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Reich H, Hegerl U, Rosenthal A, Allenhof C. Arabic-language digital interventions for depression in German routine health care are acceptable, but intervention adoption remains a challenge. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12097. [PMID: 38866810 PMCID: PMC11169486 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62196-8] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Migrants face many barriers to mental health care, such as different cultural concepts of distress, unfamiliar pathways to care, and language. Digital mental health interventions are effective and scalable in multi-language versions. However, their implementation into routine care is in its infancy. Here, we report on the Arabic- and German-language implementation of two digital interventions in Germany: The iFightDepression® website, providing information about depression to the public, and the iFightDepression® tool, offering guided self-management for depression. Our main goal is to gain empirical knowledge about the success of their implementation and provide evidence-based recommendations for improvement. Data for the current analyses stem from convenience samples, utilizing anonymized user logs of the iFightDepression® website and 15.307 user accounts in the iFightDepression® tool. We found that the acceptability (time on page, usage behavior) of both digital interventions was comparable between the two user groups. The website pervasiveness of the target populations was nine times lower among Arab migrants in Germany than Germans (89 vs. 834 unique page views/ 100,000 inhabitants), but the increase in views was superior and sustained over three years. The adoption of the tool was lower among Arabic than German users (conversion rate from invitation to completed registration: 30.8% vs. 59.0%, p < 0.001) and appropriateness was challenged as Arabic users reported higher depression severities upon first registration (p = 0.027). Our results show that the uptake of digital interventions for migrants requires facilitation and further tailoring to the needs of the target group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Reich
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy, Depression Research Centre of the German Depression Foundation, University Hospital, Goethe University, Heinrich-Hoffmann-Str. 10, 60528, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Ulrich Hegerl
- German Depression Foundation, Leipzig, Germany
- Johann Christian Senckenberg Distinguished Professorship, Department for Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- European Alliance Against Depression e.V., Leipzig, Germany
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Lindqvist K, Mechler J, Midgley N, Carlbring P, Carstorp K, Neikter HK, Strid F, Von Below C, Philips B. "I didn't have to look her in the eyes"-participants' experiences of the therapeutic relationship in internet-based psychodynamic therapy for adolescent depression. Psychother Res 2024; 34:648-662. [PMID: 36473231 DOI: 10.1080/10503307.2022.2150583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To explore young people's perceptions of the relationship with the therapist in internet-based psychodynamic treatment for adolescent depression.Method: As a part of a randomized controlled trial, 18 adolescents aged 15-19 were interviewed after participating in treatment. Interviews followed a semi-structured interview schedule and were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results: The findings are reported around four main themes: "a meaningful and significant relationship with someone who cared", "a helping relationship with someone who guided and motivated me through therapy"; "a relationship made safer and more open by the fact that we didn't have to meet" and "a nonsignificant relationship with someone I didn't really know and who didn't know me".Conclusion: Even when contact is entirely text-based, it is possible to form a close and significant relationship with a therapist in internet-based psychodynamic treatment. Clinicians need to monitor the relationship and seek to repair ruptures when they emerge.Trial registration: ISRCTN.org identifier: ISRCTN16206254..
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Lindqvist
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jakob Mechler
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nick Midgley
- Child Attachment and Psychological Therapies Research Unit (ChAPTRe), Anna Freud Centre / University College London, UK
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Fredrik Strid
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Björn Philips
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ncheka JM, Menon JA, Davies EB, Paul R, Mwaba SOC, Mudenda J, Wharrad H, Tak H, Glazebrook C. Implementing internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (moodgym) for African students with symptoms of low mood during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative feasibilty study. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:92. [PMID: 38302998 PMCID: PMC10835970 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05542-4] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online therapies have been shown to be effective in improving students' mental health. They are cost-effective and therefore have particular advantages in low-income countries like Zambia where mental health resources are limited. This study aimed to explore the perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the feasibility of implementing an Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) intervention ('moodgym') to improve resilience in vulnerable Zambian students. METHODS The study was a qualitative interview study. Participants identifying as having symptoms of low mood and completing a baseline, online survey (n = 620) had the option to volunteer for a semi-structured interview to explore views about their experience of the pandemic and the acceptability and perceived benefits and limitations of using moodgym. RESULTS A total of 50 students (n = 24 female, n = 26 male) participated in the study. One theme with 4 sub-themes, captured the severe emotional and social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A second, very strong theme, with 5 sub-themes, reflected the considerable negative effects of the pandemic on the students' educational experience. This included the challenges of online learning. The third theme, with three subthemes, captured the benefits and acceptability of moodgym, particularly in terms of understanding the relationship between thoughts and feelings and improving academic performance. The fourth theme described the technical difficulties experienced by students in attempting to use moodgym. CONCLUSION COVID-19 caused fear and impacted wellbeing in vulnerable students and severely impaired the quality of students' educational experience. The findings suggest that moodgym might be a valuable support to students in a low-income country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce M Ncheka
- School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - J Anitha Menon
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- School of Liberal Studies, University of Petroleum and Energy Sciences, Dehradun, India
- Rochester Institute of Technology, Liberal Arts Department, Dubai, UAE
| | - E Bethan Davies
- Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ravi Paul
- School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sidney O C Mwaba
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Heather Wharrad
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Harsa Tak
- Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Cris Glazebrook
- Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, School of Medicine, Institute of Mental Health, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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Mehjabeen D, Blignault I, Taha PH, Reavley N, Slewa-Younan S. A mixed methods systematic review of mental health self-care strategies for Arabic-speaking refugees and migrants. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2544. [PMID: 38124024 PMCID: PMC10731719 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-care strategies can improve mental health and wellbeing, however, the evidence on preferred strategies among Arabic-speaking refugees and migrants is unclear. This mixed methods systematic review aimed to identify and synthesise the global research on mental health self-care strategies used by these populations. METHODS English and Arabic language studies reporting on positive mental health self-care strategies to address symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, generalised anxiety and depression in the target populations were identified by systematically searching eight electronic databases and grey literature. Studies were deemed eligible if they were published from 2000 onwards and included Arabic-speaking migrants, refugees or asylum seekers aged 12 years and above. A narrative synthesis of study characteristics and relevant key findings was undertaken. The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (registration number CRD42021265456). RESULTS Fifty-nine records reporting 57 studies were identified, the majority appearing after 2019. There were 37 intervention studies that incorporated a self-care component and 20 observational studies that reported on self-generated self-care practices. Across both study types, four broad groups of mental health self-care were identified-social, psychological, religious/spiritual, and other (e.g., expressive arts and exercise). Psychological strategies were the most reported self-care practice overall and featured in all intervention studies. Religious/spiritual and social strategies were more common in the observational studies. Intervention studies in diverse settings reported statistical improvements on a range of outcome measures. Observational studies reported a range of individual and community benefits. Linguistic, cultural and religious considerations, inherent in the observational studies, were variably addressed in the individual and group interventions. CONCLUSION Overall, study participants experienced self-care as helpful although some encountered challenges in practicing their preferred strategies. Further research on mental health self-care strategies among Arabic-speaking refugees and migrants is needed in Western resettlement countries to guide mental health service delivery and primary healthcare initiatives for new arrivals and in transit countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deena Mehjabeen
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Ilse Blignault
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Perjan Hashim Taha
- College of Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Iraq
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Nicola Reavley
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shameran Slewa-Younan
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Berg M, Klemetz H, Lindegaard T, Andersson G. Self-esteem in new light: a qualitative study of experiences of internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy for low self-esteem in adolescents. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:810. [PMID: 37936134 PMCID: PMC10631070 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05328-0] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low self-esteem is common and can be impairing for adolescents. Treatments that primarily target low-esteem are lacking. Internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) is a treatment that can be used for adolescents but ICBT is yet to be evaluated for low self-esteem using qualitative methods. The aim of this study was to investigate experiences of participating in a novel ICBT treatment for adolescents suffering from low self-esteem. METHOD Fifteen adolescent girls who had received ICBT consented to participate in a semi-structured qualitative telephone interview at post-treatment. Data were analysed and categorised using inductive Thematic Analysis. RESULTS Four overarching themes were identified; (1) Increased awareness and agency in difficult situations, (2) Enhanced self-image, (3) Unique but not alone, and (4) Widened understanding and new perspectives. Participants reported positive changes in their thinking and behaviour, as well as helpful learning experiences in relation to themselves and their self-esteem. For instance, participants described a more self-accepting attitude, learned how to manage negative thoughts, and experienced an increased sense of connection to others. CONCLUSION The results suggest that ICBT is experienced as helpful and will inform further use and development of ICBT for low self-esteem. Future studies should validate and further evaluate experiences of ICBT for low self-esteem in other settings and in particular for boys as the study only include female participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Berg
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, SE-58183, Sweden
| | | | - Tomas Lindegaard
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, SE-58183, Sweden.
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, SE-58183, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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Hynie M, Oda A, Calaresu M, Kuo BCH, Ives N, Jaimes A, Bokore N, Beukeboom C, Ahmad F, Arya N, Samuel R, Farooqui S, Palmer-Dyer JL, McKenzie K. Access to Virtual Mental Healthcare and Support for Refugee and Immigrant Groups: A Scoping Review. J Immigr Minor Health 2023; 25:1171-1195. [PMID: 37407884 PMCID: PMC10509103 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-023-01521-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Immigrant and refugee populations face multiple barriers to accessing mental health services. This scoping review applies the (Levesque et al. in Int J Equity Health 12:18, 2013) Patient-Centred Access to Healthcare model in exploring the potential of increased access through virtual mental healthcare services VMHS for these populations by examining the affordability, availability/accommodation, and appropriateness and acceptability of virtual mental health interventions and assessments. A search in CINAHL, MEDLINE, PSYCINFO, EMBASE, SOCINDEX and SCOPUS following (Arksey and O'Malley in Int J Soc Res Methodol 8:19-32, 2005) guidelines found 44 papers and 41 unique interventions/assessment tools. Accessibility depended on individual (e.g., literacy), program (e.g., computer required) and contextual/social factors (e.g., housing characteristics, internet bandwidth). Participation often required financial and technical support, raising important questions about the generalizability and sustainability of VMHS' accessibility for immigrant and refugee populations. Given limitations in current research (i.e., frequent exclusion of patients with severe mental health issues; limited examination of cultural dimensions; de facto exclusion of those without access to technology), further research appears warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Hynie
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Canada.
- Centre for Refugee Studies, York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J1P3, Canada.
| | - Anna Oda
- Centre for Refugee Studies, York University, 4700 Keele St., Toronto, ON, M3J1P3, Canada
| | - Michael Calaresu
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ben C H Kuo
- Department of Psychology, University of Windsor, Windsor, Canada
| | - Nicole Ives
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Annie Jaimes
- Department of Psychology, University of Quebec in Montreal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Nimo Bokore
- School of Social Work, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Farah Ahmad
- School of Health Policy and Management, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Neil Arya
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Rachel Samuel
- Counseling Psychology, Yorkville University, Fredericton, Canada
| | | | | | - Kwame McKenzie
- Wellesley Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Division of Health Equity, CAMH, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Blignault I, Saab H, Youssef H, Baddah H, Giourgas K, Woodland L. "It Is Definitely a Good Program for Everyone from Every Community": A Qualitative Study of Community Partner Perspectives on the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Mindfulness Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6608. [PMID: 37623191 PMCID: PMC10454450 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20166608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
Meeting the health needs of migrant and refugee communities is crucial to successful settlement and integration. These communities are often under-served by mental health services. Previous research has demonstrated the effectiveness of a group mindfulness-based intervention tailored for Arabic and Bangla speakers living in Sydney, Australia. This study aimed to explore community partner perspectives on the program's impact, contributing factors and sustainability, and to elicit suggestions for future development. Data were collected via semi-structured telephone interviews with a purposively selected sample of 16 informants. Thematic analysis was conducted using the Rigorous and Accelerated Data Reduction (RADaR) technique. Community partners welcomed the emphasis on promoting wellbeing and reported that the community-based in-language intervention, in both face-to-face and online formats, overcame many of the barriers to timely mental health care for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, with a beneficial impact on group participants, program providers, partner organisations and the broader community. Positive outcomes led to stronger community engagement and demand for more programs. For group mental health programs, both trust and safety are necessary. Relationships must be nurtured, diversity within CALD communities recognised, and projects adequately resourced to ensure partner organisations are not overburdened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse Blignault
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Hend Saab
- Multicultural Health Team, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (H.S.); (H.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Hanan Youssef
- Multicultural Health Team, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (H.S.); (H.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Heba Baddah
- Multicultural Health Team, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (H.S.); (H.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Klara Giourgas
- Multicultural Health Team, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia; (H.S.); (H.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Lisa Woodland
- Health Equity, Promotion and Prevention Service, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010, Australia;
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
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Børtveit L, Nordgreen T, Nordahl-Hansen A. Therapists' experiences with providing guided internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with mild and moderate depression: a thematic analysis. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1236895. [PMID: 37519347 PMCID: PMC10380928 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1236895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Guided internet-delivered therapy has shown promising results for patients with mild and moderate depressive disorder, but several challenges with the format have been reported. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate therapists' experiences providing guided internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with mild and moderate depression. Material and methods Twelve therapists were interviewed, and the interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results and conclusion Three themes were created: (1) For the right person, at the right time. This theme is about therapists' experiences appointing patients to the program. It is challenging to predict which patients will benefit from it, and it is not the right option for all patients. (2) It is not like chatting on Facebook. The second theme was about the experiences with demands on clinics, therapists and patients that must be considered. The internet-delivered treatment should not be viewed as a simple treatment option, and the value of having contact with the patients during treatment was emphasized. (3) It is like a railroad, but without the switches. This theme was about the experiences with how the treatment content was conveyed to the patients, how the therapists expressed concerns with the usability of the program and the reported need for more possibilities in tailoring treatment for each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Børtveit
- Faculty of Health, Welfare and Organisation, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tine Nordgreen
- Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anders Nordahl-Hansen
- Department of Education, ICT, and Learning, Østfold University College, Halden, Norway
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Whitehead L, Talevski J, Fatehi F, Beauchamp A. Barriers to and Facilitators of Digital Health Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Populations: Qualitative Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e42719. [PMID: 36853742 PMCID: PMC10015358 DOI: 10.2196/42719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care systems have become increasingly more reliant on patients' ability to navigate the digital world. However, little research has been conducted on why some communities are less able or less likely to successfully engage with digital health technologies (DHTs), particularly among culturally and linguistically diverse (CaLD) populations. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to determine the barriers to and facilitators of interacting with DHTs from the perspectives of CaLD population groups, including racial or ethnic minority groups, immigrants and refugees, and Indigenous or First Nations people. METHODS A systematic review and thematic synthesis of qualitative studies was conducted. Peer-reviewed literature published between January 2011 and June 2022 was searched across 3 electronic databases. Terms for digital health were combined with terms for cultural or linguistic diversity, ethnic minority groups, or Indigenous and First Nations people and terms related to barriers to accessing digital technologies. A qualitative thematic synthesis was conducted to identify descriptive and analytical themes of barriers to and facilitators of interacting with DHTs. Quality appraisal was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. RESULTS Of the 1418 studies identified in the electronic search, a total of 34 (2.4%) were included in this review. Half of the included studies (17/34, 50%) were conducted in the United States. There was considerable variation in terms of the CaLD backgrounds of the participants. In total, 26% (9/34) of the studies focused on Indigenous or First Nations communities, 41% (14/34) were conducted among ethnic minority populations, 15% (5/34) of the studies were conducted among immigrants, and 18% (6/34) were conducted in refugee communities. Of the 34 studies, 21 (62%) described the development or evaluation of a digital health intervention, whereas 13 (38%) studies did not include an intervention but instead focused on elucidating participants' views and behaviors in relation to digital health. From the 34 studies analyzed, 18 descriptive themes were identified, each describing barriers to and facilitators of interacting with DHTs, which were grouped into 7 overarching analytical themes: using technology, design components, language, culture, health and medical, trustworthiness, and interaction with others. CONCLUSIONS This study identified several analytic and descriptive themes influencing access to and uptake of DHTs among CaLD populations, including Indigenous and First Nations groups. We found that cultural factors affected all identified themes to some degree and that cultural and linguistic perspectives should be considered in the design and delivery of DHTs, with this best served through the inclusion of the target communities at all stages of development. This may improve the potential of DHTs to be more acceptable, appropriate, and accessible to population groups currently at risk of not obtaining the full benefits of digital health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Whitehead
- School of Rural Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Warragul, Australia
| | - Jason Talevski
- School of Rural Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Warragul, Australia.,Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition Research (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.,Australian Institute for Musculoskeletal Science, The University of Melbourne and Western Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Farhad Fatehi
- Centre for Health Services Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alison Beauchamp
- School of Rural Health, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Warragul, Australia
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Smartphone-delivered mental health care interventions for refugees: A systematic review of the literature. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2023; 10:e6. [PMID: 36843879 PMCID: PMC9947632 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
According to the United Nations, an estimated 26.6 million people worldwide were refugees in 2021. Experiences before, during, and after flight increase psychological distress and contribute to a high prevalence of mental disorders. The resulting high need for mental health care is generally not reflected in the actual mental health care provision for refugees. A possible strategy to close this gap might be to offer smartphone-delivered mental health care. This systematic review summarizes the current state of research on smartphone-delivered interventions for refugees, answering the following research questions: (1) Which smartphone-delivered interventions are available for refugees? (2) What do we know about their clinical (efficacy) and (3) nonclinical outcomes (e.g., feasibility, appropriateness, acceptance, and barriers)? (4) What are their dropout rates and dropout reasons? (5) To what extent do smartphone-delivered interventions consider data security? Relevant databases were systematically searched for published studies, gray literature, and unpublished information. In total, 456 data points were screened. Twelve interventions were included (nine interventions from 11 peer-reviewed articles and three interventions without published study reports), comprising nine interventions for adult refugees and three for adolescent and young refugees. Study participants were mostly satisfied with the interventions, indicating adequate acceptability. Only one randomized controlled trial (RCT; from two RCTs and two pilot RCTs) found a significant reduction in the primary clinical outcome compared to the control group. Dropout rates ranged from 2.9 to 80%. In the discussion, the heterogeneous findings are integrated into the current state of literature.
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Tadros E, Ramadan A, Salman M. The Path We Face: Clinical Implications for Destigmatizing Therapy for Arab American Couples. JOURNAL OF COUPLE & RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15332691.2022.2086955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eman Tadros
- Division of Psychology and Counseling, Governors State University, University Park, Illinois, USA
| | - Abrea Ramadan
- Division of Psychology and Counseling, Governors State University, University Park, Illinois, USA
| | - Marram Salman
- Division of Psychology and Counseling, Governors State University, University Park, Illinois, USA
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12
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Tarp K, Rasmussen J, Mejldal A, Folker MP, Nielsen AS. Blended Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (Blend-A): Explorative Mixed Methods Pilot and Feasibility Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e17761. [PMID: 35468082 PMCID: PMC9086873 DOI: 10.2196/17761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In Denmark, approximately 150,000 people have alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, only approximately 10% seek AUD treatment, preferably outside conventional health care settings and opening hours. The AUD treatment area experiences low adherence to treatment, as well as high numbers of no-show and premature dropouts. Objective The purpose of the Blend-A (Blended Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder) feasibility and pilot study was to describe the process of translating and adapting the Dutch treatment protocol into Danish and Danish culture with a high amount of user involvement and to report how patients and therapists perceived the adapted version, when trying it out. Methods The settings were 3 Danish public municipal outpatient alcohol clinics. Study participants were patients and therapists from the 3 settings. Data consisted of survey data from the System Usability Scale, individual patient interviews, and therapist group interviews. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Stata software and Excel. Qualitative analysis was conducted using a theoretical thematic analysis. Results The usability of the treatment platform was rated above average. The patients chose to use the blended treatment format because it ensured anonymity and had a flexible design. Platform use formed the basis of face-to-face sessions. The use of the self-determined platform resulted in a more thorough process. Patient involvement qualified development of a feasible system. Managerial support for time use was essential. Guidance from an experienced peer was useful. Conclusions This study indicates that, during the processes of translating, adapting, and implementing blended, guided, internet-based, and face-to-face AUD treatment, it is relevant to focus on patient involvement, managerial support, and guidance from experienced peers. Owing to the discrete and flexible design of the blended offer, it appears that it may reach patient groups who would not otherwise have sought treatment. Therefore, blended treatment may increase access to treatment and contribute to reaching people affected by excessive alcohol use, who would not otherwise have sought treatment. In addition, it seems that the blended offer may enhance the participants’ perceived satisfaction and the effect of the treatment course. Thus, it appears that Blend-A may be able to contribute to existing treatment offers. Such findings highlight the need to determine the actual effect of the Blend-A offer; therefore, an effectiveness study with a controlled design is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristine Tarp
- Centre for Telepsychiatry, Mental Health Services, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Research Unit for Telepsychiatry and E-mental Health, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Anna Mejldal
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,OPEN Odense Patient data Explorative Network, Odense, Denmark
| | - Marie Paldam Folker
- Centre for Telepsychiatry, Mental Health Services, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anette Søgaard Nielsen
- Unit of Clinical Alcohol Research, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Psychiatry, Mental Health Services, Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,BRIDGE, Brain Research - Inter-Disciplinary Guided Excellence, Odense, Denmark
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Lindegaard T, Wasteson E, Demetry Y, Andersson G, Richards D, Shahnavaz S. Investigating the potential of a novel internet-based cognitive behavioural intervention for Dari and Farsi speaking refugee youth: A feasibility study. Internet Interv 2022; 28:100533. [PMID: 35433279 PMCID: PMC9006765 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2022.100533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Over half of the world's forcibly displaced persons are under the age of 25, with many suffering from symptoms of psychological disorders. Many refugees from Afghanistan or Iran speak either Dari or Farsi, which are mutually intelligible dialects of the Persian language. Previous research on adult refugees and immigrants have shown that internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (ICBT) can be a valuable complement to other forms of treatment. However, there is a lack of knowledge if ICBT is a feasible and acceptable treatment for adolescents and young adults with a refugee background. METHOD Fifteen Dari/Farsi-speaking adolescents and young adults between 15 and 26 years of age participated in a feasibility study of a novel individually tailored guided ICBT intervention targeting symptoms of common mental disorders such as anxiety and depression. Self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression were assessed using the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25 (HSCL-25) as the primary outcome measure. Four of the treatment participants and three additional non-treatment participants consented to be interviewed regarding the programme's acceptability. The interviews were analysed using Thematic Analysis. RESULTS The intervention suffered from low adherence, with only 3 participants completing the post-treatment assessment and with participants completing 0.9 modules on average, which meant that the intended quantitative analysis of the pre to post change was not possible. The thematic analysis resulted in two overarching categories, barriers and facilitators, that each contained four themes and related subthemes. Overall, the intervention was deemed culturally relevant and easy to understand. The most salient barriers to participation across interviews concerned interference of symptoms such as concentration difficulties, low energy, and a lack of human contact and support. CONCLUSION The current version of the ICBT program demonstrated low feasibility and acceptability in the target population, which mainly seemed to be related to the delivery format. Future studies should investigate if a blended treatment format with regular phone/video calls with a therapist can increase adherence to the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Lindegaard
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Corresponding author at: Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, SE-581 83 Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Elisabet Wasteson
- Department of Psychology and Social Work, Mid Sweden University, Östersund, Sweden
| | - Youstina Demetry
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, The Centre for Psychotherapy, Education & Research, Sweden
| | - Gerhard Andersson
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Derek Richards
- E-mental Health Group, School of Psychology, University of Dublin, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Clinical Research & Innovation, SilverCloud Health, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shervin Shahnavaz
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
- Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, The Centre for Psychotherapy, Education & Research, Sweden
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Spanhel K, Hovestadt E, Lehr D, Spiegelhalder K, Baumeister H, Bengel J, Sander LB. Engaging Refugees With a Culturally Adapted Digital Intervention to Improve Sleep: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:832196. [PMID: 35280163 PMCID: PMC8905517 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.832196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Refugees are exposed to multiple stressors affecting their mental health. Given various barriers to mental healthcare in the arrival countries, innovative healthcare solutions are needed. One such solution could be to offer low-threshold treatments, for example by culturally adapting treatments, providing them in a scalable format, and addressing transdiagnostic symptoms. This pilot trial examined the feasibility, acceptance, and preliminary effectiveness of a culturally adapted digital sleep intervention for refugees. Sixty-six refugees participated, with 68.2% of them seeking psychological help for the first time. Only three participants did not show clinically significant insomnia severity, 93.9% reported past traumatic experiences. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (IG) or the waitlist control group (CG). Insomnia severity, measured by the Insomnia Severity Index, and secondary outcomes (sleep quality, fear of sleep, fatigue, depression, wellbeing, mental health literacy) were assessed at baseline, 1 and 3 months after randomization. The self-help intervention included four modules on sleep hygiene, rumination, and information on mental health conditions associated with sleep disturbances. 66.7% of the IG completed all modules. Satisfaction with the intervention and its perceived cultural appropriateness were high. Linear multilevel analyses revealed a small, non-significant intervention effect on insomnia severity of Hedge's g = 0.28 at 3-months follow-up, comparing the IG to the CG [F 2, 60 = 0.88, p = 0.421]. This non-confirmatory pilot trial suggests that low-threshold, viable access to mental healthcare can be offered to multiple burdened refugees by culturally adapting an intervention, providing it in a scalable format, and addressing a transdiagnostic symptom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Spanhel
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eva Hovestadt
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Dirk Lehr
- Department of Health Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Lueneburg, Lueneburg, Germany
| | - Kai Spiegelhalder
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Juergen Bengel
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lasse B Sander
- Department of Rehabilitation Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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