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Ezeonu NA, Hertelendy AJ, Adu MK, Kung JY, Itanyi IU, Dias RDL, Agyapong B, Hertelendy P, Ohanyido F, Agyapong VIO, Eboreime E. Mobile Apps to Support Mental Health Response in Natural Disasters: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e49929. [PMID: 38520699 PMCID: PMC11063879 DOI: 10.2196/49929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disasters are becoming more frequent due to the impact of extreme weather events attributed to climate change, causing loss of lives, property, and psychological trauma. Mental health response to disasters emphasizes prevention and mitigation, and mobile health (mHealth) apps have been used for mental health promotion and treatment. However, little is known about their use in the mental health components of disaster management. OBJECTIVE This scoping review was conducted to explore the use of mobile phone apps for mental health responses to natural disasters and to identify gaps in the literature. METHODS We identified relevant keywords and subject headings and conducted comprehensive searches in 6 electronic databases. Studies in which participants were exposed to a man-made disaster were included if the sample also included some participants exposed to a natural hazard. Only full-text studies published in English were included. The initial titles and abstracts of the unique papers were screened by 2 independent review authors. Full texts of the selected papers that met the inclusion criteria were reviewed by the 2 independent reviewers. Data were extracted from each selected full-text paper and synthesized using a narrative approach based on the outcome measures, duration, frequency of use of the mobile phone apps, and the outcomes. This scoping review was reported according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews). RESULTS Of the 1398 papers retrieved, 5 were included in this review. A total of 3 studies were conducted on participants exposed to psychological stress following a disaster while 2 were for disaster relief workers. The mobile phone apps for the interventions included Training for Life Skills, Sonoma Rises, Headspace, Psychological First Aid, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Behavioural Health Disaster Response Apps. The different studies assessed the effectiveness or efficacy of the mobile app, feasibility, acceptability, and characteristics of app use or predictors of use. Different measures were used to assess the effectiveness of the apps' use as either the primary or secondary outcome. CONCLUSIONS A limited number of studies are exploring the use of mobile phone apps for mental health responses to disasters. The 5 studies included in this review showed promising results. Mobile apps have the potential to provide effective mental health support before, during, and after disasters. However, further research is needed to explore the potential of mobile phone apps in mental health responses to all hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nwamaka Alexandra Ezeonu
- Center for Translation and Implementation Research, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
| | - Attila J Hertelendy
- Department of Information Systems and Business Analytics, College of Business, Florida International University, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Medard Kofi Adu
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Janice Y Kung
- Geoffrey and Robyn Sperber Health Sciences Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Ijeoma Uchenna Itanyi
- Center for Translation and Implementation Research, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Raquel da Luz Dias
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Petra Hertelendy
- Department of Psychology, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, United States
| | | | | | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Sin WM, Tse MMY, Chung JWY, Choi SPP. A feasibility study of mindfulness-based interventions for children. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:58. [PMID: 38589971 PMCID: PMC11000349 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01488-2] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's overall psychological well-being is a concern for parents and adults worldwide. Mindfulness appears to be a promising intervention for enhancing children's psychological well-being, and its effectiveness has been well-documented. However, there is a paucity of data on the feasibility and acceptability of implementing mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) for children; this is a crucial factor in determining whether MBIs can be utilized to benefit children. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility and acceptability of implementing MBIs among Hong Kong children. METHODS Seventy-eight children (mean age = 9.06, SD = .375) were recruited from a primary school in Hong Kong and received MBIs in a single session that lasted about 2 h. The intervention's feasibility was determined in terms of retention rates, while acceptability was based on qualitative feedback from the children. RESULTS The results show that there were high retention rates (96%). Qualitative analyses of children's feedback revealed that they experienced enhanced well-being, and enjoyed and benefited from the interventions. CONCLUSIONS This study shows the high feasibility of MBIs in children, supporting the conduct of an efficacy trial to examine the effects of MBIs among children. Support from school teachers and measures to raise and maintain children's interest in mindfulness could facilitate the conduct of a study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Man Sin
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Mimi Mun Yee Tse
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| | - Joanne Wai Yee Chung
- Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Sandy Pin Pin Choi
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Gao Y, Shi L, Fu N, Yang N, Weeks-Gariepy T, Mao Y. Mobile-Delivered Mindfulness Intervention on Anxiety Level Among College Athletes: Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e40406. [PMID: 38457201 PMCID: PMC10960210 DOI: 10.2196/40406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND College athletes are a group often affected by anxiety. Few interventional studies have been conducted to address the anxiety issues in this population. OBJECTIVE We conducted a mobile-delivered mindfulness intervention among college athletes to study its feasibility and efficacy in lowering their anxiety level and improving their mindfulness (measured by the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire [FFMQ]). METHODS In April 2019, we recruited 290 college athletes from a public university in Shanghai, China, and 288 of them were randomized into an intervention group and a control group (closed trial), with the former (n=150) receiving a therapist-guided, smartphone-delivered mindfulness-based intervention and the latter receiving mental health promotion messages (n=138). We offered in-person instructions during the orientation session for the intervention group in a classroom, with the therapist interacting with the participants on the smartphone platform later during the intervention. We used generalized linear modeling and the intent-to-treat approach to compare the 2 groups' outcomes in dispositional anxiety, precompetition anxiety, and anxiety during competition, plus the 5 dimensions of mindfulness (measured by the FFMQ). RESULTS Our intent-to-treat analysis and generalized linear modeling found no significant difference in dispositional anxiety, precompetition anxiety, or anxiety during competition. Only the "observation" facet of mindfulness measures had a notable difference between the changes experienced by the 2 groups, whereby the intervention group had a net gain of .214 yet fell short of reaching statistical significance (P=.09). Participants who specialized in group sports had a higher level of anxiety (β=.19; SE=.08), a lower level of "nonjudgemental inner experience" in FFMQ (β=-.07; SE=.03), and a lower level of "nonreactivity" (β=-.138; SE=.052) than those specializing in individual sports. CONCLUSIONS No significant reduction in anxiety was detected in this study. Based on the participant feedback, the time availability for mindfulness practice and session attendance for these student athletes in an elite college could have compromised the intervention's effectiveness. Future interventions among this population could explore a more student-friendly time schedule (eg, avoid final exam time) or attempt to improve cognitive and scholastic outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR1900024449; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=40865.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Shi
- Department of Health Science, Pace University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ning Fu
- School of Public Administration and Emergency Management, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Nan Yang
- Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai, China
| | - Tracy Weeks-Gariepy
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, United States
| | - Yuping Mao
- Department of Communication Studies, California State University Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, United States
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Moulaei K, Moulaei R, Bahaadinbeigy K. Barriers and facilitators of using health information technologies by women: a scoping review. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2023; 23:176. [PMID: 37670281 PMCID: PMC10478440 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-023-02280-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Health information technologies play a vital role in addressing diverse health needs among women, offering a wide array of services tailored to their specific requirements. Despite the potential benefits, the widespread utilization of these technologies by women faces numerous barriers and challenges. These barriers can cause women to either reduce their usage of health technologies or refrain from using them altogether. Therefore, this review was done with the aim of identifying and classifying barriers and facilitators. METHODS Some databases, including PubMed, Web of Sciences, and Scopus were searched using related keywords. Then, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the articles were evaluated and selected. Finally, the barriers and facilitators were identified and classified. RESULTS Out of 14,399 articles, finally 35 articles were included in the review. In general, 375 barriers (232 items) and facilitators (143 items) were extracted from the studies. After merging similar items, 121 barriers (51 items) and facilitators (70 items) identified were organized into five main themes (management, technological, legal and regulatory, personal, and data and information management). The most important barriers were "privacy, confidentiality, and security concerns" (n = 24), "deficiencies and limitations of infrastructure, software, hardware, and network" (n = 19), "sociocultural challenges" (n = 15), and "poor economic status" (n = 15). Moreover, the most important facilitators were "increasing awareness, skills and continuous education of women" (n = 17, in personal theme), "providing training services" (n = 14, in management theme), "simple, usable, and user-friendly design of technologies" (n = 14, in technological theme), and "providing financial or non-financial incentives (motivation) for women" (n = 14, in personal theme). CONCLUSION This review showed that in order to use technologies, women face many barriers, either specific to women (such as gender inequality) or general (such as lack of technical skills). To overcome these barriers, policymakers, managers of organizations and medical centers, and designers of health systems can consider the facilitators identified in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Moulaei
- Department of Health Information Technology, Faculty of Paramedical, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Reza Moulaei
- School of medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kambiz Bahaadinbeigy
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
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Doty TJ, Stekl EK, Bohn M, Klosterman G, Simonelli G, Collen J. A 2022 Survey of Commercially Available Smartphone Apps for Sleep: Most Enhance Sleep. Sleep Med Clin 2023; 18:373-384. [PMID: 37532376 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2023.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Commercially available smartphone apps represent an ever-evolving and fast-growing market. Our review systematically surveyed currently available commercial sleep smartphone apps to provide details to inform both providers and patients alike, in addition to the healthy consumer market. Most current sleep apps offer a free version and are designed to be used while awake, prior to sleep, and focus on the enhancement of sleep, rather than measurement, by targeting sleep latency using auditory stimuli. Sleep apps could be considered a possible strategy for patients and consumers to improve their sleep, although further validation of specific apps is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Jill Doty
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA.
| | - Emily K Stekl
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Matthew Bohn
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Grace Klosterman
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Guido Simonelli
- Behavioral Biology Branch, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA; Departments of Medicine and Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, 5400 Boulevard Gouin Ouest (Office J-5000), Montréal, QC H4J 1C5, Canada; Centre d'études vancées en médecine du sommeil, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, Montréal, CIUSSS du Nord de l'Île-de-Montréal, 5400 Boulevard Gouin Ouest (Office J-5000), Montréal, QC H4J 1C5, Canada
| | - Jacob Collen
- Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, 4301 Jones Bridge Road, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, 8901 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA
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Olvera N, Hein S, Matthews-Ewald M, Zhang R, Scherer R. Lace Up and Mindfulness: A Randomized Controlled Trial Intervention to Reduce Emotional Eating, Anxiety, and Sleep Disturbances in Latinx and Black Youth. CHILDREN 2023; 10:children10030538. [PMID: 36980096 PMCID: PMC10046922 DOI: 10.3390/children10030538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of a 12-week afterschool mindfulness-based diet and exercise intervention on mental and physical health in Latinx and Black youth. One hundred forty-eight boys and girls (average age = 10.1 years, SD = 1.3 years; 52% girls; 72.3% Latinx) were randomized to either the experimental group (n = 80) or the control group (n = 68). The experimental group participants engaged in fitness yoga, kickboxing, and/or spinning sessions, and mindfulness practices (e.g., breathing, meditation, and mindful eating) twice per week for 12 weeks. The control group participants engaged in a recreational play session once per week for 12 weeks. All participants completed surveys (demographics, acculturation, anxiety, emotional eating, sleep, and food intake) and had their height, weight, and percent body fat measured pre- and post-intervention. Participants wore an accelerometer for 7 days pre- and post-intervention. Repeated measures analysis of covariance indicated that the experimental group participants reported lower scores in emotional eating, anxiety, and sleep latency post-intervention compared to the control group participants. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in physical activity between the experimental and control group participants post-intervention. These findings indicate that a mindfulness-based intervention has a positive effect on emotional eating, anxiety, and sleep latency among youth of color.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma Olvera
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Sascha Hein
- Department of Education and Psychology, Free University Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Rongfang Zhang
- Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, USA
| | - Rhonda Scherer
- Sports & Fitness, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, TX 77002, USA
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Sosa-Cordobés E, Ramos-Pichardo JD, Sánchez-Ramos JL, García-Padilla FM, Fernández-Martínez E, Garrido-Fernández A. How Effective Are Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Reducing Stress and Weight? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:446. [PMID: 36612767 PMCID: PMC9819465 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Stress contributes to the development and maintenance of obesity. Mindfulness-based therapies are being used to reduce stress and promote weight reduction and maintenance. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for stress and weight reduction in the short, medium, and long term. Searches on PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, WOS, and Science Direct were conducted until March 2021. Intervention studies with a sample of adults were included; these evaluated a mindfulness-based intervention and used stress and weight or body mass index as outcome variables. These criteria were met by 13 articles. A meta-analysis of 8 of the 13 articles was performed with a random-effects or fixed-effects model, depending on the level of heterogeneity between studies. Mindfulness-based interventions had a small effect on stress reduction over a 3-month period: effect size (standardized mean difference) = -0.29 (95% CI: -0.49, -0.10). However, no significant evidence was found for stress reduction from 3 months onwards, nor for weight or body mass index reduction in any period. Mindfulness-based interventions are effective in reducing stress in the short term, but not in the medium or long term, nor are they effective for weight or body mass index. More robust and longer study designs are needed to determine their effects.
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Salmoirago-Blotcher E, Walaska K, Trivedi D, Dunsiger S, Breault C, Levine D, Wu JR, Cohen R. Mind Your Heart: Exploring Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Effects of Phone-Delivered Mindfulness Training on Medication Adherence in Outpatients With Chronic Heart Failure. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2022; 37:595-602. [PMID: 35067596 PMCID: PMC9300764 DOI: 10.1097/jcn.0000000000000891] [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] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mindfulness training (MT) may promote medication adherence in outpatients with heart failure. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to determine the feasibility and acceptability of MT (primary outcomes) and explore effects on medication adherence, functional capacity, cognitive function, depression, and mindfulness skills (secondary outcomes). METHODS In this pre/post-design study, participants received a 30-minute phone-delivered MT session weekly for 8 weeks. RESULTS We enrolled 33 outpatients (32% women; 69.7 White; mean age, 60.3 years). Retention was 100%, and session attendance was 91%. Overall, participants (97%) rated MT as enjoyable. Objectively assessed ( P < .05) adherence decreased post intervention, whereas improvements were noted in functional capacity ( P = .05), mindfulness ( P < .05), and cognitive function (reaching significance for Flanker scores). CONCLUSIONS Phone-delivered MT was feasible and acceptable. Whereas no improvements were noted in medication adherence and depression, cognitive function, functional capacity, and mindfulness levels increased post intervention, suggesting MT may have beneficial effects in outpatients with heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Salmoirago-Blotcher
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
- Department of Medicine, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Kristen Walaska
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Dyuti Trivedi
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Shira Dunsiger
- Center for Health Promotion and Health Equity, Department of Behavioral and Social Science, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Christopher Breault
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Daniel Levine
- Rhode Island Cardiovascular Institute, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Jia-Rong Wu
- University of Kentucky College of Nursing Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Ronald Cohen
- Cognitive Aging and Memory Program, McKnight Institute on Aging, University of Florida
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Haun JN, Alman AC, Jean-Baptiste E, Melillo C, McMahon-Grenz J, Paykel JM. Delivery of Complementary and Integrative Health Using Virtual Health Resources: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2022; 28:851-861. [PMID: 35819410 PMCID: PMC9700349 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2021.0458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Complementary and integrative health (CIH) modalities promote overall health and well-being and can be beneficial for individuals with a range of conditions. Traditionally, CIH has been delivered in person. COVID-19 created a need to identify sustainable remote delivery options to assure access to CIH while practicing public health recommendations. This scoping review maps the opportunities and challenges to remotely delivered CIH. Materials and methods: A scoping review was conducted between June 2020 and October 2020 using the following search engines: PubMed, Academic Search Premier, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Reviews, and the Cochrane Clinical Trial Collections. Search results investigating remote CIH delivery were restricted to articles written in English, published after 1990. Results: Of the 10,884 articles identified, after review for content and methods, 330 articles were included. Most articles were randomized controlled trials (n = 170), applied mindfulness (n = 203), and targeted mental and behavioral health conditions (n = 182). Interventions were primarily delivered through mobile applications (n = 151) and web-based platforms (n = 86). Most commonly reported barriers were adherence (n = 24), resource requirements (e.g., time and space) (n = 23), and technology-related issues (n = 21). Although most studies did not report facilitators (n = 217), most commonly reported facilitators were social and technologic supports, accessibility, usability, perceptions, and rewards. Participant outcomes measured were broad and included movement (n = 88), stress (n = 68), and pain (n = 54). Intervention characteristic outcomes most often measured were satisfaction and usability (n = 5). Conclusions: This scoping literature review identified many articles addressing remote delivery of CIH, but few reporting on the implementation of remotely delivered CIH. Findings suggest remotely delivered CIH, specifically mindfulness and meditation-based modalities, is a viable treatment option for a diverse range of health conditions. Feasibility studies and larger sample sizes are recommended to strengthen the scientific evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolie N. Haun
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Amy C. Alman
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Esther Jean-Baptiste
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Christine Melillo
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Julie McMahon-Grenz
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
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Espel-Huynh H, Baldwin M, Puzia M, Huberty J. The Indirect Effects of a Mindfulness Mobile App on Productivity Through Changes in Sleep Among Retail Employees: Secondary Analysis. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e40500. [PMID: 36169994 PMCID: PMC9557984 DOI: 10.2196/40500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Chronic sleep disturbance is prevalent among United States employees and associated with costly productivity impairment. Mindfulness interventions improve sleep (ie, insomnia and daytime sleepiness) and productivity outcomes, and mobile apps provide scalable means of intervention delivery. However, few studies have examined the effects of mindfulness mobile apps on employees, and no research to date has tested the role of sleep improvement as a potential mechanism of action for productivity outcomes.
Objective
This study examined the effects of Calm, a consumer-based mindfulness app, and sleep coaching, on productivity impairment among retail employees through the indirect effects of changes in insomnia and daytime sleepiness.
Methods
This study was a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial (N=1029) comparing the use of Calm (n=585, 56.9%) to a waitlist control (n=444, 43.2%) for 8 weeks among employees of a large retail employer in the United States. A subset of individuals with elevated insomnia symptoms also had access to brief sleep coaching with Calm (n=101, 9.8%). Insomnia symptom severity, daytime sleepiness, and productivity impairment (ie, absenteeism, presenteeism, overall productivity impairment, and non–work activity impairment) were assessed at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. Indirect effects were evaluated with latent growth curve modeling to test whether the Calm intervention (Calm group vs waitlist control) was effective in reducing work productivity impairment through changes in sleep disturbance.
Results
No significant main effects of Calm intervention on productivity impairment were detected for any outcome at α level of .05, with the exception of non–work activity impairment models, in which Calm intervention reduced non–work activity impairment over time (P=.01 and P=.02 for insomnia and sleepiness models, respectively). Significant indirect effects of insomnia were detected for presenteeism (P=.002), overall work productivity (P=.01), and non–work activity impairment (P=.002); Calm intervention produced significantly greater reductions in insomnia symptoms (relative to waitlist control), and decreases in insomnia were associated with decreases in work productivity impairment. There was no significant indirect effect of change in insomnia on changes in absenteeism (P=.20). Furthermore, we detected no significant indirect effects of daytime sleepiness on productivity impairment.
Conclusions
We found that Calm (plus sleep coaching for a small subset of individuals) had beneficial effects on employee sleep, and these benefits on sleep were related to indirect effects on productivity impairment (ie, presenteeism, overall work productivity impairment, and non–work activity impairment). There were no overall main effects of Calm intervention on productivity impairment; however, insomnia appears to be a mechanism associated with benefits for employee productivity. This is one of the first studies to suggest that sleep benefits of a mindfulness mobile app may also indirectly relate to benefits for workplace productivity.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05120310; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05120310
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Megan Puzia
- Behavioral Research and Analytics, LLC, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Jennifer Huberty
- Calm.com, Inc, San Francisco, CA, United States
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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Laird B, Puzia M, Larkey L, Ehlers D, Huberty J. A Mobile App for Stress Management in Middle-Aged Men and Women (Calm): Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e30294. [PMID: 34989677 PMCID: PMC9132144 DOI: 10.2196/30294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Middle-aged adults (40-65 years) report higher stress levels than most other age groups. There is a need to determine the feasibility of using a meditation app to reduce stress and improve stress-related outcomes in middle-aged adults with a focus on men, as previous meditation app–based studies have reported a low proportion of or even no male participants. Objective This study aims to (1) determine the feasibility (ie, acceptability and demand with a focus on men) of a consumer-based meditation app (Calm), to reduce stress among middle-aged adults reporting elevated stress levels, and (2) explore the preliminary effects of Calm on perceived stress, psychological outcomes (anxiety, depressive symptoms, mindfulness, and general coping), health behaviors (physical activity and eating habits), and COVID-19 perceptions. Methods This feasibility randomized controlled trial evaluated an app-based meditation intervention in middle-aged adults (N=83) with elevated stress levels (ie, Perceived Stress Scale score ≥15) and limited or no previous experience with meditation. Participants were randomized to the intervention group (Calm app) or a control (educational podcasts; POD) group. Participants completed self-report assessments at baseline and postintervention (week 4). Feasibility was measured as acceptability and demand using Bowen framework. Feasibility and COVID-19 perceptions data were examined using descriptive statistics, and preliminary effects were evaluated using repeated measures analysis of variance. Results Participants were satisfied with Calm (27/28, 96%) and found it appropriate or useful (26/28, 93%). Most reported they would likely continue using the Calm app (18/28, 64%). More Calm users reported satisfaction, appropriateness or usefulness, and intent to continue app use than POD users. Calm users (n=33) completed a mean of 20 (SD 31.1) minutes of meditation on the days they meditated and 103 (SD 109.1) minutes of meditation per week. The average adherence rate to the prescribed meditation was 71% among Calm app users, compared to 62% among POD users. Recruitment rate of men was 35% (29/83). Of those randomized to Calm, 55% (15/29) were men, and retention among them was higher (14/15, 93%) than that among women (12/20, 60%). No significant within or between group differences were observed. Conclusions A 4-week, app-based mindfulness meditation intervention (Calm) may be feasible for middle-aged adults and a useful stress-management tool. Calm users expressed satisfaction with the app and felt it was appropriate and useful. Significant improvements in perceived stress and psychological outcomes or stress-related health behaviors were not observed. Even though men spent less time in meditation than women did and completed fewer weekly sessions, they were more likely to adhere to the prescription. Further research is needed for improving stress and stress-related outcomes among middle-aged adults with emphasis on the effects of mindfulness meditation apps for men. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04272138; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04272138
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanne Laird
- Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Megan Puzia
- Behavioral Research and Analytics, LLC, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Linda Larkey
- Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Diane Ehlers
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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McCallum M, Ho AS, Mitchell ES, May CN, Behr H, Ritschel L, Mochrie K, Michaelides A. Feasibility, Acceptability, and Preliminary Outcomes of a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy–Based Mobile Mental Well-being Program (Noom Mood): Single-Arm Prospective Cohort Study. JMIR Form Res 2022; 6:e36794. [PMID: 35436218 PMCID: PMC9055471 DOI: 10.2196/36794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The prevalence of anxiety, depression, and general distress has risen in recent years. Mobile mental health programs have been found to provide support to nonclinical populations and may overcome some of the barriers associated with traditional in-person treatment; however, researchers have voiced concerns that many publicly available mobile mental health programs lack evidence-based theoretical foundations, peer-reviewed research, and sufficient engagement from the public. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes of Noom Mood, a commercial mobile cognitive behavioral therapy– and mindfulness-based program. Methods In this single-arm prospective cohort study, individuals who joined Noom Mood between August and October 2021 completed surveys at baseline and 4-week follow-up. Per-protocol analyses included those who completed both surveys (n=113), and intention-to-treat analyses included all participants (N=185). Results A majority of the sample reported that the program is easy to use, they felt confident recommending the program to a friend, and they perceived the program to be effective at improving stress and anxiety. There were significant improvements in anxiety symptoms, perceived stress, depressive feelings, emotion regulation, and optimism in both the per-protocol and intention-to-treat analyses (all P<.001). Participants reported benefiting most from learning skills (eg, breathing and cognitive reframing techniques), interacting with the program features, and gaining awareness of their emotions and thought patterns. Participants also made a number of suggestions to improve product functionality and usability. Conclusions Results suggest that Noom Mood is feasible and acceptable to participants, with promising preliminary outcomes. Future studies should build on these results to evaluate the effects of Noom Mood using more rigorous designs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Heather Behr
- Academic Research, Noom Inc, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Integrative Health, Saybrook University, Pasadena, CA, United States
| | - Lorie Ritschel
- Triangle Area Psychology Clinic, Durham, NC, United States
- School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Kirk Mochrie
- Triangle Area Psychology Clinic, Durham, NC, United States
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Randomized, wait-list-controlled pilot study of app-delivered mindfulness for patients reporting chronic pain. Pain Rep 2021; 6:e924. [PMID: 34778688 PMCID: PMC8546841 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
App-delivered mindfulness improved social functioning and pain catastrophizing
among patients with chronic pain. Patient characteristics predicted app
engagement, highlighting important considerations for clinical settings. Introduction: Chronic pain creates economic burden and exerts profound individual and
societal harm. Mobile application (app)-delivered mindfulness meditation may
be an important approach to self-management of chronic pain. Objectives: We examined the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of app-delivered
mindfulness meditation on pain cognition and daily functioning among
patients reporting chronic pain. Methods: We used a longitudinal, randomized, and wait-list–controlled design
(NCT03495726) to evaluate changes in self-reported pain severity, pain
catastrophizing, and social and physical functioning among participants
randomized to 6 weeks of app-delivered mindfulness meditation, compared with
participants randomized to a wait-list control group. Results: Although most participants randomized to the mindfulness group used the app
at least once, fewer than half adhered to the instructed program.
Participants who did not use the app scored higher on the helplessness
component of pain catastrophizing at the start of the study and were less
likely to have completed 4 years of college. Participants who reported
feeling pressured to enroll in the study were also less likely to adhere to
the intervention. Compared with participants randomized to wait-list, those
in the mindfulness group reported significant improvements in social
functioning, even after controlling for pain severity. Participants
randomized to the mindfulness intervention also reported significant
improvements in helplessness. App usage was not significantly correlated
with changes in social functioning or helplessness scores. Conclusions: These results suggest that app-delivered mindfulness meditation is beneficial
to patients with chronic pain. Identifying characteristics of patients who
were adherent highlights important considerations for clinical settings.
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Teepe GW, Da Fonseca A, Kleim B, Jacobson NC, Salamanca Sanabria A, Tudor Car L, Fleisch E, Kowatsch T. Just-in-Time Adaptive Mechanisms of Popular Mobile Apps for Individuals With Depression: Systematic App Search and Literature Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e29412. [PMID: 34309569 PMCID: PMC8512178 DOI: 10.2196/29412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The number of smartphone apps that focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of depression is increasing. A promising approach to increase the effectiveness of the apps while reducing the individual's burden is the use of just-in-time adaptive intervention (JITAI) mechanisms. JITAIs are designed to improve the effectiveness of the intervention and reduce the burden on the person using the intervention by providing the right type of support at the right time. The right type of support and the right time are determined by measuring the state of vulnerability and the state of receptivity, respectively. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to systematically assess the use of JITAI mechanisms in popular apps for individuals with depression. METHODS We systematically searched for apps addressing depression in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as well as in curated lists from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, the United Kingdom National Health Service, and the American Psychological Association in August 2020. The relevant apps were ranked according to the number of reviews (Apple App Store) or downloads (Google Play Store). For each app, 2 authors separately reviewed all publications concerning the app found within scientific databases (PubMed, Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, ACM Portal, and Science Direct), publications cited on the app's website, information on the app's website, and the app itself. All types of measurements (eg, open questions, closed questions, and device analytics) found in the apps were recorded and reviewed. RESULTS None of the 28 reviewed apps used JITAI mechanisms to tailor content to situations, states, or individuals. Of the 28 apps, 3 (11%) did not use any measurements, 20 (71%) exclusively used self-reports that were insufficient to leverage the full potential of the JITAIs, and the 5 (18%) apps using self-reports and passive measurements used them as progress or task indicators only. Although 34% (23/68) of the reviewed publications investigated the effectiveness of the apps and 21% (14/68) investigated their efficacy, no publication mentioned or evaluated JITAI mechanisms. CONCLUSIONS Promising JITAI mechanisms have not yet been translated into mainstream depression apps. Although the wide range of passive measurements available from smartphones were rarely used, self-reported outcomes were used by 71% (20/28) of the apps. However, in both cases, the measured outcomes were not used to tailor content and timing along a state of vulnerability or receptivity. Owing to this lack of tailoring to individual, state, or situation, we argue that the apps cannot be considered JITAIs. The lack of publications investigating whether JITAI mechanisms lead to an increase in the effectiveness or efficacy of the apps highlights the need for further research, especially in real-world apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisbert W Teepe
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ashish Da Fonseca
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Birgit Kleim
- Experimental Psychopathology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nicholas C Jacobson
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Departments of Biomedical Data Science and Psychiatry, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States
| | - Alicia Salamanca Sanabria
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lorainne Tudor Car
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elgar Fleisch
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Tobias Kowatsch
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Department of Management, Technology, and Economics, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Centre for Digital Health Interventions, Institute of Technology Management, University of St. Gallen, St. Gallen, Switzerland
- Future Health Technologies, Singapore-ETH Centre, Campus for Research Excellence And Technological Enterprise, Singapore, Singapore
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Singleterry LR, Caulfield SL. Holistic Approaches to Support Sleep in the Intensive Care Unit Patient. Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am 2021; 33:131-144. [PMID: 34023081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnc.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disruption in intensive care unit patients has internal, interpersonal, behavioral, and environmental factors to consider when developing sleep promotion protocols. Holistic approaches are integrative practices that go beyond modifying environmental factors. This article presents 3 holistic approaches that are cost-effective, easy to use, and independent nursing actions that are integrative in nature. Aromatherapy, guided imagery, and mindfulness show promising effects in the literature to improve comfort, anxiety and stress, which are thought to improve sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa R Singleterry
- Bronson School of Nursing, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA.
| | - Susan L Caulfield
- School of Interdisciplinary Health Programs, Western Michigan University, 1903 W. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
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Iyer L, Iyer RB, Kumar V. A Relaxation App (HeartBot) for Stress and Emotional Well-Being Over a 21-Day Challenge: Randomized Survey Study. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e22041. [PMID: 33455902 PMCID: PMC7880805 DOI: 10.2196/22041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HeartBot is an app designed to enable people 14 years and older to use relaxation tools offered by Heartfulness Institute to deal with daily stress and anxiety in a healthy, productive manner. These tools have proven effective in stress management and mental wellness when administered in a controlled environment by a certified proctor. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the app's effectiveness and evaluate the implementation of the tools. METHODS In this study, 88 participants were recruited and randomly sorted into 2 groups, the HeartBot intervention group (n=46) and the waitlist control group (n=42). Pre- and postsurveys measured participants' stress levels using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and their social-emotional well-being using the EPOCH (Engagement, Perseverance, Optimism, Connectedness, and Happiness) Measure of Adolescent Well-Being before and after they used the app for 21 days for 30 minutes every day. RESULTS The study received institutional review board approval on August 18, 2019. Participant recruitment lasted from the approval date until September 30, 2019. The 21-day challenge started on October 1, 2019. Of the 135 people who signed up, 88 completed the study. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean PSS scores before and after the intervention (from 18.3 to 7.89; P<.001). The paired Wilcoxon rank sum test on the EPOCH scores indicated a significant difference in the medians of the total scores (W=411.5, P<.001). CONCLUSIONS Evidence from this study shows that HeartBot is an effective app that can be used to manage stress and improve positive characteristics of emotional wellness. Future research and widespread usage of the app under this study are encouraged based on this preliminary evidence of its effectiveness. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04589520; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04589520.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laya Iyer
- Code for Nonprofit Inc, Novi, MI, United States
| | - Ranjani B Iyer
- Heartfulness Program for Schools, Heartfulness Institute, Novi, MI, United States
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Pizarro-Ruiz JP, Ordóñez-Camblor N, Del-Líbano M, Escolar-LLamazares MC. Influence on Forgiveness, Character Strengths and Satisfaction with Life of a Short Mindfulness Intervention via a Spanish Smartphone Application. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:802. [PMID: 33477831 PMCID: PMC7832842 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18020802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) are a recognized effective psychological practice characterized by attention control, awareness, acceptance, non-reactivity, and non-judgmental thinking obtained through the practice of meditation. They have been shown to be useful in reducing stress and enhancing well-being in different contexts. In this research, the effectiveness of an MBI was evaluated on variables that can promote successful job performance such as mindfulness trait, positive and negative affect, forgiveness, personality strengths and satisfaction with life. The intervention was carried out through a smartphone application called "Aire Fresco" (Fresh Air) during 14 days in the middle of the quarantine produced by the Covid-19 pandemic. The study sample was composed of 164 Spanish people who were distributed in two groups: control group and experimental group, which were evaluated before and after the intervention. The MANCOVA performed showed an overall positive effect of the intervention on the variables evaluated. The different ANCOVAs carried out showed that the intervention was beneficial in increasing mindfulness trait, reducing negative affect or increasing life satisfaction, among others. Our study is, as far as we know, the first to demonstrate the effectiveness of a brief intervention in mindfulness conducted using a smartphone application in Spanish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Pablo Pizarro-Ruiz
- Educational Sciences Department, Faculty of Education, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain; (J.P.P.-R.); (M.D.-L.)
| | - Nuria Ordóñez-Camblor
- Health Sciences Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain;
| | - Mario Del-Líbano
- Educational Sciences Department, Faculty of Education, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain; (J.P.P.-R.); (M.D.-L.)
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Huberty JL, Green J, Puzia ME, Larkey L, Laird B, Vranceanu AM, Vlisides-Henry R, Irwin MR. Testing a mindfulness meditation mobile app for the treatment of sleep-related symptoms in adults with sleep disturbance: A randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244717. [PMID: 33411779 PMCID: PMC7790277 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to test whether a commercially available, mindfulness meditation mobile app, (i.e., Calm app), was effective in reducing fatigue (primary outcome), pre-sleep arousal, and daytime sleepiness (secondary outcomes) in adults with sleep disturbance (Insomnia Severity Index Score >10) as compared to a wait-list control group. Associations between the use of the Calm app (i.e., adherence to the intervention) and changes in sleep quality was also explored in the intervention group only. Adults with sleep disturbance were recruited (N = 640). Eligible and consenting participants (N = 263) were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 124) or a wait-list control (n = 139) group. Intervention participants were asked to meditate using the Calm app ≥10 minutes/day for eight weeks. Fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and pre-sleep arousal were assessed at baseline, mid- (4-weeks) and post-intervention (8-weeks) in both groups, whereas sleep quality was evaluated only in the intervention group. Findings from intent-to-treat analyses suggest the use of the Calm app for eight weeks significantly decreased daytime fatigue (p = .018) as well as daytime sleepiness (p = .003) and cognitive (p = .005) and somatic (p < .001) pre-sleep arousal as compared to the wait-list control group. Within the intervention group, use of the Calm app was associated with improvements in sleep quality (p < .001). This randomized controlled trial demonstrates that the Calm app can be used to treat fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and pre-sleep arousal in adults with sleep disturbance. Given that the Calm app is affordable and widely accessible, these data have implications for community level dissemination of a mobile app to improve sleep-related symptoms associated with sleep disturbance. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04045275.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Huberty
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Jeni Green
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Megan E. Puzia
- Behavioral Research and Analytics, LLC, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Linda Larkey
- Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Breanne Laird
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Ana-Maria Vranceanu
- Integrated Brain Health Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Robert Vlisides-Henry
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | - Michael R. Irwin
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology and Mindful Awareness Research Center, Jane and Terry Semel Insitute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
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Hein AE, Vrijens B, Hiligsmann M. A Digital Innovation for the Personalized Management of Adherence: Analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2020; 2:604183. [PMID: 35047888 PMCID: PMC8757755 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2020.604183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Personalized medicine and management of adherence are potential solutions for the suboptimal use of medicines. Digital medication management innovations currently under development combine both aspects. This research aims to investigate facilitators for and barriers to the translation of digital innovations for personalized medicine and adherence management into clinical practice from the policymaker and regulator perspective. Methods: A mixed-method study was used combining a scoping review to identify main interests, semi-structured interviews (n = 5) with representatives of European health policymaking and regulatory organizations, and a supplementary literature review to investigate key subthemes. The SWOT analysis was used for the qualitative analysis. Results: The literature reviews and the qualitative interviews suggested that digital solutions can facilitate the personalized management of medications and improve quality and safety, especially as the openness for digital health solutions is increasing. Digital solutions may, on the other hand, add complexity to the treatment, which can be perceived as a potential barrier for their uptake. As more multidisciplinary and participative structures are emerging, digital solutions can promote the implementation of new services. Nevertheless, change progresses slowly in the task-oriented structures of health systems. Integration of digital solutions depends on all stakeholders' willingness and abilities to co-create this change. Patients have different capabilities to self-manage their medical conditions and use digital solutions. Personalization of digital health solutions and integration in existing service structures are crucial to ensure equality among population segments. Developments in the digital infrastructure, although they are partly slow and not well-aligned, enable the implementation of innovations in clinical practice leading to further advances in data generation and usage for future innovations. Discussion: This study suggests that digital solutions have the potential to facilitate high-quality medication management and improve adherence to medications, enable new service structures, and are essential to drive further innovations in health care. Nevertheless, increasing the self-responsibility of patients can have undesirable effects on health outcomes, especially within vulnerable population segments. Digital health solutions can be an opportunity to optimize the use of medicines and thus their efficiency. Well-conceived development and implementation processes are needed to also realize improvements in equality and solidarity within health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Elisa Hein
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.,Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bernard Vrijens
- AARDEX Group, Research and Development, Liège, Belgium.,Department of Public Health, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Mickael Hiligsmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI), Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
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