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Siefried KJ, Bascombe F, Clifford B, Liu Z, Middleton P, Kay-Lambkin F, Freestone J, Herman D, Millard M, Steele M, Acheson L, Moller C, Bath N, Ezard N. Effect of a Smartphone App (S-Check) on Actual and Intended Help-Seeking and Motivation to Change Methamphetamine Use Among Adult Consumers of Methamphetamine in Australia: Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2024; 12:e55663. [PMID: 38959499 PMCID: PMC11255525 DOI: 10.2196/55663] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Interventions are required that address delays in treatment-seeking and low treatment coverage among people consuming methamphetamine. OBJECTIVE We aim to determine whether a self-administered smartphone-based intervention, the "S-Check app" can increase help-seeking and motivation to change methamphetamine use, and determine factors associated with app engagement. METHODS This study is a randomized, 28-day waitlist-controlled trial. Consenting adults residing in Australia who reported using methamphetamine at least once in the last month were eligible to download the app for free from Android or iOS app stores. Those randomized to the intervention group had immediate access to the S-Check app, the control group was wait-listed for 28 days before gaining access, and then all had access until day 56. Actual help-seeking and intention to seek help were assessed by the modified Actual Help Seeking Questionnaire (mAHSQ), modified General Help Seeking Questionnaire, and motivation to change methamphetamine use by the modified readiness ruler. χ2 comparisons of the proportion of positive responses to the mAHSQ, modified General Help Seeking Questionnaire, and modified readiness ruler were conducted between the 2 groups. Logistic regression models compared the odds of actual help-seeking, intention to seek help, and motivation to change at day 28 between the 2 groups. Secondary outcomes were the most commonly accessed features of the app, methamphetamine use, feasibility and acceptability of the app, and associations between S-Check app engagement and participant demographic and methamphetamine use characteristics. RESULTS In total, 560 participants downloaded the app; 259 (46.3%) completed eConsent and baseline; and 84 (32.4%) provided data on day 28. Participants in the immediate access group were more likely to seek professional help (mAHSQ) at day 28 than those in the control group (n=15, 45.5% vs n=12, 23.5%; χ21=4.42, P=.04). There was no significant difference in the odds of actual help-seeking, intention to seek help, or motivation to change methamphetamine use between the 2 groups on the primary logistic regression analyses, while in the ancillary analyses, the imputed data set showed a significant difference in the odds of seeking professional help between participants in the immediate access group compared to the waitlist control group (adjusted odds ratio 2.64, 95% CI 1.19-5.83, P=.02). For participants not seeking help at baseline, each minute in the app increased the likelihood of seeking professional help by day 28 by 8% (ratio 1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.22, P=.04). Among the intervention group, a 10-minute increase in app engagement time was associated with a decrease in days of methamphetamine use by 0.4 days (regression coefficient [β] -0.04, P=.02). CONCLUSIONS The S-Check app is a feasible low-resource self-administered intervention for adults in Australia who consume methamphetamine. Study attrition was high and, while common in mobile health interventions, warrants larger studies of the S-Check app. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619000534189; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377288&isReview=true.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista J Siefried
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Florence Bascombe
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Central and North-West London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brendan Clifford
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- New South Wales Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Zhixin Liu
- Healthdirect Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Peter Middleton
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
- New South Wales Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Frances Kay-Lambkin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jack Freestone
- ACON, Sydney, Australia
- The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Michael Millard
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Maureen Steele
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
| | - Liam Acheson
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Carl Moller
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Nicky Bath
- LGBTIQ+ Health Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- The National Centre for Clinical Research on Emerging Drugs, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
- St Vincent's Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service, Sydney, Australia
- The National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- New South Wales Drug and Alcohol Clinical Research and Improvement Network, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, Australia
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Strachan G, Daneshvar H, Carver H, Greenhalgh J, Matheson C. Using digital technology to reduce drug-related harms: a targeted service users' perspective of the Digital Lifelines Scotland programme. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:128. [PMID: 38951880 PMCID: PMC11218389 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-01012-y] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deaths due to drug overdose are an international issue, causing an estimated 128,000 global deaths in 2019. Scotland has the highest rate of drug-related deaths in Europe, with those in the most deprived areas at greater risk than those in affluent areas. There is a paucity of research on digital solutions, particularly from the perspective of those who use drugs who additionally access harm reduction and homelessness support services. The Digital Lifelines Scotland programme (DLS) provides vulnerable people who use/d drugs with digital devices to connect with services. METHODS This paper reports on the evaluation of the DLS from the perspective of service users who accessed services for those at risk of drug-related harms. A mixed methods approach was used including an online-survey (n = 19) and semi-structured interviews (n = 21). Survey data were analysed descriptively and interview data through inductive coding, informed by the Technology, People, Organisations and Macroenvironmental factors (TPOM) framework, to investigate the use, access, and availability of devices, and people's experiences and perceptions of them. RESULTS Most participants lived in social/council housing (63.2%, n = 12), many lived alone (68.4%, n = 13). They were mainly over 40 years old and lived in a city. Participants described a desire for data privacy, knowledge, and education, and placed a nascent social and personal value on digital devices. Participants pointed to the person-centred individuality of the service provision as one of the reasons to routinely engage with services. Service users experienced an increased sense of value and there was a palpable sense of community, connection and belonging developed through the programme, including interaction with services and devices. CONCLUSIONS This paper presents a unique perspective which documents the experiences of service users on the DLS. Participants illustrated a desire for life improvement and a collective and individual feeling of responsibility towards themselves and digital devices. Digital inclusion has the potential to provide avenues by which service users can safely and constructively access services and society to improve outcomes. This paper provides a foundation to further cultivate the insight of service users on digital solutions in this emerging area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graeme Strachan
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Hadi Daneshvar
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK.
| | - Hannah Carver
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Jessica Greenhalgh
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
| | - Catriona Matheson
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, UK
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Pinzón-Gómez C, Langlade JP, Gantiva C. Systematic review of cognitive and behavioral strategies used in effective harm reduction interventions for people who use cocaine. J Addict Dis 2024:1-14. [PMID: 38591227 DOI: 10.1080/10550887.2024.2327762] [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: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to identify cognitive and behavioral strategies that have been used in effective harm reduction interventions for people who use cocaine. METHOD Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were followed, and the search was performed on February 26, 2023 across databases including PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were included if they (1) report the use of one cognitive or behavioral strategy, (2) have harm reduction as the objective, (3) involve participants who used cocaine as at least one of their substances, (4) be published within the last 10 years, and (5) have a randomized controlled trial design. The Cochrane RoB 2.0 Tool was used to assess risk of bias. The cognitive and behavioral strategies were extracted and organized based on their frequency of use in the studies and their corresponding outcomes. RESULTS The final synthesis included k = 10 studies with N = 3,567 participants. Psychoeducation strategies, influence on social norms, personalized feedback, increased self-efficacy and motivational interviewing were the most frequently used promising strategies across studies. CONCLUSIONS This review underscores the significance of incorporating cognitive and behavioral strategies within harm reduction interventions, as they represent a promising domain that could enhance the effectiveness of addressing cocaine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Pinzón-Gómez
- Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
- Centro de Estudios Sobre Seguridad y Drogas CESED, Bogotá, Colombia
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Trinh CD, Girard R, Schick MR, Spillane NS. Positive psychological interventions on alcohol use and consequences: Pilot randomized trial in a young adult cannabis-using sample. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE AND ADDICTION TREATMENT 2024; 158:209241. [PMID: 38056630 DOI: 10.1016/j.josat.2023.209241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Young adults exhibit high rates of concurrent alcohol and cannabis use, which is associated with more negative alcohol-related consequences. Positive psychological interventions have successfully been leveraged to target alcohol, cannabis, and nicotine use, as well as substance use disorders, and may be a useful harm reduction approach to reduce alcohol-related consequences. This pilot study sought to generate effect sizes for two positive psychological interventions, Savoring and Three Good Things, on frequency of alcohol use, quantity of alcohol use, and alcohol-related consequences. METHODS The current study used data from a pilot study testing positive psychological interventions to reduce cannabis use and cannabis-related consequences in young adults (ages 18 to 25) who used cannabis at least once per week within the prior month (N = 50, Mage = 22.72, 72 % men, 40 % White). Participants reported baseline alcohol and cannabis use and alcohol-related consequences, then the study randomized them to complete a daily Savoring intervention, Three Good Things, or a control exercise, and completed daily text message surveys for two weeks (i.e., the intervention period) and a follow-up survey. RESULTS Analyses revealed no significant differences across experimental conditions on alcohol use frequency, alcohol use quantity, or alcohol-related consequences at baseline or follow-up. Paired samples t-tests demonstrated that participants in the Savoring group showed large, significant decreases in alcohol-related consequences (t[16] = 2.28, p = .04, gav = 0.54); no decreases occurred in frequency or quantity of alcohol use. The Three Good Things group showed no significant decreases in alcohol-related consequences, frequency of alcohol use, or quantity of alcohol use. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that a larger scale clinical trial is warranted to determine whether Savoring and Three Good Things might function as harm reduction interventions to reduce alcohol-related consequences in young adults who concurrently use alcohol and cannabis. Future research should use a larger sample, a longer intervention administration period, and a longer follow-up period to examine these positive psychological interventions more rigorously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine D Trinh
- University of Rhode Island, Department of Psychology, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Rachel Girard
- University of Rhode Island, Department of Psychology, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Melissa R Schick
- Yale School of Medicine, Division of Prevention and Community Research, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Nichea S Spillane
- University of Rhode Island, Department of Psychology, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
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Johansson M, Romero D, Jakobson M, Heinemans N, Lindner P. Digital interventions targeting excessive substance use and substance use disorders: a comprehensive and systematic scoping review and bibliometric analysis. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1233888. [PMID: 38374977 PMCID: PMC10875034 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1233888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Addictive substances are prevalent world-wide, and their use presents a substantial and persistent public health problem. A wide range of digital interventions to decrease use and negative consequences thereof have been explored, differing in approach, theoretical grounding, use of specific technologies, and more. The current study was designed to comprehensively map the recent (2015-2022) extant literature in a systematic manner, and to identify neglected and emerging knowledge gaps. Four major databases (Medline, Web of Science Core Collection, and PsychInfo) were searched using database-specific search strategies, combining terms related to clinical presentation (alcohol, tobacco or other drug use), technology and aim. After deduplication, the remaining n=13,917 unique studies published were manually screened in two stages, leaving a final n=3,056 studies, the abstracts of which were subjected to a tailored coding scheme. Findings revealed an accelerating rate of publications in this field, with randomized trials being the most common study type. Several meta-analyses on the topic have now been published, revealing promising and robust effects. Digital interventions are being offered on numerous levels, from targeted prevention to specialized clinics. Detailed coding was at times made difficult by inconsistent use of specific terms, which has important implications for future meta-analyses. Moreover, we identify several gaps in the extant literature - few health economic assessments, unclear descriptions of interventions, weak meta-analytic support for some type of interventions, and limited research on many target groups, settings and new interventions like video calls, chatbots and artificial intelligence - that we argue are important to address in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Johansson
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Danilo Romero
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Miriam Jakobson
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nelleke Heinemans
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philip Lindner
- Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
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Liu Y, Ramos SD, Hanna DB, Jones DL, Lazar JM, Kizer JR, Cohen MH, Haberlen SA, Adimora AA, Lahiri CD, Wise JM, Friedman MR, Plankey M, Chichetto NE. Psychosocial Syndemic Classes and Longitudinal Transition Patterns Among Sexual Minority men Living with or Without HIV in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS). AIDS Behav 2023; 27:4094-4105. [PMID: 37418062 PMCID: PMC10615787 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04123-y] [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] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Mental health and substance use epidemics interact to create psychosocial syndemics, accelerating poor health outcomes. Using latent class and latent transition analyses, we identified psychosocial syndemic phenotypes and their longitudinal transition pathways among sexual minority men (SMM) in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS, n = 3,384, mean age 44, 29% non-Hispanic Black, 51% with HIV). Self-reported depressive symptoms and substance use indices (i.e., smoking, hazardous drinking, marijuana, stimulant, and popper use) at the index visit, 3-year and 6-year follow-up were used to model psychosocial syndemics. Four latent classes were identified: "poly-behavioral" (19.4%), "smoking and depression" (21.7%), "illicit drug use" (13.8%), and "no conditions" (45.1%). Across all classes, over 80% of SMM remained in that same class over the follow-ups. SMM who experienced certain psychosocial clusters (e.g., illicit drug use) were less likely to transition to a less complex class. These people could benefit from targeted public health intervention and greater access to treatment resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyang Liu
- University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Stephen D Ramos
- University of California - San Diego, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Deborah L Jones
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | - Jorge R Kizer
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mardge H Cohen
- Stroger Hospital, Cook County Health and Hospitals System, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Cecile D Lahiri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jenni M Wise
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, England
| | - Mackey R Friedman
- School of Public Health. Newark, Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, Canada
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O'Logbon J, Wickersham A, Williamson C, Leightley D. The effectiveness of digital health technologies for reducing substance use among young people: a systematic review & meta-analysis. J Ment Health 2023:1-29. [PMID: 37664884 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2023.2245902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Substance use amongst young people poses developmental and clinical challenges, necessitating early detection and treatment. Considering the widespread use of technology in young people, delivering interventions digitally may help to reduce and monitor their substance use. AIMS We conducted a systematic review and two meta-analyses to assess the effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing substance use (alcohol, smoking, and other substances) among young people aged 10 to 24 years old. METHOD Embase, Global Health, Medline, PsychINFO, Web of Science and reference lists of relevant papers were searched in November 2020. Studies were included if they quantitatively evaluated the effectiveness of digital health technologies for treating substance use. A narrative synthesis and meta-analysis were conducted. RESULTS Forty-two studies were included in the systematic review and 18 in the meta-analyses. Digital interventions showed small, but statistically significant reductions in weekly alcohol consumption compared to controls (SMD= -0.12, 95% CI= -0.17 to -0.06, I2=0%), but no overall effect was seen on 30-day smoking abstinence (OR = 1.12, 95% CI = 0.70 to 1.80, I2=81%). The effectiveness of digital interventions for reducing substance use is generally weak, however, promising results such as reducing alcohol use were seen. Large-scale studies should investigate the viability of digital interventions, collect user feedback, and determine cost-effectiveness. PRISMA/PROSPERO This systematic review was conducted following Cochrane methodology PRISMA guidelines. The review was registered with PROSPERO in November 2020 (CRD42020218442).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Wickersham
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Williamson
- King's Centre for Military Health Research and Academic Department of Military Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Leightley
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- King's Centre for Military Health Research and Academic Department of Military Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
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McDermott KT, Noake C, Wolff R, Espina C, Foucaud J, Steindorf K, Schüz J, Thorat MA, Weijenberg M, Bauld L, Kleijnen J. Digital interventions to moderate alcohol consumption in young people: a Cancer Prevention Europe overview of systematic reviews. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1178407. [PMID: 37288171 PMCID: PMC10243367 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1178407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Strategies to reduce alcohol consumption would contribute to substantial health benefits in the population, including reducing cancer risk. The increasing accessibility and applicability of digital technologies make these powerful tools suitable to facilitate changes in behaviour in young people which could then translate into both immediate and long-term improvements to public health. Objective We conducted a review of systematic reviews to assess the available evidence on digital interventions aimed at reducing alcohol consumption in sub-populations of young people [school-aged children, college/university students, young adults only (over 18 years) and both adolescent and young adults (<25 years)]. Methods Searches were conducted across relevant databases including KSR Evidence, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE). Records were independently screened by title and abstract and those that met inclusion criteria were obtained for full text screening by two reviewers. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the ROBIS checklist. We employed a narrative analysis. Results Twenty-seven systematic reviews were included that addressed relevant interventions in one or more of the sub-populations, but those reviews were mostly assessed as low quality. Definitions of "digital intervention" greatly varied across systematic reviews. Available evidence was limited both by sub-population and type of intervention. No reviews reported cancer incidence or influence on cancer related outcomes. In school-aged children eHealth multiple health behaviour change interventions delivered through a variety of digital methods were not effective in preventing or reducing alcohol consumption with no effect on the prevalence of alcohol use [Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.13, 95% CI: 0.95-1.36, review rated low RoB, minimal heterogeneity]. While in adolescents and/or young adults who were identified as risky drinkers, the use of computer or mobile device-based interventions resulted in reduced alcohol consumption when comparing the digital intervention with no/minimal intervention (-13.4 g/week, 95% CI: -19.3 to -7.6, review rated low RoB, moderate to substantial heterogeneity).In University/College students, a range of E-interventions reduced the number of drinks consumed per week compared to assessment only controls although the overall effect was small [standardised mean difference (SMD): -0.15, 95% CI: -0.21 to -0.09]. Web-based personalised feedback interventions demonstrated a small to medium effect on alcohol consumption (SMD: -0.19, 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.11) (review rated high RoB, minimal heterogeneity). In risky drinkers, stand-alone Computerized interventions reduced short (SMD: -0.17, 95% CI: -0.27 to -0.08) and long term (SMD: -0.17, 95% CI: -0.30 to -0.04) alcohol consumption compared to no intervention, while a small effect (SMD: -0.15, 95% CI: -0.25 to -0.06) in favour of computerised assessment and feedback vs. assessment only was observed. No short-term (SMD: -0.10, 95% CI: -0.30 to 0.11) or long-term effect (SMD: -0.11, 95% CI: -0.53 to 0.32) was demonstrated for computerised brief interventions when compared to counsellor based interventions (review rated low RoB, minimal to considerable heterogeneity). In young adults and adolescents, SMS-based interventions did not significantly reduce the quantity of drinks per occasion from baseline (SMD: 0.28, 95% CI: -0.02 to 0.58) or the average number of standard glasses per week (SMD: -0.05, 95% CI: -0.15 to 0.05) but increased the risk of binge drinking episodes (OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.32-4.53, review rated high RoB; minimal to substantial heterogeneity). For all results, interpretation has limitations in terms of risk of bias and heterogeneity. Conclusions Limited evidence suggests some potential for digital interventions, particularly those with feedback, in reducing alcohol consumption in certain sub-populations of younger people. However, this effect is often small, inconsistent or diminishes when only methodologically robust evidence is considered. There is no systematic review evidence that digital interventions reduce cancer incidence through alcohol moderation in young people. To reduce alcohol consumption, a major cancer risk factor, further methodologically robust research is warranted to explore the full potential of digital interventions and to form the basis of evidence based public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caro Noake
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Wolff
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
| | - Carolina Espina
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organisation (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Jérôme Foucaud
- Institut National du Cancer (INCa), Boulogne-Billancourt, France
- Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Laboratoire Éducations et Pratiques de Santé (UR 3412), France
| | - Karen Steindorf
- Division of Physical Activity, Prevention and Cancer, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joachim Schüz
- Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology Branch, International Agency for Research on Cancer/World Health Organisation (IARC/WHO), Lyon, France
| | - Mangesh A. Thorat
- Breast Services, Guy's Hospital, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Great Maze Pond, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Cancer Prevention, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matty Weijenberg
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Linda Bauld
- Usher Institute and SPECTRUM Consortium, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jos Kleijnen
- Kleijnen Systematic Reviews Ltd., York, United Kingdom
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Mohammadi K, Tavafian SS, Tavousi M. Development and psychometric properties of the HBM-based substance abuse prevention questionnaire (HBM-SAPQA) among Afghanian students. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2023; 35:167-171. [PMID: 36814360 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2022-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
In Afghanistan, adolescents and young people are the most important at risk groups for substance abuse. Considering the importance of model-based interventions in this group, this study aims to design and validate a questionnaire based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) for assessing the beliefs of Afghan students regarding substance abuse prevention behavior. This study was conducted in two stages. In the first stage, the items of the questionnaire were designed by conducting a combined documentary literature review and qualitative study. In the next step, its psychometric properties were evaluated through qualitative and quantitative face and content validity (CVR & CVR) and structural validity (exploratory factor analysis). Finally, internal consisitency through Cronbach's alpha as well as reliability was assessed. To above steps, the SPSS version 18 was applied. 57 items were obtained for the questionnaire by performing a qualitative study and using existing scientific sources for literature review. In checking the face validity of the questionnaire items quantitatively (calculating the impact score), the impact score of all items was above 1.5. The CVR of each item was more than 0.8 and their CVI was more than 0.79. In EFA (using the information of 408 students with average age of 23 years old), the final model was confirmed with 38 related to the main HBM constructs in 5 factors, which covered about 40% of the variance. Acceptable values of Cronbach's alpha between 0.71 and 0.81 for all factors confirmed the reliability of the questionnaire. The HBM-SAPQA obtained the acceptable validity/reliability to apply the beliefs of Afghan students regarding substance abuse preventive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanali Mohammadi
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Sadat Tavafian
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Tavousi
- Health Metrics Research Center, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Monarque M, Sabetti J, Ferrari M. Digital interventions for substance use disorders in young people: rapid review. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:13. [PMID: 36805783 PMCID: PMC9937742 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00518-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young people are disproportionately more likely than other age groups to use substances. The rise in substance use and related harms, including overdose, during the Covid-19 pandemic has created a critical need for more innovative and accessible substance use interventions. Digital interventions have shown effectiveness and can provide more engaging, less stigmatizing, and accessible interventions that meet the needs of young people. This review provides an overview of recent literature on the nature of recently published digital interventions for young people in terms of technologies used, substances targeted, intended outcomes and theoretical or therapeutic models employed. METHODS Rapid review methodology was used to identify and assess the literature on digital interventions for young people. An initial keyword search was conducted using MEDLINE the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), Health Technology Assessment Database (HTA) and PROSPERO for the years 2015-2020, and later updated to December 2021. Following a title/abstract and full-text screening of articles, and consensus decision on study inclusion, the data extraction process proceeded using an extraction grid developed for the study. Data synthesis relied on an adapted conceptual framework by Stockings, et al. that involved a three-level treatment spectrum for youth substance use (prevention, early intervention, and treatment) for any type of substance. RESULTS In total, the review identified 43 articles describing 39 different digital interventions. Most were early interventions (n = 28), followed by prevention interventions (n = 6) and treatment interventions (n = 5). The identified digital technologies included web-based (n = 14), game-based (n = 10), mobile-based (n = 7), and computer-based (n = 5) technologies, and virtual reality (n = 3). Most interventions targeted alcohol use (n = 20) followed by tobacco/nicotine (n = 5), cannabis (n = 2), opioids (n = 2), ketamine (1) and multiple, or any substances (n = 9). Most interventions used a personalized or normative feedback approach and aimed to effect behaviour change as the intended outcome. Interestingly, a harm reduction approach guided only one of the 39 interventions. CONCLUSIONS While web-based interventions represented the most common type of technology, more recently developed immersive and interactive technologies such as virtual reality and game-based interventions call for further exploration. Digital interventions focused mainly on alcohol use, reflecting less concern for tobacco, cannabis, co-occurring substance use, and illicit drug use. Specifically, the recent exacerbation in the opioid crisis throughout North American underlines the urgent need for more prevention-oriented digital interventions for opioid use. The uptake of digital interventions among youth also depends on the incorporation of harm reduction approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Monarque
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Judith Sabetti
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Manuela Ferrari
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Perry C3 E-3102, QC H4H 1R3, Montreal, Canada.
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11
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Khadjesari Z, Brown T, Naughton F. Regulation and accreditation of addictive behaviour applications-navigating the landscape. Addiction 2021; 116:3276-3283. [PMID: 33739480 DOI: 10.1111/add.15484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND mHealth applications (apps) for addictive behaviours offer widespread provision of digital support, with particular benefits for stigmatized groups and those with poor access to treatment services. Regulation and accreditation may encourage the uptake and use of evidence-based addictive behaviour apps, yet this is a complex and confusing landscape. We navigate international regulatory and accreditation guidance, explore some of the implementation challenges and provide implications for app developers, health-care professionals and app users. ANALYSIS We explore the classification of health and wellbeing, blended support and clinical therapy apps as medical devices by country to help readers navigate the complexity of the guidance. We describe an addictive behaviour app classified as a medical device and explore the innovative approaches to regulation that are currently emerging. We discuss the use of curated on-line app libraries that adhere to thresholds for characteristics such as quality, user satisfaction or effectiveness, which we hope will become the starting-point in the search for suitable apps, rather than commercial app stores. We also explore the ethical concerns associated with apps and how curated libraries address these. CONCLUSIONS International regulation of applications as medical devices varies across countries and would benefit from standardization in a simple, usable and transparent format. Efforts to provide accreditation of non-medical device applications are also variable, and public bodies provide mixed messages concerning endorsement. Health-care professionals and users are encouraged to use accredited applications for addictive behaviours where they exist, or explore other forms of digital intervention with a stronger evidence base.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zarnie Khadjesari
- Behavioural and Implementation Science Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Tracey Brown
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Felix Naughton
- Behavioural and Implementation Science Research Group, School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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12
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Howlett N, Garcia-Iglesias J, Breslin G, Bartington S, Jones J, Brown K, Wills W. Remote delivery of alcohol and/or substance misuse interventions for adults: A systematic review protocol. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259525. [PMID: 34727134 PMCID: PMC8562816 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol and substance misuse are a public health priority. The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that harmful alcohol use accounts for 5.1% of the global burden of disease and that 35.6 million people worldwide are affected by substance misuse. The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has disrupted delivery of face-to-face alcohol and substance misuse interventions and has forced the development of alternative remote interventions or adaptation to existing ones. Although existing research on remote interventions suggests they might be as effective as face-to-face delivery, there has been a lack of systematic exploration of their content, the experience of service users, and their effectiveness for behavioural outcomes. This review will provide a narrative synthesis of the behaviour change techniques (BCT) contained in interventions for alcohol and/or substance misuse and their association with effectiveness. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Systematic searches will be conducted in MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO (ProQuest), and the Cochrane Library. Included studies will be those reporting remote interventions focusing on alcohol and/or substance misuse among adults living in the community and which have a primary behaviour change outcome (i.e., alcohol levels consumed). Data extraction will be conducted by one author and moderated by a second, and risk of bias and behaviour change technique (BCT) coding will be conducted by two authors independently. A narrative synthesis will be undertaken focussing upon the association of BCTs with intervention effectiveness using promise ratios. PATIENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT (PPI) The Public Involvement in Research Group (PIRG), part of the NIHR-funded PHIRST, will be involved in refining the review questions, eligibility criteria, data synthesis and dissemination. DISSEMINATION Dissemination will be through an academic peer reviewed publication, alongside other outputs to be shared with non-academic policy, professional, and public audiences, including local authorities, service users and community organisations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Howlett
- Department of Psychology, Sport, and Geography, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Jaime Garcia-Iglesias
- Department of Psychology, Sport, and Geography, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Breslin
- Bamford Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing, School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, United Kingdom
| | - Suzanne Bartington
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Julia Jones
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care (CRIPACC), School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Brown
- Department of Psychology, Sport, and Geography, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy Wills
- Centre for Research in Public Health and Community Care (CRIPACC), School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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13
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Vasiliou VS, Dockray S, Dick S, Davoren MP, Heavin C, Linehan C, Byrne M. Reducing drug-use harms among higher education students: MyUSE contextual-behaviour change digital intervention development using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Harm Reduct J 2021; 18:56. [PMID: 34011370 PMCID: PMC8136195 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-021-00491-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital harm-reduction interventions typically focus on people with severe drug-use problems, yet these interventions have moderate effectiveness on drug-users with lower levels of risk of harm. The difference in effectiveness may be explained by differences in behavioural patterns between the two groupings. Harnessing behavioural theories to understand what is at the core of drug-use behaviours and mapping the content of new interventions, may improve upon the effectiveness of interventions for lower-risk drug-users. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically apply the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) approach to understand the components, influencing capabilities, opportunities, and motivations (COM-B) of higher education students to change their drug-use behaviors. It is also the first study which identifies specific patterns of behaviours that are more responsive to harm reduction practices through the use of the Theoretical Domain Framework (TDF). METHODS We employed an explanatory sequential mix-method design. We first conducted an on-line survey and a Delphi exercise to understand the factors influencing COM-B components of higher education students to change their drug-use. Subsequently, we mapped all evidence onto the COM-B components and the TDF domains to identify clusters of behaviours to target for change, using a pattern-based discourse analysis. Finally, a series of multidisciplinary group meetings identified the intervention functions-the means by which the intervention change targeted behaviours and the Behavioural Change Techniques (BCTs) involved using the behaviour change technique taxonomy (v.1). RESULTS Twenty-nine BCTs relevant to harm-reduction practices were identified and mapped across five intervention functions (education, modelling, persuasion, incentivization, and training) and five policy categories (communication/marketing, guidelines, regulation, service provision, and environmental/social planning). These BCTs were distributed across eight identified saturated clusters of behaviours MyUSE intervention attempts to change. CONCLUSIONS The BCTs, identified, will inform the development of a digitally delivered behaviour change intervention that focuses on increasing mindful decision-making with respect to drug-use and promotes alternatives to drug-use activities. The findings can also inform implementation scientists in applying context-specific harm-reduction practices in higher education. We present examples of how the eight identified clusters of target behaviours are mapped across the COM-B components and the TDF, along with suggestions of implementation practices for harm reduction at student population level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasilis S. Vasiliou
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, N Mall, Kilbarry Enterprise Centre, Cork Enterprise Centre, Cork, Ireland
| | - Samantha Dockray
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, N Mall, Kilbarry Enterprise Centre, Cork Enterprise Centre, Cork, Ireland
| | - Samantha Dick
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Fourth Floor, Western Gateway Building, Cork, Ireland
| | - Martin P. Davoren
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Fourth Floor, Western Gateway Building, Cork, Ireland
- Cork Sexual Health Centre, 16 Peter’s Street, Centre, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ciara Heavin
- Cork University Business School, University College Cork, West Wing, Main Quadrangle, Cork, Ireland
| | - Conor Linehan
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, N Mall, Kilbarry Enterprise Centre, Cork Enterprise Centre, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michael Byrne
- Student Health Department, University College Cork, Ardpatrick College Road, Cork, Ireland
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14
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Feltmann K, Elgán TH, Strandberg AK, Kvillemo P, Jayaram-Lindström N, Grabski M, Waldron J, Freeman T, Curran HV, Gripenberg J. Illicit Drug Use and Associated Problems in the Nightlife Scene: A Potential Setting for Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4789. [PMID: 33946164 PMCID: PMC8125188 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Illicit drug use is prevalent in the nightlife scene, especially at electronic dance music (EDM) events. The aim of the present study was to investigate illicit drug use patterns and consequences of drug use among frequent visitors of EDM events. Young adults (18-34 years old) who had visited at least six EDM events in Sweden during the past year participated in a web-based survey on drug use patterns and its consequences. Fifty-nine percent of participants had used illicit drugs during the past year, most often cannabis followed by ecstasy, cocaine, and amphetamine. Nightlife venues were identified as the main setting for the use of central stimulants, while cannabis was mostly used at home. Frequent alcohol and tobacco use was associated with illicit drug use. The most prevalent negative consequences of drug use were related to mental health, such as impairments in mood, sleep, and memory problems, but physical manifestations were also reported, such as palpitations and collapsing. These findings confirm that drug use is prevalent and associated with negative health effects among EDM nightlife attendees. The nightlife scene is a setting with promising potential to reach a high-risk target group with illicit drug use prevention interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Feltmann
- STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.E.); (A.K.S.); (P.K.); (J.G.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Tobias H. Elgán
- STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.E.); (A.K.S.); (P.K.); (J.G.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Anna K. Strandberg
- STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.E.); (A.K.S.); (P.K.); (J.G.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Pia Kvillemo
- STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.E.); (A.K.S.); (P.K.); (J.G.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Nitya Jayaram-Lindström
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
| | - Meryem Grabski
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK; (M.G.); (J.W.); (T.F.); (H.V.C.)
| | - Jon Waldron
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK; (M.G.); (J.W.); (T.F.); (H.V.C.)
| | - Tom Freeman
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK; (M.G.); (J.W.); (T.F.); (H.V.C.)
- Addiction and Mental Health Group (AIM), Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Helen Valerie Curran
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London WC1E 7HB, UK; (M.G.); (J.W.); (T.F.); (H.V.C.)
| | - Johanna Gripenberg
- STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden; (T.H.E.); (A.K.S.); (P.K.); (J.G.)
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Norra Stationsgatan 69, SE-113 64 Stockholm, Sweden;
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15
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Rauschenberg C, Schick A, Hirjak D, Seidler A, Paetzold I, Apfelbacher C, Riedel-Heller SG, Reininghaus U. Evidence Synthesis of Digital Interventions to Mitigate the Negative Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Public Mental Health: Rapid Meta-review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e23365. [PMID: 33606657 PMCID: PMC7951054 DOI: 10.2196/23365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Accumulating evidence suggests the COVID-19 pandemic has negative effects on public mental health. Digital interventions that have been developed and evaluated in recent years may be used to mitigate the negative consequences of the pandemic. However, evidence-based recommendations on the use of existing telemedicine and internet-based (eHealth) and app-based mobile health (mHealth) interventions are lacking. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the theoretical and empirical base, user perspective, safety, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness of digital interventions related to public mental health provision (ie, mental health promotion, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders) that may help to reduce the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A rapid meta-review was conducted. The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and CENTRAL databases were searched on May 11, 2020. Study inclusion criteria were broad and considered systematic reviews and meta-analyses that investigated digital tools for health promotion, prevention, or treatment of mental health conditions and determinants likely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Results Overall, 815 peer-reviewed systematic reviews and meta-analyses were identified, of which 83 met the inclusion criteria. Our findings suggest that there is good evidence on the usability, safety, acceptance/satisfaction, and effectiveness of eHealth interventions. Evidence on mHealth apps is promising, especially if social components (eg, blended care) and strategies to promote adherence are incorporated. Although most digital interventions focus on the prevention or treatment of mental disorders, there is some evidence on mental health promotion. However, evidence on process quality, cost-effectiveness, and long-term effects is very limited. Conclusions There is evidence that digital interventions are particularly suited to mitigating psychosocial consequences at the population level. In times of physical distancing, quarantine, and restrictions on social contacts, decision makers should develop digital strategies for continued mental health care and invest time and efforts in the development and implementation of mental health promotion and prevention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Rauschenberg
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, School of Mental Health and Neuroscience, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Anita Schick
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Dusan Hirjak
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Andreas Seidler
- Institute and Policlinic of Occupational and Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Isabell Paetzold
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian Apfelbacher
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Steffi G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrich Reininghaus
- Department of Public Mental Health, Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.,ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King´s College London, London, United Kingdom
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16
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Dick S, Vasiliou VS, Davoren MP, Dockray S, Heavin C, Linehan C, Byrne M. A Digital Substance-Use Harm Reduction Intervention for Students in Higher Education (MyUSE): Protocol for Project Development. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e17829. [PMID: 32851980 PMCID: PMC7484779 DOI: 10.2196/17829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital interventions have been identified as a possible tool for reducing the harm caused by illicit drug use among students attending higher education (ie, college students). However, the success of interventions in this area has been hampered by a lack of user involvement and behavior change theory in their design. The My Understanding of Substance use Experiences (MyUSE) project combines a rigorous user-centered design (UCD) methodology and a robust behavioral change framework to develop a digitally delivered harm reduction intervention for illicit drug use among students in higher education. OBJECTIVE This project aims to design and develop a digital intervention that targets drug use-related harm among students in higher education. METHODS The MyUSE project will take place over 3 phases. The first phase was exploratory in nature, involving 3 systematic reviews, a large survey, and student workshops to gather a comprehensive evidence base to guide the project. The second phase is the development stage of the project, involving the use of the Behavior Change Wheel theoretical framework to determine the behavior change techniques of the intervention and the use of the UCD methodology to guide the development of the digital intervention. The third phase is the evaluation stage, whereby the intervention will undergo a 5-stage evaluation process to comprehensively evaluate its impacts. RESULTS The exploratory phase 1 of the MyUSE project was completed in December 2018. Phase 2 is currently underway, and phase 3 is due to begin in September 2020. CONCLUSIONS Higher education institutions (HEIs) are ideally placed to intervene and support students in the area of illicit drug use but are constrained by limited resources. Current digital interventions in this area are sparse and have several weaknesses. The MyUSE project combines a UCD approach with a robust behavior change framework to develop a digitally delivered intervention that is economically viable, effective in changing behavior, usable and acceptable to students, and able to sustain long-term implementation in HEIs. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/17829.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Dick
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | | | - Martin P Davoren
- School of Public Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Sexual Health Centre, Cork, Ireland
| | - Samantha Dockray
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ciara Heavin
- Health Information Systems Research Centre, Cork University Business School, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Conor Linehan
- School of Applied Psychology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Michael Byrne
- Student Health Department, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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17
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Burner E, Zhang M, Terp S, Ford Bench K, Lee J, Lam CN, Torres JR, Menchine M, Arora S. Feasibility and Acceptability of a Text Message-Based Intervention to Reduce Overuse of Alcohol in Emergency Department Patients: Controlled Proof-of-Concept Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e17557. [PMID: 32496203 PMCID: PMC7303828 DOI: 10.2196/17557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Emergency department (ED) patients have high rates of risky alcohol use, and an ED visit offers an opportunity to intervene. ED-based screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) reduces alcohol use and health care costs. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions may expand the impact of SBIRTs but are understudied in low-resource ED populations. Objective The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of and patient satisfaction with a text-based mHealth extension of an ED screening program to reduce risky alcohol use in low-income, urban patients. Methods Research assistants screened a convenience sample of ED patients in person for risky alcohol use via the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Patients who reported AUDIT scores ≥8 and <20 were informed of their AUDIT score and risk. RAs invited patients with SMS text message–capable phones to receive mROAD (mobilizing to Reduce Overuse of Alcohol in the ED), an SMS text message–based extension of the ED screening program. mROAD is a 7-day program of twice-daily SMS text messages based on the National Institutes of Health’s Rethinking Drinking campaign. Participants were allocated to a control group (daily sham text messages without specific guidance on behaviors, such as “Thanks for taking part!”) or to the mROAD intervention group. Patients were interviewed at 30 days to assess acceptability, satisfaction, and changes in drinking behavior. Satisfaction was examined descriptively. Pre and post measurements of drinking behaviors and motivation were compared, as were differences in change scores between the intervention arms. Results Of 1028 patients screened, 95 (9.2%) exhibited risky alcohol use based on AUDIT, and 23/95 (24%) of those patients did not own an SMS text messaging–capable phone; this left 72/95 (76%) eligible patients. Among eligible participants, 48/72 (67%) agreed to enroll; 31/48 (65%) achieved follow-up (18/24 (75%) in the intervention group and 13/24 (55%) in the control group). Participants who completed follow-up reported high satisfaction. Changes in behavior were similar between the arms. Overall, the number of drinking days reported in the prior 30 days decreased by 5.0 (95% CI 1.7-8.3; P=.004), and the number of heavy drinking days decreased by 4.1 (95% CI 1.0 to 7.15, P=.01). Patients reported an 11-point increase (95% CI 2.6-20, P=.01, 10% overall increase) in motivation to change alcohol use via the Change Questionnaire. The were no statistical differences in drinking days, heavy drinking days, or motivation to change between the arms. Conclusions The mROAD trial was feasible. Over three-quarters of ED patients with risky alcohol use owned a text message–capable phone, and two-thirds of these patients were willing to participate; only 1 patient opted out of the intervention. Although 35% of patients were lost to follow-up at 30 days, those patients who did follow up had favorable impressions of the program; more than 90% reported that SMS text messages were a “good way to teach,” and 89% of intervention arm participants enjoyed the program and found that the messages were motivating. Both the mROAD and sham message groups showed promising changes in alcohol use and motivation to change. mROAD is a feasible intervention that may reduce rates of risky alcohol use in ED patients. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02158949; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02158949
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Burner
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Mark Zhang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sophie Terp
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Kelsey Ford Bench
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Joshua Lee
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Chun Nok Lam
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jesus R Torres
- School of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Michael Menchine
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Sanjay Arora
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States.,Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Strandberg AK, Elgán TH, Feltmann K, Jayaram Lindström N, Gripenberg J. Illicit Drugs in the Nightlife Setting: Changes in Employee Perceptions and Drug Use over a Fifteen-Year Period. Subst Use Misuse 2020; 55:2116-2128. [PMID: 32811266 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2020.1793365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Illicit drug use is common in nightlife settings and associated with various public health-related problems, making this an important arena for prevention. Purpose/objectives: To assess perceived prevalence of illicit drug use in the Stockholm nightlife setting, use of and attitudes toward illicit drugs among employees at licensed premises. Also, to make comparisons with two identical measurements from 2001 and 2007/08, and to explore potential differences related to own drug use, type of licensed premise, age or gender. Methods: Cross-sectional surveys were conducted at three time-points: 2001, 2007/08, and 2016/17, comprising employees at licensed premises in Stockholm participating in STAD's Responsible Beverage Service training program. A total of 665 persons (mean age 28 years, 53% women) were included in the 2016/2017 measurement. Results: A majority of the respondents reported having observed patrons intoxicated by illicit drugs in the last six months, and agreed that patrons intoxicated by illicit drugs should be asked to leave licensed premises. The belief that one had observed patrons intoxicated by illicit drugs was more common among respondents who had themselves been using illicit drugs during the last year, and also among employees at nightclubs. Furthermore, comparisons with previous time-points showed a significant increase in the proportion of employees using illicit drugs. Almost half of the respondents in the youngest age group (18-24 years) reported illicit drug use during the last year. Conclusions/importance: Observation and use of illicit drugs are common among employees in the Stockholm nightlife setting and has increased significantly during the past decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna K Strandberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, SE, Sweden
| | - Tobias H Elgán
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, SE, Sweden
| | - Kristin Feltmann
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, SE, Sweden
| | - Nitya Jayaram Lindström
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, SE, Sweden
| | - Johanna Gripenberg
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, STAD, Stockholm Prevents Alcohol and Drug Problems, Stockholm, Sweden.,Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet & Stockholm Health Care Services, Region Stockholm, Stockholm, SE, Sweden
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