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Willi N, Pancoast A, Drikaki I, Gu X, Gillanders D, Finucane A. Practitioner perspectives on the use of acceptance and commitment therapy for bereavement support: a qualitative study. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:59. [PMID: 38418964 PMCID: PMC10900636 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is currently a high demand for bereavement support coupled with inconclusive findings as to the efficacy of existing approaches. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) aims to improve human functioning and has shown efficacy across a wide range of conditions. ACT may be a promising means of supporting bereaved people, yet evidence on the use of ACT for bereavement support is lacking. The aim of this study is to explore how ACT is currently used for bereavement support and practitioner perspectives of how it helps following bereavement. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted online via MS Teams with practitioners experienced in using ACT for bereavement support. Data were analysed thematically guided by a framework approach. RESULTS Nine participants were recruited. Three themes were identified: (i) creating psychological space around grief; (ii) using psychological space for value-directed action in the midst of grieving, and (iii) adapting ACT for bereavement support. Practitioners indicated that ACT improves clients' relationship with distressing internal experiences. Metaphors and mindfulness techniques were used to encourage acceptance of grief responses, taking perspective on distressing thoughts and images, and contact with the present moment. Better relationships with distressing experiences were regarded as less psychologically taxing, improving coping and well-being, while providing the psychological space to engage in value-directed action. Values exploration, sometimes using metaphors and exercises, was seen as supporting the bereaved person to rediscover a sense of purpose and engage in meaningful activities alongside their grief. Practitioners used ACT flexibly, integrating other interventions, and adapted ACT to the perceived sensitivities of bereaved people, and age-related and developmental factors. CONCLUSION ACT is used to support people who have been bereaved to live effectively with the difficult thoughts and feelings associated with grieving and to enable them to gradually identify, reconnect with, and act in line with their values after loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaus Willi
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Anna Pancoast
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ioanna Drikaki
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Xueying Gu
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Anne Finucane
- Clinical Psychology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Ye F, Lee JJ, Xue D, Yu DSF. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Among Informal Caregivers of People With Chronic Health Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2346216. [PMID: 38051530 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.46216] [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] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Although there is substantial evidence to suggest the health benefits of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) among informal caregivers of people with chronic health conditions, the great variation in intervention designs among published studies limits its application. Objectives To identify intervention characteristics of ACT that are associated with improved psychological health and to assess the acceptability of ACT among informal caregivers. Data Sources Seven English- and 3 Chinese-language databases without limits on publication dates, the reference lists of previous reviews, and gray literature were searched up to February 2023. Study Selection Randomized clinical trials comparing the effect of ACT vs control groups on improving psychological health among informal caregivers. Data Extraction and Synthesis Two reviewers independently screened searched records and extracted data from eligible studies. Random-effects meta-analysis and mixed-effects metaregression were performed. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline was followed. Main Outcomes and Measures Psychological health outcomes (eg, depressive symptoms) measured by valid measurements and the acceptability of ACT based on identified parameters. Results A total of 29 studies with 2010 participants, published between 2015 and 2023, were identified. ACT showed moderate to large effect sizes for improving psychological health at postintervention assessments (Hedges g range, -0.55 [95% CI, -0.98 to -0.12] to -1.14 [95% CI, -1.83 to -0.45]) and at 1-to-3-month and 4-to-6-month follow-ups (Hedges g range, -0.47 [95% CI, -0.69 to -0.25] to -1.29 [95% CI, -2.33 to -0.24]). Multivariable metaregression analysis regarding intervention characteristics found that ACT delivered in a mixed individual- and group-based format, face-to-face, or through more intervention sessions was associated with greater improvements for experiential avoidance (face-to-face: β = -1.170 [95% CI, -2.020 to -0.319]; number of sessions: β = -0.242 [95% CI, -0.353 to -0.130]), depressive symptoms (mixed delivery format: β = -2.583 [95% CI, -4.845 to -0.321]; face-to-face: β = -1.555 [95% CI, -3.002 to -0.108]), or anxiety symptoms (face-to-face: β = -1.241 [95% CI, -2.337 to -0.146]). In general, ACT had low attrition rates (11%), and participants' adherence (51%-80%) and satisfactory ratings (72%-95%) lend support to its acceptability. Conclusions and Relevance This systematic review and meta-analysis found that ACT was consistently associated with improvements in psychological health, supporting its application to improve informal care for chronic disease management. This review provides specific details on the design parameters of ACT for achieving greater efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fen Ye
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jung Jae Lee
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Dandan Xue
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Doris Sau-Fung Yu
- School of Nursing, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Atefi GL, de Vugt ME, van Knippenberg RJM, Levin ME, Verhey FRJ, Bartels SL. The use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in informal caregivers of people with dementia and other long-term or chronic conditions: A systematic review and conceptual integration. Clin Psychol Rev 2023; 105:102341. [PMID: 37776577 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2023.102341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Informal caregivers are the primary source of support for adults with chronic conditions and disabilities. Empirical research highlights chronic stress and other risks of adverse outcomes of caregiving. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an emerging evidenced-based practice that shows promise in improving an array of outcomes, theoretically by increasing psychological flexibility as the primary process of change. Research has begun to evaluate ACT among informal caregivers of adult populations, and a systematic review is now needed to summarise this evidence base. Electronic searches from five databases, including PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library, yielded an initial 7896 hits, which after screening for inclusion criteria, resulted in 21 clinical trials. Studies were coded to synthesise the feasibility, effectiveness, and quality of evidence. Findings show that ACT was reported to be largely feasible and acceptable. However, the efficacy of ACT was mixed, with a more consistent pattern for informal caregivers of people with dementia. Several methodological quality issues limited the findings. However, theoretical synthesis and preliminary evidence support the promising effect of ACT in subgroups of informal caregivers. Research on the process of change, as well as larger-scale, methodologically rigorous trials, are needed to consolidate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golnaz L Atefi
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht University, Dr. Tanslaan 12, 6229 ET, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Marjolein E de Vugt
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht University, Dr. Tanslaan 12, 6229 ET, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosalia J M van Knippenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht University, Dr. Tanslaan 12, 6229 ET, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Michael E Levin
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Frans R J Verhey
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht University, Dr. Tanslaan 12, 6229 ET, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sara Laureen Bartels
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centrum Limburg, Maastricht University, Dr. Tanslaan 12, 6229 ET, Maastricht, The Netherlands; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Sweden
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Gibson Watt T, Gillanders D, Spiller JA, Finucane AM. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for people with advanced progressive illness, their caregivers and staff involved in their care: A scoping review. Palliat Med 2023; 37:1100-1128. [PMID: 37489074 PMCID: PMC10503261 DOI: 10.1177/02692163231183101] [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: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with an advanced progressive illness and their caregivers frequently experience anxiety, uncertainty and anticipatory grief. Traditional approaches to address psychological concerns aim to modify dysfunctional thinking; however, this is limited in palliative care, as often concerns area valid and thought modification is unrealistic. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a mindfulness-based behavioural therapy aimed at promoting acceptance and valued living even in difficult circumstances. Evidence on its value in palliative care is emerging. AIMS To scope the evidence regarding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for people with advanced progressive illness, their caregivers and staff involved in their care. DESIGN Systematic scoping review using four databases (Medline, PsychInfo, CINAHL and AMED), with relevant MeSH terms and keywords from January 1999 to May 2023. RESULTS 1,373 papers were identified and 26 were eligible for inclusion. These involved people with advanced progressive illness (n = 14), informal caregivers (n = 4), palliative care staff (n = 3), bereaved carers (n = 3), and mixed groups (n = 2). Intervention studies (n = 15) showed that Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is acceptable and may have positive effects on anxiety, depression, distress, and sleep in palliative care populations. Observational studies (n = 11) revealed positive relationships between acceptance and adjustment to loss and physical function. CONCLUSION Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is acceptable and feasible in palliative care, and may improve anxiety, depression, and distress. Full scale mixed-method evaluation studies are now needed to demonstrate effectiveness and cost-effectiveness amongst patients; while further intervention development and feasibility studies are warranted to explore its value for bereaved carers and staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tilly Gibson Watt
- University of Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - David Gillanders
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Juliet A Spiller
- University of Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Anne M Finucane
- Clinical Psychology, School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
- Marie Curie Hospice Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
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5
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Park SY. Application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in Hospice and Palliative Care Settings. JOURNAL OF HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE 2023; 26:140-144. [PMID: 37790735 PMCID: PMC10542994 DOI: 10.14475/jhpc.2023.26.3.140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Many terminally ill cancer patients grapple with a range of physical, psychological, and social challenges. Therefore, it is critical to offer effective psychological interventions to assist them in managing these issues and enhancing their quality of life. This brief communication provides a concise overview of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), along with empirical evidence of its application for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in hospice and palliative care settings and an overview of future directions of ACT interventions in South Korea. ACT, a third-wave type of cognitive behavioral therapy, is a model of psychological flexibility that promotes personal growth and empowerment across all life areas. Currently, there is substantial evidence from overseas supporting the effectiveness of ACT on health-related outcomes among patients with various diseases, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. The necessity and significance of conducting ACT-based empirical research in hospice and palliative care settings in South Korea are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- So-Young Park
- Ewha Institute for Age Integration Research, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
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Allison KR, Patterson P, McDonald FE, Bibby K, Ciarrochi J, Tracey D, Hayes LL, Wright A, Konings S, Davis E, Hulbert-Williams NJ, Wakefield CE, White K. Truce: Feasibility and acceptability of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based intervention for adolescents and young adults impacted by parental cancer. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2023.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
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Jalili M, Rezapour-Mirsaleh Y, Mirhosseini SJ. Investigating Surgeons' Reactions to Patients' Death: A Phenomenological Study. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231162731. [PMID: 36872588 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231162731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to scrutinize the reaction of surgeons towards patients' death. This study enjoyed a qualitative approach using a phenomenological lived experience. 12 surgeons who had witnessed patients' death were selected through purposive sampling until data saturation was achieved. The data were collected using semi-structured interviews and were analyzed through the Colaizzi's method. The main concepts extracted from the analysis of the participants' experience comprised three main themes, six sub-categories and 19 initial sub-categories. The main themes were (a) emotional-mental reactions including the sub-themes of emotional distress, mood disorder and mental distress, (b) death encounter including the sub-themes of rational encounter and pre-emptive measure and (c) post-traumatic growth covering the concepts of optimism and performance improvement. The obtained findings imply that the patients' death can sometimes make surgeons aware of the post-incident growth although such deaths affect their personal, family, social and professional lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Jalili
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ardakan University, Ardakan, Iran
| | - Yasser Rezapour-Mirsaleh
- Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ardakan University, Ardakan, Iran
| | - Seyed Jalil Mirhosseini
- Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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8
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Han A, Yuen HK, Jenkins J. The feasibility and preliminary effects of a pilot randomized controlled trial: Videoconferencing acceptance and commitment therapy in distressed family caregivers of people with dementia. J Health Psychol 2023; 28:554-567. [PMID: 36591636 PMCID: PMC10119897 DOI: 10.1177/13591053221141131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) examined preliminary effects of an 8-week videoconferencing acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) program supplemented with psychoeducation materials on distressed family caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) compared to the control group provided with psychoeducation materials only. Nineteen family caregivers of PLWD in the USA were randomly assigned to the ACT group or the control group. Data was collected at pretest, posttest, and 1-month follow-up (F/U). Compared to the control group, the ACT group showed a significantly larger reduction in grief at posttest, with a medium effect size. Small effects of ACT were found in anxiety, psychological quality of life, and engagement in meaningful activities at posttest and grief, engagement in meaningful activities, and psychological flexibility at F/U compared to the control group. These promising findings warrant a full-scale RCT with adequate power to measure the efficacy of videoconferencing ACT for caregivers of PLWD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areum Han
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA
| | - Hon K Yuen
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA
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Van Eersel JHW, Taris TW, Boelen PA. Job loss-related complicated grief symptoms: A cognitive-behavioral framework. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:933995. [PMID: 35935428 PMCID: PMC9354410 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.933995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In a significant minority of people, involuntarily job loss can result in symptoms of job loss-related complicated grief (JLCG). The present cognitive-behavioral framework is introduced to explain the underlying processes that may lead to the development and maintenance of JLCG symptoms. Three core processes play a central role, namely (1) negative cognitions related to the job loss and misinterpretation of one's grief reactions; (2) anxious and depressive avoidance strategies to cope with the job loss and its consequences; and (3) insufficient integration of the job loss into the autobiographical memory. These core processes are assumed to interact and reinforce each other, leading to JLCG symptoms. The three core processes can be influenced by certain risk factors, including circumstances surrounding the loss, personality traits, and characteristics of the social environment. JLCG symptoms can lead to additional psychological and practical problems, such as anxiety and depressive symptoms, lower employability, and reduced likelihood of re-employment. This paper explains and illustrates the three core processes with vignettes. Implications of the model for preventive measures and psychological interventions are introduced. It concludes with suggestions for future research on JLCG symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Toon W. Taris
- Department of Social, Health and Organizational Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Paul A. Boelen
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, Netherlands
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McGill K, Bhullar N, Pearce T, Batterham PJ, Wayland S, Maple M. Effectiveness of Brief Contact Interventions for Bereavement: A Systematic Review. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2022:302228221108289. [PMID: 35758167 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221108289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brief contact interventions are an efficient and cost-effective way of providing support to individuals. Whether they are an effective bereavement intervention is not clear. This systematic review included articles from 2014 to 2021.711 studies were identified, with 15 meeting inclusion criteria. The brief contact interventions included informational and emotional supports. Narrative synthesis identified that participants valued brief contact interventions, however some did not find them helpful. Exposure to a brief contact intervention was typically associated with improvements in wellbeing. Studies with comparison groups typically found significant but modest improvements in grief, depression symptoms and wellbeing associated with the intervention. However, one intervention was associated with significant deterioration of depression symptoms. Existing brief contact interventions for bereavement appear feasible, generally acceptable to the target population and are associated with improvements in wellbeing. Further development and evaluation to account for why improvements occur, and to identify any unintended impacts, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie McGill
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Navjot Bhullar
- School of Psychology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Tania Pearce
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Sarah Wayland
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
| | - Myfanwy Maple
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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Rackoff GN, Newman MG. Distinct Psychological Characteristics Predict Resilience and Recovery Throughout Widowhood. Behav Ther 2022; 53:428-439. [PMID: 35473647 PMCID: PMC9046682 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2021.11.002] [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: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The dual-process model proposes that early and later bereavement involves different types of stressors and adaptation processes (Stroebe & Schut, 1999, 2010). It is thus possible that different factors facilitate adaptation during the early months versus subsequent years following widowhood. Elevated depressive symptoms, though prevalent after widowhood, may indicate problematic adaptation, as they are associated with poor long-term physical and mental health outcomes. We predicted that neutral death acceptance would be associated with less increase in depression during early widowhood (when confronted with loss-oriented stressors), whereas perceived control would predict depressive symptom decline during later widowhood (when adapting to controllable restoration-oriented stressors). Older adults (N = 265) reported on neutral death acceptance, perceived control, and depression before widowhood and on depression 0.5, 1.5, and 4.0 years after the death of their spouse. Bilinear spline growth modeling revealed that, on average, depressive symptoms increased from before to 0.5 years after spouse death and fell from 0.5 to 4.0 years after spouse death. Neutral death acceptance predicted a smaller increase in depression from before to 0.5 years after spouse death, as well as a smaller subsequent decrease in depression from 0.5 to 4.0 years after spouse death. Perceived control predicted a larger decrease in depression from 0.5 to 4.0 years after spouse death. Neutral death acceptance and perceived control had unique associations with resilience and recovery throughout early and later widowhood. These variables may be fruitful targets in interventions for depression throughout the full course of widowhood.
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Effects of Psychotherapy on Hope/Hopelessness in Adults with Cancer: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Int J Behav Med 2022; 29:691-704. [PMID: 35137362 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-021-10051-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although psychotherapy is a common treatment for hopelessness and hope, the effectiveness remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively synthesize available evidence related to the effect of a broad range of psychotherapy interventions on hope/hopelessness in cancer patients. METHOD Eight electronic databases were searched for studies with adult cancer patients (mean age ≥ 18 years) receiving psychotherapy interventions with hope/hopelessness measured as outcomes and written in English. We used the random-effects model to compute effect size using Hedges' g and conducted moderator analyses. RESULTS We found 27 primary studies which included 1,998 participants who were 57.6 ± 8.0 years old across studies. The psychotherapy effect size ranged from - 0.86 to 2.92. Researchers who conducted psychotherapy at hospital/health centers showed higher effects, that is, improved hope scores (g = 0.63), than those who conducted psychotherapy in the community (g = 0.05). When researchers enrolled participants alone, psychotherapy resulted in higher effects (g = 0.62) than when partners/caregivers were involved (g = - 0.04). Researchers who included group discussion showed lower effects (g = 0.36) than without group discussion (g = 1.10). Researchers who examined fidelity found lower effects (g = 0.16) than researchers who did not examine fidelity (g = 0.66). Interestingly, researchers who studied people with breast cancer showed higher effects (g = 0.96) than those who studied people with other types of cancer (g = 0.26). Researchers who included higher percentages of women showed greater effects (slope = 0.008, Qmodel = 3.99, p = 0.046). Finally, the greater the time span between psychotherapy and the measurement of hope, the lower the psychotherapy effects (slope = - 0.002, Qmodel = 4.25, p = 0.039). CONCLUSION Psychotherapy had a solid moderate effect on reducing hopelessness and improving hope in cancer patients compared to controls.
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Lattie EG, Stiles-Shields C, Graham AK. An overview of and recommendations for more accessible digital mental health services. NATURE REVIEWS PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 1:87-100. [PMID: 38515434 PMCID: PMC10956902 DOI: 10.1038/s44159-021-00003-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Mental health concerns are common, and various evidence-based interventions for mental health conditions have been developed. However, many people have difficulty accessing appropriate mental health care and this has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital mental health services, such as those delivered by mobile phone or web-based platforms, offer the possibility of expanding the reach and accessibility of mental health care. To achieve this goal, digital mental health interventions and plans for their implementation must be designed with the end users in mind. In this Review, we describe the evidence base for digital mental health interventions across various diagnoses and treatment targets. Then, we explain the different formats for digital mental health intervention delivery, and offer considerations for their use across key age groups. We discuss the role that the COVID-19 pandemic has played in emphasizing the value of these interventions, and offer considerations for ensuring equity in access to digital mental health interventions among diverse populations. As healthcare providers continue to embrace the role that technology can play in broadening access to care, the design and implementation of digital mental healthcare solutions must be carefully considered to maximize their effectiveness and accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily G. Lattie
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Colleen Stiles-Shields
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrea K. Graham
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Soikkeli-Jalonen A, Mishina K, Virtanen H, Charalambous A, Haavisto E. Supportive interventions for family members of very seriously ill patients in inpatient care: A systematic review. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:2179-2201. [PMID: 33616267 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To systematically review existing literature exploring supportive interventions for family members of very seriously ill patients in inpatient care. BACKGROUND Being around a patient with a very serious illness in inpatient care setting is stressful and burdensome for family members. There is little information available on interventions that support family members of very seriously ill patients in inpatient care. DESIGN A systematic review. METHODS The literature review was conducted in May 2020 using four databases: PubMed (Medline), CINAHL, PsycINFO and Cochrane. A quality assessment was performed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Before-After (Pre-Post) Studies With No Control Group by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. The PRISMA checklist was used to support specific reporting and the TIDieR checklist to form detailed descriptions of the interventions. RESULTS Of the 7165 identified studies, 11 studies were included in the review based on predetermined criteria. Interventions were based on meetings with family members, education or therapy. Mindfulness- and therapy-based interventions and multiple-session tailored interventions showed beneficial outcomes for psychological symptoms and educational interventions on preparedness and self-efficacy. Several different measuring instruments to evaluate similar outcomes, such as psychological symptoms and coping, were used. CONCLUSIONS Only a few supportive interventions for family members of very seriously ill patients in inpatient care were found, which made comparing the differences in the varying study methods and outcomes difficult. More studies on supportive interventions and their feasibility and effectiveness are essential. Further evaluation of instruments is necessary to identify the most valid and reliable ways of measuring symptoms and coping. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE The results of this study can be used in clinical practice when selecting effective interventions or assessing family members' need for support. Additionally, the results can be used for guidance when developing new, effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaisa Mishina
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Heli Virtanen
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Andreas Charalambous
- Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol, Cyprus.,Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Elina Haavisto
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Satakunta Central Hospital, Pori, Finland
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Gunn KM, Turnbull DA, Dollman J, Kettler L, Bamford L, Vincent AD. Why are some drought-affected farmers less distressed than others? The association between stress, psychological distress, acceptance, behavioural disengagement and neuroticism. Aust J Rural Health 2021; 29:106-116. [PMID: 33587319 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the modifiable psychological and behavioural coping strategies associated with low levels of psychological distress, independent of more stable personality and demographic factors, in a sample of farmers who reported being exposed to a recent stressful event during an extended drought. DESIGN/SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Three hundred and nine South Australian, drought-affected grain, sheep and/or cattle farmers completed printed or online questionnaires. Only those who reported experiencing a stressful event in the past month that they rated ≥7 on a scale ranging from 1 (not stressful at all) to 10 (extremely stressful) were included in the analyses (n = 175, 65.06%). Participants ranged in age from 24 to 85 years and 40% were female. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Psychological distress was measured using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, and coping strategies were measured using a situational version of the COPE inventory. Five personality factors (extraversion, neuroticism, openness, conscientiousness and agreeableness) were assessed using the Quickscales-R. RESULTS In the final multivariable model, distress was elevated among individuals reporting higher neuroticism and behavioural disengagement, and lower in individuals reporting greater use of acceptance. These 3 variables explained 44% of the variance in distress. CONCLUSION Farmers recently exposed to a significant stressor, who used acceptance as a coping strategy, did not engage in behavioural disengagement and scored low on neuroticism, were least likely to experience distress. Given the stability of personality factors, interventions that foster farmers' use of acceptance and prevent behavioural disengagement as coping strategies might assist them with the management of future stressors, particularly in times of drought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M Gunn
- Department of Rural Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Freemason's Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Deborah A Turnbull
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Freemason's Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jim Dollman
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Lisa Kettler
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Luke Bamford
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Freemason's Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Andrew D Vincent
- Freemason's Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Effects of acceptance and commitment therapy on process measures of family caregivers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Zarotti N, Mayberry E, Ovaska-Stafford N, Eccles F, Simpson J. Psychological interventions for people with motor neuron disease: a scoping review. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2020; 22:1-11. [PMID: 32657152 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2020.1788094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Motor neuron disease (MND) is a rapidly progressive neurodegenerative condition with no known cure. MND can affect every aspect of a person's life and has been associated with a wide range of psychological difficulties, which can occur from pre-diagnosis through to the condition's later stages. However, very little research has been conducted on psychological interventions for people with MND (pwMND). This paper aimed to provide the first review specifically targeting psychological interventions in MND and offer potential directions for future research. Methods: A scoping review was carried out across five major databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Academic Search Ultimate, and Cochrane Library) until 1st of March 2020. Results: From an initial return of 1278 citations, 10 papers were included in the review. These included three randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two quasi-experiments, three uncontrolled pretest-post-test designs, one single case study, and one qualitative secondary analysis. The existing studies focused on a limited number of psychological outcomes and did not take into account site of MND onset or level of depression/anxiety before intervention. Implications for clinical practice are discussed and suggestions for future research are provided. Conclusions: The literature on psychological interventions is still extremely sparse. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based on the stress-coping model show promise in RCTs, but require further evaluation. The need for further development and evaluation of psychological interventions to improve the well-being of pwMND cannot be overstated, particularly as the struggle toward the discovery of an effective treatment for MND continues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolò Zarotti
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Emily Mayberry
- Sheffield Motor Neuron Disease Care Centre, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Fiona Eccles
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Jane Simpson
- Division of Health Research, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
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Han A, Yuen HK, Jenkins J. Acceptance and commitment therapy for family caregivers: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Health Psychol 2020; 26:82-102. [PMID: 32659142 DOI: 10.1177/1359105320941217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Acceptance and commitment therapy is an emerging evidenced-based practice, but no systematic review regarding the effects of ACT on family caregivers has been conducted. This article examined the effects of ACT on family caregivers by conducting meta-analysis with a random effects model. Twenty-four articles were identified from four electronic databases searched up to 30 March 2020. Meta-analyses found moderate effects of ACT on depressive symptoms and quality of life, small effects on anxiety, and small to moderate effects on stress. Further ACT studies should be conducted to measure effects on different outcomes for various family caregiver populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areum Han
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Hon K Yuen
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jeremy Jenkins
- Telehealth Private Practice: jeremyjenkins.icouch.me, Montana, USA
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19
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Maghsoudi Z, Razavi Z, Razavi M, Javadi M. Efficacy Of Acceptance And Commitment Therapy For Emotional Distress In The Elderly With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2019; 12:2137-2143. [PMID: 31802921 PMCID: PMC6802537 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s221245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetes is among the common diseases in the elderly which results in depression, anxiety, and emotional distress in the elderly and impacts the disease control by the individual. This study was conducted with the aim of exploring the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) in the improvement of emotional distress in the elderly with type 2 diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this randomized control trial, 80 elderly with type 2 diabetes aged ≥60 years were randomly selected among the individuals visiting Yazd Diabetes Research Center. Then, the patients were randomly divided into two 40 individual groups, ie, the intervention group and the control group. The intervention group underwent group ACT during eight 90-min sessions. The diabetes-related emotional distress questionnaire was completed before the intervention, after the end of the group sessions and 2 months after that. The statistical software SPSS version 21 was used for data analysis. RESULTS The emotional mean scores in the intervention and control groups were not significantly different before the intervention. However, the mean score of the intervention group was lower than of the control group immediately after the intervention (p=0.02) and 2 months after the intervention (p=0.02). CONCLUSION ACT results in the improvement of diabetes-related emotional distress in the intervention group. Considering the effectiveness of ACT, this therapeutic method is recommended to be used for the amelioration of emotional distress in the elderly with type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Maghsoudi
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammadreza Razavi
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Javadi
- Research Centre for Nursing and Midwifery Care, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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20
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Kennedy C, Deane FP, Chan AYC. In limbo: A systematic review of psychological responses and coping among people with a missing loved one. J Clin Psychol 2019; 75:1544-1571. [DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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21
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Dionne-Odom JN, Ejem D, Azuero A, Taylor RA, Rocque GB, Turkman Y, Thompson MA, Knight SJ, Martin MY, Bakitas MA. Factors Associated with Family Caregivers' Confidence in Future Surrogate Decision Making for Persons with Cancer. J Palliat Med 2018; 21:1705-1712. [PMID: 30129873 DOI: 10.1089/jpm.2018.0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Improving family caregiver preparation for surrogate decision making is a critical priority. Objective: Determine a parsimonious set of intrapersonal factors associated with family caregivers' confidence in making future medical decisions for their relatives with cancer. Methods: Cross-sectional mail survey. Family caregivers of Medicare beneficiaries with pancreatic, lung, brain, ovarian, head and neck, hematologic, and stage IV cancers from communities of eight U.S. cancer centers. Participants completed validated measures of their social and mental health, self-care behaviors, coping styles, and surrogate decision-making confidence. Using linear modeling, the Bayesian information criterion was used to identify factors associated with decision-making confidence. A bootstrap approach was used to conduct penalized inference on the selected model coefficients. Model fit validation was assessed with a random forest ensemble. Results: Caregivers (n = 294) were on average 65.5 years old, mostly female (72.8%), and care recipients' spouse/partner (60.2%). The parsimonious set of factors associated with low caregiver decision-making confidence included less engagement in spiritual growth self-care, more use of avoidant coping, low emotional social support, and younger care recipient age (in-sample R2 = 0.22). These factors were also identified by a random forest approach. After overfitting adjustment (shrunken R2 = 0.09), the strongest associations with low surrogate decision-making confidence were low spiritual growth self-care (adjusted standardized B = 0.17, p = 0.005) and high use of avoidant coping (adjusted standardized B = -0.12, p = 0.049). Discussion: Identifying strategies to enhance spiritual growth and reduce avoidant coping may be promising targets for interventions to improve family caregivers' confidence in future surrogate decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Nicholas Dionne-Odom
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Deborah Ejem
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Andres Azuero
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Richard A Taylor
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Gabrielle B Rocque
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Yasemin Turkman
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Moneka A Thompson
- Department of Pastoral Care, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Sara J Knight
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Michelle Y Martin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee
| | - Marie A Bakitas
- School of Nursing, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama.,Division of Geriatrics, Gerontology, and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, Center for Palliative and Supportive Care, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
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