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Lo RF, Schumacher A, LaForge-Mackenzie K, Cost KT, Crosbie J, Charach A, Anagnostou E, Birken CS, Monga S, Korczak DJ. Evaluation of an automated matching system of children and families to virtual mental health resources during COVID-19. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:24. [PMID: 38336708 PMCID: PMC10858567 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and their families often face obstacles in accessing mental health (MH) services. The purpose of this study was to develop and pilot test an electronic matching process to match children with virtual MH resources and increase access to treatment for children and their families during COVID-19. METHODS Within a large observational child cohort, a random sample of 292 families with children ages 6-12 years were invited to participate. Latent profile analysis indicated five MH profiles using parent-reported symptom scores from validated depression, anxiety, hyperactivity, and inattention measures: (1) Average Symptoms, (2) Low Symptoms, (3) High Symptoms, (4) Internalizing, and (5) Externalizing. Children were matched with virtual MH resources according to their profile; parents received surveys at Time 1 (matching process explanation), Time 2 (match delivery) and Time 3 (resource uptake). Data on demographics, parent MH history, and process interest were collected. RESULTS 128/292 families (44%) completed surveys at Time 1, 80/128 families (63%) at Time 2, and a final 67/80 families (84%) at Time 3, yielding an overall uptake of 67/292 (23%). Families of European-descent and those with children assigned to the Low Symptoms profile were most likely to express interest in the process. No other factors were associated with continued interest or uptake of the electronic matching process. Most participating parents were satisfied with the process. CONCLUSIONS The electronic matching process delivered virtual MH resources to families in a time-efficient manner. Further research examining the effectiveness of electronically matched resources in improving children's MH symptoms is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronda F Lo
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Anett Schumacher
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Kaitlyn LaForge-Mackenzie
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Katherine Tombeau Cost
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Jennifer Crosbie
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Alice Charach
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Catherine S Birken
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Paediatric Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Suneeta Monga
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Daphne J Korczak
- Department of Psychiatry, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Ave, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Gkintoni E, Vantaraki F, Skoulidi C, Anastassopoulos P, Vantarakis A. Promoting Physical and Mental Health among Children and Adolescents via Gamification-A Conceptual Systematic Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:102. [PMID: 38392455 PMCID: PMC10886329 DOI: 10.3390/bs14020102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid growth in digital technology usage among children and adolescents has highlighted the need for novel approaches to promote their physical and mental health. This paper investigates the viability of gamification-the application of game mechanics to non-gaming contexts-as a potent instrument for health promotion and mental health support. This conceptual systematic review seeks to examine the various published articles promoting children and adolescents' physical and mental health through gamified techniques. These interventions can provide an interactive and engaging platform for encouraging physical activity, promoting healthy nutrition, enhancing emotional regulation, and promoting mental health. The significance of this topic stems from the pervasive use of electronic games, beginning at a young age, which makes them popular educational tools. For the review to be systematic and reproducible, the PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed, and Elsevier databases were searched and the PRISMA method was utilized for the analysis. After analyzing the research data, empirical studies assessing the use of gamification in promoting adolescents' physical and mental health are discussed. In conclusion, gamification has demonstrated promise for promoting children's and adolescents' physical and mental health. It improves motivation, commitment, and adherence to healthy behaviors. However, additional research is required to evaluate gamification interventions' long-term effectiveness and sustainability in promoting health behaviors among this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Gkintoni
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | - Fedra Vantaraki
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
| | | | | | - Apostolos Vantarakis
- Lab of Public Health, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rio, Greece
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Ghosh A, Cohen KA, Jans L, Busch CA, McDanal R, Yang Y, Cooper KM, Schleider JL. A Digital Single-Session Intervention (Project Engage) to Address Fear of Negative Evaluation Among College Students: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e48926. [PMID: 37995114 DOI: 10.2196/48926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasingly, college science courses are transitioning from a traditional lecture format to active learning because students learn more and fail less frequently when they engage in their learning through activities and discussions in class. Fear of negative evaluation (FNE), defined as a student's sense of dread associated with being unfavorably evaluated while participating in a social situation, discourages undergraduates from participating in small group discussions, whole class discussions, and conversing one-on-one with instructors. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the acceptability of a novel digital single-session intervention and to assess the feasibility of implementing it in a large enrollment college science course taught in an active learning way. METHODS To equip undergraduates with skills to cope with FNE and bolster their confidence, clinical psychologists and biology education researchers developed Project Engage, a digital, self-guided single-session intervention for college students. It teaches students strategies for coping with FNE to bolster their confidence. Project Engage provides biologically informed psychoeducation, uses interactive elements for engagement, and helps generate a personalized action plan. We conducted a 2-armed randomized controlled trial to evaluate the acceptability and the preliminary effectiveness of Project Engage compared with an active control condition that provides information on available resources on the college campus. RESULTS In a study of 282 upper-level physiology students, participants randomized to complete Project Engage reported a greater increase in overall confidence in engaging in small group discussions (P=.01) and whole class discussions (P<.001), but not in one-on-one interactions with instructors (P=.05), from baseline to immediately after intervention outcomes, compared with participants in an active control condition. Project Engage received a good acceptability rating (1.22 on a scale of -2 to +2) and had a high completion rate (>97%). CONCLUSIONS This study provides a foundation for a freely available, easily accessible intervention to bolster student confidence for contributing in class. TRIAL REGISTRATION OSF Registries osf.io/4ca68 http://osf.io/4ca68.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arka Ghosh
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Katherine A Cohen
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Laura Jans
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Carly A Busch
- Research for Inclusive STEM Education Center, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Riley McDanal
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, United States
| | - Katelyn M Cooper
- Research for Inclusive STEM Education Center, School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Jessica L Schleider
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
- Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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Szkody E, Chang YW, Schleider JL. Serving the Underserved? Uptake, Effectiveness, and Acceptability of Digital SSIs for Rural American Adolescents. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37931065 PMCID: PMC11070444 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2023.2272935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rural teens are less likely to access care for depression than urban teens. Evidence-based digital single-session interventions (SSIs), offered via social media advertisements, may be well suited to narrowing this gap in treatment access and increasing access to support for adolescents living in rural areas. We evaluated the viability of using social media-based advertisements to equitably recruit adolescents living in rural areas with elevated depression symptoms to digital SSIs; we sought to characterize and assess whether SSI completion rates and acceptability differed for adolescents living in rural versus more urban areas, across three intervention conditions (two active, evidence-based SSIs; one placebo control); and we tested whether digital SSIs differentially reduced depressive symptoms. METHOD We used pre-intervention and three-month follow up data from 13- to 16-year-old adolescents (N = 2,322; 88% female; 55% non-Hispanic White) within a web-based randomized control trial of three free, digital SSIs (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04634903) collected eight months into the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States. RESULTS Digital SSIs reached adolescents at population-congruent rates; however, social media ads resulted in relative underrepresentation of youths from rural areas who hold minoritized racial/ethnic identities. Adolescents living in rural areas also completed digital SSIs at similar rates to their urban peers, found SSIs equivalently as acceptable, and reported comparable depression symptom reductions as youth living in urban areas. CONCLUSION Digital SSIs and their dissemination through social media may offer a promising means of narrowing the gap between access to evidence-based mental health support between adolescents living in rural and urban areas; however, targeted efforts are warranted to reach racially minoritized youths in rural U.S. counties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Szkody
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University
| | - Ya-Wen Chang
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University
| | - Jessica L Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University
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Shen J, Rubin A, Cohen K, Hart E, Sung J, McDanal R, Roulston C, Sotomayor I, Fox K, Schleider J. Randomized evaluation of an online single-session intervention for minority stress in LGBTQ+ adolescents. Internet Interv 2023; 33:100633. [PMID: 37635950 PMCID: PMC10457524 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background LGBTQ+ youth face myriad adverse health outcomes due to minority stress, creating a need for accessible, mechanism-targeted interventions to mitigate these minority stress-related risk factors. We tested the effectiveness and acceptability of Project RISE, an online single-session intervention designed to ameliorate internalized stigma and improve other outcomes among LGBTQ+ youth. We hypothesized that youth assigned to RISE (versus a control) would report significantly reduced internalized stigma and increased identity pride at post-intervention and at two-week follow-up and would find RISE acceptable. Methods We recruited adolescents nationally through Instagram advertisements in May 2022 (N = 538; M age = 15.06, SD age = 0.97). Participants were randomly assigned to RISE or an information-only control and completed questionnaires pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, and two weeks post-intervention. Inclusion criteria included endorsing: (1) LGBTQ+ identity, (2) age 13-16, (3) English fluency (4) Internet access, and (5) subjective negative impact of LGBTQ+ stigma. Results Relative to participants in the control condition, participants who completed RISE reported significant decreases in internalized stigma (d = -0.49) and increases in identity pride (d = 0.25) from pre- to immediately post-intervention, along with decreased internalized stigma (d = -0.26) from baseline to two-week follow-up. Participants rated both RISE and the information-only control as highly, equivalently acceptable. Conclusions RISE appears to be an acceptable and useful online SSI for LGBTQ+ adolescents, with potential to reduce internalized stigma in both the short- and longer-term. Future directions include evaluating effects of Project RISE over longer follow-ups and in conjunction with other mental health supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Shen
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - A. Rubin
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - K. Cohen
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - E.A. Hart
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - J. Sung
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - R. McDanal
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - C. Roulston
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - I. Sotomayor
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
| | - K.R. Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, United States of America
| | - J.L. Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, United States of America
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, United States of America
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Eyllon M, Dalal M, Jans L, Sotomayor I, Peloquin G, Yon J, Fritz R, Schleider J. Referring Adolescent Primary Care Patients to Single-Session Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: Protocol for a Feasibility Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e45666. [PMID: 37556202 PMCID: PMC10448284 DOI: 10.2196/45666] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the growing prevalence of depression and anxiety among adolescents, fewer than half access appropriate mental health care. Single-session interventions (SSIs) for depression and anxiety offered in primary care are a promising approach to bridging the treatment gap. OBJECTIVE We aimed to implement a clinical workflow for primary care and behavioral health providers to refer patients aged 13 to 17 years with mild to moderate depression and anxiety symptoms to Project YES (Youth Empowerment and Support), an open-access SSI platform, in a large group medical practice with an integrated behavioral health department. METHODS Pediatric primary care and integrated behavioral health providers will be educated on the benefits of Project YES for adolescent anxiety and depression and trained in a workflow integrated within the electronic health record system, Epic, to refer patients during well-child visits and pediatric behavioral health visits. Patients with mild to moderate internalizing symptoms based on the 17-item Pediatric Symptom Checklist or youth Pediatric Symptom Checklist will be invited to try an SSI through Project YES. We will examine provider uptake and perceptions of acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness over time. RESULTS The rollout will take place between November 2022 and May 2023, when outcomes will be evaluated. Data analysis and manuscript writing are anticipated to be completed during the summer of 2023. CONCLUSIONS SSIs such as those available through Project YES have the potential to provide low-cost, evidence-based mental health treatment to adolescents with mild to moderate depression and anxiety. If deemed feasible and acceptable, providing SSIs in primary care settings could significantly improve access to mental health care without taxing pediatric primary care and behavioral health providers. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/45666.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Eyllon
- Practice Research Network, Reliant Medical Group, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Michelle Dalal
- Northeastern University, Northeastern University Health and Counseling Services, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Chan School of Medicine, University of Massachusetts, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Laura Jans
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Ian Sotomayor
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Gabrielle Peloquin
- Practice Research Network, Reliant Medical Group, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - James Yon
- Behavioral Health Department, Reliant Medical Group, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Rochelle Fritz
- Behavioral Health Department, Reliant Medical Group, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - Jessica Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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Smith AC, Ahuvia I, Ito S, Schleider JL. Project Body Neutrality: Piloting a digital single-session intervention for adolescent body image and depression. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:1554-1569. [PMID: 37129116 PMCID: PMC10524309 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Eating disorders and depression impact youth at alarming rates, yet most adolescents do not access support. Single-session interventions (SSIs) can reach youth in need. This pilot examines the acceptability and utility of a SSI designed to help adolescents improve functionality appreciation (a component of body neutrality) by focusing on valuing one's body based on the functions it performs, regardless of appearance satisfaction. METHOD Pre- to post-intervention data were collected, and within-group effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were computed, to evaluate the immediate effects of the SSI on hopelessness, functionality appreciation, and body dissatisfaction. Patterns of use, demographics, program feedback, and responses from within the SSI were collected. RESULTS The SSI and all questionnaires were completed by 75 adolescents (ages: 13-17 years, 74.70% White/Caucasian, 48.00% woman/girl) who reported elevated body image and mood problems. Analyses detected significant pre-post improvements in hopelessness (dav = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.35-0.84; dz = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.51-1.02), functionality appreciation (dav = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.46-0.97; dz = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.67-1.21), and body dissatisfaction (dav = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.36-0.86; dz = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.50-1.02). The SSI was rated as highly acceptable, with a mean overall score of 4.34/5 (SD = 0.54). Qualitative feedback suggested adolescents' endorsement of body neutrality concepts, including functionality appreciation, as personally-relevant, helpful targets for intervention. DISCUSSION This evaluation supports the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of the Project Body Neutrality SSI for adolescents with body image and mood concerns. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE Results suggest the acceptability and utility of a digital, self-guided, single-session intervention-Project Body Neutrality-for adolescents experiencing co-occurring depressive symptoms and body image disturbances. Given the intervention's low cost and inherent scalability, it may be positioned to provide support to youth with limited access to traditional care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle C Smith
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Isaac Ahuvia
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Sakura Ito
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Jessica L Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Bevan Jones R, Hussain F, Agha SS, Weavers B, Lucassen M, Merry S, Stallard P, Simpson SA, Rice F. Digital technologies to support adolescents with depression and anxiety: review. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2023; 29:239-253. [PMID: 37521105 PMCID: PMC10374830 DOI: 10.1192/bja.2022.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are common in adolescents, but most affected will not get any formal help. Digital mental health technologies (i.e. resources and interventions to support and improve mental health) are a potential way to extend the reach and increase adolescents' access to therapies, at a relatively low cost. Many young people can access the internet and mobile technologies, including in low- and middle-income countries. There has been increased interest in integrating technologies in a range of settings, especially because of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health, at a time when services are under pressure. This clinical review gives an overview of digital technologies to support the prevention and management of depression and anxiety in adolescence. The technologies are presented in relation to their technological approaches, underlying psychological or other theories, setting, development, evaluations to date and how they might be accessed. There is also a discussion of the potential benefits, challenges and future developments in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Bevan Jones
- Senior Clinical Research Fellow in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, and a psychiatrist with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - Faris Hussain
- Academic Foundation Year 2 doctor with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - Sharifah Shameem Agha
- Lecturer with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and an honorary lecturer in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
| | - Bryony Weavers
- Research assistant in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
| | - Mathijs Lucassen
- Senior lecturer in mental health in the Department of Health and Social Care, The Open University, UK, and an honorary senior lecturer in psychological medicine at the University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally Merry
- Professor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Paul Stallard
- Professor of Child and Family Mental Health in the Department for Health at the University of Bath, England, UK
| | - Sharon Anne Simpson
- Professor of Behavioural Sciences and Health in the Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office (MRC/CSO) Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Frances Rice
- Professor of Developmental Psychopathology in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
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Shroff A, Roulston C, Fassler J, Dierschke NA, Todd JSP, Ríos-Herrera Á, Plastino KA, Schleider JL. A Digital Single-Session Intervention Platform for Youth Mental Health: Cultural Adaptation, Evaluation, and Dissemination. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e43062. [PMID: 36787180 PMCID: PMC9975917 DOI: 10.2196/43062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the proliferation of evidence-based digital mental health programs for young people, their low uptake and inconsistent implementation preclude them from benefiting youths at scale. Identifying effective implementation strategies for evidence-based supports is especially critical in regions where treatment access is lowest owing to mental health provider shortages. OBJECTIVE The goal of this academic-community partnership, funded by the City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, was to culturally adapt, disseminate, and gauge the acceptability and utility of an evidence-based digital mental health platform-Project Youth Empowerment and Support (YES)-among English- and Spanish-speaking youths living in south Texas. METHODS Project YES is an open-access, anonymous platform containing 3 evidence-based, self-guided interventions for youth mental health. Project YES was culturally adapted via focus groups and co-design sessions with San Antonio youths with lived experience of depression and anxiety; translated into Spanish; and disseminated throughout San Antonio, Texas, via community and school partnerships. RESULTS During the project period (April 2021 to December 2021), 1801 San Antonio youths began and 894 (49.64%) of them completed a 30-minute, single-session intervention within Project YES (aged 11-17 years; n=718, 39.87% male; n=961, 53.36% female; and n=3, 0.17% intersex; n=1477, 82.01% Hispanic; n=77, 4.28% non-Hispanic White; n=113, 6.27% Black; n=28, 1.55% Asian; and n=93, 5.16% other). This completion rate (49.64%) surpassed those previously observed for Project YES (eg, 34% when disseminated via social media). San Antonio youths rated Project YES as highly acceptable across all metrics, both in English and Spanish. In addition, the youths who completed Project YES-ENGLISH reported significant improvements in hopelessness (Cohen d=0.33; P<001), self-hate (Cohen d=0.27; P<001), and perceived agency (Cohen d=0.25; P<001) from before to after the intervention, and the youths who completed Project YES-SPANISH reported significant improvements in self-hate (Cohen d=0.37; P=.049) from before to after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS The results indicate that Project YES-an open-access, free, and anonymous web-based single-session intervention platform-is an acceptable, accessible, and applicable mental health support for English- and Spanish-speaking San Antonio youths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Shroff
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Chantelle Roulston
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Julia Fassler
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Nicole A Dierschke
- University of Texas Teen Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Jennifer San Pedro Todd
- University of Texas Teen Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Ámbar Ríos-Herrera
- University of Texas Teen Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Kristen A Plastino
- University of Texas Teen Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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10
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Du X, Bai X, Liu Y, Yuan S. Reading struggle stories of role models can improve the perseverance of undergraduates with low perseverance. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-10. [PMID: 36570059 PMCID: PMC9758677 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-04168-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Perseverance refers to the ability that individuals show in the process of overcoming failure repeatedly and achieving success. The present study aimed to investigate how many stories about struggling role models undergraduates with a low level of perseverance need to read to effectively improve their perseverance after experiencing failure. Undergraduates with high and low levels of perseverance who had experienced failure were randomly assigned to read 5 struggle stories or 5 achievement stories of role models. They were asked to report their confidence in success, their emotional experience, and their persistent intentions after experiencing failure (i.e., their initial report after reading 0 stories) and then again after reading each story. The results showed that the participants' initially reported level of confidence in success improved after reading 1 struggle story of a role model and further improved after reading 5 struggle stories of role models. Furthermore, the participants' initially reported level of positive emotions increased after reading 1 struggle story or 1 achievement story of a role model, and the positive effects began to level off after reading 4 struggle stories or 4 achievement stories of role models. The participants' initially reported persistent intentions improved after reading 5 struggle stories of role models. These findings reveal that undergraduates can benefit from reading struggle stories of role models regardless of their perseverance levels. Undergraduates' confidence in success and their emotional experience can be improved more quickly than their persistent intentions after experiencing failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Du
- Zunyi Normal University, Zunyi, 563006 China
| | - Xuejun Bai
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
| | - Ying Liu
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
| | - Sheng Yuan
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, 300387 China
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11
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Björling EA, Sonney J, Rodriguez S, Carr N, Zade H, Moon SH. Exploring the Effect of a Nature-based Virtual Reality Environment on Stress in Adolescents. FRONTIERS IN VIRTUAL REALITY 2022; 3:831026. [PMID: 38846011 PMCID: PMC11156422 DOI: 10.3389/frvir.2022.831026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Adolescent mental health is a growing public health issue, with 30% of teens reporting increased stress and 20% of adolescents suffering from depression. Given the scarcity and lack of scalability of mental health services available, the use of self-administered, evidence-based technologies to support adolescent mental health is both timely and imperative. We conducted a mixed-methods pilot study with 31 adolescents ages 14-19 (m = 17.97) to explore the self-administration of a nature-based virtual reality tool. Participant use of the VR environment ranged from 1 to 10 sessions (m = 6.6) at home over a 2-week period while reporting their daily stress and mood levels. All participants completed all of the study protocols, indicating our protocol was feasible and the VR environment engaging. Post-study interviews indicated that most participants found the VR tool to be relaxing and helpful with stress. The themes of Calm Down, Relaxation, and Escape emerged to articulate the participants' experiences using the VR environment. Additionally, participants provided rich data regarding their preferences and activity in the VR environment as well as its effect on their emotional states. Although the sample size was insufficient to determine the impact on depression, we found a significant reduction in momentary stress as a result of using the VR tool. These preliminary data inform our own virtual reality environment design, but also provide evidence of the potential for self-administered virtual reality as a promising tool to support adolescent mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin A. Björling
- Human Centered Design and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Jennifer Sonney
- Department of Child, Family, and Population Health Nursing, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Sofia Rodriguez
- Human Centered Design and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Nora Carr
- Human Centered Design and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Himanshu Zade
- Human Centered Design and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Soo Hyun Moon
- Human Centered Design and Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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12
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What Characterises an Effective Mindset Intervention in Enhancing Students’ Learning? A Systematic Literature Review. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14073811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to interventions designed to enhance individuals’ sustainable development in learning by priming a growth mindset. The current study systematically explored the characteristics of message transformation in growth mindset interventions from the perspective of teaching and learning. According to a three-phase literature search (database, prominent researchers, and backtracking references), thirty-eight empirical studies investigating the efficacy of mindset interventions for adolescents of school age constitute the sample for the current literature review. The results indicate that a supportive but not-completely-saturated learning environment paves the way to implementing a mindset intervention. The three pedagogical characteristics that ensure successful interventions are: (1) Mutual interaction among the person, the context, and the theory to generate the message; (2) Iterative processes to ensure the message is delivered; and (3) a persuasive yet stealthy approach to facilitating its internalization. The findings inspire educators to design effective mindset interventions to enhance students’ learning. Theoretical and practical implications, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
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13
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Schleider JL, Mullarkey MC, Fox KR, Dobias ML, Shroff A, Hart EA, Roulston CA. A randomized trial of online single-session interventions for adolescent depression during COVID-19. Nat Hum Behav 2022; 6:258-268. [PMID: 34887544 PMCID: PMC8881339 DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01235-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has potentially increased the risk for adolescent depression. Even pre-pandemic, <50% of youth with depression accessed care, highlighting needs for accessible interventions. Accordingly, this randomized controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04634903 ) tested online single-session interventions (SSIs) during COVID-19 in adolescents with elevated depression symptoms (N = 2,452, ages 13-16). Adolescents from all 50 US states, recruited via social media, were randomized to one of three SSIs: a behavioural activation SSI, an SSI teaching that traits are malleable and a supportive control. We tested each SSI's effects on post-intervention outcomes (hopelessness and agency) and three-month outcomes (depression, hopelessness, agency, generalized anxiety, COVID-19-related trauma and restrictive eating). Compared with the control, both active SSIs reduced three-month depressive symptoms (Cohen's d = 0.18), decreased post-intervention and three-month hopelessness (d = 0.16-0.28), increased post-intervention agency (d = 0.15-0.31) and reduced three-month restrictive eating (d = 0.12-17). Several differences between active SSIs emerged. These results confirm the utility of free-of-charge, online SSIs for high-symptom adolescents, even in the high-stress COVID-19 context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L. Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA,Corresponding Author: Jessica L. Schleider ()
| | | | - Kathryn R. Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Mallory L. Dobias
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Akash Shroff
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Erica A. Hart
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, USA
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14
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Du X, Yuan S, Liu Y, Bai X. Reading Struggle Stories of Role Models Can Improve Students' Growth Mindsets. Front Psychol 2021; 12:747039. [PMID: 34777138 PMCID: PMC8582347 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.747039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that reading stories of role models can improve the growth mindsets of students. The current study aimed to investigate the types of stories that can increase the growth mindsets of high school students, undergraduates, and graduates and how many specific stories undergraduates with low and high perseverance need to read to improve their growth mindsets. In study 1, high school students, undergraduates, and graduates were assigned to read either five struggle stories or five achievement stories of role models. Their mindsets were measured before and after reading the stories. The results showed that reading struggle stories rather than achievement stories of role models increased the growth mindsets of undergraduates and graduates. In study 2, undergraduates with high and low perseverance were assigned to read five struggle stories or five achievement stories of role models. Their mindsets were measured before reading stories and after reading each story. The results showed that the growth mindsets of undergraduates with low perseverance increased after reading two struggle stories of role models, and increased further after reading five struggle stories of role models. More importantly, the level of growth mindsets of undergraduates with low perseverance was equal to that of undergraduates with high perseverance after reading five struggle stories of role models. These findings reveal that reading struggle stories of role models can improve the growth mindsets of undergraduates and graduates. The personality of students affects the effectiveness of story-based mindset intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Du
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Sheng Yuan
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuejun Bai
- Faculty of Psychology, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Key Research Base of Humanities and Social Sciences of the Ministry of Education, Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.,Tianjin Social Science Laboratory of Students' Mental Development and Learning, Tianjin, China
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15
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Effects of virtual reality v. biophilic environments on pain and distress in oncology patients: a case-crossover pilot study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20196. [PMID: 34642416 PMCID: PMC8511009 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This pilot study aimed to determine if a biophilic Green Therapy or Virtual Reality environment can decrease an oncology patient’s pain and distress while receiving chemotherapy. A case-crossover pilot study was conducted in a comprehensive cancer infusion center. 33 participants with breast, gynecologic, gastrointestinal, pancreatic and prostate cancers were all included in three rooms in a random order at different cycles: control room, Green Therapy room, and Virtual Reality room to receive chemotherapy, respectively. Participants’ pain, distress, heart rate, blood pressure, and saliva cortisol were measured before and after infusion in each room. No statistical significance differences were shown in the changes of heart rate, systolic, or diastolic blood pressure, saliva cortisol, pain, or distress before and after infusion between the control, Green Therapy, and Virtual Reality rooms. However, more patients reported the experience as “fun” and “enjoyable” when they were in Green Therapy or Virtual reality room as compared to in the control room. Additionally, since participating in the study, 14 patients reported spending at least 30 min or more outside in nature. In this study, we found that patients’ heart rate, blood pressure, and self-reported distress levels were reduced after each biophilic intervention although results are not statistically significant. The study also suggested that biophilic interventions are safe and feasible and may complement the standard of care for oncology patients.
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16
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Dobias ML, Schleider JL, Jans L, Fox KR. An online, single-session intervention for adolescent self-injurious thoughts and behaviors: Results from a randomized trial. Behav Res Ther 2021; 147:103983. [PMID: 34688102 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2021.103983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Across 50 years of research, existing interventions for self-injurious thoughts and behaviors (SITBs) in adolescents have remained largely ineffective and inaccessible. Single-session interventions, interventions designed to last one session, may be a low-cost and timely resource for adolescents engaging in SITBs who may not otherwise receive treatment. METHOD 565 adolescents (Mage = 14.95 years) endorsing recent engagement in non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) were randomized to receive a 30-min, web-based, single-session intervention-"Project SAVE"-or an active, attention-matched control program. Proximal outcomes were measured at baseline and immediately post-intervention. Long-term outcomes were measured at baseline and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS Adolescents rated Project SAVE as acceptable; 80% of participants randomized to SAVE completed the intervention. Between-group effects were non-significant for pre-registered outcomes: post-intervention likelihood of future NSSI; 3-month frequencies of NSSI and suicidal ideation at follow-up. Relative to control-group participants, SAVE participants reported short-term improvements in two exploratory outcomes: self-hatred (d = -.35, p<.001) and desire to stop future NSSI (d = .25, p = .003). CONCLUSIONS Project SAVE is an acceptable resource for adolescents engaging in SITBs-with short-term effects on clinically-relevant outcomes. Future research may evaluate SAVE as an easy-to-access, short-term coping resource for youth engaging in SITBs. CLINICAL TRIALS. GOV IDENTIFIER NCT04498143.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallory L Dobias
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-2500, USA.
| | - Jessica L Schleider
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794-2500, USA
| | - Laura Jans
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
| | - Kathryn R Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of Denver, Denver, CO, 80208, USA
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17
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Sung JY, Mumper E, Schleider JL. Empowering Anxious Parents to Manage Child Avoidance Behaviors: Randomized Control Trial of a Single-Session Intervention for Parental Accommodation. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e29538. [PMID: 34255718 PMCID: PMC8292931 DOI: 10.2196/29538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A majority of youth who need anxiety treatment never access support. This disparity reflects a need for more accessible, scalable interventions-particularly those that may prevent anxiety in high-risk children, mitigating future need for higher-intensity care. Self-guided single-session interventions (SSIs) may offer a promising path toward this goal, given their demonstrated clinical utility, potential for disseminability, and low cost. However, existing self-guided SSIs have been designed for completion by adolescents already experiencing symptoms, and their potential for preventing anxiety in children-for instance, by mitigating known anxiety risk factors-remains unexplored. OBJECTIVE This trial evaluated the acceptability and proximal effects of project EMPOWER: a web-based, self-guided SSI designed to reduce parental accommodation, a parenting behavior known to increase the risk of anxiety in offspring. METHODS In total, 301 parents who reported elevated anxiety symptoms with children aged 4-10 years received either project EMPOWER or an informational control (containing psychoeducational materials and resources); parents self-reported their accommodation of child anxiety and overall distress tolerance at baseline and 2-week follow-up. RESULTS Relative to control-group parents, those who received the intervention outlined in project EMPOWER reported significant reductions in their accommodation of child anxiety (ds=0.61; P<.001) and significant increases in their distress tolerance (ds=0.43; P<.001) from baseline to 2-week follow-up. Additionally, parents rated project EMPOWER as highly acceptable (ie, easy to use, helpful, and engaging) in accordance with preregistered benchmarks. CONCLUSIONS Project EMPOWER is an acceptable self-guided SSI for parents of children at-risk for anxiety, which yields proximal reductions in clinically relevant targets. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04453865; https://tinyurl.com/4h84j8t9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Y Sung
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Emma Mumper
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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18
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Kritikos J, Alevizopoulos G, Koutsouris D. Personalized Virtual Reality Human-Computer Interaction for Psychiatric and Neurological Illnesses: A Dynamically Adaptive Virtual Reality Environment That Changes According to Real-Time Feedback From Electrophysiological Signal Responses. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:596980. [PMID: 33643010 PMCID: PMC7906990 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.596980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Virtual reality (VR) constitutes an alternative, effective, and increasingly utilized treatment option for people suffering from psychiatric and neurological illnesses. However, the currently available VR simulations provide a predetermined simulative framework that does not take into account the unique personality traits of each individual; this could result in inaccurate, extreme, or unpredictable responses driven by patients who may be overly exposed and in an abrupt manner to the predetermined stimuli, or result in indifferent, almost non-existing, reactions when the stimuli do not affect the patients adequately and thus stronger stimuli are recommended. In this study, we present a VR system that can recognize the individual differences and readjust the VR scenarios during the simulation according to the treatment aims. To investigate and present this dynamically adaptive VR system we employ an Anxiety Disorder condition as a case study, namely arachnophobia. This system consists of distinct anxiety states, aiming to dynamically modify the VR environment in such a way that it can keep the individual within a controlled, and appropriate for the therapy needs, anxiety state, which will be called "desired states" for the study. This happens by adjusting the VR stimulus, in real-time, according to the electrophysiological responses of each individual. These electrophysiological responses are collected by an external electrodermal activity biosensor that serves as a tracker of physiological changes. Thirty-six diagnosed arachnophobic individuals participated in a one-session trial. Participants were divided into two groups, the Experimental Group which was exposed to the proposed real-time adaptive virtual simulation, and the Control Group which was exposed to a pre-recorded static virtual simulation as proposed in the literature. These results demonstrate the proposed system's ability to continuously construct an updated and adapted virtual environment that keeps the users within the appropriately chosen state (higher or lower intensity) for approximately twice the time compared to the pre-recorded static virtual simulation. Thus, such a system can increase the efficiency of VR stimulations for the treatment of central nervous system dysfunctions, as it provides numerically more controlled sessions without unexpected variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Kritikos
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Georgios Alevizopoulos
- Psychiatric Clinic, Agioi Anargyroi General Oncological Hospital of Kifisia, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Koutsouris
- Biomedical Engineering Laboratory, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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19
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Osborn TL, Venturo-Conerly KE, Wasil AR, Rodriguez M, Roe E, Alemu R, Arango G S, Gan J, Wasanga C, Schleider JL, Weisz JR. The Shamiri group intervention for adolescent anxiety and depression: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial of a lay-provider-delivered, school-based intervention in Kenya. Trials 2020; 21:938. [PMID: 33225978 PMCID: PMC7682107 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-020-04732-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Developing low-cost, socio-culturally appropriate, and scalable interventions for youth depression and anxiety symptoms in low-income regions such as countries in sub-Saharan Africa is a global mental health priority. We developed and intend to evaluate one such intervention for adolescent depression and anxiety in Kenya. The intervention, named Shamiri (a Swahili word for "thrive"), draws upon evidence-based components of brief interventions that involve nonclinical principles rather than treatment of psychopathology (e.g., growth mindset, gratitude, and virtues). METHODS Four hundred twenty Kenyan adolescents (ages 13-18) with clinically elevated depression and/or anxiety symptoms will be randomized to either the 4-week Shamiri group intervention or a group study-skills control intervention of equal duration and dosage. Participating adolescents will meet in groups of 8-15, led by a high-school graduate trained to deliver Shamiri as a lay-provider. Adolescents will self-report primary outcome measures (depression-measured by the PHQ-8, and anxiety symptoms-measured by the GAD-7) and secondary outcome measures (perceived social support, perceived academic control, self-reported optimism and happiness, loneliness, and academic grades) at the 2-week intervention midpoint, 4-week post-intervention endpoint, and 2-week post-intervention follow-up. We predict that adolescents in the Shamiri group, when compared to the study-skills control group, will show greater improvements in primary outcomes and secondary outcomes. DISCUSSION Results may suggest that a brief, lay-provider delivered, school-based intervention may reduce depression and anxiety symptoms, improving academic outcomes and other psychosocial outcomes in adolescents with clinically-elevated symptoms in sub-Saharan Africa. TRIAL REGISTRATION Pan African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR201906525818462 . Registered on 12 June 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom L Osborn
- Shamiri Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | | | - Akash R Wasil
- Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Elizabeth Roe
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rediet Alemu
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Susana Arango G
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jenny Gan
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | - John R Weisz
- Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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20
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Abstract
AbstractVirtual reality (VR) is an immersive technology capable of creating a powerful, perceptual illusion of being present in a virtual environment. VR technology has been used in cognitive behavior therapy since the 1990s and accumulated an impressive evidence base, yet with the recent release of consumer VR platforms came a true paradigm shift in the capabilities and scalability of VR for mental health. This narrative review summarizes the past, present, and future of the field, including milestone studies and discussions on the clinical potential of alternative embodiment, gamification, avatar therapists, virtual gatherings, immersive storytelling, and more. Although the future is hard to predict, clinical VR has and will continue to be inherently intertwined with what are now rapid developments in technology, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities to do what is not possible in the real world.
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21
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Persky S, Lewis MA. Advancing science and practice using immersive virtual reality: what behavioral medicine has to offer. Transl Behav Med 2020; 9:1040-1046. [PMID: 31116851 DOI: 10.1093/tbm/ibz068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Interest in immersive virtual reality (VR) technologies is burgeoning as the hardware becomes less costly and more accessible to users, including researchers and practitioners. This commentary outlines the field of immersive VR and highlights applications of its use relevant to translational behavioral medicine. We describe the challenges facing VR applications for health and medicine, and how the core strengths of behavioral medicine can advance theory, research, and practice using VR. By highlighting potential uses of immersive VR alongside the challenges facing the field, we hope to inspire researchers to apply robust theories, methods, and frameworks to generate stronger evidence about the feasibility, acceptability, efficacy, and effectiveness of using this technology in translational behavioral medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Persky
- Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Megan A Lewis
- Patient & Family Engagement Research Program, Center for Communication Science, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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22
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O’Dea B, Han J, Batterham PJ, Achilles MR, Calear AL, Werner‐Seidler A, Parker B, Shand F, Christensen H. A randomised controlled trial of a relationship-focussed mobile phone application for improving adolescents' mental health. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2020; 61:899-913. [PMID: 32683737 PMCID: PMC7496128 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the acceptability and effectiveness of a relationship-focussed mobile phone application (WeClick) for improving depressive symptoms and other mental health outcomes in adolescents. METHODS A randomised controlled trial involving 193 youth (M age: 14.82, SD: 0.94, 86.5% female) from Australia was conducted. Youth were recruited via the Internet and randomly allocated to the intervention or a 4-week wait list control condition, stratified for age and gender. The primary outcome was change in depressive symptom scores measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire for Adolescents (PHQ-A) at baseline, 4-week post-test and 12-week follow-up. Secondary outcomes included anxiety, psychological distress, wellbeing, help-seeking intentions for mental health, social self-efficacy and social support. Participants in the intervention condition received access to the intervention for four weeks. Thematic analysis was utilised to identify and examine acceptability. RESULTS The change in PHQ-A scores from baseline to 4-week post-test did not differ significantly (d = 0.26, p = .138) between the intervention (Mchange = -2.9, SD = 5.3) and wait list control conditions (Mchange = -1.7, SD = 4.3). However, significant between-group improvements were observed in wellbeing (d = 0.37, p = .023), help-seeking intentions (d = 0.36, p = .016) and professional help-seeking intentions for mental health problems (d = 0.36, p = .008). Increases in help-seeking intentions were sustained at follow-up in the intervention condition. No differential effects were found for generalised anxiety, separation anxiety, social self-efficacy or for any social support outcomes. Over 90% of participants indicated the app was enjoyable, interesting and easy to use. The app provided 'advice and direction' (n = 42; 46.15%), an 'opportunity for self-reflection' (n = 33; 36.3%) and 'normalised experiences' (n = 21; 23.1%). CONCLUSIONS The WeClick app was found to be effective for improving wellbeing and help-seeking intentions for mental health in adolescents. A larger, adequately powered trial is now required to establish differential effects on depressive symptoms. This trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12618001982202.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridianne O’Dea
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Jin Han
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Philip J. Batterham
- Center for Mental Health ResearchResearch School of Population HealthThe Australian National UniversityCanberraACTAustralia
| | - Melinda R. Achilles
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Alison L. Calear
- Center for Mental Health ResearchResearch School of Population HealthThe Australian National UniversityCanberraACTAustralia
| | - Aliza Werner‐Seidler
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Belinda Parker
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Fiona Shand
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog InstituteFaculty of MedicineUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
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23
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Schleider JL, Dobias M, Sung J, Mumper E, Mullarkey MC. Acceptability and Utility of an Open-Access, Online Single-Session Intervention Platform for Adolescent Mental Health. JMIR Ment Health 2020; 7:e20513. [PMID: 32602846 PMCID: PMC7367540 DOI: 10.2196/20513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many youths with mental health needs are unable to access care. Single-session interventions (SSIs) have helped reduce youth psychopathology across multiple trials, promising to broaden access to effective, low-intensity supports. Online, self-guided SSIs may be uniquely scalable, particularly if they are freely available for as-needed use. However, the acceptability of online SSI and their efficacy have remained unexamined outside of controlled trials, and their practical utility is poorly understood. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the perceived acceptability and proximal effects of Project YES (Youth Empowerment & Support), an open-access platform offering three online SSIs for youth internalizing distress. METHODS After selecting one of three SSIs to complete, participants (ages 11-17 years) reported pre- and post-SSI levels of clinically relevant outcomes that SSIs may target (eg, hopelessness, self-hate) and perceived SSI acceptability. User-pattern variables, demographics, and depressive symptoms were collected to characterize youths engaging with YES. RESULTS From September 2019 through March 2020, 694 youths accessed YES, 539 began, and 187 completed a 30-minute, self-guided SSI. SSI completers reported clinically elevated depressive symptoms, on average, and were diverse on several dimensions (53.75% non-white; 78.10% female; 43.23% sexual minorities). Regardless of SSI selection, completers reported pre- to post-program reductions in hopelessness (dav=0.53; dz=0.71), self-hate (dav=0.32; dz=0.61), perceived control (dav=0.60; dz=0.72) and agency (dav=0.39; dz=0.50). Youths rated all SSIs as acceptable (eg, enjoyable, likely to help peers). CONCLUSIONS Results support the perceived acceptability and utility of open-access, free-of-charge SSIs for youth experiencing internalizing distress. TRIAL REGISTRATION Open Science Framework; osf.io/e52p3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mallory Dobias
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Jenna Sung
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Emma Mumper
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Michael C Mullarkey
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
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Schleider JL, Dobias ML, Sung JY, Mullarkey MC. Future Directions in Single-Session Youth Mental Health Interventions. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL FOR THE SOCIETY OF CLINICAL CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHOLOGY, AMERICAN PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, DIVISION 53 2020; 49:264-278. [PMID: 31799863 PMCID: PMC7065925 DOI: 10.1080/15374416.2019.1683852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The United States spends more money on mental health services than any other country, yet access to effective psychological services remains strikingly low. The need-to-access gap is especially wide among children and adolescents, with up to 80% of youths with mental health needs going without services, and the remainder often receiving insufficient or untested care. Single-session interventions (SSIs) may offer a promising path toward improving accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and completion rates for youth mental health services. SSIs are structured programs that intentionally involve only one visit or encounter with a clinic, provider, or program; they may serve as stand-alone or adjunctive clinical services. A growing body of evidence supports the capacity of SSIs to reduce and prevent youth psychopathology of multiple types. Here, we provide a working definition of SSIs for use in future research and practice; summarize the literature to date on SSIs for child and adolescent mental health; and propose recommendations for the future design, evaluation, and implementation of SSIs across a variety of settings and contexts. We hope that this paper will serve as an actionable research agenda for gauging the full potential of SSIs as a force for youth mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jenna Y. Sung
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Michael C. Mullarkey
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX
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Lindner P, Hamilton W, Miloff A, Carlbring P. How to Treat Depression With Low-Intensity Virtual Reality Interventions: Perspectives on Translating Cognitive Behavioral Techniques Into the Virtual Reality Modality and How to Make Anti-Depressive Use of Virtual Reality-Unique Experiences. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:792. [PMID: 31736809 PMCID: PMC6836923 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is a common mental disorder with a large treatment gap. Low-intensity, automated virtual reality (VR) interventions (not requiring a therapist) is a scalable and promising solution now that VR is an accessible and mature, consumer technology. Yet unlike with phobias, there have been few attempts at translating evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapeutic (CBT) techniques for depression into the VR modality. In this paper, we discuss how specific CBT techniques can be made into VR experiences, including psychoeducation, behavioral activation, cognitive restructuring, and social skills training. We also discuss how VR-unique experiences, such as alternative embodiment and virtual pet interactions, can be made therapeutic. Creating a pre-clinical and clinical evidence base for these types of novel interventions should be considered a research priority, and high-quality development on par with other consumer VR applications will be essential to the success of any consumer-targeted intervention. If this is achieved, low-intensity VR interventions for depression have great potential to make an impact on public mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Lindner
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, & Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Dependency Disorders, Stockholm Health Care Services, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Alexander Miloff
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Per Carlbring
- Department of Psychology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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