1
|
Regenauer KS, Rose AL, Belus JM, Johnson K, Ciya N, Ndamase S, Jacobs Y, Staniland L, Sibeko G, Bassett IV, Joska J, Myers B, Magidson JF. Piloting Siyakhana: A community health worker training to reduce substance use and depression stigma in South African HIV and TB care. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002657. [PMID: 38713695 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
South Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV/tuberculosis (TB) co-infection, and poor engagement in HIV/TB care contributes to morbidity and mortality. In South Africa, community health workers (CHWs) are tasked with re-engaging patients who have dropped out of HIV/TB care. CHWs have described substantial challenges with substance use (SU) and depression among their patients, while patients have described CHW stigma towards SU and depression as barriers to re-engagement in care. Yet, CHWs receive little-to-no training on SU or depression. Therefore, we piloted Siyakhana, a brief CHW training to reduce stigma related to SU and depression while improving skills for re-engaging these patients in HIV and/or TB care. This study evaluated the preliminary effectiveness (stigma towards SU and depression; clinical competence assessed via roleplay) and implementation (quantitative ratings of feasibility, acceptability, appropriateness, adoption; semi-structured written qualitative feedback) of Siyakhana among CHWs and supervisors (N = 17) at pre- and post-training assessments. SU stigma significantly decreased (F(1,16) = 18.94, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.54). Depression stigma was lower than SU stigma at both timepoints and did not significantly decrease after training. CHW clinical competency towards patients with SU/depression significantly improved (t(11) = -3.35, p = 0.007, d = 1.00). The training was rated as feasible, acceptable, appropriate, and likely to be adopted by CHWs and their supervisors. Nonjudgmental communication was commonly described as the most useful training component. Based on this pilot, the training is being refined and evaluated in a larger randomized stepped-wedge clinical trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen S Regenauer
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Alexandra L Rose
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jennifer M Belus
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kim Johnson
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nonceba Ciya
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sibabalwe Ndamase
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Yuche Jacobs
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
- People Development Centre: Corporate Wellness, Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness, Plumstead, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lexy Staniland
- EnAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - Goodman Sibeko
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - John Joska
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
- EnAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
- Center for Substance Use, Health & Addiction Research (CESAR), University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Myers B, Regenauer KS, Rose A, Johnson K, Ndamase S, Ciya N, Brown I, Joska J, Bassett IV, Belus JM, Ma TC, Sibeko G, Magidson JF. Community health worker training to reduce mental health and substance use stigma towards patients who have disengaged from HIV/TB care in South Africa: protocol for a stepped wedge hybrid type II pilot implementation trial. Implement Sci Commun 2024; 5:1. [PMID: 38167261 PMCID: PMC10759561 DOI: 10.1186/s43058-023-00537-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has deployed community health workers (CHWs) to support individuals to enter and stay in HIV/TB care. Although CHWs routinely encounter patients with mental health (particularly depression) and substance use (SU) conditions that impact their engagement in HIV/TB care, CHWs are rarely trained in how to work with these patients. This contributes to mental health and SU stigma among CHWs, a known barrier to patient engagement in care. Mental health and SU training interventions could reduce CHW stigma and potentially improve patient engagement in care, but evidence of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of these interventions is scarce. Therefore, we designed a hybrid type 2 effectiveness-implementation pilot trial to evaluate the implementation and preliminary effectiveness of a CHW training intervention for reducing depression and SU stigma in the Western Cape, South Africa. METHODS This stepped wedge pilot trial will engage CHWs from six primary care clinics offering HIV/TB care. Clinics will be block randomized into three-step cohorts that receive the intervention at varying time points. The Siyakhana intervention involves 3 days of training in depression and SU focused on psychoeducation, evidence-based skills for working with patients, and self-care strategies for promoting CHW wellness. The implementation strategy involves social contact with people with lived experience of depression/SU during training (via patient videos and a peer trainer) and clinical supervision to support CHWs to practice new skills. Both implementation outcomes (acceptability, feasibility, fidelity) and preliminary effectiveness of the intervention on CHW stigma will be assessed using mixed methods at 3- and 6-month follow-up assessments. DISCUSSION This trial will advance knowledge of the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of a CHW training for reducing depression and SU stigma towards patients with HIV and/or TB. Study findings will inform a larger implementation trial to evaluate the longer-term implementation and effectiveness of this intervention for reducing CHW stigma towards patients with depression and SU and improving patient engagement in HIV/TB care. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05282173. Registered on 7 March 2022.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Kent Street, Perth, WA, Australia.
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa.
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Division of Addiction Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Kristen S Regenauer
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Alexandra Rose
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Kim Johnson
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sibabalwe Ndamase
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nonceba Ciya
- Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use and Tobacco Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Imani Brown
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| | - John Joska
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Division of Neuropsychiatry, University of Cape Town, HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer M Belus
- Department of Clinical Research, Division of Clinical Epidemiology, University Hospital Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Medicine, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Tianzhou Charles Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Goodman Sibeko
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Division of Addiction Psychiatry, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, College Park, MD, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Haczkewicz KM, Hill T, Cameron CD, Iftikhar Z, Gallant NL. Group Psychological Treatment Preferences of Individuals Living With Chronic Disease: Brief Report of a Saskatchewan-Based Cross-Sectional Survey. INQUIRY : A JOURNAL OF MEDICAL CARE ORGANIZATION, PROVISION AND FINANCING 2024; 61:469580241237112. [PMID: 38465596 DOI: 10.1177/00469580241237112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Given that individuals with chronic diseases comorbid with psychological distress experience worse clinical outcomes than those without psychological distress, treatment of the psychological sequalae that accompanies chronic diseases is of utmost importance. Thus, the present study aimed to examine group treatment preferences among adults living with chronic disease in Saskatchewan, Canada. An online survey regarding group treatment preferences was administered to 207 participants living with chronic disease comorbid with psychological distress. The most often reported treatment scenario was virtual sessions (45%) lasting 1 h (51%) and occurring every other week (45%) in the evening (63%) for 3 to4 months (40%). Preferences included a medium group (48%), a relatively closed group nature (ie, only occasional new members; 44%), and group leadership including at least 1 professional living with chronic disease (54%). Future-oriented (81%), supportive (83%), skill-based (95%), and group discussions (78%) were desired treatment characteristics among participants. Survey results showed clear preferences on treatment content and session logistics. Slight variations exist by gender and age, but a consensus can be identified and act as a preliminary treatment plan. This study contributes to the body of literature on psychological treatment preferences for individuals living with chronic disease by outlining the preferred format and composition of groups according to those with lived experience. Group-based psychological treatment for chronic disease patients should account for these preferences to improve its acceptability and usefulness among patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey M Haczkewicz
- University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
- Centre on Aging and Health, Regina, SK, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Natasha L Gallant
- University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada
- Centre on Aging and Health, Regina, SK, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kamp M, Achilonu O, Kisiangani I, Nderitu DM, Mpangase PT, Tadesse GA, Adetunji K, Iddi S, Speakman S, Hazelhurst S, Asiki G, Ramsay M. Multimorbidity in African ancestry populations: a scoping review. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:e013509. [PMID: 38084495 PMCID: PMC10711865 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Multimorbidity (MM) is a growing concern linked to poor outcomes and higher healthcare costs. While most MM research targets European ancestry populations, the prevalence and patterns in African ancestry groups remain underexplored. This study aimed to identify and summarise the available literature on MM in populations with African ancestry, on the continent, and in the diaspora. DESIGN A scoping review was conducted in five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Science Direct and JSTOR) in July 2022. Studies were selected based on predefined criteria, with data extraction focusing on methodology and findings. Descriptive statistics summarised the data, and a narrative synthesis highlighted key themes. RESULTS Of the 232 publications on MM in African-ancestry groups from 2010 to June 2022-113 examined continental African populations, 100 the diaspora and 19 both. Findings revealed diverse MM patterns within and beyond continental Africa. Cardiovascular and metabolic diseases are predominant in both groups (80% continental and 70% diaspora). Infectious diseases featured more in continental studies (58% continental and 16% diaspora). Although many papers did not specifically address these features, as in previous studies, older age, being women and having a lower socioeconomic status were associated with a higher prevalence of MM, with important exceptions. Research gaps identified included limited data on African-ancestry individuals, inadequate representation, under-represented disease groups, non-standardised methodologies, the need for innovative data strategies, and insufficient translational research. CONCLUSION The growing global MM prevalence is mirrored in African-ancestry populations. Recognising the unique contexts of African-ancestry populations is essential when addressing the burden of MM. This review emphasises the need for additional research to guide and enhance healthcare approaches for African-ancestry populations, regardless of their geographic location.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Kamp
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Okechinyere Achilonu
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Isaac Kisiangani
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Maina Nderitu
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Phelelani Thokozani Mpangase
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Kayode Adetunji
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Samuel Iddi
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Scott Hazelhurst
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gershim Asiki
- African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), APHRC Campus, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michèle Ramsay
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wolfe DM, Hutton B, Corace K, Chaiyakunapruk N, Ngorsuraches S, Nochaiwong S, Presseau J, Grant A, Dowson M, Palumbo A, Suschinsky K, Skidmore B, Bartram M, Garner G, DiGioacchino L, Pump A, Peters B, Konefal S, Eves AP, Thavorn K. Service-level barriers to and facilitators of accessibility to treatment for problematic alcohol use: a scoping review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1296239. [PMID: 38106884 PMCID: PMC10722420 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1296239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Services to treat problematic alcohol use (PAU) should be highly accessible to optimize treatment engagement. We conducted a scoping review to map characteristics of services for the treatment of PAU that have been reported in the literature to be barriers to or facilitators of access to treatment from the perspective of individuals with PAU. Methods A protocol was developed a priori, registered, and published. We searched MEDLINE®, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and additional grey literature sources from 2010 to April 2022 to identify primary qualitative research and surveys of adults with current or past PAU requiring treatment that were designed to identify modifiable characteristics of PAU treatment services (including psychosocial and pharmacologic interventions) that were perceived to be barriers to or facilitators of access to treatment. Studies of concurrent PAU and other substance use disorders were excluded. Study selection was performed by multiple review team members. Emergent barriers were coded and mapped to the accessibility dimensions of the Levesque framework of healthcare access, then descriptively summarized. Results One-hundred-and-nine included studies reported an extensive array of unique service-level barriers that could act alone or together to prevent treatment accessibility. These included but were not limited to lack of an obvious entry point, complexity of the care pathway, high financial cost, unacceptably long wait times, lack of geographically accessible treatment, inconvenient appointment hours, poor cultural/demographic sensitivity, lack of anonymity/privacy, lack of services to treat concurrent PAU and mental health problems. Discussion Barriers generally aligned with recent reviews of the substance use disorder literature. Ranking of barriers may be explored in a future discrete choice experiment of PAU service users. The rich qualitative findings of this review may support the design of new or modification of existing services for people with PAU to improve accessibility. Systematic Review Registration Open Science Framework doi: 10.17605/OSF.IO/S849R.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brian Hutton
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kim Corace
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Program, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at the Royal, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Nathorn Chaiyakunapruk
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
- Informatics, Decision Enhancement, and Analytics Sciences (IDEAS) Center, Veterans Affairs Salt Lake City Healthcare System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | | | - Surapon Nochaiwong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Pharmacoepidemiology and Statistics Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Justin Presseau
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Alyssa Grant
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Kelly Suschinsky
- Substance Use and Concurrent Disorders Program, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Mary Bartram
- Mental Health Commission of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Gordon Garner
- Community Addictions Peer Support Association, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Pump
- Community Addictions Peer Support Association, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Brianne Peters
- Community Addictions Peer Support Association, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sarah Konefal
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Amy Porath Eves
- Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Knowledge Institute on Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Kednapa Thavorn
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Pharmacoepidemiology and Statistics Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Haddad S, Shawa M, Kane JC, Bwalya B, Sienkiewicz M, Kilbane G, Chibemba V, Chiluba P, Mtongo N, Metz K, Chibwe M, Mushabati N, Zulu A, Paul R, Banda Z, Loongo H, Kamanga M, Greene MC. Alcohol and other drug use patterns and services in an integrated refugee settlement in Northern Zambia: a formative research study. Confl Health 2023; 17:40. [PMID: 37620915 PMCID: PMC10464007 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-023-00538-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence on patterns of alcohol and other drug (AOD) use and how to effectively deliver services to address AOD use in humanitarian settings is limited. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the patterns of AOD use among Congolese refugees in Mantapala Refugee Settlement and members of the surrounding host community and identify potential appropriate intervention and implementation approaches to address AOD use disorders among conflict-affected populations. METHODS Fifty free listing interviews, 25 key informant interviews, and four focus group discussions were conducted among refugees, host community members, humanitarian implementing agency staff, and refugee incentive workers. These participants were selected based on their knowledge of AOD use and related problems in the settlement and the surrounding host community in northern Zambia. RESULTS Cannabis and home-brewed alcohol were the substances that were perceived to be most commonly used and have the greatest impact on the community. Participants reported that self-medication, boredom, and relief of daily stressors associated with lack of housing, safety, and employment were reasons that people used AODs. Participants recommended that programming include components to address the underlying causes of AOD use, such as livelihood activities. Stigma due to the criminalization of and societal ideals and religious beliefs regarding AOD use was identified as a substantial barrier to accessing and seeking treatment. CONCLUSIONS Our study's findings indicate the need for services to address AOD use in Mantapala Refugee Settlement. Interventions should consider the social and structural determinants of AOD use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Haddad
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Mbaita Shawa
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Jeremy C Kane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | | | - Megan Sienkiewicz
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Grace Kilbane
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Veronica Chibemba
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Princess Chiluba
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nkumbu Mtongo
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Kristina Metz
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Mildred Chibwe
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Allan Zulu
- CARE Zambia, PO Box 36238, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ravi Paul
- School of Medicine, University of Zambia, University Teaching Hospital, PO Box 50110, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Zaliwe Banda
- Zambia Ministry of Health, PO Box 30205, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Muzi Kamanga
- Women in Law and Development in Africa, PO Box 31456, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - M Claire Greene
- Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 60 Haven Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Kawiya HH, Davies T, Lund C, Sorsdahl K. Missed opportunities to address common mental disorders and risky alcohol use among people living with HIV in Zomba, Malawi: A cross sectional clinic survey. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278160. [PMID: 36745646 PMCID: PMC9901807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278160] [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: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Common mental disorders (CMDs) and risky alcohol use are highly prevalent among people living with HIV, yet many do not receive treatment for these mental health problems. In Malawi, despite a mental health policy aiming to include mental healthcare into primary health care, many clients with HIV go unscreened and untreated for mental illnesses, indicating missed opportunities to offer mental health care to people living with HIV. The aim of this study was to determine the numbers and types of missed opportunities for screening and treatment of CMDs and risky alcohol use amongst a sample of people living with HIV attending anti-retroviral (ART) clinics in Zomba Malawi. A descriptive cross-sectional clinic survey was used, at three ART clinics in the Zomba district. Random sampling was conducted for all clients attending their ART clinics on specific days. The study surveyed 382 participants living with HIV. Of these participants, the majority were women (N = 247, 64.7%), and 87 (22.8%) screened positive for CMDs and/or alcohol misuse using the self-reporting questionnaire 20 (SRQ-20) and alcohol use disorder identification test (AUDIT). Of these, only 47 (54%) had been screened by health workers for CMDs or risky alcohol use in the past 12 months, and 66 (76%) wanted to receive treatment. Of the total sample of 382 participants, only 92 (24%) and 89 (23%) had been screened for CMDs or risky alcohol use by health workers. Failures by clinical officers and nurses to screen or treat CMDs and risky alcohol use in ART clinics represent missed opportunities to address the mental health of people living with HIV. Providing psychoeducation for staff, guidelines for screening and managing CMDs and alcohol use, increasing human resources, and accelerating implementation of the mental health policy in Malawi may be a few ways of improving mental health service provision at ART clinics in Malawi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Henry Kawiya
- Clinical Department, Ministry of Health, Zomba Mental Hospital, Zomba, Malawi
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Thandi Davies
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Crick Lund
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Health Service and Population Research Department, Centre for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s Global Health Institute, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Integration of Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA) into public sector HIV clinics for unhealthy alcohol use in urban Zambia: Qualitative evaluation on acceptability and feasibility. SSM - MENTAL HEALTH 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2023.100195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
|
9
|
Brooke-Sumner C, Petersen-Williams P, Sorsdahl K, Kruger J, Mahomed H, Myers B. Strategies for supporting the implementation of a task-shared psychological intervention in South Africa's chronic disease services: qualitative insights from health managers' experiences of project MIND. Glob Health Action 2022; 15:2123005. [PMID: 36178292 PMCID: PMC9542686 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2022.2123005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although evidence indicates that task-shared psychological interventions can reduce mental health treatment gaps in resource-constrained settings, systemic barriers have limited their widespread implementation. Evidence on how to sustain and scale such approaches is scant. This study responds to this gap by examining the experiences of South African health managers involved in the implementation of a task-shared counselling service for Project MIND. OBJECTIVES To qualitatively describe managers' experiences of implementing the MIND programme and their insights into potential strategies for supporting sustained implementation. METHODS Two focus group discussions (FGDs) and eight in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with managers of urban and rural primary care facilities in the Western Cape province. All managers were female and 30-50 years old. FGDs and IDIs used an identical semi-structured topic guide to explore the experiences of the MIND programme and perceived barriers to sustained implementation. Normalisation process theory (NPT) guided the thematic analysis. RESULTS Four themes emerged that mapped onto the NPT constructs. First, managers noted that their relational work with staff to promote support for the intervention and reduce resistance was key to facilitating implementation. Second, managers emphasised the need for staff reorientation and upskilling to foster openness to mental health practice and for adequate time for quality counselling. Third, managers underscored the importance of strengthening linkages between the health and social service sectors to facilitate delivery of comprehensive mental health services. Finally, managers recommended ongoing monitoring of the service and communication about its impacts as strategies for supporting integration into routine practice. CONCLUSIONS Findings contribute to the emerging literature on strategies to support implementation of task-shared interventions in low- and middle-income countries. The findings highlight the leadership role of managers in identifying and actioning these strategies. Investing in managers' capacity to support implementation of psychological interventions is critical for scale-up of these mental health innovations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Brooke-Sumner
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Petal Petersen-Williams
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, J-Block, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - James Kruger
- Metro Health Services, Western Cape Government: Health, Bellville Health Park, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hassan Mahomed
- Metro Health Services, Western Cape Government: Health, Bellville Health Park, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Health Systems and Public Health, Department of Global Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, J-Block, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, South Africa
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
- CONTACT Bronwyn Myers Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie Van Zijl Drive, Parow Valley, Cape Town7501, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Harker N, Johnson K, Erasmus J, Myers B. COVID 19—impact on substance use treatment utilization and provision in South Africa. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2022; 17:15. [PMID: 35241095 PMCID: PMC8892117 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-022-00446-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted people with substance use disorders (SUDs) worldwide. The aim of this study was to explore, changes in the number of SUD treatment episodes provided during the height of the pandemic and, SUD treatment providers’ perceptions of the impact of COVID-19-related restrictions on people with SUDs and the delivery of SUD treatment services in South Africa. Methods We used administrative data collected as part of the South African Community Epidemiology Network on Drug Use (SACENDU) project to assess whether the number of treatment episodes changed during the height of COVID-19 restrictions. We used data from an online survey of SUD treatment providers to assess providers’ perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on SUD treatment delivery. Eight seven SUD facilities were recruited to participate in the online survey. Results Sixty-three organisations (out of a total of 86) participated in the survey, yielding a 73.2% response rate. About half (n = 30; 47.6%) of the sample thought the need for SUD treatment had remained the same or had increased during the COVID-19 lockdown. Half the sample (n = 32; 50.7%) reported decreased availability of SUD services during COVID-19 lockdowns. Participants believed that the lack of services during COVID-19 lockdown impacted negatively on patients that were enrolled in their programmes and on individuals who wished to access the service. Furthermore, changes in service provision seemed to increase patients’ anxiety, exacerbate pre-existing mental health problems and in some cases were thought to precipitate relapse. In addition, patient disengagement and attrition from treatment were thought to have increased during this period. Whilst 47.6% (n = 30) of providers agreed with the value of the alcohol ban, 23.8% (n = 15) of providers thought it had unintended negative consequences. Conclusion Based on the findings it is evident that SUD treatment services in South Africa have been significantly affected during the COVID-19 pandemic and more severely during the onset of the pandemic. Together with service providers, more effective ways should be sought on how to feasibly expand access to SUD treatment for all South Africans and enhance the country’s preparedness for future health emergencies.
Collapse
|
11
|
Siegfried NL, Hopewell S, Erasmus-Claassen LA, Myers B. Evaluation of cultural competency in a South African cluster randomised controlled trial: lessons learned for trial reporting standards. Trials 2022; 23:918. [PMID: 36309756 PMCID: PMC9617747 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06767-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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Failure to consider relevant cultural, ethnic and diversity parameters (and the intersection between these parameters) during trial protocol development and trial conduct may negatively impact recruitment, intervention development and delivery, and participant adherence and retention, potentially reducing overall internal validity. This case study aimed to evaluate the utility and comparability between the 9-item Gibbs Framework to measure cultural competency and the GRIPP-2(Short Form (SF)) 5-point checklist to assess patient and public involvement in the context of a complex clinical trial conducted in an African setting. METHODS We identified and collated all relevant publications, source and procedural data related to the trial and integrated the documents into a dynamic trial timeline. Two independent investigators applied and scored the Gibbs Framework and the GRIPP-2(SF) checklist to the four publications arising from the trial, noting functionality and comparability between tools. Where cultural competency was not met, a third investigator screened all procedural and source data and identified if cultural competency had been achieved but not reported in the publications, or if the trial had not met appropriate cultural competency based on the documentation. RESULTS Application of the Gibbs Framework found that the trial scored '2' for seven of the nine Gibbs items, indicating full cultural competency for those questions. The Framework indicated that the trial research question was not driven by the articulated needs of patients, and neither were patients, caregivers and clinical providers involved in the development of the intervention. Comparability with the GRIPP-2(SF) checklist showed that the Gibbs performed better on evaluation of partnerships with the community, identification of culturally competent data sources and target populations, and appointment of trial staff in an inclusive manner. CONCLUSIONS Comprehensive evaluation of the trial's cultural competency required scrutiny of both published manuscripts and source and procedural data, suggesting that there is a gap in current trial reporting standards with respect to cultural competence. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR201610001825403. Registered on 17 October 2016.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nandi Louise Siegfried
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie Van Zijl Drive, Parow, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sally Hopewell
- Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Oxford Clinical Trials Research Unit, University of Oxford, Nuffield, Oxford, UK
- Botnar Research Centre, Windmill Road, Oxford, UK
| | - Lesley-Ann Erasmus-Claassen
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie Van Zijl Drive, Parow, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa.
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie Van Zijl Drive, Parow, Cape Town, 7505, South Africa
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Stanton AM, O'Cleirigh C, Knight L, Davey DLJ, Myer L, Joska JA, Mayer KH, Bekker L, Psaros C. The importance of assessing and addressing mental health barriers to PrEP use during pregnancy and postpartum in sub-Saharan Africa: state of the science and research priorities. J Int AIDS Soc 2022; 25:e26026. [PMID: 36251124 PMCID: PMC9575939 DOI: 10.1002/jia2.26026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pregnant and postpartum women (PPW) in sub‐Saharan Africa are at disproportionately high risk of HIV infection compared to non‐pregnant women. When used consistently, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) can prevent HIV acquisition and transmission to the foetus or infant during these critical periods. Recent studies have demonstrated associations between mental health challenges (e.g. depression and traumatic stress associated with intimate partner violence) and decreased PrEP adherence and persistence, particularly among adolescents, younger women and women in the postpartum period. However, mental health is not currently a major focus of PrEP implementation research and programme planning for PPW. Discussion PrEP implementation programmes for PPW need to assess and address mental health barriers to consistent PrEP use to ensure effectiveness and sustainability in routine care. We highlight three key research priorities that will support PrEP adherence and persistence: (1) include mental health screening tools in PrEP implementation research with PPW, both to assess the feasibility of integrating these tools into routine antenatal and postpartum care and to ensure that limited resources are directed towards women whose symptoms may interfere most with PrEP use; (2) identify cross‐cutting, transdiagnostic psychological mechanisms that affect consistent PrEP use during these periods and can realistically be targeted with intervention in resource‐limited settings; and (3) develop/adapt and test interventions that target those underlying mechanisms, leveraging strategies from existing interventions that have successfully mitigated mental health barriers to antiretroviral therapy use among people with HIV. Conclusions For PPW, implementation of PrEP should be guided by a robust understanding of the unique psychological difficulties that may act as barriers to uptake, adherence and persistence (i.e. sustained adherence over time). We strongly encourage PrEP implementation research in PPW to incorporate validated mental health screening tools and ultimately treatment in routine antenatal and postnatal care, and we stress the potential public health benefits of identifying women who face mental health barriers to PrEP use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia M. Stanton
- Department of Psychological and Brain SciencesBoston UniversityBostonMassachusettsUSA,Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Conall O'Cleirigh
- Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Lucia Knight
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Dvora L. Joseph Davey
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa,Division of Infectious Diseases, Geffen School of MedicineUniversity of California Los AngelesLos AngelesCaliforniaUSA
| | - Landon Myer
- School of Public HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - John A. Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Kenneth H. Mayer
- Fenway HealthBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA,HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of Cape TownCape TownSouth Africa,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical CenterBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | | | - Christina Psaros
- Massachusetts General HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA,Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Myers B, Lombard CJ, Lund C, Joska JA, Levitt N, Naledi T, Petersen Williams P, van der Westhuizen C, Cuijpers P, Stein DJ, Sorsdahl KR. Comparing dedicated and designated approaches to integrating task-shared psychological interventions into chronic disease care in South Africa: a three-arm, cluster randomised, multicentre, open-label trial. Lancet 2022; 400:1321-1333. [PMID: 36244383 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01641-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community health workers (CHWs) are increasingly providing task-shared psychological interventions for depression and alcohol use in primary health care in low-income and middle-income countries. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of CHWs dedicated to deliver care with CHWs designated to deliver care over and above their existing responsibilities and with treatment as usual for patients with a chronic physical disease. METHODS We did a three-arm, cluster randomised, multicentre, open-label trial done in 24 primary health-care clinics (clusters) within the Western Cape province of South Africa. Clinics were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to implement dedicated care, designated care, or treatment as usual, stratified by urban-rural status. Patients with HIV or type 1 or type 2 diabetes were eligible if they were 18 years old or older, taking antiretroviral therapy for HIV or medication to manage their diabetes, had an Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score of eight or more or a Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale score of 16 or more, and were not receiving mental health treatment. In the intervention arms, all participants were offered three sessions of an evidence-based psychological intervention, based on motivational interviewing and problem-solving therapy, delivered by CHWs. Our primary outcomes were depression symptom severity and alcohol use severity, which we assessed separately for the intention-to-treat populations of people with HIV and people with diabetes cohorts and in a pooled cohort, at 12 months after enrolment. The Benjamini-Hochberg procedure was used to adjust for multiple testing. The trial was prospectively registered with the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry, PACTR201610001825403. FINDINGS Between May 1, 2017, and March 31, 2019, 1340 participants were recruited: 457 (34·1%) assigned to the dedicated group, 438 (32·7%) assigned to the designated group, and 445 (33·2%) assigned to the treatment as usual group. 1174 (87·6%) participants completed the 12 month assessment. Compared with treatment as usual, the dedicated group (people with HIV adjusted mean difference -5·02 [95% CI -7·51 to -2·54], p<0·0001; people with diabetes -4·20 [-6·68 to -1·72], p<0·0001) and designated group (people with HIV -6·38 [-8·89 to -3·88], p<0·0001; people with diabetes -4·80 [-7·21 to -2·39], p<0·0001) showed greater improvement on depression scores at 12 months. By contrast, reductions in AUDIT scores were similar across study groups, with no intervention effects noted. INTERPRETATION The dedicated and designated approaches to delivering CHW-led psychological interventions were equally effective for reducing depression, but enhancements are required to support alcohol reduction. This trial extends evidence for CHW-delivered psychological interventions, offering insights into how different delivery approaches affect patient outcomes. FUNDING British Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, UK Department for International Development, the Economic and Social Research Council, and the Global Challenges Research Fund.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Carl J Lombard
- Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Department of Global health, Stellenbosch University, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Crick Lund
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - John A Joska
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Naomi Levitt
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tracey Naledi
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Petal Petersen Williams
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa; Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Dan J Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katherine R Sorsdahl
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Magidson JF, Rose AL, Regenauer KS, Brooke-Sumner C, Anvari MS, Jack HE, Johnson K, Belus JM, Joska J, Bassett IV, Sibeko G, Myers B. "It's all about asking from those who have walked the path": Patient and stakeholder perspectives on how peers may shift substance use stigma in HIV care in South Africa. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2022; 17:52. [PMID: 36131304 PMCID: PMC9490994 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-022-00330-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has the highest number of people with HIV (PWH) globally and a significant burden of co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD). Health care worker (HCW) stigma towards SUD is a key barrier to HIV care engagement among PWH with SUD. Support from peers-individuals with lived experience of SUD-may be a promising solution for addressing SUD stigma, while also improving engagement in HIV care. We evaluated the perceived acceptability of integrating a peer role into community-based HIV care teams as a strategy to address SUD stigma at multiple levels and improve patient engagement in HIV care. METHODS Patients and stakeholders (N = 40) were recruited from publicly-funded HIV and SUD organizations in Cape Town, South Africa. We conducted a quantitative assessment of stigma among stakeholders using an adapted Social Distance Scale (SDS) and patient perceptions of working with a peer, as well as semi-structured interviews focused on experiences of SUD stigma, acceptability of a peer model integrated into community-based HIV care, and potential peer roles. RESULTS On the SDS, 75% of stakeholders had high stigma towards a patient with SUD, yet 90% had low stigma when in recovery for at least 2 years. All patients endorsed feeling comfortable talking to someone in recovery and wanting them on their HIV care team. Three main themes emerged from the qualitative data: (1) patient-reported experiences of enacted SUD and HIV stigmas were common and impacted HIV care engagement; (2) both patients and stakeholders considered a peer model highly acceptable for integration into HIV care to support engagement and address SUD stigma; and (3) patients and stakeholders identified both individual-level and systems-level roles for peers, how peers could work alongside other providers to improve patient care, and key characteristics that peers would need to be successful in these roles. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this formative work point to the promise of a peer model for reducing SUD stigma among patients and HCWs within community-based HIV care teams in SA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA.
| | - Alexandra L Rose
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Kristen S Regenauer
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Carrie Brooke-Sumner
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa
| | - Morgan S Anvari
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, Maryland, MD, USA
| | - Helen E Jack
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kim Johnson
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa
| | - Jennifer M Belus
- Department of Clinical Research, University Hospital Basel, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - John Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ingrid V Bassett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Medical Practice Evaluation Center, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Goodman Sibeko
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Parow, South Africa. .,HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa. .,Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Building 408, GPO Box U1987, Perth, WA, 6845, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Camp DM, Moore SJ, Wood-Palmer D, Doraivelu K, Holbrook NM, Byrd RN, Kalokhe AS, Ali MK, Farber EW, Hussen SA. Preferences of Young Black Gay, Bisexual, and Other Men Who Have Sex with Men Regarding Integration of HIV and Mental Health Care Services. AIDS Patient Care STDS 2022; 36:356-363. [PMID: 36037013 PMCID: PMC9514599 DOI: 10.1089/apc.2022.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Optimization of mental health service use is critical to HIV care engagement among young Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (YB-GBMSM). Clinic-level interventions to integrate HIV and mental health services have been proposed; however, patient perspectives on such care models are often lacking. We conducted a mixed-methods study consisting of surveys (N = 100) and qualitative in-depth interviews (n = 15) with YB-GBMSM recruited from two Ryan White-funded HIV clinics in Atlanta, Georgia. Most participants (70%) agreed that integration of HIV and mental health services was beneficial to them. Thirty-six percent (36%) desired a higher level of integration than what they perceived was currently available in their clinic setting, 51% believed their clinic was already optimally integrated, and 13% preferred less integration. In the qualitative interviews, participants discussed their support for potential integration strategies such as training HIV providers to prescribe antidepressants, closer in-clinic proximity of HIV and mental health providers, and use of patient navigators to help patients access mental health care and remind them of appointments. Perceived benefits of care integration included easier access to mental health services, enhanced overall well-being, and improved HIV care engagement. In summary, YB-GBMSM were supportive of integrating HIV and mental health services, with varying individual preferences regarding the degree and operationalization of this integration. Improving integration of mental health and HIV services, and tailoring modes of service delivery to individual preferences, has the potential to improve both general well-being and HIV care engagement in this high priority population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel M. Camp
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Shamia J. Moore
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Drew Wood-Palmer
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kamini Doraivelu
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | | | | | - Ameeta S. Kalokhe
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Mohammed K. Ali
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Eugene W. Farber
- Infectious Disease Program (Ponce Center), Grady Health System, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Sophia A. Hussen
- Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Infectious Disease Program (Ponce Center), Grady Health System, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wechsberg WM, van der Drift I, Howard BN, Myers B, Browne FA, Bonner CP, Carney T, Ndirangu J, Washio Y. Gender and Context Matter: Behavioral and Structural Interventions for People Who Use Alcohol and Other Drugs in Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8661. [PMID: 35886515 PMCID: PMC9316816 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Heavy alcohol consumption and other drug use are prominent across Africa and increase the risk of exposure to violence, HIV acquisition, and other life-threatening injuries. This review synthesizes evidence on alcohol and other drug (AOD) interventions in Africa; evaluates the differences between interventions that do and do not specifically target populations that use AODs; and highlights the impact of comprehensive vs. brief interventions and those that address syndemic issues from a gender and contextualized lens. Literature searches were conducted to identify research outcomes of randomized interventions published between January 2010 and May 2022 that address AOD use in Africa. Thirty-five full-text articles were included in this review. Most of the identified research studies were concentrated in a few countries. Most studies were conducted in South Africa. Many of the studies comprised brief interventions. However, the most comprehensive interventions were the most effective for AOD outcomes. Several studies indicated the importance of addressing AOD use alongside gender-based violence, mental health needs, gender roles, and other social determinants that affect health outcomes. Intervening on AOD use and addressing social determinants from a gender and contextually relevant perspective is essential to ensuring the long-term health and well-being of people in Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendee M. Wechsberg
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Psychology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Isa van der Drift
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
| | - Brittni N. Howard
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7580, South Africa; (B.M.); (T.C.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth 6102, Australia
| | - Felicia A. Browne
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Courtney Peasant Bonner
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Tara Carney
- Alcohol Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7580, South Africa; (B.M.); (T.C.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa
| | - Jacqueline Ndirangu
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yukiko Washio
- Substance Use, Gender and Applied Research Program, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA; (I.v.d.D.); (B.N.H.); (F.A.B.); (C.P.B.); (J.N.); (Y.W.)
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Spedding M, Kohrt B, Myers B, Stein DJ, Petersen I, Lund C, Sorsdahl K. ENhancing Assessment of Common Therapeutic factors (ENACT) tool: adaptation and psychometric properties in South Africa. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2022; 9:375-383. [PMID: 36618718 PMCID: PMC9806986 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ENhancing Assessment of Common Therapeutic factors (ENACT) tool measures a set of therapeutic competencies required for the effective psychological intervention, including delivery by non-specialists. This paper describes the systematic adaptation of the ENACT for the South African (SA) context and presents the tool's initial psychometric properties. Methods We employed a four-step process: (1) Item generation: 204 therapeutic factors were generated by SA psychologists and drawn from the original ENACT as potential items; (2) Item relevance: SA therapists identified 96 items that were thematically coded according to their relationship to one another and were assigned to six domains; (3) Item utility: The ENACT-SA scale was piloted by rating recordings of psychological therapy sessions and stakeholder input; and (4) Psychometric properties: Internal consistency and inter-rater reliability of the final 12-item ENACT-SA were explored using Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation co-efficient (ICC) for both clinical psychologists and registered counsellors. Results Although the original ENACT provided a framework for developing a tool for use in SA, several modifications were made to improve the applicability of the tool for the SA context, and optimise its adaptability other contexts. The adapted 12-item tool's internal consistency was good, while the inter-rater reliability was acceptable for both clinical psychologists and registered counsellors. Conclusion The ENACT-SA is a reliable tool to assess common factors in psychological treatments. It is recommended that the tool be used in conjunction with assessment protocols and treatment-specific competency measures to fully assess implementation fidelity and potential mechanisms of therapeutic change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maxine Spedding
- Department of Psychology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Brandon Kohrt
- Division of Global Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Curtin enAble Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Western Australia, Australia
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- 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
- SAMRC Unit on Risk & Resilience in Mental Disorders, Dept of Psychiatry & Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Inge Petersen
- Center for Rural Health, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Crick Lund
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Author for correspondence: Katherine Sorsdahl, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Osborn L, Ronen K, Larsen AM, Richardson B, Khasimwa B, Chohan B, Matemo D, Unger J, Drake AL, Kinuthia J, John-Stewart G. Antenatal depressive symptoms in Kenyan women living with HIV: contributions of recent HIV diagnosis, stigma, and partner violence. AIDS Care 2022; 34:69-77. [PMID: 34579601 PMCID: PMC8758509 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2021.1981216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Depression among pregnant women living with HIV (WLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa leads to poor pregnancy and HIV outcomes. This cross-sectional analysis utilized enrollment data from a randomized trial (Mobile WAChX, NCT02400671) in six Kenyan public maternal and child health clinics. Depressive symptoms were assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), stigma with the Stigma Scale for Chronic Illness, and intimate partner violence (IPV) with the Abuse Assessment Screen. Correlates of moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms ("depression", PHQ-9 score ≥10) were assessed using generalized estimating equation models clustered by facility. Among 824 pregnant WLWH, 9% had depression; these women had more recent HIV diagnosis than those without depression (median 0.4 vs. 2.0 years since diagnosis, p = .008). Depression was associated with HIV-related stigma (adjusted Prevalence Ratio [aPR]:2.36, p = .025), IPV (aPR:2.93, p = .002), and lower social support score (aPR:0.99, p = .023). Using population-attributable risk percent to estimate contributors to maternal depression, 81% were attributable to stigma (27%), recent diagnosis (24%), and IPV (20%). Integrating depression screening and treatment in prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission programs may be beneficial, particularly in women recently diagnosed or reporting stigma and IPV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bhavna Chohan
- University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA,Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - John Kinuthia
- Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya,University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Patient and provider perceptions of a peer-delivered intervention (' Khanya') to improve anti-retroviral adherence and substance use in South Africa: a mixed methods analysis. Glob Ment Health (Camb) 2022; 9:439-447. [PMID: 36618732 PMCID: PMC9807005 DOI: 10.1017/gmh.2022.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a high prevalence of problematic substance use among people living with HIV in South Africa, there remains limited access to substance use services within the HIV care system. To address this gap, our team previously developed and adapted a six-session, peer-delivered problem-solving and behavioral activation-based intervention (Khanya) to improve HIV medication adherence and reduce substance use in Cape Town. This study evaluated patient and provider perspectives on the intervention to inform implementation and future adaptation. METHODS Following intervention completion, we conducted semi-structured individual interviews with patients (n = 23) and providers (n = 9) to understand perspectives on the feasibility, acceptability, and appropriateness of Khanya and its implementation by a peer. Patients also quantitatively ranked the usefulness of individual intervention components (problem solving for medication adherence 'Life-Steps', behavioral activation, mindfulness training, and relapse prevention) at post-treatment and six months follow-up, which we triangulated with qualitative feedback to examine convergence and divergence across methods. RESULTS Patients and providers reported high overall acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of Khanya, although there were several feasibility challenges. Mindfulness and Life-Steps were identified as particularly acceptable, feasible, and appropriate components by patients across methods, whereas relapse prevention strategies were less salient. Behavioral activation results were less consistent across methods. CONCLUSIONS Findings underscore the importance of examining patients' perspectives on specific intervention components within intervention packages. While mindfulness training and peer delivery models were positively perceived by consumers, they are rarely used within task-shared behavioral interventions in low- and middle-income countries.
Collapse
|
20
|
Sorsdahl K, van der Westhuizen C, Neuman M, Weiss HA, Myers B. Addressing the mental health needs of adolescents in South African communities: a protocol for a feasibility randomized controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2021; 7:69. [PMID: 33726830 PMCID: PMC7961162 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-021-00803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Like many low- and middle-income countries, almost half of the proportion of the South African population is under the age of 25. Given the peak age of onset for most mental health problems is in adolescence, it is vital that adolescents have access to mental health counselling. There are several initiatives to increase access to mental health counselling in South Africa, primarily through the integration of counselling for common mental disorders (CMD) into primary health care services, but adolescents (15-18 years of age) generally do not utilize these services. To address this gap, we will undertake a study to explore the feasibility of conducting a trial of the effectiveness of a community-based mental health counselling intervention for adolescents at-risk for a CMD. METHODS The study is a feasibility trial of the ASPIRE intervention, a four-session blended multi-component counselling intervention adapted for South African adolescents at risk for depression and alcohol use disorders. We will enrol 100 adolescents from community settings and randomly assign them to the ASPIRE intervention or a comparison condition. Feasibility measures, such as rates of recruitment, consent to participate in the trial and retention, will be calculated. Qualitative interviews with participants and counsellors will explore the acceptability of the intervention. The primary outcomes for a subsequent trial would be reductions in symptoms of depression and days of heavy drinking which will be measured at baseline, 6 weeks, and 3 months post-randomization. DISCUSSION This feasibility trial using a mixed-methods design will allow us to determine whether we can move forward to a larger effectiveness trial of the ASPIRE intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial is registered with the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR20200352214510). Registered 28 February 2020-retrospectively registered, https://pactr.samrc.ac.za/TrialDisplay.aspx?TrialID=9795.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Sorsdahl
- Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - C van der Westhuizen
- Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - M Neuman
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - H A Weiss
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, England
| | - B Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Gender gap in mental health research productivity: Results from Qatar. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 54:102347. [PMID: 33271680 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Qatar's contribution to biomedical research has increased significantly in the past couple of decades, but the exact participation of women researchers remains obscure. This study aims to explore the gender gap in research production of Qatar in the field of mental health. METHODS The authors searched five databases for published articles from Qatar in the field of mental health from 2015 to 2019. The authors examined the retrieved articles for the gender gap in 1) the number of researchers. 2) the numbers of articles produced by men-only research teams vs. the research teams included women. 3) h-index. 4) foreign collaboration. 5) research design and themes. RESULTS The authors identified 152 published articles in the field of mental health. Men researchers outnumbered women researchers (124 vs. 81). Men had statistically significant higher h-index compared to women (14.6 ± 1.4 vs 4.6 ± 0.9; p < 0.001). Research teams that included women had produced fewer articles compared to men-only groups (41.4 %), they also had less foreign collaborators (68 % vs. 91 %, p = 0.001). They were less involved in experimental research and more involved in observational research compared to male-only research groups (15.90 % vs. 38.6 % and 47.6 % vs. 25 % respectively; p = 0.034). In articles with women authors, women were the first authors in 50.8 % of the articles, and men were the senior authors in 79.4 % of them. CONCLUSION The study identifies gender gaps in some aspects of research productivity in Qatar. This data will provide a benchmark for future research in the field.
Collapse
|
22
|
Ndungu J, Ramsoomar L, Willan S, Washington L, Ngcobo-Sithole M, Gibbs A. Depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their comorbidity: Implications of adversity amongst young women living in informal settlements in Durban, South Africa. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2020.100022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
|
23
|
Semo BW, Frissa SM. The Mental Health Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Sub-Saharan Africa. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2020; 13:713-720. [PMID: 32982500 PMCID: PMC7508558 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s264286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is leading to mental health problems due to disease experience, physical distancing, stigma and discrimination, and job losses in many of the settings hardest hit by the pandemic. Health care workers, patients with COVID-19 and other illnesses, children, women, youth, and the elderly are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorders, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Virtual mental health services have been established in many settings and social media is being used to impart mental health education and communication resources. This rapid review highlights mental health services across countries hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. More needs to be done to take these services to scale and ensure equity and efficiency. The impact of COVID-19 on mental health in sub-Saharan Africa could be immense, given the weak health care systems. Similar to the Ebola epidemic of 2014-2016, COVID-19 is expected to cause anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorders. Uptake of mental health care services is generally low, and communities rely on social resources. Hence, efforts to control the disease transmission should be contextualized. Low digital literacy, low smartphone penetration and limited internet connection make online mental health services a limited option for service delivery. Safeguarding social and cultural resilience factors and coping mechanisms is critical in the sub-Saharan African context. Mass media is a feasible way of providing social resources. Community health workers can be trained quickly to provide mental health education, screening and counselling services. Toll-free mental health helplines can be used to provide services to health care workers and those needing customized care. Mental health and psychosocial support services need to be integrated into the pandemic response and coordinated nationally. It is critical for these services to continue during and after the epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bazghina-werq Semo
- Independent Global Health Consultant, Washington DC, DC, USA
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Souci Mogga Frissa
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, Centre for Global Mental Health, King’s College, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
"Moving Forward with Life": Acceptability of a Brief Alcohol Reduction Intervention for People Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in South Africa. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17165706. [PMID: 32784613 PMCID: PMC7459709 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background: In South Africa, interventions are needed to address the impact of hazardous drinking on antiretroviral therapy among people living with HIV (PLWH). Participant feedback about these interventions can identify ways to enhance their acceptability. We interviewed participants in a randomized controlled trial of a brief motivational interviewing and problem-solving therapy (MI-PST) intervention about their perceptions of this alcohol-reduction intervention. Methods: The trial was conducted in HIV treatment clinics operating from six hospitals in the Tshwane region of South Africa. We conducted qualitative in-depth interviews with a random selection of participants. Twenty-four participants were interviewed after the final intervention session and 25 at the six-month follow up. Results: Participants believed that it was acceptable to offer PLWH, an alcohol reduction intervention during HIV treatment. They described how the MI-PST intervention had helped them reduce their alcohol consumption. Intervention components providing information on the health benefits of reduced consumption and building problem-solving and coping skills were perceived as most beneficial. Despite these perceived benefits, participants suggested minor modifications to the dosage, content, and delivery of the intervention for greater acceptability and impact. Conclusions: Findings highlight the acceptability and usefulness of this MI-PST intervention for facilitating reductions in alcohol consumption among PLWH.
Collapse
|
25
|
Jack HE, Myers B, Regenauer KS, Magidson JF. Mutual Capacity Building to Reduce the Behavioral Health Treatment Gap Globally. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2020; 47:497-500. [PMID: 31823100 PMCID: PMC7253395 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-019-00999-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Use of lay health workers for the treatment of common mental disorders is an expanding, yet still underutilized, opportunity for closing the behavioral health treatment gap globally. In this commentary, we describe how "mutual capacity building," an equal exchange of ideas between low and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs) to promote shared learning, could promote the development and scale-up of therapies using lay health workers. We propose ways that task sharing models for behavioral health can inform and be supported by bidirectional learning across HICs and LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helen E. Jack
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, Parow, 7505 South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, J-Block, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925 South Africa
| | - Kristen S. Regenauer
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20742 USA
| | - Jessica F. Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, 4094 Campus Drive, College Park, MD 20742 USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Field S, Abrahams Z, Honikman S. Adolescent mothers: A qualitative study on barriers and facilitators to mental health in a low-resource setting in Cape Town, South Africa. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2020; 12:e1-e9. [PMID: 32501029 PMCID: PMC7300943 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v12i1.2279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant and postnatal adolescent women are a high-risk group for common mental disorders (CMDs); however, they have low levels of engagement and retention with mental health services. Negative consequences of CMDs have been documented for both mother and child. AIM The study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to service access for adolescents in low-resource settings. SETTING We interviewed 12 adolescents, aged 15-19 years, from low-resource settings in Cape Town, South Africa. Participants had previously engaged with a mental health service, integrated into maternity care. METHODS Twelve semi-structured, individual interviews were used for this qualitative study. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and coded. A framework analysis was employed for data analysis. RESULTS Adolescents perceived considerable stigma around both teenage pregnancy and mental illness, which inhibited use of mental health services. Other barriers included fearing a lack of confidentiality as well as logistical and environmental obstacles. Service uptake was facilitated by support from other adults and flexible appointment times. Face-to-face individual counselling was their preferred format for a mental health intervention. CONCLUSION Several key components for adolescent-friendly mental health services emerged from our findings: integrate routine mental health screening into existing obstetric services to de-stigmatise mental health problems and optimise screening coverage; coordinate obstetric and counselling appointment times to rationalise the use of limited resources; and sensitise care providers to the needs of adolescents to reduce stigma around adolescent sexual activity and mental illness. A non-judgemental, caring and confidential relationship between counsellors and clients is crucial for successful interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sally Field
- Perinatal Mental Health Project, Alan J. Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Davaasambuu S, Hauwadhanasuk T, Matsuo H, Szatmari P. Effects of interventions to reduce adolescent depression in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 123:201-215. [PMID: 32086181 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND International comparisons found that depression prevalence ranged from 18.3% (China) to 51.5% (Zambia) among school students in some low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The evidence base for treatment of adolescent depression in LMICs is limited and inadequate. Moreover, most treatment interventions are developed in high income countries and the effectiveness of these treatments in LMICs is largely unknown. METHOD Randomized controlled trials, including cluster-randomized trials that have been implemented in LMICs to reduce adolescent depression, were examined in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Only one-time point (3 months or close to 3 months) of the outcome measures was chosen to evaluate effectiveness of interventions. RESULTS Studies that used cognitive-behavioral therapy reduced depressive symptoms more effectively than other treatments with standardized mean difference (SMD) = -1.27, (95% CI -2.19 to -0.35). Microfinance/economic interventions also reduced depression in adolescents with SMD = - 0.35, (95% CI -0.71 to 0.01) and Interpersonal therapy was used in three studies and depressive symptoms reduced by SMD = -0.23, (95% IC -0.60 to 0.13). Moreover, complex psychotherapeutic interventions that used integrated techniques showed a reduction in depression with SMD = -0.23, (95% IC -0.33 to -0.14) as well. CONCLUSIONS Across twenty-eight studies, the evidence showed that cognitive behavioral therapy that delivered by nurses, social workers and counselors at community-based settings were more effective treatments in decreasing adolescent depression in LMICs. Future studies should implement these universal treatment approaches to identify accessible, feasible, affordable and sustainable depression treatments in the countries with less available resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Hisako Matsuo
- Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, 63103, MO, USA
| | - Peter Szatmari
- Center for Addiction and Mental Health, Canada and University of Toronto, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Petersen Williams P, Brooke-Sumner C, Joska J, Kruger J, Vanleeuw L, Dada S, Sorsdahl K, Myers B. Young South African Women on Antiretroviral Therapy Perceptions of a Psychological Counselling Program to Reduce Heavy Drinking and Depression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E2249. [PMID: 32230712 PMCID: PMC7178219 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Young women in South Africa remain most at risk for HIV infection. Several factors contribute to the high incidence rate in this population, including hazardous drinking and depression. Addressing common mental disorders (CMDs) such as depression and alcohol use disorders is key to effective HIV treatment. We explored the experiences and perceptions of young South African women on antiretroviral therapy (ART) of a lay health worker (LHW)-delivered psychosocial intervention based on motivational interviewing (MI) and problem-solving therapy (PST) to reduce heavy drinking and depression. We conducted 27 in-depth interviews with young women (aged 18-35) recruited from 16 primary care clinics in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Discussion topics included young women's life experiences leading to their enrollment in the program, their perceptions of the counselling sessions and the quality of their interaction with the counsellor. Qualitative data were analyzed using a framework approach. The findings highlighted the impact adverse life experiences and stressful life circumstances have on young women's use of alcohol and symptoms of depression and the effect this has on ART adherence. The findings suggest that women found the intervention components that helped them develop strategies for coping with their past experiences, managing current life stressors, and regulating negative thoughts and emotions most beneficial. Taken together, these findings confirm the acceptability of LHW-delivered MI-PST counselling for this population, but suggest that the relevance of the MI-PST intervention for this highly vulnerable population could be further enhanced by including a focus on psychological trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petal Petersen Williams
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.B.-S.); (S.D.); (B.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Carrie Brooke-Sumner
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.B.-S.); (S.D.); (B.M.)
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa;
| | - John Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa;
| | - James Kruger
- Western Cape Department of Health., 8 Riebeeck Street, Cape Town 8000, South Africa;
| | - Lieve Vanleeuw
- Health Systems Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa;
| | - Siphokazi Dada
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.B.-S.); (S.D.); (B.M.)
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa;
| | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zyl Drive, Tygerberg 7505, South Africa; (C.B.-S.); (S.D.); (B.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Magidson JF, Andersen LS, Satinsky EN, Myers B, Kagee A, Anvari M, Joska JA. "Too much boredom isn't a good thing": Adapting behavioral activation for substance use in a resource-limited South African HIV care setting. Psychotherapy (Chic) 2020; 57:107-118. [PMID: 31670529 PMCID: PMC7069775 DOI: 10.1037/pst0000257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
South Africa has the largest HIV/AIDS burden globally. In South Africa, substance use is prevalent and interferes with HIV treatment adherence and viral suppression, and yet it is not routinely treated in HIV care. More research is needed to adapt scalable, evidence-based therapies for substance use for integration into HIV care in South Africa. Behavioral activation (BA), originally developed as an efficacious therapy for depression, has been feasibly used to treat depression in low- and middle-income countries and substance use in high-income settings. Yet, to date, there is limited research on using BA for substance use in low- and middle-income countries. Guided by the ADAPT-ITT framework, this study sought to adapt BA therapy for substance use in HIV care in South Africa. We conducted semistructured individual interviews among patients (n = 19) with moderate/severe substance use and detectable viral load, and HIV care providers and substance use treatment therapists (n = 11) across roles and disciplines at 2 clinic sites in a peri-urban area of Cape Town. We assessed patient and provider/therapist views on the appropriateness of the BA therapy model and sought feedback on isiXhosa-translated BA therapy components. Participants identified the central role of boredom in contributing to substance use and saw the BA therapy model as highly appropriate. Participants identified church and religious practices, sports, and yard/housework as relevant substance-free activities. These findings will inform adaptations to BA therapy for substance use and HIV medication adherence in this setting. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lena S. Andersen
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of
Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape
Town
| | | | - Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South
African Medical Research Council; Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Department of
Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town
| | - Ashraf Kagee
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University
| | - Morgan Anvari
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College
Park
| | - John A. Joska
- HIV Mental Health Research Unit, Division of
Neuropsychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape
Town
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Mayston R, Frissa S, Tekola B, Hanlon C, Prince M, Fekadu A. Explanatory models of depression in sub-Saharan Africa: Synthesis of qualitative evidence. Soc Sci Med 2019; 246:112760. [PMID: 32006814 PMCID: PMC7014569 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2019.112760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Debate about the cross-cultural relevance of depression has been central to cross-cultural psychiatry and global mental health. Although there is now a wealth of evidence pertaining to symptoms across different cultural settings, the role of the health system in addressing these problems remains contentious. Depression is undetected among people attending health facilities. We carried out a thematic synthesis of qualitative evidence published in the scientific literature from sub-Saharan Africa to understand how depression is debated, deployed and described. No date limits were set for inclusion of articles. Our results included 23 studies carried out in communities, among people living with HIV, attendees of primary healthcare and with healthcare workers and traditional healers. Included studies were carried out between 1995 and 2018. In most cases, depression was differentiated from 'madness' and seen to have its roots in social adversity, predominantly economic and relationship problems, sometimes entangled with HIV. Participants described the alienation that resulted from depression and a range of self-help and community resources utilised to combat this isolation. Both spiritual and biomedical causes, and treatment, were considered when symptoms were very severe and/or other possibilities had been considered and discarded. Context shaped narratives: people already engaged with the health system for another illness such as HIV were more likely to describe their depression in biomedical terms. Resolution of depression focussed upon remaking the life world, bringing the individual back to familiar rhythms, whether this was through the mechanism of encouraging socialisation, prayer, spiritual healing or biomedical treatment. Our findings suggest that it is essential that practitioners and researchers are fluent in local conceptualisations and aware of local resources to address depression. Design of interventions offered within the health system that are attuned to this are likely to be welcomed as an option among other resources available to people living with depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosie Mayston
- Global Health and Social Medicine/King's Global Health Institute, King's College London, Social Science and Public Policy, NE Wing, Bush House, 30 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4BG, UK.
| | - Souci Frissa
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Health Service & Population Research, King's College London, UK.
| | - Bethlehem Tekola
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Health Service & Population Research, King's College London, UK.
| | - Charlotte Hanlon
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Health Service & Population Research, King's College London, UK.
| | - Martin Prince
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), Health Service & Population Research, King's College London, UK.
| | - Abebaw Fekadu
- CDT-Africa, Main Library Building, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, PO Box 9086, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Global Health & Infection Department, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Myers B, Breuer E, Lund C, Petersen Williams P, van der Westhuizen C, Brooke-Sumner C, Naledi T, Stein DJ, Sorsdahl K. Assessing capability for implementing mental health counselling within primary care facilities in a middle-income country: A feasibility study. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2019; 26:163-174. [PMID: 30983052 DOI: 10.1111/jpm.12519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC?: Integrating mental health counselling into primary care services is a recommended strategy for reducing the mental health treatment gap in low- and middle-income countries. To support this strategy, potential barriers to counselling integration must be identified and addressed. Organizational preparedness for implementation may influence the extent to which the introduction of counselling is successful. Features of primary care facilities associated with preparedness for the implementation of mental health counselling have not been explored. WHAT THE PAPER ADDS TO EXISTING KNOWLEDGE?: This study uses a novel approach to explore variations in preparedness of primary care services to implement counselling and factors potentially associated with these variations. Findings suggest there is considerable variation in the preparedness of facilities to implement counselling. Organizational factors such as resource availability, management style and facility environment are potentially associated with capability for implementing mental health counselling. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE?: Health planners could use this method to identify poorly functioning services that may benefit from additional interventions to build preparedness for counselling implementation. Future research should examine whether differences in facility preparedness impact on the implementation and outcomes of this service. Abstract Introduction Differences in primary care facilities' preparedness for implementing mental health counselling may affect the implementation process but have rarely been studied. Aim To assess the feasibility of using a novel methodological approach to explore variations in capability for implementing mental health counselling and factors potentially associated with this variation among primary care services in the Western Cape, South Africa. Methods Staff from 26 facilities participated in discussions about their facility's mental health implementation capability. Three researchers conducted observations of the facility's environment, staff-patient interactions and resources. We used qualitative comparative analysis to identify factors potentially associated with implementation capability. Results Facilities appeared to vary in their capability for implementing counselling services. The availability of person-centred health services, a therapeutic environment and sufficient human resources may be requirements for implementation preparedness. Other factors that seem to support preparedness include the availability of confidential space for counselling and an adequately managed facility. Discussion This study identified several features of well-functioning primary care facilities. Facilities with these features may be better prepared to implement a new counselling service. Implications for practice This method may identify facilities that are poorly prepared for implementation that could benefit from preparedness-building interventions. Whether differences in preparedness affect counselling outcomes is yet to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Erica Breuer
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Crick Lund
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Centre for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Petal Petersen Williams
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa.,Division of Addiction Psychiatry, Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claire van der Westhuizen
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Carrie Brooke-Sumner
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Tracey Naledi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, 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.,SAMRC Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
"Someone who is in this thing that I am suffering from": The role of peers and other facilitators for task sharing substance use treatment in South African HIV care. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2019; 70:61-69. [PMID: 31082664 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
South Africa is home to the largest number of people living with HIV/AIDS in the world. Alongside the HIV/AIDS epidemic, problematic alcohol and other drug (AOD) use is prevalent and associated with poor HIV treatment and secondary HIV prevention outcomes. International guidelines and local policy both support the integration of mental health care and AOD treatment into HIV care, yet barriers exist to implementation. This study aimed to explore patient and provider perspectives on the integration of HIV and AOD treatment services in Cape Town, South Africa. This included barriers and facilitators to task sharing AOD treatment in HIV care and preferences for a task shared approach to integrating AOD treatment in HIV care, including who should deliver the behavioural intervention. We conducted thirty semi-structured qualitative interviews with HIV and AOD treatment staff, providers, and people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH) with moderate, problematic AOD use and difficulties (personal or structural) adhering to HIV treatment. Findings illustrated several key themes: (1) the separation between AOD and HIV services (a "siloed treatment experience"), even in the context of geographic co-location; (2) low AOD treatment literacy among HIV patients and providers, including a low awareness of existing AOD use services, even when co-located; (3) substance use stigma as a barrier to HIV and AOD treatment integration; (4) a strong patient preference for peer interventionists; and (5) the role of community health workers (CHWs) in detecting AOD use among some PLWH who had not followed up in HIV care. These findings will inform a future type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation trial, guided by the RE-AIM framework, to evaluate a task shared, evidence-based intervention to address problematic AOD use and improve HIV medication adherence in this setting.
Collapse
|
33
|
Magidson JF, Iyer HS, Regenauer KS, Grelotti DJ, Dietrich JJ, Courtney I, Tshabalala G, Orrell C, Gray GE, Bangsberg DR, Katz IT. Recreational ART use among individuals living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa: Examining longitudinal ART initiation and viral suppression. Drug Alcohol Depend 2019; 198:192-198. [PMID: 30953938 PMCID: PMC6644059 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV (PLWH) and one of the largest antiretroviral therapy (ART) programs globally. High rates of substance use comorbidity exist, including speculation of recreational ART use (i.e., mixing ART with other illicit drugs). Recreational ART use may affect viral load among PLWH due to ART nonadherence and/or viral resistance; however, prior quantitative research has not examined rates of recreational ART use, nor associations with HIV treatment outcomes longitudinally. METHODS Data were drawn from a prospective, observational cohort study (n = 500) of ART-eligible adults recruited from two HIV voluntary counseling and testing centers in Cape Town, and Johannesburg, South Africa. Multiple logistic regression models assessed recreational ART use as a predictor of ART initiation over six months and viral load suppression over nine months, above and beyond other substance use (binge drinking and illicit drug use). RESULTS Approximately 5% (n = 24) reported recreational ART use, which was less frequent in Cape Town compared to Johannesburg (AOR = 0.025; 95%CI: 0.003-0.19; p < 0.001). Recreational ART use was not significantly associated with ART initiation or viral suppression. Other substance use, but not recreational ART use, was significantly associated with lower odds of ART initiation (AOR = 0.54; 95%CI: 0.33-0.87; p = .01) and viral suppression (AOR = 0.47; 95%CI: 0.25-0.89; p = .02). CONCLUSIONS Recreational ART use was infrequent and not uniquely associated with ART initiation or viral suppression. Findings suggest that comorbid use of other substances is ultimately what may make recreational ART use problematic for ongoing engagement in care and viral suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Magidson
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, 4095 Campus Drive, College Park, MD, USA.
| | - Hari S Iyer
- Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, 677 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Kristen S Regenauer
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, One Bowdoin Square, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - David J Grelotti
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Ingrid Courtney
- Department of Medicine and the Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, ZA, South Africa.
| | - Gugu Tshabalala
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Catherine Orrell
- Department of Medicine and the Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Desmond Tutu HIV Foundation, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, ZA, South Africa.
| | - Glenda E Gray
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Office of the President, South African Medical Research Council, Western Cape, ZA, South Africa.
| | - David R Bangsberg
- Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University School of Public Health, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - Ingrid T Katz
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Global Health, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Myers B, Carney T, Browne FA, Wechsberg WM. A trauma-informed substance use and sexual risk reduction intervention for young South African women: a mixed-methods feasibility study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024776. [PMID: 30782918 PMCID: PMC6368003 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sexual and physical trauma and substance use are intersecting risks for HIV among young women. This study assesses the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effects of a novel trauma-informed substance use and sexual risk reduction intervention for young South African women. DESIGN A single arm feasibility test and qualitative interviews of participants. PARTICIPANTS Sixty women, between 18 and 25 years of age, who reported trauma exposure, substance use and recent condom-less sex were recruited. Twenty participants were randomly selected for qualitative interviews. INTERVENTION A six-session group-based intervention. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We examined the proportion of women who provided consent, completed counselling and were retained in the study. Qualitative interviews explored intervention acceptability. Preliminary effects of the intervention on substance use, mental health (depression, psychological distress and trauma symptoms) and sexual risk outcomes (STI symptoms, number of partners and condomless sex) were explored. RESULTS Of the 66 eligible women, 91% were enrolled. Intervention completion rates were low; 35% attended all sessions. On average, participants attended four sessions (M=3.8, SD=1.3). A 93% follow-up rate was achieved at the 3-month endpoint. In this single group design, reductions in the proportion of participants who tested positive for methamphetamine, cannabis and methaqualone were observed at the 3-month endpoint. Symptoms of depression, psychological distress and trauma; number of STI symptoms; and number of sexual partners also decreased. Outcomes were similar for participants who completed up to four and those who completed five or more sessions. Participants thought the intervention was highly beneficial and proposed modifications to enhance acceptability. CONCLUSIONS This novel intervention seems acceptable and holds potential benefits for trauma-exposed women who use substances. Truncating the intervention may enhance the likelihood of its implementation. The efficacy of the intervention for improving substance use, sexual risk and mental health outcomes requires testing in a controlled design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tara Carney
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Felicia A Browne
- Substance Use and Gender Research (SUGAR) Program, Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wendee M Wechsberg
- Substance Use and Gender Research (SUGAR) Program, Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
- Gillings Global School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Psychology in the Public Interest, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Myers B, Petersen-Williams P, van der Westhuizen C, Lund C, Lombard C, Joska JA, Levitt NS, Butler C, Naledi T, Milligan P, Stein DJ, Sorsdahl K. Community health worker-delivered counselling for common mental disorders among chronic disease patients in South Africa: a feasibility study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024277. [PMID: 30647043 PMCID: PMC6340481 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the feasibility and acceptability of integrating a 'designated' approach to community health worker (CHW)-delivered mental health counselling (where existing CHWs deliver counselling in addition to usual duties) and a 'dedicated' approach (where additional CHWs have the sole responsibility of delivering mental health counselling) into chronic disease care. DESIGN A feasibility test of a designated and dedicated approach to CHW-delivered counselling and qualitative interviews of CHWs delivering the counselling. SETTING Four primary healthcare clinics in the Western Cape, South Africa allocated to either a designated or dedicated approach and stratified by urban/rural status. PARTICIPANTS Forty chronic disease patients (20 with HIV, 20 with diabetes) reporting hazardous alcohol use or depression. Interviews with seven CHWs. INTERVENTION Three sessions of structured mental health counselling. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES We assessed feasibility by examining the proportion of patients who were willing to be screened, met inclusion criteria, provided consent, completed counselling and were retained in the study. Acceptability of these delivery approaches was assessed through qualitative interviews of CHWs. RESULTS Regardless of approach, a fair proportion (67%) of eligible patients were willing to receive mental health counselling. Patients who screened positive for depression were more likely to be interested in counselling than those with hazardous alcohol only. Retention in counselling (85%) and the study (90%) was good and did not differ by approach. Both dedicated and designated CHWs viewed the counselling package as highly acceptable but requested additional training and support to facilitate implementation. CONCLUSIONS Dedicated and designated approaches to CHW-delivered mental health counselling were matched in terms of their feasibility and acceptability. A comparative efficacy trial of these approaches is justified, with some adjustments to the training and implementation protocols to provide further support to CHWs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bronwyn Myers
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Petal Petersen-Williams
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Claire van der Westhuizen
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Crick Lund
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Global Mental Health, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College, London, UK
| | - Carl Lombard
- Department of Biostatistics Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Tygerberg, South Africa
| | - John A Joska
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Naomi S Levitt
- Division for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, cape town, South Africa
| | - Christopher Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Services, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Tracey Naledi
- Western Cape Department of Health, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Peter Milligan
- 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
- South African Medical Research Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Katherine Sorsdahl
- Alan J Flisher Centre for Public Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|