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Marshall P, Booth M, Coole M, Fothergill L, Glossop Z, Haines J, Harding A, Johnston R, Jones S, Lodge C, Machin K, Meacock R, Nielson K, Puddephatt JA, Rakic T, Rayson P, Robinson H, Rycroft-Malone J, Shryane N, Swithenbank Z, Wise S, Lobban F. Understanding the Impacts of Online Mental Health Peer Support Forums: Realist Synthesis. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e55750. [PMID: 38722680 PMCID: PMC11117133 DOI: 10.2196/55750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online forums are widely used for mental health peer support. However, evidence of their safety and effectiveness is mixed. Further research focused on articulating the contexts in which positive and negative impacts emerge from forum use is required to inform innovations in implementation. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to develop a realist program theory to explain the impacts of online mental health peer support forums on users. METHODS We conducted a realist synthesis of literature published between 2019 and 2023 and 18 stakeholder interviews with forum staff. RESULTS Synthesis of 102 evidence sources and 18 interviews produced an overarching program theory comprising 22 context-mechanism-outcome configurations. Findings indicate that users' perceptions of psychological safety and the personal relevance of forum content are foundational to ongoing engagement. Safe and active forums that provide convenient access to information and advice can lead to improvements in mental health self-efficacy. Within the context of welcoming and nonjudgmental communities, users may benefit from the opportunity to explore personal difficulties with peers, experience reduced isolation and normalization of mental health experiences, and engage in mutual encouragement. The program theory highlights the vital role of moderators in creating facilitative online spaces, stimulating community engagement, and limiting access to distressing content. A key challenge for organizations that host mental health forums lies in balancing forum openness and anonymity with the need to enforce rules, such as restrictions on what users can discuss, to promote community safety. CONCLUSIONS This is the first realist synthesis of online mental health peer support forums. The novel program theory highlights how successful implementation depends on establishing protocols for enhancing safety and strategies for maintaining user engagement to promote forum sustainability. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42022352528; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=352528.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Marshall
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Millissa Booth
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Coole
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Lauren Fothergill
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Glossop
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jade Haines
- IT Corporate Services, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Harding
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Rose Johnston
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Jones
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Lodge
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Machin
- Survivor Research Network, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Meacock
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Kristi Nielson
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jo-Anne Puddephatt
- Department of Psychology, Edge Hill University, Ormskirk, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara Rakic
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Rayson
- School of Computing and Communications, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Robinson
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Jo Rycroft-Malone
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Shryane
- Social Statistics, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe Swithenbank
- Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Wise
- IT Corporate Services, Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Berkshire, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Lobban
- Spectrum Centre for Mental Health Research, Division of Health Research, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
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Thomson M, Henderson G, Rogers T, Locke B, Vines J, MacBeth A. Digital mental health and peer support: Building a Theory of Change informed by stakeholders' perspectives. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2024; 3:e0000522. [PMID: 38814923 PMCID: PMC11139267 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Digital Mental Health and Peer support has the potential to bridge gaps in support through its scalability and accessibility. Despite the increasing use of these platforms, there remains a lack of understanding of how they operate in real life, from initial engagement to longer-term impact. We aimed to explore the key inputs, processes, user interactions, assumptions, barriers, facilitators, outcomes, and impacts associated with the use of DMH and peer support platforms by developing a Theory of Change with stakeholders. Stakeholders (n = 77) contributed to the formulation of the Theory of Change through a series of online workshops, focus groups, interviews, and open-ended survey feedback. Workshops were structured to capture information related to aspects of the Theory of Change and to allow stakeholders to provide feedback to improve the diagram. A thematic framework approach was used to analyze transcripts to enable comparisons of factors reported by members, commissioners, and platform staff. Stakeholders identified a variety of factors contributing to initial inputs, processes, outcomes, and impact. Engagement emerged as the most significant barrier to the use of platforms. Motivations for use included filling in gaps in available support, connecting with others and upskilling. Different member types determined how users would interact with the platform which could influence the social response of others. Outcomes were largely positive including provision of a safe online space, improvement in wellbeing, and feeling connected to others. Stakeholders noted impact was harder to identify due to the preventative nature of these platforms but suggested this related to the knowledge of available support, reduction in waiting for support and in referrals, and increasing engagement and uptake of the platforms. Stakeholders identified assumptions regarding internet access as a significant barrier. The Theory of Change illustrated three distinct pathways in digital mental health and peer support. Further research is needed to improve engagement and factors influencing engagement, the member experience and how impact is measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meigan Thomson
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tim Rogers
- Togetherall, 250 The Esplanade, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Benjamin Locke
- Togetherall, 250 The Esplanade, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John Vines
- School of Informatics, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Angus MacBeth
- School of Health in Social Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Solis EC, Carlier IVE, Kamminga NGA, Giltay EJ, van Hemert AM. The clinical effectiveness of a self-management intervention for patients with persistent depressive disorder and their partners/caregivers: results from a multicenter, pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Trials 2024; 25:187. [PMID: 38481289 PMCID: PMC10938802 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08033-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) is prevalent and debilitating. For patients with PDD, psychiatric rehabilitation using self-management interventions is advised as the next therapeutic step after multiple unsuccessful treatment attempts. The "Patient and Partner Education Program for All Chronic Diseases" (PPEP4All) is a brief, structured self-management program that focuses on functional recovery for patients and their partners/caregivers. In chronic somatic disorder populations, PPEP4All has already been shown to be clinically effective. We examined whether PPEP4All adapted for PDD (PPEP4All-PDD, nine weekly group or individual sessions) is also clinically effective for adults/elderly with PDD and their partners/caregivers compared to care-as-usual (CAU) in specialized mental healthcare. METHODS In this mixed-method multicenter pragmatic randomized controlled trial, 70 patients with PDD and 14 partners/caregivers were allocated to either PPEP4All-PDD (patients, n = 37; partners/caregivers, n = 14) or CAU (patients, n = 33; partners/caregivers, not included) and completed questionnaires at 0, 3, 6, and 12 months regarding depressive symptoms, psychopathology, psychosocial burden, mental resilience, and happiness/well-being. Qualitative data were collected regarding treatment satisfaction. Data were analyzed using mixed model analyses and an intention-to-treat (ITT) approach. RESULTS There was no statistically significant difference in any outcome regarding clinical effectiveness between PPEP4All-PDD and CAU. Subgroup analysis for depressive symptoms did not show any interaction effect for any subgroup. Although 78% of participants recommended PPEP4All-PDD, there was no difference in treatment satisfaction between PPEP4All-PDD (score = 6.6; SD = 1.7) and CAU (score = 7.6; SD = 1.2), p = 0.06. CONCLUSION Although depressive symptoms did not improve relative to CAU, this only confirmed that treatment for patients with treatment-resistant PDD should move from symptom reduction to functional recovery. Also, functional recovery may be reflected in other outcomes than psychosocial burden, such as self-empowerment, in patients with treatment-resistant PDD. Future research on PPEP4All-PDD could focus on a longer-term program and/or online program that may also be offered earlier in the treatment process as an empowerment intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Netherlands Trial Register Identifier NL5818. Registered on 20 July 2016 https://clinicaltrialregister.nl/nl/trial/20302.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ericka C Solis
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, Leiden, 2300, RC, The Netherlands.
| | - Ingrid V E Carlier
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, Leiden, 2300, RC, The Netherlands
| | - Noëlle G A Kamminga
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (MHeNs), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Erik J Giltay
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, Leiden, 2300, RC, The Netherlands
| | - Albert M van Hemert
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, Leiden, 2300, RC, The Netherlands
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Gómez Bergin AD, Valentine AZ, Rennick-Egglestone S, Slade M, Hollis C, Hall CL. Identifying and Categorizing Adverse Events in Trials of Digital Mental Health Interventions: Narrative Scoping Review of Trials in the International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Registry. JMIR Ment Health 2023; 10:e42501. [PMID: 36811940 PMCID: PMC9996423 DOI: 10.2196/42501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To contextualize the benefits of an intervention, it is important that adverse events (AEs) are reported. This is potentially difficult in trials of digital mental health interventions, where delivery may be remote and the mechanisms of actions less understood. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the reporting of AEs in randomized controlled trials of digital mental health interventions. METHODS The International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number database was searched for trials registered before May 2022. Using advanced search filters, we identified 2546 trials in the category of mental and behavioral disorders. These trials were independently reviewed by 2 researchers against the eligibility criteria. Trials were included where digital mental health interventions for participants with a mental health disorder were evaluated through a completed randomized controlled trial (protocol and primary results publication published). Published protocols and primary results publications were then retrieved. Data were extracted independently by 3 researchers, with discussion to reach consensus when required. RESULTS Twenty-three trials met the eligibility criteria, of which 16 (69%) included a statement on AEs within a publication, but only 6 (26%) reported AEs within their primary results publication. Seriousness was referred to by 6 trials, relatedness by 4, and expectedness by 2. More interventions delivered with human support (9/11, 82%) than those with only remote or no support (6/12, 50%) included a statement on AEs, but they did not report more AEs. Several reasons for participant dropout were identified by trials that did not report AEs, of which some were identifiable or related to AEs, including serious AEs. CONCLUSIONS There is significant variation in the reporting of AEs in trials of digital mental health interventions. This variation may reflect limited reporting processes and difficulty recognizing AEs related to digital mental health interventions. There is a need to develop guidelines specifically for these trials to improve future reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aislinn D Gómez Bergin
- National Institute for Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Althea Z Valentine
- National Institute for Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Rennick-Egglestone
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Slade
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nord University, Namsos, Norway
| | - Chris Hollis
- National Institute for Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte L Hall
- National Institute for Health and Care Research MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Mental Health and Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Deng D, Rogers T, Naslund JA. The Role of Moderators in Facilitating and Encouraging Peer-to-Peer Support in an Online Mental Health Community: A Qualitative Exploratory Study. JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY IN BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2023; 8:128-139. [PMID: 36810998 PMCID: PMC9933803 DOI: 10.1007/s41347-023-00302-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Online peer support platforms have gained popularity as a potential way for people struggling with mental health problems to share information and provide support to each other. While these platforms can offer an open space to discuss emotionally difficult issues, unsafe or unmoderated communities can allow potential harm to users by spreading triggering content, misinformation or hostile interactions. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of moderators in these online communities, and how moderators can facilitate peer-to-peer support, while minimizing harms to users and amplifying potential benefits. Moderators of the Togetherall peer support platform were recruited to participate in qualitative interviews. The moderators, referred to as 'Wall Guides', were asked about their day-to-day responsibilities, positive and negative experiences they have witnessed on the platform and the strategies they employ when encountering problems such as lack of engagement or posting of inappropriate content. The data were then analyzed qualitatively using thematic content analysis and consensus codes were deduced and reviewed to reach final results and representative themes. In total, 20 moderators participated in this study, and described their experiences and efforts to follow a consistent and shared protocol for responding to common scenarios in the online community. Many reported the deep connections formed by the online community, the helpful and thoughtful responses that members give each other and the satisfaction of seeing progress in members' recovery. They also reported occasional aggressive, sensitive or inconsiderate comments and posts on the platform. They respond by removing or revising the hurtful post or reaching out to the affected member to maintain the 'house rules'. Lastly, many discussed strategies they elicit to promote engagement from members within the community and ensure each member is supported through their use of the platform. This study sheds light on the critical role of moderators of online peer support communities, and their ability to contribute to the potential benefits of digital peer support while minimizing risks to users. The findings reported here accentuate the importance of having well-trained moderators on online peer support platforms and can guide future efforts to effectively train and supervise prospective peer support moderators. Moderators can become an active 'shaping force' and bring a cohesive culture of expressed empathy, sensitivity and care. The delivery of a healthy and safe community contrasts starkly with non-moderated online forums, which can become unhealthy and unsafe as a result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davy Deng
- grid.189504.10000 0004 1936 7558Harvard Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA USA
| | | | - John A. Naslund
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDepartment of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
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Joo JH, Bone L, Forte J, Kirley E, Lynch T, Aboumatar H. The benefits and challenges of established peer support programmes for patients, informal caregivers, and healthcare providers. Fam Pract 2022; 39:903-912. [PMID: 35104847 PMCID: PMC9508871 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Peer support programmes that provide services for various health conditions have been in existence for many years; however, there is little study of their benefits and challenges. Our goal was to explore how existing peer support programmes help patients with a variety of health conditions, the challenges that these programmes meet, and how they are addressed. METHODS We partnered with 7 peer support programmes operating in healthcare and community settings and conducted 43 semi-structured interviews with key informants. Audiorecordings were transcribed and qualitative analysis was conducted using grounded theory methods. RESULTS Peer support programmes offer informational and psychosocial support, reduce social isolation, and connect patients and caregivers to others with similar health issues. These programmes provide a supportive community of persons who have personal experience with the same health condition and who can provide practical information about self-care and guidance in navigating the health system. Peer support is viewed as different from and complementary to professional healthcare services. Existing programmes experience challenges such as matching of peer supporter and peer recipient and maintaining relationship boundaries. They have gained experience in addressing some of these challenges. CONCLUSIONS Peer support programmes can help persons and caregivers manage health conditions but also face challenges that need to be addressed through organizational processes. Peer support programmes have relevance for improving healthcare systems, especially given the increased focus on becoming more patient-centred. Further study of peer programmes and their relevance to improving individuals' well-being is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Hui Joo
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Meyer 235, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Lee Bone
- Department of Health, Society and Behavior, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Joan Forte
- Formerly Department of Patient Experience, Stanford Health Care, Sunnyvale, CA, United States
| | - Erin Kirley
- Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Thomas Lynch
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Hanan Aboumatar
- Department of Health, Society and Behavior, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Armstrong Institute for Patient Safety and Quality, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Price A, de Bell S, Shaw N, Bethel A, Anderson R, Coon JT. What is the volume, diversity and nature of recent, robust evidence for the use of peer support in health and social care? An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1264. [PMID: 36909883 PMCID: PMC9316011 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Peer support interventions involve people drawing on shared personal experience to help one another improve their physical or mental health, or reduce social isolation. If effective, they may also lessen the demand on health and social care services, reducing costs. However, the design and delivery of peer support varies greatly, from the targeted problem or need, the setting and mode of delivery, to the number and content of sessions. Robust evidence is essential for policymakers commissioning peer support and practitioners delivering services in health care and community settings. This map draws together evidence on different types of peer support to support the design and delivery of interventions. Objectives The aim of this map was to provide an overview of the volume, diversity and nature of recent, high quality evidence on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the use of peer support in health and social care. Search Methods We searched MEDLINE, seven further bibliographic databases, and Epistemonikos for systematic reviews (in October 2020), randomised controlled trials (in March 2021) and economic evaluations (in May 2021) on the effectiveness of peer support interventions in health and social care. We also conducted searches of Google Scholar, two trial registers, PROSPERO, and completed citation chasing on included studies. Selection Criteria Systematic reviews, randomised controlled trials and economic evaluations were included in the map. Included studies focused on adult populations with a defined health or social care need, were conducted in high-income countries, and published since 2015. Any measure of effectiveness was included, as was any form of peer support providing the peer had shared experience with the participant and a formalised role. Data Collection and Analysis Data were extracted on the type of peer support intervention and outcomes assessed in included studies. Standardised tools were used to assess study quality for all studies: assessing the methodological quality of systematic reviews 2 for systematic reviews; Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised controlled trials; and consensus health economic criteria list for economic evaluations. Main Results We included 91 studies: 32 systematic reviews; 52 randomised controlled trials; and 7 economic evaluations. Whilst most included systematic reviews and economic evaluations were assessed to be of low or medium quality, the majority of randomised controlled trials were of higher quality. There were concentrations of evidence relating to different types of peer support, including education, psychological support, self-care/self-management and social support. Populations with long-term health conditions were most commonly studied. The majority of studies measured health-related indicators as outcomes; few studies assessed cost-effectiveness. Studies were unevenly distributed geographically, with most being conducted in the USA. Several gaps were evident regarding the delivery of peer support, particularly the integration of peers and professionals in delivering support and interventions of longer duration. Authors' Conclusions Although there is evidence available to inform the commissioning and delivery of peer support in health and social care, there are also clear gaps that need to be addressed to further support provision, particularly regarding cost-effectiveness. The effectiveness of peer support in different countries, with varying health and social care systems, is a priority for future research, as is the integration of peers with professionals in delivering peer support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Price
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Siân de Bell
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Naomi Shaw
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Alison Bethel
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Rob Anderson
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
| | - Jo Thompson Coon
- Exeter HS&DR Evidence Synthesis CentreUniversity of Exeter Medical School, University of ExeterExeterUK
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Balcombe L, De Leo D. The Potential Impact of Adjunct Digital Tools and Technology to Help Distressed and Suicidal Men: An Integrative Review. Front Psychol 2022; 12:796371. [PMID: 35058855 PMCID: PMC8765720 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.796371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Suicidal men feel the need to be self-reliant and that they cannot find another way out of relationship or socioeconomic issues. Suicide prevention is of crucial importance worldwide. The much higher rate of suicide in men engenders action. The prelude is a subjective experience that can be very isolating and severely distressing. Men may not realize a change in their thinking and behaviors, which makes it more difficult to seek and get help, thereby interrupting a "downward spiral". Stoicism often prevents men from admitting to their personal struggle. The lack of "quality" connections and "non-tailored" therapies has led to a high number of men "walking out" on traditional clinical approaches. But there are complicated relationships in motivations and formative behaviors of suicide with regards to emotional state, psychiatric disorders, interpersonal life events and suicidal behavior method selection. Middle-aged and older men have alternated as the most at-risk of suicide. There is no one solution that applies to all men, but digital tools may be of assistance (e.g., video conferences, social networks, telephone calls, and emails). Digital interventions require higher levels of effectiveness for distress and suicidality but self-guided approaches may be the most suitable for men especially where linked with an integrated online suicide prevention platform (e.g., quick response with online chats, phone calls, and emails). Furthermore, technology-enabled models of care offer promise to advance appropriate linking to mental health services through better and faster understanding of the specific needs of individuals (e.g., socio-cultural) and the type and level of suicidality experienced. Long-term evidence for suicidality and its evaluation may benefit from progressing human computer-interaction and providing impetus for an eminent integrated digital platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke Balcombe
- Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention, School of Applied Psychology, Griffith University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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