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Wu T, Xiao X, Yan S, Fang Y, Wang M, Zu F, Zhang Y, Qian R. Digital health interventions to improve adherence to oral antipsychotics among patients with schizophrenia: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e071984. [PMID: 37977861 PMCID: PMC10660841 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-071984] [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: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the current evidence on the potential of digital health interventions (DHIs) to improve adherence to oral antipsychotics among patients with schizophrenia by assessing the methodologies, feasibility and effectiveness of DHIs as well as the perceptions of relevant stakeholders. DESIGN The scoping review was conducted based on the methodologies outlined by Levac et al and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO and the Cochrane Library were searched in August 2023 to identify relevant publications from the previous decade. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies published in English focused on improving medication adherence among adult patients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder via DHIs were selected. Protocols, editorials, comments, perspectives, reviews, correspondence and conference abstracts were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS The extracted data included general information about the study, framework, participants, features and strategies of DHIs, measurement tools for adherence used, and main findings. RESULTS In total, 64 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Features used in DHIs to improve medication adherence included phone calls, text messages, mobile apps, sensors, web-based platforms and electronic devices. Strategies included medication reminders and monitoring, providing medication-related information and suggestions, other illness management suggestions and individual support. Texting and mobile apps were commonly used as medication reminders and monitoring methods. Additionally, the use of sensors combined with other digital technologies has garnered significant attention. All the interventions were considered acceptable and feasible, and several were assessed in pilot trials. Preliminary findings suggest that DHIs could enhance medication adherence in patients with schizophrenia. However, further validation of their effectiveness is required. CONCLUSION DHIs are a promising approach to enhancing medication adherence among patients with schizophrenia. Future interventions should be interactive, focusing on user preference, experience and privacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wu
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xu Xiao
- Early Intervention Unit, Department of Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shirui Yan
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Fang
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fengying Zu
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanhong Zhang
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruilian Qian
- Department of Nursing, The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Laranjeira C, Carvalho D, Valentim O, Moutinho L, Morgado T, Tomás C, Gomes J, Querido A. Therapeutic Adherence of People with Mental Disorders: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3869. [PMID: 36900879 PMCID: PMC10001153 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Patient therapeutic adherence lies at the core of mental health care. Health Care professionals and organizations play a major role in promoting adherence among people with mental disorders. However, defining therapeutic adherence remains complex. We used Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis to explore the concept of therapeutic adherence in the context of mental health. We conducted a systematic literature search on Medline/PubMed and CINAHL for works published between January 2012 and December 2022. The concept analysis showed that major attributes of therapeutic adherence include patient, microsystem and meso/exosystem-level factors. Antecedents are those related to patients, such as their background, beliefs and attitudes, and acceptance of mental illness-and those related to patient-HCP therapeutic engagement. Lastly, three different consequences of the concept emerged: an improvement in clinical and social outcomes, commitment to treatment, and the quality of healthcare delivery. We discuss an operational definition that emerged from the concept analysis approach. However, considering the concept has undergone evolutionary changes, further research related to patient adherence experiences in an ecological stance is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, Rua de Santo André—66–68, Campus 5, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-801 Évora, Portugal
| | - Daniel Carvalho
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, Rua de Santo André—66–68, Campus 5, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Hospital Center of Leiria–Hospital de Santo André, R. de Santo André, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Olga Valentim
- Group Innovation & Development in Nursing (NursID), Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Nursing School of Lisbon (ESEL), Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1600-096 Lisboa, Portugal
- Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1600-096 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Lídia Moutinho
- Group Innovation & Development in Nursing (NursID), Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Nursing School of Lisbon (ESEL), Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1600-096 Lisboa, Portugal
- Nursing Research, Innovation and Development Centre of Lisbon (CIDNUR), Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1600-096 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Tânia Morgado
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Group Innovation & Development in Nursing (NursID), Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Pediatric Hospital, Coimbra Hospital and University Centre, R. Dr. Afonso Romão, 3000-602 Coimbra, Portugal
- The Health Sciences Research Unit: Nursing (UICISA: E), Nursing School of Coimbra (ESEnfC), 3004-011 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina Tomás
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, Rua de Santo André—66–68, Campus 5, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Group Innovation & Development in Nursing (NursID), Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Gomes
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Hospital Center of Leiria–Hospital de Santo André, R. de Santo André, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ana Querido
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto do Vieiro, Apartado 4137, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, Rua de Santo André—66–68, Campus 5, 2410-541 Leiria, Portugal
- Group Innovation & Development in Nursing (NursID), Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
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Hunt X, Shakespeare T, Vilyte G, Melendez-Torres GJ, Henry J, Bradshaw M, Naidoo S, Mbuyamba R, Aljassem S, Suubi E, Aljasem N, Makhetha M, Bantjes J. Effectiveness of Social Inclusion Interventions for Anxiety and Depression among Adolescents: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1895. [PMID: 36767261 PMCID: PMC9914997 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents who are socially excluded are at increased risk of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. Promoting social inclusion could be an effective strategy for preventing and treating adolescent depression and anxiety. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of intervention studies which aimed to prevent or treat adolescent depression and/or anxiety by promoting social inclusion. Throughout the review we engaged a youth advisory group of 13 young people (aged 21-24) from Uganda, Turkey, Syria, South Africa, and Egypt. RESULTS We identified 12 studies relevant to our review. The interventions tested use a range of different strategies to increase social inclusion and reduce depression and anxiety, including social skills training, psychoeducation, teaching life skills training, and cash transfers. Pooled standardised mean differences (SMDs) based on random-effects models showed medium-to-large benefits of interventions on improving depression and anxiety symptoms (n = 8; SMD = -0.62; 95% CI, -1.23 to -0.01, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Although there are not many studies, those which have been done show promising results that strongly suggest that social inclusion could be an important component of programmes to promote adolescent mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xanthe Hunt
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Tom Shakespeare
- International Centre for Evidence on Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK
| | - Gabriele Vilyte
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | | | - Junita Henry
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Melissa Bradshaw
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Selvan Naidoo
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Rachel Mbuyamba
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Shahd Aljassem
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Esta Suubi
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Nawar Aljasem
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Moroesi Makhetha
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
| | - Jason Bantjes
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
- Alcohol, Tabaco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Unit, Cape Town 7505, South Africa
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Hunt X, Abdurahman H, Omobowale O, Afolayan A, Munetsi E, Dzapasi L, Mokaya N, Koroma A, Barrie I, Ogunmola O, Koroma A, Shakespeare T, Eaton J, Ryan G. Interventions for adolescents and adults with psychosis in Africa: a systematic review and narrative synthesis. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2022; 9:223-240. [PMID: 36618745 PMCID: PMC9806991 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.25] [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: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Global Burden of Disease attributable to psychotic disorders in African countries is high and has increased sharply in recent years. Yet, there is a scarcity of evidence on effective, appropriate and acceptable interventions for schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders on the continent. Methods We carried out a systematic review and narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed literature evaluating the impact of non-pharmacological interventions for adolescents and adults (10-65 years) in African countries. Two reviewers independently double-screened all articles and performed data extraction and quality appraisal using standardized tools. Results Of the 8529 unique texts returned by our search, 12 studies were identified for inclusion, from seven countries: Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and Sudan. They evaluated a range of interventions with one or more clinical, psychological or psychosocial, education or awareness or traditional or faith-based components, and were delivered by either mental health specialists or non-specialist health workers. Ten of the 12 included studies reported significant, positive effects on a range of outcomes (including functioning, symptoms and stigma). Nearly half of the interventions were based out of health facilities. Based on quality appraisals, confidence in these studies' findings is only rated low to medium. Conclusion Further research is needed to develop and evaluate interventions that meet the diverse needs of people with psychosis, within and beyond the health sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xanthe Hunt
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Haleem Abdurahman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olubukola Omobowale
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Adeola Afolayan
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Lloyd Dzapasi
- Research Support Centre, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nyareso Mokaya
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | - Olusegun Ogunmola
- Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Tom Shakespeare
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julian Eaton
- CBM Global Disability Inclusion, Laudenbach, Germany
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Grace Ryan
- Centre for Global Mental Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Li AC, Wong KK, Chio FH, Mak WW, Poon LW. Delivering Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Insomnia, Pain, and Dysfunctional Eating Through a Text Messaging App: Three Randomized Controlled Trials Investigating the Effectiveness and Mediating Mechanisms. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e30073. [PMID: 35503653 PMCID: PMC9115660 DOI: 10.2196/30073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although text messaging has the potential to be the core intervention modality, it is often used as an adjunct only. To improve health and alleviate the distress related to insomnia, pain, and dysregulated eating of people living in urban areas, text messaging–based mindfulness-based interventions were designed and evaluated in 3 randomized controlled trials. Objective This study investigated the effectiveness and mediating mechanisms of text messaging–based mindfulness-based interventions for people with distress related to insomnia, pain, or dysregulated eating. Methods In these trials, 333, 235, and 351 participants were recruited online and randomized to intervention and wait-list control conditions for insomnia, pain, and dysregulated eating, respectively. Participants experienced 21 days of intervention through WhatsApp Messenger. Participants completed pre-, post-, 1-month follow-up, and 3-month follow-up self-report questionnaires online. The retention rates at postmeasurements were 83.2% (139/167), 77.1% (91/118), and 72.9% (129/177) for intervention groups of insomnia, pain, and dysregulated eating, respectively. Participants’ queries were answered by a study technician. Primary outcomes included insomnia severity, presleep arousal, pain intensity, pain acceptance, and eating behaviors. Secondary outcomes included mindfulness, depression, anxiety, mental well-being, and functional impairments. Mindfulness, dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes about sleep, pain catastrophizing, and reactivity to food cues were hypothesized to mediate the relationship between the intervention and outcomes. Results For all 3 studies, the intervention groups showed significant improvement on most outcomes at 1-month follow-up compared to their respective wait-list control groups; some primary outcomes (eg, insomnia, pain, dysregulated eating indicators) and secondary outcomes (eg, depression, anxiety symptoms) were sustained at 3-month follow-up. Medium-to-large effect sizes were found at postassessments in most outcomes in all studies. In the intervention for insomnia, mediation analyses showed that dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes about sleep mediated the effect of the intervention on all primary outcomes and most secondary outcomes at both 1-month and 3-month follow-ups, whereas mindfulness mediated the intervention effect on presleep arousal at 1-month and 3-month follow-ups. In the intervention for pain, pain catastrophizing mediated the effect of intervention on pain intensity and functioning at both 1-month and 3-month follow-ups, whereas mindfulness only mediated the effect of intervention on anxiety and depressive symptoms. In the intervention for dysregulated eating, power of food mediated the effect of intervention on both uncontrolled and emotional eating at both 1-month and 3-month follow-ups and mindfulness was found to mediate the effect on depressive symptoms at both 1-month and 3-month follow-ups. Conclusions These 3 studies converged and provided empirical evidence that mindfulness-based interventions delivered through text messaging are effective in improving distress related to sleep, pain, and dysregulated eating. Text messaging has the potential to be a core intervention modality to improve various common health outcomes for people living a fast-paced lifestyle. Trial Registration Clinical Research and Biostatistics Clinical Trials Registry CUHK_CCRB00559; https://tinyurl.com/24rkwarz
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Cm Li
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Keith Kl Wong
- Clinical Psychological Services, New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Floria Hn Chio
- Department of Counselling and Psychology, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Winnie Ws Mak
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Loretta Wh Poon
- newlife.330, New Life Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Oyelade OO, Nkosi-Mafutha NG. Psychosocial rehabilitation of individuals with schizophrenia: a scoping review protocol. Syst Rev 2022; 11:32. [PMID: 35183253 PMCID: PMC8858536 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-01901-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The psychosocial rehabilitation of an individual with mental illness is an evidence-based approach to reducing the burden of the illness and the associated stigma globally. Specifically, in Africa, it has promising scope for African life and the African economy. Psychosocial rehabilitation is described as a set of approaches that aim to assist an individual in achieving restoration from a state of dependency caused by schizophrenia to a state of being an independent decision-maker. However, there seems to be a dearth of literature and implementation of psychosocial rehabilitation in Africa. Therefore, it is necessary to map studies on how psychosocial rehabilitation is conducted for people living in Africa with the most chronic form of mental illness, schizophrenia. METHODS This study will adopt the Arksey and O'Malley scoping review framework to search and compile relevant studies. This process will involve three steps: title screening, to be performed solely by the principal investigator, followed by abstract and full-text screening, to be performed independently by two reviewers (the principal investigator and co-investigator). Rayyan QCRI, a systematic reviews web app, will be used for tracking the screening records, and data charting form will be used to extract basic data of included studies. The risk of bias in the articles identified for screening will be assessed by the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Finally, the content analysis of the screened studies will be performed with NVivo. EXPECTED OUTCOME This study has the likelihood of revealing a research gap in psychosocial rehabilitation approaches and methods. The review results will constitute part of the available evidence that the researchers aim to adopt in the broader part of the project, which aims to develop implementation strategies for the psychosocial rehabilitation of chronic mental illnesses, specifically schizophrenia, in Sub-Sahara Africa. The implementation process also encompasses disseminating the findings of this review to stakeholders, which will enhance their knowledge of the current state of Sub-Saharan Africa and may stimulate support for the implementation of rehabilitation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyeyemi Olajumoke Oyelade
- Department of Nursing Education, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Park Town, Johannesburg, South Africa.
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun-State, Nigeria.
| | - Nokuthula Gloria Nkosi-Mafutha
- Department of Nursing Education, School of Therapeutic Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Park Town, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Dietrich JJ, Otwombe K, Pakhomova TE, Horvath KJ, Hornschuh S, Hlongwane K, Closson K, Mulaudzi M, Smith P, Beksinska M, Gray GE, Brockman M, Smit J, Kaida A. High cellphone use associated with greater risk of depression among young women aged 15-24 years in Soweto and Durban, South Africa. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1936792. [PMID: 34431754 PMCID: PMC8405067 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1936792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ubiquity of cellular phone (cellphone) use in young people's daily lives has emerged as a priority area of concern for youth mental health. OBJECTIVE This study measured the prevalence of depression and its association with high cellphone use among youth in Soweto and Durban, South Africa. METHODS We analysed cross-sectional, baseline survey data among youth aged 16-24 who participated in a dual-site cohort study, 'AYAZAZI', conducted from 2014 to 2017. The primary outcome was depression using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, with a score of ≥ 10 indicating probable depression. Cellphone use was measured via self-reported average number of hours of active use, with 'high cellphone use' defined as daily usage of ≥ 8. Multivariable logistic regression models assessed the independent relationship between high cellphone use and probable depression, adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS Of 425 participants with a median age of 19 years (IQR = 18-21), 59.5% were young women. Overall, 43.3% had probable depression, with a higher prevalence among women (49.0% vs. 34.9%, P = .004). Nearly all (94.6%) owned a cellphone. About one-third (29.5%) reported spending ≥ 8 hours per day using their cellphone (39.3% of women vs. 14.9% of men, P < .001). In the overall adjusted model, youth reporting high daily cellphone use had higher odds of probable depression (aOR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.16-2.90). In gender-stratified models, high daily cellphone use was associated with probable depression among women (aOR: 2.51, 95% CI: 1.47-4.31), but not among men (aOR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.35-2.16). CONCLUSIONS Among a cohort of South African youth, we found a high prevalence of probable depression and high cellphone use (30%). The findings indicate a need for intersectoral initiatives focused on meaningful mental health support for South African youth to support positive growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,African Social Sciences Unit of Research and Evaluation (ASSURE), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa and Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kennedy Otwombe
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Keith J Horvath
- San Diego State University, Department of Psychology, San Diego, California, United States
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Khuthadzo Hlongwane
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kalysha Closson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mamakiri Mulaudzi
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Patricia Smith
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Mags Beksinska
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Glenda E Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU), School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.,Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mark Brockman
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Jenni Smit
- MatCH Research Unit (MRU), Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Angela Kaida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
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Carter H, Araya R, Anjur K, Deng D, Naslund JA. The emergence of digital mental health in low-income and middle-income countries: A review of recent advances and implications for the treatment and prevention of mental disorders. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 133:223-246. [PMID: 33360867 PMCID: PMC8801979 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), emerging digital mental health interventions should be accompanied by regular and comprehensive assessment of available scientific evidence. This review aims to support efforts to monitor progress in digital mental health research, ensuring new evidence can guide researchers, clinicians, policymakers and program managers positioned to adopt and implement these digitally-enabled treatments. In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, an electronic database search from 2016 to 2020 yielded 37 digital intervention studies for detection, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and/or management of a broad range of mental disorders in 13 LMICs. This date range was selected to update previous reviews. Most studies involved online interventions and many reported feasibility and acceptability, reflected by participant satisfaction or program adherence. About half the studies (N = 23) reported clinical benefits based on changes in mental health. For depression and mood disorders, some digital interventions showed improvements in depressive symptoms, quality of life, treatment adherence, and recovery. However, sample sizes were small and studies focused primarily on adults. Further limiting generalizability was the lack of consistency in clinical assessment and measurement tools between studies. No studies reported worsening symptoms, negative acceptability or dissatisfaction with digital interventions, suggesting possible publication bias. While digital interventions show promise, it remains difficult to conclude that digital interventions are effective from these studies, as it is prudent to exercise caution before drawing conclusions about clinical effectiveness. This review reflects continued growth in digital mental health research in LMICs and further highlights the need for rigorous evaluation of effectiveness and cost-effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Carter
- The Center for Global Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ricardo Araya
- The Center for Global Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK; Health Service & Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kavya Anjur
- Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Davy Deng
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; The Mental Health for All Lab, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John A Naslund
- The Mental Health for All Lab, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Increasingly, digital technologies, especially mobile telecommunications and smartphone apps, are seen as a novel tool for managing severe mental disorders (SMDs) in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, there is a need to identify best practices in the use of digital technologies to effectively reach, support, and manage care for patients living with SMDs. In this review, we summarize recent studies using digital technology to manage symptoms and support clinical care for this patient population and discuss new opportunities to advance digital psychiatry research and practice in LMICs. RECENT FINDINGS Studies evaluating digital interventions for clinical populations living with SMDs in LMICs are limited. Yet, across recent articles surveyed, digital technology appears to yield diverse benefits for this at-risk patient population. These benefits include improved medication adherence, appointment adherence, reduced instances of relapse, and fewer re-hospitalizations. SUMMARY Continued rigorous research evaluating effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of digital technologies in reaching, treating, and managing symptoms and supporting clinical care for patients with SMDs in LMICs is vital. The urgency for remote approaches for delivering specialized psychiatric care is particularly pronounced because of the immediate and long-term impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on access to in-person services. Future research should emphasize participatory approaches rooted in a process of codesign with target users, in order to achieve clinically effective remotely delivered digital mental health interventions.
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Galvin M, Byansi W. A systematic review of task shifting for mental health in sub-Saharan Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/00207411.2020.1798720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Galvin
- Social Work, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - William Byansi
- Social Work, Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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11
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Temmingh HS, van den Brink W, Howells F, Sibeko G, Stein DJ. Methamphetamine Use and Antipsychotic-related Extrapyramidal Side-effects in Patients with Psychotic Disorders. J Dual Diagn 2020; 16:208-217. [PMID: 31984872 DOI: 10.1080/15504263.2020.1714099] [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: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Extrapyramidal side-effects (EPSE) are frequent in patients treated with antipsychotics and comorbid substance use disorders (SUDs). Methamphetamine has been shown to act as a dopaminergic neurotoxin. We aimed to determine whether EPSE occur more often in patients with psychotic disorders and co-occurring methamphetamine (MA) use disorders, and we examined the relationship between MA use, antipsychotic type, dose and EPSE. Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of data from three separate primary studies. Across all studies, psychiatric and SUD diagnoses were determined using the SCID-I for DSM-IV. EPSE were determined using the Simpson-Angus Scale (SAS) for Parkinsonism, the Barnes Akathisia Rating scale (BARS), and the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) for tardive dyskinesia. Participants were classified as having any EPSE if they scored above the cutoff on any of the EPSE scales (SAS, BARS, AIMS). We analyzed data using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results: The sample included 102 patients with non-affective or affective psychotic disorders. Of the total sample, 65.7% were male, 54.9% had schizophrenia spectrum disorders, 20.5% bipolar type I disorder with psychotic features, 11.7% schizoaffective disorder and 12.7% had substance-induced psychosis. A diagnosis of a methamphetamine use disorder (abuse or dependence) was present in 25.5% of participants. EPSE occurred in 38.2% of patients and were significantly associated with MA use in the unadjusted and adjusted analysis, ORadj = 4.01, 95% CI [1.07, 14.98], p = .039. Patients with MA dependence and MA use >3 years were significantly more likely to have EPSE. We found a significant interaction effect between MA use disorders and standardized antipsychotic dose on the occurrence of EPSE, ORadj = 1.01, 95% CI [1.00, 1.01], p = .042, with MA users having a disproportionally higher likelihood of having EPSE compared to MA non-users as antipsychotic dosage increased. There were no significant associations of EPSE with comorbid alcohol, cannabis, or methaqualone use disorders. Conclusions: Patients with a MA use disorder were significantly more likely to have EPSE with evidence for a dose-response effect. Clinicians should carefully titrate antipsychotic dosage from lower to higher doses to avoid EPSE in patients with MA use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henk S Temmingh
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wim van den Brink
- Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fleur Howells
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Psychiatry and Mental Health, Neuroscience Institute of South Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Goodman Sibeko
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Psychiatry and Mental Health, Neuroscience Institute of South Africa, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,South African MRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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12
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Frasch JJ, Petrea I, Chihai J, Smit F, Oud M, Shields-Zeeman L. Taking steps towards deinstitutionalizing mental health care within a low and middle-income country: A cross-sectional study of service user needs in the Republic of Moldova. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2020; 66:49-57. [PMID: 31603368 PMCID: PMC6963171 DOI: 10.1177/0020764019879951] [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] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM The current research was conducted in the context of an ongoing reform of mental health services in the Republic of Moldova since 2014, where efforts have been devoted to creating community-based mental health services. This article presents a snapshot of the needs of mental health service users in the Republic of Moldova and helps to understand how and with which services their needs can be addressed. METHODS This cross-sectional study compared the levels of needs (CANSAS scale), quality of life (EQ-5D 3L), mental health status (MINI for psychotic disorders) and functioning (WHO-DAS) among mental health service users in the psychiatric hospital in Chisinau, Moldova. All service users resided in districts where community mental health services were being developed. Correlations between quality of life, functioning and unmet need were explored. RESULTS Of 83 participants, one third had a psychotic or a mood disorder. On average, participants reported needs in 9.41 domains (SD = 4.41), of which 4.29 were unmet (SD = 3.63). Most unmet needs related to intimacy and relation to others. The level of functioning and quality of life were reported. We found strong, negative associations between the number of unmet needs and level of functioning, as well as the quality of life. We also found that higher functioning levels were positively associated with higher quality of life. CONCLUSION There were a high number of unmet needs among this inpatient population, particularly social needs and service-related needs. A continuum of inpatient and outpatient care and individual treatment plans can help address the different needs of different patients. Individual treatment plans for patients and the choice of the appropriate treatment for patients could be guided by an assessment of service users' (unmet) needs of care and level of functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jona J Frasch
- Trimbos Instituut, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Jana Chihai
- Trimbos Moldova, Chișinău, The Republic of Moldova.,Department of Psychiatry, Narcology and Medical Psychology, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy 'Nicolae Testemițanu', Chișinău, The Republic of Moldova
| | - Filip Smit
- Trimbos Instituut, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Kaonga NN, Morgan J. Common themes and emerging trends for the use of technology to support mental health and psychosocial well-being in limited resource settings: A review of the literature. Psychiatry Res 2019; 281:112594. [PMID: 31605874 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
There are significant disparities in access to mental health care. With the burgeoning of technologies for health, digital tools have been leveraged within mental health and psychosocial support programming (eMental health). A review of the literature was conducted to understand and identify how eMental health has been used in resource-limited settings in general. PubMed, Ovid Medline and Web of Science were searched. Six-hundred and thirty full-text articles were identified and assessed for eligibility; of those, 67 articles met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The most common mental health use cases were for depression (n = 25) and general mental health and well-being (n = 21). Roughly one-third used a website or Internet-enabled intervention (n = 23) and nearly one-third used an SMS intervention (n = 22). Technology was applied to enhance service delivery (n = 32), behavior change communication (n = 26) and data collection (n = 8), and specifically dealt with adherence (n = 7), ecological momentary assessments (n = 7), well-being promotion (n = 5), education (n = 8), telemedicine (n = 28), machine learning (n = 5) and games (n = 2). Emerging trends identified wearables, predictive analytics, robots and virtual reality as promising areas. eMental health interventions that leverage low-tech tools can introduce, strengthen and expand mental health and psychosocial support services and can be a starting point for future, advanced tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadi Nina Kaonga
- HealthEnabled, Cape Town, South Africa; Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States; Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, United States.
| | - Jonathan Morgan
- Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative (REPSSI), Cape Town, South Africa.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The aim was to synthesize recent evidence on schizophrenia illness experience and outcomes and models of care in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). RECENT FINDINGS There is a plurality of explanatory models for psychosis and increasing evidence that context influences experiences of stigma. People with schizophrenia in LMICs are vulnerable to food insecurity, violence and physical health problems, in addition to unmet needs for mental healthcare. Family support may help to improve outcomes if present, but caregivers may be overwhelmed by the challenges faced. Despite efforts to increase availability, evidence-based care remains inaccessible to many people with schizophrenia. Non-randomized evaluations in South Africa and Mexico indicate that psychosocial support groups for people with schizophrenia and caregivers may be acceptable and useful. Randomized controlled trials in Pakistan and China show that culturally adapted cognitive-behavioural therapy can reduce symptom severity. There is emerging evidence that alternative medicine, such as Tai Chi, may be beneficial, but to date most studies are of low quality. The challenges of biomedical-traditional provider collaborations have been highlighted. Evaluations of integrated mental healthcare in primary care are underway and promise to provide vital information about how to scale-up quality care. SUMMARY Acceptable and effective responses to schizophrenia in LMICs should be cognisant of both cultural context and universal concerns. Efforts to enhance the quality of family support should be central to models of care.
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