseline and greater for intervention adherers relative to non-adherers. To minimise risk, participants will be encouraged to use the Get Help section of the app and can also opt to receive a call from the team clinical psychologist at baseline, and at the 6-week and 4-month post-baseline assessments when reporting suicidal ideation. DISCUSSION This is the first clinical trial examining a CBT smartphone app specifically designed for adolescent depression. It will provide empirical evidence on the effects of ClearlyMe® on depressive symptoms when used with and without guided support. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000131752). UNIVERSAL TRIAL NUMBER U1111-1271-8519.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. H. Li
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - M. R. Achilles
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - M. Subotic-Kerry
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - A. Werner-Seidler
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - J. M. Newby
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - P. J. Batterham
- grid.1001.00000 0001 2180 7477Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - H. Christensen
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - A. J. Mackinnon
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
| | - B. O’Dea
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales Australia
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Sullivan DP, Payne L, Boulton KA, Silove N, Bellgrove MA, Sciberras E, Coghill DR, Guastella AJ, Middeldorp CM. Examining the pharmacological and psychological treatment of child and adolescent ADHD in Australia: Protocol for a retrospective cohort study using linked national registry data. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064920. [PMID: 36418141 PMCID: PMC9685201 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which affects 5% of children globally. In Australia, it is estimated that 4.1% of children and adolescents have ADHD. While research has examined the treatment and outcomes of children with ADHD attending public mental health services during their time in the public system in Australia, it is not known what treatment they received before and after these treatment episodes, which will provide a more complete understanding of these children's treatment journey. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will link clinical data from cohorts of children and adolescents treated in the public child and youth mental health and/or child development services in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS), Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and National Death Index. MBS data will demonstrate the treatment journey with respect to clinicians seen, and treatment episodes from the public health service data sets will be examined to assess if the type and intensity of treatment are related to treatment outcomes. PBS data will reveal all psychotropic medications prescribed, allowing an examination of not just ADHD medications, but also other psychotropics which may indicate co-occurring conditions (eg, anxiety and mood disorders). Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics to describe the rates of specific medications and clinician specialties seen. Linear and logistic regression will be used to model how treatment and sociodemographic variables relate to routinely collected outcome measures in the public health system while controlling for covarying factors. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by the following institutional ethics committees: (1) Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service (HREC/21/QCHQ/76260), (2) The University of Queensland (2021/HE002143) and (3) The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (EO2021/4/1300). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conferences, professional associations and to public mental health services that treat ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P Sullivan
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leanne Payne
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kelsie A Boulton
- Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Clinic for Autism and Neurodevelopmental (CAN) Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natalie Silove
- Child Development Unit, The Sydney Children's Hospitals Network Randwick and Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark A Bellgrove
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Sciberras
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
- Deakin University Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, Burwood, Victoria, Australia
| | - David R Coghill
- Departments of Paediatrics and Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adam J Guastella
- Clinic for Autism and Neurodevelopmental (CAN) Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Clinical Research Unit, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christel M Middeldorp
- Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Service, Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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16
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Li SH, Achilles MR, Werner-Seidler A, Beames JR, Subotic-Kerry M, O'Dea B. Appropriate Use and Operationalization of Adherence to Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Anxiety in Youth: Systematic Review. JMIR Ment Health 2022; 9:e37640. [PMID: 35976180 PMCID: PMC9434387 DOI: 10.2196/37640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital, self-guided cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) interventions circumvent many barriers to in-person therapy for young people (aged 12-24 years), although adherence to these interventions is low. The absence or insufficient disclosure of recommendations or instructions for appropriate use may account for this. As such, many young people may not self-administer these interventions appropriately or receive the optimal degree of treatment. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aims to synthesize the literature on digital CBT for depression and anxiety in young people to describe how appropriate use has been defined and communicated to users as instructions for use, to describe how adherence has been measured, and to determine the associations between adherence and treatment outcomes. METHODS A systematic review was conducted with 2 reviewers (SHL and MRA) extracting data independently. Overall, 4 electronic databases (Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and Cochrane Library) were searched in April 2021 for studies that met the following inclusion criteria: participants aged between 12 and 24 years, evaluated a digital CBT intervention targeting depression or anxiety, and reported instructions or recommendations for use or measures of adherence. Studies that evaluated non-CBT interventions or cognitive- or behavioral-only interventions were excluded. Methodological quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and the Integrated Quality Criteria for the Review of Multiple Study Designs. RESULTS There were 32 manuscripts that met the inclusion criteria, of which 28 (88%) were unique studies (N=16,578 youths). Definitions of appropriate use varied among the different interventions in terms of intended recipients, duration and frequency of use, and the features used to support engagement and adherence to appropriate use definitions. Reporting of appropriate use definitions in studies was inconsistent, with no study systematically describing components of appropriate use or providing information on how recommendations for use were relayed to users. Most often, definitions of appropriate use were derived from the study protocol and descriptions of intervention features. Adherence was mostly operationalized as the degree of intervention completion; however, reporting of adherence data was heterogeneous. There was little evidence of an association between degree of use and outcomes in the 9 studies that examined this. CONCLUSIONS Definitions of appropriate use are unique to each digital CBT intervention. However, statements of appropriate use are not systematically reported in the literature. Furthermore, the extent to which recommendations for use are communicated to users is not routinely reported. Despite unique definitions of appropriate use, adherence was most often generically operationalized as the degree of intervention completion and was not consistently associated with outcomes. We proposed a framework to promote systematic reporting of definitions of appropriate use for digital interventions to provide guidance to users and to assist the development of appropriate and nuanced measures of adherence. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020208668; https://tinyurl.com/4bu2yram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie H Li
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Melinda R Achilles
- Black Dog Institute, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Aliza Werner-Seidler
- Black Dog Institute and School of Psychology, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | | | - Bridianne O'Dea
- Black Dog Institute, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
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The gap between perceived mental health needs and actual service utilization in Australian adolescents. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5430. [PMID: 35361817 PMCID: PMC8971377 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09352-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite being highly prevalent, adolescent mental health problems are undertreated. To better understand the mental health treatment gap, we assessed the prevalence and correlates of help-seeking, including perceived need for care and access to that care. Data were drawn from Young Minds Matter (YMM) survey-the second Australian child and adolescents survey of mental health and wellbeing. Parent-reported data and self-reported child data were combined into one dataset to analyse 2464 Australian adolescents aged 13-17 years. We employed bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models to assess the correlation between independent variables (professionally assessed with mental disorders only, self-reported self-harm/suicidality only and both) and their distribution over outcome variables (perceived need and service use). Mental disorders include depression, anxiety, ADHD and conduct disorder. Our study revealed 15.0%, 4.6% and 7.7% had professionally assessed with mental disorders only, self-reported self-harm/suicidality only and both, respectively. Overall, 47.4% and 27.5% of adolescents respectively perceived need for care and used services in the past-12-months. While among those only who perceived the need, only 53% of adolescents used any services. Professionally assessed with mental disorders only, self-reported self-harm/suicidality only and both were associated with higher likelihood of perceived need and service use (p < 0.001 for all). However, adolescents who self-reported self-harm/suicidality only were not found to be significantly associated with service use among those who perceived the need for care. Adolescents who perceived the need for mental health care but did not seek care represent a treatment gap. Our results suggest the importance of reducing the wide treatment gap that exists between need and care.
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Paton K, Gillam L, Warren H, Mulraney M, Coghill D, Efron D, Sawyer M, Hiscock H. Clinicians' perceptions of the Australian Paediatric Mental Health Service System: Problems and solutions. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2021; 55:494-505. [PMID: 33461341 DOI: 10.1177/0004867420984242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite substantial investment by governments, the prevalence of mental health disorders in developed countries remains unchanged over the past 20 years. As 50% of mental health conditions present before 14 years of age, access to high-quality mental health care for children is crucial. Barriers to access identified by parents include high costs and long wait times, difficulty navigating the health system, and a lack of recognition of the existence and/or severity of the child's mental health disorder. Often neglected, but equally important, are clinician views about the barriers to and enablers of access to high-quality mental health care. We aimed to determine perspectives of Australian clinicians including child and adolescent psychiatrists, paediatricians, psychologists and general practitioners, on barriers and enablers within the current system and components of an optimal system. METHODS A total of 143 clinicians (approximately 35 each of child and adolescent psychiatrists, paediatricians, child psychologists and general practitioners) from Victoria and South Australia participated in semi-structured phone interviews between March 2018 and February 2019. Inductive content analysis was applied to address the broad study aims. FINDINGS Clinician-identified barriers included multi-dimensional family factors, service fragmentation, long wait times and inadequate training for paediatricians and general practitioners. Rural and regional locations provided additional challenges but a greater sense of collaboration resulting from the proximity of clinicians in rural areas, creating an opportunity to develop support networks. Suggestions for an optimal system included novel ways to improve access to child psychiatry expertise, training for paediatricians and general practitioners, and co-located multidisciplinary services. CONCLUSION Within the current mental health system for children, structural, training and workforce barriers prevent optimal access to care. Clinicians identified many practical and systemic ideas to improve the system. Implementation and evaluation of effectiveness and cost effectiveness of these ideas is the next challenge for Australia's children's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Paton
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute and The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lynn Gillam
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Children's Bioethics Centre, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hayley Warren
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute and The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Melissa Mulraney
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute and The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David Coghill
- Mental Health, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Daryl Efron
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute and The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael Sawyer
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Harriet Hiscock
- Centre for Community Child Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute and The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Health Services Research Unit, The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Jorm AF, Kitchener BA. Increases in youth mental health services in Australia: Have they had an impact on youth population mental health? Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2021; 55:476-484. [PMID: 33300364 DOI: 10.1177/0004867420976861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental disorders often have their first onset during youth, which justifies targeting treatment services at this age group. Australia has had a substantial increase in youth mental health services since the introduction of the Medicare Better Access scheme and headspace services in 2006-2007. This paper examines trends in the mental health of Australian youth before and after this time using available national and state datasets. METHODS The following data were examined for age groups available in the age range of 12-25 years: use of mental health services per 100,000 population provided under Medicare by GPs, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, other psychologists and allied health professionals; per capita accessing of headspace services; and prevalence of high and very high psychological distress (using the K10) in youth age groups in the National Health Survey, the Victorian Population Health Survey and the New South Wales Population Health Survey between 2001 and 2018. RESULTS There has been a large increase in use of mental health services since the introduction of Better Access and headspace. No significant improvement in youth mental health was evident following the introduction of these schemes. Rather, there appeared to be a worsening of youth mental health from around 2015 onwards. CONCLUSION Despite a large increase in the provision of mental health services to Australian youth, there has not been a detectable reduction in the prevalence of psychological distress. There may be other factors that have worsened youth mental health in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony F Jorm
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
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20
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Graupensperger S, Sutcliffe J, Vella SA. Prospective Associations between Sport Participation and Indices of Mental Health across Adolescence. J Youth Adolesc 2021; 50:1450-1463. [PMID: 33689103 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-021-01416-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Youth sport offers physical and psychosocial components that may be beneficial for adolescents' mental health, but the prospective directionality between sport participation and mental health has not been clearly established. The current study examined longitudinal associations between sport participation (individual and team sport) and mental health indices (depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, emotional symptoms, hyperactivity symptoms, conduct problems, peer problems, and prosocial behavior) across adolescence (ages 12-17) in a nationally representative Australian sample of 3956 participants at T1 (Mage = 12.41 years, SD = 0.49; 49% female), 3537 at T2 (Mage = 14.41 years, SD = 0.49; 49% female), and 3089 at T3 (Mage = 16.46 years, SD = 0.51; 49% female). Using random intercept cross-lagged panel modeling, several significant within-person effects were found. Notably, greater participation in team sport prospectively predicted fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety at subsequent timepoints. This study increases the understanding of how sport participation may relate to mental health among adolescents and provides critical evidence to inform policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Graupensperger
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Jordan Sutcliffe
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Stewart A Vella
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
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21
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Lawrence D, Houghton S, Dawson V, Sawyer M, Carroll A. Trajectories of academic achievement for students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. BRITISH JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2020; 91:755-774. [PMID: 33259064 DOI: 10.1111/bjep.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with negative social and occupational outcomes across the life course. However, there has been limited population-based research that quantifies the impact of ADHD on academic achievement and academic trajectories. AIMS To compare academic performance and academic trajectories of students with ADHD with students without a mental disorder. SAMPLE Data were drawn from Young Minds Matter, a national population-based sample of 6,310 Australian children and adolescents aged 4-17 years. Using linked achievement test data, the academic performance and trajectories of 327 students with ADHD were compared with those of 3,916 students without a mental disorder. METHODS Survey data were combined with scores on national standardized tests for literacy and numeracy over an 8-year period. RESULTS In Year 3, students with ADHD were on average 1 year behind students with no mental disorder in reading and numeracy, and 9 months behind in writing. In Year 9, the gaps were much larger with students with ADHD on average 2.5 years behind in reading, 3 years behind in numeracy, and 4.5 years behind in writing. CONCLUSIONS Students with ADHD have substantially lower achievement in reading, writing, and numeracy. Writing was the most adversely affected domain. For example, in Year 9 students with ADHD were on average writing at a Year 5 level. Children and adolescents with ADHD need substantial support to manage inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Skilled remediation in literacy and numeracy is required throughout all school years.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lawrence
- Graduate School of Education, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen Houghton
- Graduate School of Education, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Vaille Dawson
- Graduate School of Education, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Michael Sawyer
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Annemaree Carroll
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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22
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Hiscock H, Mulraney M, Efron D, Freed G, Coghill D, Sciberras E, Warren H, Sawyer M. Use and predictors of health services among Australian children with mental health problems: A national prospective study. AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/ajpy.12256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Hiscock
- Health Services Research Unit, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Melissa Mulraney
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Daryl Efron
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- General Medicine, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Gary Freed
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan,
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - David Coghill
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Mental Health, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Child Neuropsychology, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Emma Sciberras
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
- Deakin Child Study Centre, Faculty of Health, School of Psychology, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Hayley Warren
- Health Services, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia,
| | - Michael Sawyer
- Research and Evaluation Unit, Women's and Children's Health Network, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia,
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia,
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A Systematic Review of the Perceived Barriers and Facilitators to Accessing Psychological Treatment for Mental Health Problems in Individuals on the Autism Spectrum. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-020-00226-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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24
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Schnyder N, Sawyer MG, Lawrence D, Panczak R, Burgess P, Harris MG. Barriers to mental health care for Australian children and adolescents in 1998 and 2013-2014. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2020; 54:1007-1019. [PMID: 32383402 DOI: 10.1177/0004867420919158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess changes in barriers to mental health care for children and adolescents over 16 years. METHODS We used data from two nationally representative surveys of Australian children and adolescents (4-17 years old), conducted in 1998 (N = 4509) and 2013-2014 (N = 6310). Barriers to care were assessed among parents who had reported a perceived partially met or unmet need for their child in the past 6 months in 1998, and the past 12 months in 2013-2014; barriers were similarly assessed among adolescents in relation to themselves. We addressed measurement inconsistencies between surveys by harmonising barriers to accommodate differences in wording and performing sensitivity analyses among those with a 1-month disorder to equalise the timeframes in which barriers were assessed. To assess change, we examined whether the rank order of the three most commonly endorsed barriers changed and whether the 95% confidence intervals (CI) around their estimates overlapped. RESULTS Similar proportions of parents reported a partially met or unmet need in 1998 (12.9%, 95% CI = [11.7, 14.0]) as in 2013-2014 (14.3%, 95% CI = [13.2, 15.3]), but the ratio of unmet to partially met need decreased from 3:1 in 1998 to 1:1 in 2013-2014. Top three parent-endorsed barriers ('self-reliance', 'unsure where to get help', and 'cost') were the same at both time points; 'self-reliance' decreased from 65.9% (95% CI = [61.1%, 70.7%]) to 34.9% (95% CI = [31.5%, 38.3%]). Top two adolescent-endorsed barriers ('self-reliance' and 'concerned what others might think') were the same at both time points, the third differed, but none of them decreased. CONCLUSION Perceived unmet need for mental health care for children and adolescents may have decreased between 1998 and 2013-2014, but the gap in receiving sufficient care may have increased. Despite investments in community awareness and treatment during this period, key barriers seemed largely unchanged. For parents, the decrease in self-reliance may reflect a positive shift in beliefs about the potential benefits of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Schnyder
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Policy and Epidemiology Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michael G Sawyer
- School of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - David Lawrence
- Graduate School of Education, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Radoslaw Panczak
- Queensland Centre for Population Research, School of Earth and Environmental Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Philip Burgess
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Policy and Epidemiology Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Meredith G Harris
- School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Policy and Epidemiology Group, Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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25
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Mei C, Fitzsimons J, Allen N, Alvarez-Jimenez M, Amminger GP, Browne V, Cannon M, Davis M, Dooley B, Hickie IB, Iyer S, Killackey E, Malla A, Manion I, Mathias S, Pennell K, Purcell R, Rickwood D, Singh SP, Wood SJ, Yung A, McGorry PD. Global research priorities for youth mental health. Early Interv Psychiatry 2020; 14:3-13. [PMID: 31960595 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIM Over the past two decades, the youth mental health field has expanded and advanced considerably. Yet, mental disorders continue to disproportionately affect adolescents and young adults. Their prevalence and associated morbidity and mortality in young people have not substantially reduced, with high levels of unmet need and poor access to evidence-based treatments even in high-income countries. Despite the potential return on investment, youth mental disorders receive insufficient funding. Motivated by these continual disparities, we propose a strategic agenda for youth mental health research. METHOD Youth mental health experts and funders convened to develop youth mental health research priorities, via thematic roundtable discussions, that address critical evidence-based gaps. RESULTS Twenty-one global youth mental health research priorities were developed, including population health, neuroscience, clinical staging, novel interventions, technology, socio-cultural factors, service delivery, translation and implementation. CONCLUSIONS These priorities will focus attention on, and provide a basis for, a systematic and collaborative strategy to globally improve youth mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Mei
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Joanna Fitzsimons
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Nicholas Allen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | - Mario Alvarez-Jimenez
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Günter Paul Amminger
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Vivienne Browne
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia
| | - Mary Cannon
- Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maryann Davis
- Transitions to Adulthood Center for Research, Systems and Psychosocial Advances Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
| | - Barbara Dooley
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ian B Hickie
- Youth Mental Health Team, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Srividya Iyer
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Prevention and Early Intervention Program for Psychosis (PEPP), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Canada.,ACCESS Open Minds (Canadian Youth Mental Health Services Research Network), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Canada.,Frayme, International Knowledge Translation Platform, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Eóin Killackey
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Ashok Malla
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Prevention and Early Intervention Program for Psychosis (PEPP), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Canada.,ACCESS Open Minds (Canadian Youth Mental Health Services Research Network), Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Ian Manion
- Frayme, International Knowledge Translation Platform, Ottawa, Canada.,Royal Ottawa Hospital, Institute of Mental Health Research, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Steve Mathias
- Frayme, International Knowledge Translation Platform, Ottawa, Canada.,Foundry, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kerryn Pennell
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Rosemary Purcell
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,Frayme, International Knowledge Translation Platform, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Debra Rickwood
- Headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation, Melbourne, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
| | - Swaran P Singh
- Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing Research, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Stephen J Wood
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alison Yung
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Patrick D McGorry
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Parkville, Australia.,Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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26
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Jorm A. Reducing the quality gap in mental health services. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2019; 53:941-942. [PMID: 31544499 DOI: 10.1177/0004867419877688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Jorm
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, Australia
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27
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Abstract
AIMS Mental disorders cause high burden in adolescents, but adolescents often underutilise potentially beneficial treatments. Perceived need for and barriers to care may influence whether adolescents utilise services and which treatments they receive. Adolescents and parents are stakeholders in adolescent mental health care, but their perceptions regarding need for and barriers to care might differ. Understanding patterns of adolescent-parent agreement might help identify gaps in adolescent mental health care. METHODS A nationally representative sample of Australian adolescents aged 13-17 and their parents (N = 2310), recruited between 2013-2014, were asked about perceived need for four types of adolescent mental health care (counselling, medication, information and skill training) and barriers to care. Perceived need was categorised as fully met, partially met, unmet, or no need. Cohen's kappa was used to assess adolescent-parent agreement. Multinomial logistic regressions were used to model variables associated with patterns of agreement. RESULTS Almost half (46.5% (s.e. = 1.21)) of either adolescents or parents reported a perceived need for any type of care. For both groups, perceived need was greatest for counselling and lowest for medication. Identified needs were fully met for a third of adolescents. Adolescent-parent agreement on perceived need was fair (kappa = 0.25 (s.e. = 0.01)), but poor regarding the extent to which needs were met (kappa = -0.10 (s.e. = 0.02)). The lack of parental knowledge about adolescents' feelings was positively associated with adolescent-parent agreement that needs were partially met or unmet and disagreement about perceived need, compared to agreement that needs were fully met (relative risk ratio (RRR) = 1.91 (95% CI = 1.19-3.04) to RRR = 4.69 (95% CI = 2.38-9.28)). Having a probable disorder was positively associated with adolescent-parent agreement that needs were partially met or unmet (RRR = 2.86 (95% CI = 1.46-5.61)), and negatively with adolescent-parent disagreement on perceived need (RRR = 0.50 (95% CI = 0.30-0.82)). Adolescents reported most frequently attitudinal barriers to care (e.g. self-reliance: 55.1% (s.e. = 2.39)); parents most frequently reported that their child refused help (38.7% (s.e. = 2.69)). Adolescent-parent agreement was poor for attitudinal (kappa = -0.03 (s.e. = 0.06)) and slight for structural barriers (kappa = 0.02 (s.e. = 0.09)). CONCLUSIONS There are gaps in the extent to which adolescent mental health care is meeting the needs of adolescents and their parents. It seems important to align adolescents' and parents' needs at the beginning and throughout treatment and to improve communication between adolescents and their parents. Both might provide opportunities to increase the likelihood that needs will be fully met. Campaigns directed towards adolescents and parents need to address different barriers to care. For adolescents, attitudinal barriers such as stigma and mental health literacy require attention.
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