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Hanlon C, Roberts T, Misganaw E, Malla A, Cohen A, Shibre T, Fekadu W, Teferra S, Kebede D, Mulushoa A, Girma Z, Tsehay M, Kiross D, Lund C, Fekadu A, Morgan C, Alem A. Studying the context of psychoses to improve outcomes in Ethiopia (SCOPE): Protocol paper. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293232. [PMID: 38722946 PMCID: PMC11081395 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global evidence on psychosis is dominated by studies conducted in Western, high-income countries. The objectives of the Study of Context Of Psychoses to improve outcomes in Ethiopia (SCOPE) are (1) to generate rigorous evidence of psychosis experience, epidemiology and impacts in Ethiopia that will illuminate aetiological understanding and (2) inform development and testing of interventions for earlier identification and improved first contact care that are scalable, inclusive of difficult-to-reach populations and optimise recovery. METHODS The setting is sub-cities of Addis Ababa and rural districts in south-central Ethiopia covering 1.1 million people and including rural, urban and homeless populations. SCOPE comprises (1) formative work to understand care pathways and community resources (resource mapping); examine family context and communication (ethnography); develop valid measures of family communication and personal recovery; and establish platforms for community engagement and involvement of people with lived experience; (2a) a population-based incidence study, (2b) a case-control study and (2c) a cohort study with 12 months follow-up involving 440 people with psychosis (390 rural/Addis Ababa; 50 who are homeless), 390 relatives and 390 controls. We will test hypotheses about incidence rates in rural vs. urban populations and men vs. women; potential aetiological role of khat (a commonly chewed plant with amphetamine-like properties) and traumatic exposures in psychosis; determine profiles of needs at first contact and predictors of outcome; (3) participatory workshops to develop programme theory and inform co-development of interventions, and (4) evaluation of the impact of early identification strategies on engagement with care (interrupted time series study). Findings will inform development of (5) a protocol for (5a) a feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial of interventions for people with recent-onset psychosis in rural settings and (5b) two uncontrolled pilot studies to test acceptability, feasibility of co-developed interventions in urban and homeless populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Hanlon
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Global Mental Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tessa Roberts
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Global Mental Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- ESRC Centre for Society & Mental Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Eleni Misganaw
- Mental Health Service User Association, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ashok Malla
- Department of Psychiatry and Douglas Mental Health Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Alex Cohen
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Wubalem Fekadu
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Teferra
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Derege Kebede
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Adiyam Mulushoa
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zerihun Girma
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Tsehay
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dessalegn Kiross
- Victoria University of Wellington, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Practice, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Crick Lund
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Centre for Global Mental Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Centre for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa), College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Craig Morgan
- ESRC Centre for Society & Mental Health, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Atalay Alem
- Department of Psychiatry and WHO Collaborating Centre in Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Kwagala C, Ametaj A, Kim HH, Kyebuzibwa J, Okura R, Stevenson A, Gelaye B, Akena D. Factor structure of psychosis screening questionnaire in Ugandan adults. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:36. [PMID: 38195440 PMCID: PMC10775426 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05485-2] [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: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychotic disorders are common and contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality of people with psychiatric diseases. Therefore, early screening and detection may facilitate early intervention and reduce adverse outcomes. Screening tools that lay persons can administer are particularly beneficial in low resource settings. However, there is limited research evaluating the validity of psychosis screening instruments in Uganda. We aimed to assess the construct validity and psychometric properties of the Psychosis Screening Questionnaire (PSQ) in Uganda in a population with no history of a psychotic disorder. METHODS The sample consisted of 2101 Ugandan adults participating as controls in a larger multi-country case-control study on psychiatric genetics who were recruited between February 2018 and March 2020. Participants were individuals seeking outpatient general medical care, caretakers of individuals seeking care, and staff or students recruited from five medical facilities that were age 18 years or older and able to provide consent. Individuals were excluded who had acute levels of alcohol or substance use, including being under inpatient hospitalization or acute medical care for one of these conditions. We used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) to evaluate the factor structure and item properties of the PSQ. RESULTS The overall prevalence screening positive for psychotic symptoms was 13.9% 95% CI (12.4,15.4). "Strange experiences" were the most endorsed symptoms 6.6% 95% CI (5.6,7.8). A unidimensional model seemed to be a good model or well-fitting based on fit indices including the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA of 0.00), comparative fit index (CFI of 1.000), and Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI of 1.000). The most discriminating items along the latent construct of psychosis were items assessing thought disturbance followed by items assessing paranoia, with a parameter (discrimination) value of 2.53 and 2.40, respectively. CONCLUSION The PSQ works well in Uganda as an initial screening tool for moderate to high-level of psychotic symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Kwagala
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Amantia Ametaj
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Hannah H Kim
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph Kyebuzibwa
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Rogers Okura
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anne Stevenson
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bizu Gelaye
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- The Chester M. Pierce, MD Division of Global Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dickens Akena
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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Mihretu A, Fekadu W, Alemu AA, Amare B, Assefa D, Misganaw E, Ayele A, Esleman O, Assefa Z, Alem A, Thornicroft G, Hanlon C. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health care and people with mental health conditions in Ethiopia: the MASC mixed-methods study. Int J Ment Health Syst 2023; 17:47. [PMID: 38057791 PMCID: PMC10699067 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-023-00612-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching effects on the mental health of populations around the world, but there has been limited focus on the impact on people with existing mental health conditions in low-income countries. The aim of this study was to examine impact of the pandemic on mental health care and people with mental health conditions in Ethiopia. METHODS A convergent mixed methods study was conducted. We systematically mapped information from publicly available reports on impacts of the pandemic on mental health care. Monthly service utilisation data were obtained from Amanuel Mental Specialised Hospital, the main psychiatric hospital, and analysed using segmented Poisson regression (2019 vs. 2020). In-depth interviews were conducted with 16 purposively selected key informants. Framework analysis was used for qualitative data. Findings from each data source were integrated. RESULTS In the early stages of the pandemic, participants indicated a minimal response towards the mental health aspects of COVID-19. Mental health-related stigma and discrimination was evident. Scarce mental health service settings were diverted to become COVID-19 treatment centres. Mental health care became narrowly biomedical with poorer quality of care due to infrequent follow-up. Households of people with pre-existing mental health conditions in the community reported worsening poverty and decreased access to care due to restricted movement, decreased availability and fear. Lack of reliable medication supplies increased relapse and the chance of becoming chained at home, abandoned or homeless. Caregiver burden was exacerbated. Within mental health facilities, prisons and residential units, infection control procedures did not adequately safeguard those with mental health conditions. Meanwhile, the needs of people with mental health conditions in COVID-19 quarantine and treatment facilities were systematically neglected. Only late in the day were integrated services developed to address both physical and mental health needs. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic had substantial negative impacts on the lives of people with mental health conditions in Ethiopia. Future emergency response should prioritise the human rights, health, social and economic needs of people with mental health conditions. Integration of mental and physical health care would both expand access to care and increase resilience of the mental health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awoke Mihretu
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Wubalem Fekadu
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Azeb Asaminew Alemu
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Beakal Amare
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dereje Assefa
- Mental Health Case Team, Disease Prevention and Control Directorate, Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Eleni Misganaw
- Mental Health Service Users Association, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abebaw Ayele
- Mental Health Case Team, Disease Prevention and Control Directorate, Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ousman Esleman
- Policy, Plan and Monitoring & Evaluation Directorate, Ministry of Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zewdu Assefa
- Center for Public Health Emergency Management, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Atalay Alem
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Graham Thornicroft
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Department of Health Services and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Hanlon
- Department of Psychiatry, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity-Building, School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Department of Health Services and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
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Alblowi EA, Shujaa MA, Alonazi WB. Measuring Performance of Rural Mental Healthcare Services in Saudi Arabia. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:3895-3905. [PMID: 37817911 PMCID: PMC10561611 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s420662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recently, the Saudi government has proposed several initiatives to promote mental health, including the national program named Wazen. The objective of this study was to observe the performance of mental hospitals using a balanced scorecard through this federal program. Methods Secondary quantitative analysis was implemented utilizing the Wazen report program data in 2022. The report adopted a balanced scorecard (BSC) concept. The study focused on 19 mental health facilities (Eraddah Hospitals) in the Ministry of Health (MOH) regions. The MOH's annual statistical report for 2018 and 2022 was reviewed to explore more about beds, staff, and the number of new mental disorder cases. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel 365 and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25) software. Mental health hospitals were classified into three categories. Results Most rural hospitals had lower performance in the yellow threshold value that might need improvement. The data shows that the mean of all hospital performance in some domains ranged, yielding 70% staff engagement and 77% continued educational activity, indicating unsatisfactory performance across public mental health services. The means score of access to care was 97.0% and 94.7%, marking the better mental health services provided. Between 2018 and 2022, there was a significant rise in the prevalence of mental disorders, as evidenced by the number of new patients and outpatients indicated by specific mental diseases, including conditions of psychological development (F80-F98). Discussion The high quality of mental healthcare is manifested by therapeutic ethos with a high degree of interaction between professional careers and service users. The former is enhanced by highly educated, competent, compassionate, self-aware, and specialized healthcare professionals in mental health. When assessing mental healthcare services, we recommend considering providers' and professionals' conditions for successful implementation in alignment with patient experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman A Alblowi
- Health Administration Department, College of Business Administration, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11587, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona A Shujaa
- Health Administration Department, College of Business Administration, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11587, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wadi B Alonazi
- Health Administration Department, College of Business Administration, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11587, Saudi Arabia
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van den Broek M, Gandhi Y, Sureshkumar DS, Prina M, Bhatia U, Patel V, Singla DR, Velleman R, Weiss HA, Garg A, Sequeira M, Pusdekar V, Jordans MJD, Nadkarni A. Interventions to increase help-seeking for mental health care in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002302. [PMID: 37703225 PMCID: PMC10499262 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Mental health problems are a significant and growing cause of morbidity worldwide. Despite the availability of evidence-based interventions, most people experiencing mental health problems remain untreated. This treatment gap is particularly large in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) and is due to both supply-side and demand-side barriers. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and synthesise the evidence on interventions to improve help-seeking for mental health problems in LMICs. The protocol was registered a priori (Registration number: CRD42021255635). We searched eight databases using terms based on three concepts: 'mental health/illness' AND 'help-seeking' AND 'LMICs'; and included all age groups and mental health problems. Forty-two papers were eligible and included in this review. Intervention components were grouped into three categories following the steps in the help-seeking process: (1) raising mental health awareness among the general population (e.g., distribution of printed or audio-visual materials), (2) identification of individuals experiencing mental health problems (e.g., community-level screening or detection), and (3) promoting help-seeking among people in need of mental health care (e.g., sending reminders). The majority of interventions (80%) included components in a combination of the aforementioned categories. Most studies report positive outcomes, yet results on the effectiveness is mixed, with a clear trend in favour of interventions with components from more than one category. Ten out of 42 studies (24%) yielded a statistically significant effect of the intervention on help-seeking; and all targeted a combination of the aforementioned categories (i.e., raising awareness, identification and help-seeking promotion). Only six studies (14%) focused on children and adolescents. Due to the limited number of robust studies done in LMICs and the heterogeneity of study designs, outcomes and components used, no definite conclusions can be drawn with regards to the effects of individual strategies or content of the interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrthe van den Broek
- Research and Development, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yashi Gandhi
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
| | - Diliniya Stanislaus Sureshkumar
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Prina
- Social Epidemiology Research Group, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Urvita Bhatia
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
- Department of Psychology, Health and Professional Development at Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Vikram Patel
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Daisy R. Singla
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, Canada
| | - Richard Velleman
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
- Department of Psychology, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ankur Garg
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
| | | | - Veera Pusdekar
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
| | - Mark J. D. Jordans
- Research and Development, War Child, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Abhijit Nadkarni
- Addictions and related-Research Group, Sangath, Goa, India
- Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Moitra M, Owens S, Hailemariam M, Wilson KS, Mensa-Kwao A, Gonese G, Kamamia CK, White B, Young DM, Collins PY. Global Mental Health: Where We Are and Where We Are Going. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2023; 25:301-311. [PMID: 37256471 PMCID: PMC10230139 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-023-01426-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To summarize recent findings in global mental health along several domains including socioeconomic determinants, inequities, funding, and inclusion in global mental health research and practice. RECENT FINDINGS Mental illness continues to disproportionately impact vulnerable populations and treatment coverage continues to be low globally. Advances in integrating mental health care and adopting task-shifting are accompanied by implementation challenges. The mental health impact of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geo-political events, and environmental change is likely to persist and require coordinated care approaches for those in need of psychosocial support. Inequities also exist in funding for global mental health and there has been gradual progress in terms of building local capacity for mental health care programs and research. Lastly, there is an increasing effort to include people with lived experiences of mental health in research and policy shaping efforts. The field of global mental health will likely continue to be informed by evidence and perspectives originating increasingly from low- and middle-income countries along with ongoing global events and centering of relevant stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Modhurima Moitra
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Shanise Owens
- Department of Public Health, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Charles Stewart Mott, Michigan State University, East Lansing, USA
| | - Maji Hailemariam
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Katherine S Wilson
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Augustina Mensa-Kwao
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Gloria Gonese
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Christine K Kamamia
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Belinda White
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Dorraine M Young
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
| | - Pamela Y Collins
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
- Department of Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, USA
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Habte F, Shifa M, Berhanu H. Availability, Price and Affordability of Psychotropic Medicines in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2023; 16:957-970. [PMID: 37250433 PMCID: PMC10216867 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s409929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Access to affordable, quality-assured essential medicines is crucial to reduce the burden of disease. However, one third of the world's population lacks regular access to essential medicines. The purpose of this study was to assess the availability, price, and affordability of medicines for mental disorders in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was done in selected pharmacies after modification of a WHO/HAI methodology developed questionnaire. Data on the availability and price of 28 lowest priced generics and originator brand essential psychotropic medicines were collected from seven public sectors, five private sectors, and seven other sectors (five Kenema Public Community Pharmacies and two Red Cross Pharmacies) in Addis Ababa between May 9 and May 31, 2022. The data were analyzed using the developed WHO/HAI workbook part I Excel sheet. Descriptive results were reported in text and table format. Results The overall availability of lowest-priced generics medication was 41.69%. The availability of lowest-priced generics and originator brand medication was 54.68% and 1.7% in the public pharmacies; 24.14% and 0.0% in private pharmacies; 43% and 0.0% in Red Cross Pharmacies; and 42% and 3.2% in Kenema Public Community Pharmacies. The median price ratio in the public, private, Red Cross, and Kenema Public Community pharmacies was 1.26, 3.72, 1.65, and 1.59, respectively. Most of the medications were unaffordable. A patient could be required to pay up to 73 days wages to purchase a standard treatment for 1 month. Conclusion The availability of psychotropic medicines was lower than the WHO target for non-communicable diseases and most of the available medicines were unaffordable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fikreselam Habte
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mekdes Shifa
- Department of Pharmacy, Universal Medical and Business College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Hana Berhanu
- Department of Pharmacy, Universal Medical and Business College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Impact of Community Support Workers in Rural Ethiopia on Emotional and Psychosocial Health of Persons Living with HIV: Results of a Three-Year Randomized Community Trial. AIDS Behav 2023:10.1007/s10461-023-04007-1. [PMID: 36788166 DOI: 10.1007/s10461-023-04007-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
People living with HIV face multiple psychosocial challenges. In a large, predominantly rural Ethiopian region, 1799 HIV patients new to care were enrolled from 32 sites in a cluster randomized trial using trained community support workers with HIV to provide individual health education, counseling and social support. Participants received annual surveys through 36 months using items drawn from the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale-10, Medical Outcome Study Social Support Survey, and HIV/AIDS Stigma Instrument-PLWA. At 12 months (using linear mixed effects regression models controlling for enrollment site clustering), intervention participants had greater emotional/informational and tangible assistance social support scores, and lower scores assessing depression symptoms and negative self-perception due to HIV status. A significant treatment effect at 36 months was also seen on scores assessing emotional/informational social support, depression symptoms, and internalized stigma. An intervention using peer community support workers with HIV to provide individualized informational and psychological support had a positive impact on the emotional health of people living with HIV who were new to care.(ClinicalTrials.gov protocol ID: 1410S54203, May 19, 2015).
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Kwagala C, Ametaj A, Kim HH, Kyebuzibwa J, Rogers O, Stevenson A, Gelaye B, Akena D. Construct Validity of the Psychosis Screening Questionnaire in Ugandan Adults. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2482429. [PMID: 36778438 PMCID: PMC9915780 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2482429/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Psychotic disorders are common and contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality of people with psychiatric diseases. Therefore, early screening and detection may facilitate early intervention and reduce adverse outcomes. Screening tools that lay persons can administer are particularly beneficial in low resource settings. However, there is limited research evaluating the validity of psychosis screening instruments in Uganda. We aimed to assess the construct validity and psychometric properties of the Psychosis Screening Questionnaire (PSQ) in Uganda in a population with no history of a psychotic disorder. Methods The sample consisted of 2101 Ugandan adults participating as controls in a larger multi-country case-control study on psychiatric genetics. We used confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) to evaluate the factor structure and item properties of the PSQ. Results The overall prevalence screening positive for psychotic symptoms was 13.9%. "Strange experiences" were the most endorsed symptoms (6.6%). A unidimensional factor was the best fitting model based on the fit indices including the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA of 0.00), comparative fit index (CFI of 1.000), and Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI of 1.000). The most discriminating items along the latent construct of psychosis were items assessing thought disturbance followed by items assessing paranoia, with a parameter (discrimination) value of 2.53 and 2.40, respectively. Conclusion The PSQ works well in Uganda as an initial screening tool for moderate to high-level of psychotic symptoms.
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Jansen-van Vuuren J, Dawud S, Lysaght R, Batorowicz B, Aldersey HM. Family quality of life and children with disability in Ethiopia: The role of support providers. Afr J Disabil 2023; 12:1124. [PMID: 36876025 PMCID: PMC9982469 DOI: 10.4102/ajod.v12i0.1124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Family quality of life (FQOL) is an important outcome for families of children with disabilities globally and provision of support is associated with enhanced FQOL. However, FQOL research primarily focuses on conceptualisation and measurement, and originates from high-income contexts despite the fact that most children with disabilities live in low-income countries. Objectives The authors examined how Ethiopian disability support providers practically contribute to meeting the needs of families of children with disabilities to enhance FQOL. Method Building on a previous study exploring Ethiopian families' perspectives on FQOL, the authors used an exploratory descriptive qualitative approach to interview various support providers. Interviews were conducted virtually (because of the coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19] pandemic) in English or with interpreting assistance. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Results Support providers affirmed what families had described as important for FQOL - spirituality, relationships, self-sufficiency - and recognised their enormous support needs. They described various ways to support families - emotionally, physically, materially and informationally. They also expressed challenges and their need for support to meet families' needs. Conclusion Ethiopian families of children with disabilities need holistic support that incorporates spirituality, the whole family's needs and disability awareness-raising. Collaborative and committed engagement from all stakeholders is necessary to support Ethiopian families to flourish. Contribution This study contributes to global understandings of FQOL and describes practical approaches to support families of children with disabilities in an African context. The findings of this study highlight the influence of spirituality, relationships, self-sufficiency, poverty and stigma and the need for holistic support and disability awareness-raising to enhance FQOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Jansen-van Vuuren
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Solomon Dawud
- Community Based Rehabilitation, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Rosemary Lysaght
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Beata Batorowicz
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Heather M Aldersey
- School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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11
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Mekonen T, Chan GCK, Belete T, Menberu M, Davidson L, Hides L, Leung J. Mental health service utilization in a low resource setting: A qualitative study on perspectives of health professionals in Northwest Ethiopia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278106. [PMID: 36441695 PMCID: PMC9704635 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health services are advocated to move from specialized care to more integrated and accessible primary care settings. The integration of mental health into primary health services is expanding in Ethiopia. However, there is a lack of research on the perspectives of health professionals on mental health services in Ethiopia. This study aimed to explore the perspectives, views, and experiences of health professionals regarding mental health services and the help-seeking behavior of people with mental illness in Northwest Ethiopia. METHODS This qualitative study included sixteen health professionals. The participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Interviews were conducted in Amharic and translated into English. We analyzed the data using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Five key themes were generated from the interview data: (1) Avoidance of mental healthcare; (2) Low literacy about mental illness; (3) Stigma as a hindrance to accessing mental health services; (4) The role of culture and religion in mental health services; and (5) Lack of government concern about mental health services. CONCLUSION This study identified important factors related to mental health services in Northwest Ethiopia, from the perspectives of health professionals. Our findings highlighted that the government health agenda needs to prioritize mental health services. The role of religious and cultural healing places in the help-seeking pathway should be given due consideration to ensure success in mental health services provision and utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tesfa Mekonen
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- Psychiatry Department, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Gary C. K. Chan
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tilahun Belete
- Psychiatry Department, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Melak Menberu
- Psychiatry Department, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Lily Davidson
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Leanne Hides
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Janni Leung
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- National Centre for Youth Substance Use Research, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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12
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Girma E, Ketema B, Mulatu T, Kohrt BA, Wahid SS, Heim E, Gronholm PC, Hanlon C, Thornicroft G. Mental health stigma and discrimination in Ethiopia: evidence synthesis to inform stigma reduction interventions. Int J Ment Health Syst 2022; 16:30. [PMID: 35739558 PMCID: PMC9219139 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-022-00540-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with mental illnesses are at an increased risk of experiencing human rights violations, stigma and discrimination. Even though mental health stigma and discrimination are universal, there appears to be a higher burden in low- and middle-income countries. Anti-stigma interventions need to be grounded in local evidence. The aim of this paper was to synthesize evidence on mental health stigma and discrimination in Ethiopia to inform the development of anti-stigma interventions. METHODS This evidence synthesis was conducted as a part of formative work for the International Study of Discrimination and Stigma Outcomes (INDIGO) Partnership research program. Electronic searches were conducted using PubMed for scientific articles, and Google Search and Google Scholar were used for grey literature. Records fulfilling eligibility criteria were selected for the evidence synthesis. The findings were synthesized using a framework designed to capture features of mental health stigma to inform cultural adaptation of anti-stigma interventions. RESULTS A total of 37 records (2 grey literature and 35 scientific articles) were included in the evidence synthesis. Some of these records were described more than once depending on themes of the synthesis. The records were synthesized under the themes of explanatory models of stigma (3 records on labels and 4 records on symptoms and causes), perceived and experienced forms of stigma (7 records on public stigma, 6 records on structural stigma, 2 records on courtesy stigma and 4 records on self-stigma), impact of stigma on help-seeking (6 records) and interventions to reduce stigma (12 records). Only two intervention studies assessed stigma reduction- one study showed reduced discrimination due to improved access to effective mental health care, whereas the other study did not find evidence on reduction of discrimination following a community-based rehabilitation intervention in combination with facility-based care. CONCLUSION There is widespread stigma and discrimination in Ethiopia which has contributed to under-utilization of available mental health services in the country. This should be addressed with contextually designed and effective stigma reduction interventions that engage stakeholders (service users, service providers, community representatives and service developers and policy makers) so that the United Nations universal health coverage goal for mental health can be achieved in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eshetu Girma
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
| | - Bezawit Ketema
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfahun Mulatu
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Brandon A Kohrt
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Syed Shabab Wahid
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of International Health, Georgetown University, DC, Washington, USA
| | - Eva Heim
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Petra C Gronholm
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Charlotte Hanlon
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Mental Health Research and Capacity Building, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Graham Thornicroft
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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Castro-Ramirez F, Al-Suwaidi M, Garcia P, Rankin O, Ricard JR, Nock MK. Racism and Poverty are Barriers to the Treatment of Youth Mental Health Concerns. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 50:534-546. [PMID: 34339320 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2021.1941058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Traditional studies of treatment moderators have focused largely on psychological factors such as clinical severity. Racial and economic inequity exert large effects on youth mental health, on treatment efficacy, and on the likelihood of receiving treatment altogether. Yet, these factors are studied less often by clinical psychological scientists. METHOD We conducted a narrative review of literature on racial and economic inequities and their impact on youth mental health. RESULTS First, systemic problems such as racism and poverty increase the risk of developing complex health issues and decrease the likelihood of benefiting from treatment. Second, attitudinal barriers, such as mistrust associated with treatments provided by researchers and government agencies, decrease the likelihood that minoritized groups will engage with or benefit from evidence-based treatments. Third, minoritized and underserved communities are especially unlikely to receive evidence-based treatment. CONCLUSION Clinical psychological science has unique insights that can help address systemic inequities that can decrease treatment efficacy for youth mental health treatment. Psychological scientists can help eliminate disparities in accessing evidence-based treatment and help end violent policies in underserved minoritized communities by at the very least (1) building and supporting scalable community-based treatments as well as (2) publicly advocating for an end to violent policies that impose negative social costs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Matthew K Nock
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University.,Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital.,Mental Health Research Program, Franciscan Children's
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Dadi AF, Miller ER, Azale T, Mwanri L. "We do not know how to screen and provide treatment": a qualitative study of barriers and enablers of implementing perinatal depression health services in Ethiopia. Int J Ment Health Syst 2021; 15:41. [PMID: 33952338 PMCID: PMC8098000 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-021-00466-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Qualitative studies evaluating maternal mental health services are lacking in Ethiopia, and the available evidence targets severe mental illnesses in the general population. We conducted a qualitative study to explore barriers to, enablers of, or opportunities for perinatal depression health services implementations in Ethiopia. METHODS We conducted a total of 13 face to face interviews with mental and maternal health service administrators from different levels of the Ethiopian healthcare system. We interviewed in Amharic (a local language), transcribed and translated into English, and imported into NVivo. We analysed the translated interviews inductively using thematic framework analysis. RESULTS The study identified: (i) health administrators' low literacy about perinatal depression as individual level barriers; (ii) community low awareness, health-seeking behaviours and cultural norms about perinatal depression as socio-cultural level barriers; (iii) lack of government capacity, readiness, and priority of screening and managing perinatal depression as organisational level barriers; and (iv) lack of mental health policy, strategies, and healthcare systems as structural level barriers of perinatal mental health implementation in Ethiopia. The introduction of the new Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGap), health professionals' commitment, and simplicity of screening programs were identified enablers of, or opportunities for, perinatal mental health service implementation. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative inquiry identified important barriers and potential opportunities that could be used to address perinatal depression in Ethiopia. Building the capacity of policy makers and planners, strengthening the mental healthcare system and governance should be a priority issue for an effective integration of maternal mental health care with the routine maternal health services in Ethiopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Fekadu Dadi
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Health Sciences Building, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA 5042 Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Emma R. Miller
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Health Sciences Building, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA 5042 Australia
| | - Telake Azale
- Department of Health Education and Behavioural Sciences, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Lillian Mwanri
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Health Sciences Building, Sturt Road, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA 5042 Australia
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Keynejad R, Spagnolo J, Thornicroft G. WHO mental health gap action programme (mhGAP) intervention guide: updated systematic review on evidence and impact. EVIDENCE-BASED MENTAL HEALTH 2021; 24:ebmental-2021-300254. [PMID: 33903119 PMCID: PMC8311089 DOI: 10.1136/ebmental-2021-300254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
QUESTION There is a large worldwide gap between the service need and provision for mental, neurological and substance use disorders. WHO's Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) intervention guide (IG), provides evidence-based guidance and tools for assessment and integrated management of priority disorders. Our 2017 systematic review identified 33 peer-reviewed studies describing mhGAP-IG implementation in low-income and middle-income countries. STUDY SELECTION AND ANALYSIS We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Knowledge, Scopus, CINAHL, LILACS, ScieELO, Cochrane, PubMed databases, 3ie, Google Scholar and citations of our review, on 24 November 2020. We sought evidence, experience and evaluations of the mhGAP-IG, app or mhGAP Humanitarian IG, from any country, in any language. We extracted data from included papers, but heterogeneity prevented meta-analysis. FINDINGS Of 2621 results, 162 new papers reported applications of the mhGAP-IG. They described mhGAP training courses (59 references), clinical applications (n=49), research uses (n=27), contextual adaptations (n=13), economic studies (n=7) and other educational applications (n=7). Most were conducted in the African region (40%) and South-East Asia (25%). Studies demonstrated improved knowledge, attitudes and confidence post-training and improved symptoms and engagement with care, post-implementation. Research studies compared mhGAP-IG-enhanced usual care with task-shared psychological interventions and adaptation studies optimised mhGAP-IG implementation for different contexts. Economic studies calculated human resource requirements of scaling up mhGAP-IG implementation and other educational studies explored its potential for repurposing. CONCLUSIONS The diverse, expanding global mhGAP-IG literature demonstrates substantial impact on training, patient care, research and practice. Priorities for future research should be less-studied regions, severe mental illness and contextual adaptation of brief psychological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Keynejad
- Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Jessica Spagnolo
- Département des Sciences de la Santé Communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne - Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean sur les innovations en santé, Campus de Longueuil, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Graham Thornicroft
- Department of Health Service and Population Research, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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