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Bryant BR, Sisk MR, McGuire JF. Efficacy of Gamified Digital Mental Health Interventions for Pediatric Mental Health Conditions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Pediatr 2024:2823863. [PMID: 39312259 PMCID: PMC11420825 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.3139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Importance Anxiety, depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affect up to 20% of children and adolescents. Despite demonstrated efficacy, evidence-based treatments for these conditions are often inaccessible; innovative solutions are essential to meet the demand for pediatric mental health care. Objective To examine the efficacy and moderators of gamified DMHIs for anxiety, depression, and ADHD in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for children and adolescents. Data Sources A systematic search of PubMed, PsycInfo, and Web of Science was conducted for RCTs published before March 20, 2024. Study Selection RCTs that evaluated the efficacy of gamified DMHIs for treating pediatric ADHD, depression, or anxiety were included. Studies were excluded if they did not use a gamified DMHI, provide sufficient data for effect sizes, or were unavailable in English. Data Extraction and Synthesis Efficacy data were extracted from rating scales for ADHD, depression, and anxiety. Extracted moderator variables included participant characteristics (eg, age and sex), intervention characteristics (eg, delivery modality and time limit), and trial design characteristics (eg, outcome measure and risk of bias). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was change in ADHD, depression, or anxiety severity in the treatment group compared to the control group. Hedges g quantified treatment effects. Results The search strategy identified 27 RCTs that included 2911 participants across ADHD, depression, and anxiety disorders. There were modest significant effects of gamified DMHIs on ADHD (g, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.48) and depression (g, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.47) but small, nonsignificant effects for anxiety disorders (g, 0.07; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.17). Moderator analyses revealed that DMHIs for ADHD delivered on a computer and those RCTs that had a greater preponderance of male participants produced larger treatment effects. DMHIs for depressive disorders that used preset time limits for gamified DMHIs also exhibited larger treatment effects. Conclusions and Relevance The findings suggest a benefit of gamified DMHIs for youth with ADHD or depressive disorder. Pediatricians and other health care professionals have new information about novel, accessible, and efficacious options for pediatric mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry R. Bryant
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Morgan R. Sisk
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine, Birmingham
| | - Joseph F. McGuire
- Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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Marshman Z, Ainsworth H, Fairhurst C, Whiteside K, Sykes D, Keetharuth A, El Yousfi S, Turner E, Day PF, Chestnutt IG, Dixon S, Kellar I, Gilchrist F, Robertson M, Pavitt S, Hewitt C, Dey D, Torgerson D, Pollard L, Manser E, Seifo N, Araujo M, Al-Yaseen W, Jones C, Hicks K, Rowles K, Innes N. Behaviour change intervention (education and text) to prevent dental caries in secondary school pupils: BRIGHT RCT, process and economic evaluation. Health Technol Assess 2024; 28:1-142. [PMID: 39258962 PMCID: PMC11417644 DOI: 10.3310/jqta2103] [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] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The presence of dental caries impacts on children's daily lives, particularly among those living in deprived areas. There are successful interventions across the United Kingdom for young children based on toothbrushing with fluoride toothpaste. However, evidence is lacking for oral health improvement programmes in secondary-school pupils to reduce dental caries and its sequelae. Objectives To determine the clinical and cost effectiveness of a behaviour change intervention promoting toothbrushing for preventing dental caries in secondary-school pupils. Design A multicentre, school-based, assessor-blinded, two-arm cluster randomised controlled trial with an internal pilot and embedded health economic and process evaluations. Setting Secondary schools in Scotland, England and Wales with above-average proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals. Randomisation occurred within schools (year-group level), using block randomisation stratified by school. Participants Pupils aged 11-13 years at recruitment, who have their own mobile telephone. Interventions Two-component intervention based on behaviour change theory: (1) 50-minute lesson delivered by teachers, and (2) twice-daily text messages to pupils' mobile phones about toothbrushing, compared with routine education. Main outcome measures Primary outcome: presence of at least one treated or untreated carious lesion using DICDAS4-6MFT (Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth) in any permanent tooth, measured at pupil level at 2.5 years. Secondary outcomes included: number of DICDAS4-6MFT; presence and number of DICDAS1-6MFT; plaque; bleeding; twice-daily toothbrushing; health-related quality of life (Child Health Utility 9D); and oral health-related quality of life (Caries Impacts and Experiences Questionnaire for Children). Results Four thousand six hundred and eighty pupils (intervention, n = 2262; control, n = 2418) from 42 schools were randomised. The primary analysis on 2383 pupils (50.9%; intervention 1153, 51.0%; control 1230, 50.9%) with valid data at baseline and 2.5 years found 44.6% in the intervention group and 43.0% in control had obvious decay experience in at least one permanent tooth. There was no evidence of a difference (odds ratio 1.04, 95% confidence interval 0.85 to 1.26, p = 0.72) and no statistically significant differences in secondary outcomes except for twice-daily toothbrushing at 6 months (odds ratio 1.30, 95% confidence interval 1.03 to 1.63, p = 0.03) and gingival bleeding score (borderline) at 2.5 years (geometric mean difference 0.92, 95% confidence interval 0.85 to 1.00, p = 0.05). The intervention had higher incremental mean costs (£1.02, 95% confidence interval -1.29 to 3.23) and lower incremental mean quality-adjusted life-years (-0.003, 95% confidence interval -0.009 to 0.002). The probability of the intervention being cost-effective was 7% at 2.5 years. However, in two subgroups, pilot trial schools and schools with higher proportions of pupils eligible for free school meals, there was an 84% and 60% chance of cost effectiveness, respectively, although their incremental costs and quality-adjusted life-years remained small and not statistically significant. The process evaluation revealed that the intervention was generally acceptable, although the implementation of text messages proved challenging. The COVID-19 pandemic hampered data collection. High rates of missing economic data mean findings should be interpreted with caution. Conclusions Engagement with the intervention and evidence of 6-month change in toothbrushing behaviour was positive but did not translate into a reduction of caries. Future work should include work with secondary-school pupils to develop an understanding of the determinants of oral health behaviours, including toothbrushing and sugar consumption, particularly according to free school meal eligibility. Trial registration This trial is registered as ISRCTN12139369. Funding This award was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme (NIHR award ref: 15/166/08) and is published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 28, No. 52. See the NIHR Funding and Awards website for further award information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Marshman
- School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Hannah Ainsworth
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Caroline Fairhurst
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Katie Whiteside
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Debbie Sykes
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Anju Keetharuth
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Sarab El Yousfi
- School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emma Turner
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Peter F Day
- School of Dentistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Community Dental Service, Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford, UK
| | | | - Simon Dixon
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Ian Kellar
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Fiona Gilchrist
- School of Clinical Dentistry, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Sue Pavitt
- School of Dentistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Donna Dey
- School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - David Torgerson
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Lesley Pollard
- Children and Young People's Empowerment Project, Sheffield, UK
| | - Emma Manser
- Children and Young People's Empowerment Project, Sheffield, UK
| | - Nassar Seifo
- School of Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | | | | | - Claire Jones
- School of Medicine, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Kate Hicks
- York Trials Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Nicola Innes
- School of Dentistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Adu Henaku E, Sambah F, Quansah F, Agormedah EK, Srem-Sai M, Hagan JE, Ankomah F, Ankomah-Sey VR, Schack T. Stress-related experiences and intentions to quit studies among female married postgraduate distance education students in Ghana. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:348. [PMID: 38877581 PMCID: PMC11177448 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01839-x] [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: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although postgraduate studies have been shown to be associated with stressful experiences, students reading programmes through the distance and e-learning mode experience greater levels of stress due to several reasons. These stressful encounters might be heightened in female married postgraduates on distance education programmes due to other family-work-related engagements. This study investigated the stress-related experiences and intentions to quit studies among female married students on a distance education programme in Ghana. METHODS Using a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design, 164 married postgraduate distance education students were sampled to participate by responding to a questionnaire. Follow-up interviews were conducted with 10 participants to offer insight into the quantitative findings. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentages, while the qualitative data were thematically analysed. RESULTS Stress was prevalent among the female married distance education students, with the majority having intentions of quitting their studies. The stressors identified ranged from personal (i.e., work and family demands) to institutional ones (i.e., academic load, unresolved complaints and high financial demands from the programme). CONCLUSIONS Key findings suggest that female married postgraduate distance education students perform multiple roles as full-time employees with family and academic demands that can negatively impact their health and academic work. Implications and recommendations of the findings are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Adu Henaku
- Department of Family Life Management Education, University of Education, P. O. Box 25, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Francis Sambah
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Frank Quansah
- Department of Educational Foundations, University of Education, P. O. Box 25, Winneba, Ghana
| | - Edmond Kwesi Agormedah
- Department of Business & Social Sciences Education, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Medina Srem-Sai
- Department of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Sports, University of Education, P. O. Box 25, Winneba, Ghana
| | - John Elvis Hagan
- Department of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany.
| | - Francis Ankomah
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Cape Coast, PMB Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
- Department of Educational Studies, Patton College of Education, Ohio University, 45701, Athens, OH, USA
| | | | - Thomas Schack
- Neurocognition and Action-Biomechanics-Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sports Science, Bielefeld University, Postfach 10 01 31, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany
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Brodeur S, Oliver D, Ahmed MS, Radua J, Venables J, Gao Y, Gigante V, Veneziano G, Vinci G, Chesney E, Nandha S, De Micheli A, Basadonne I, Floris V, Salazar de Pablo G, Fusar-Poli P. Why we need to pursue both universal and targeted prevention to reduce the incidence of affective and psychotic disorders: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 161:105669. [PMID: 38599355 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105669] [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: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of universal preventive approaches in reducing the incidence of affective/psychotic disorders is unclear. We therefore aimed to synthesise the available evidence from randomised controlled trials. For studies reporting change in prevalence, we simulated all possible scenarios for the proportion of individuals with the disorder at baseline and at follow-up to exclude them. We then combined these data with studies directly measuring incidence and conducted random effects meta-analysis with relative risk (RR) to estimate the incidence in the intervention group compared to the control group. Eighteen studies (k=21 samples) were included investigating the universal prevention of depression in 66,625 individuals. No studies were available investigating universal prevention on the incidence of bipolar/psychotic disorders. 63 % of simulated scenarios showed a significant preventive effect on reducing the incidence of depression (k=9 - 19, RR=0.75-0.94, 95 %CIs=0.55-0.87,0.93-1.15, p=0.007-0.246) but did not survive sensitivity analyses. There is some limited evidence for the effectiveness of universal interventions for reducing the incidence of depression but not for bipolar/psychotic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien Brodeur
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; Département de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Université Laval, Canada
| | - Dominic Oliver
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK; NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK; OPEN early detection service, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK.
| | | | - Joaquim Radua
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; CIBERSAM, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jemma Venables
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Yueming Gao
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Vincenzo Gigante
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Veneziano
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giulia Vinci
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Edward Chesney
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Sunil Nandha
- OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE11 5DL, UK
| | - Andrea De Micheli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE11 5DL, UK
| | - Ilaria Basadonne
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valentina Floris
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Gonzalo Salazar de Pablo
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 8AF, UK; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE11 5DL, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Germany
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5
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Spies G, Huss J, Motswage O, Seedat S, Eichenberg C. Attitudes of patients and mental health professionals towards hypothetical use of serious games in psychotherapy. Health Informatics J 2024; 30:14604582241259343. [PMID: 38900576 DOI: 10.1177/14604582241259343] [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] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Serious games are increasingly being applied within healthcare, but their integration in psychotherapeutic settings is less documented. OBJECTIVES The present study sought to identify the attitudes of psychotherapists and patients towards the hypothetical use of serious games in psychotherapy in the South African context. METHODS Online surveys assessed acceptance, experience, and requirements for the utilisation of serious games in therapeutic contexts. Clients utilising mental health services (n = 209) and psychotherapists delivering mental health services (n = 156) in South Africa completed the online survey. RESULTS Knowledge about serious games is limited with only 15% of clients and 16% of therapists reporting knowledge of the existence and application of serious games. Use of serious games is even more infrequent with only 1% of therapists and 6% of clients currently using serious games as an intervention. Despite this, our findings highlight an apparent demand for their use, with 71% of therapists indicating that serious games would be a suitable adjunct treatment modality for their patients. Our results show a general openness toward the use of serious games in psychotherapy. CONCLUSION The use of serious games as an e-mental health treatment modality is conceivable for both patients and therapists, particularly as a complementary strategy to traditional face-to-face psychotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Spies
- South African Medical Research Council/Stellenbosch University Genomics of Brain Disorders Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African PTSD Programme of Excellence, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jessica Huss
- Department of Psychology, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
| | - Oscar Motswage
- Department of Psychology, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Soraya Seedat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Christiane Eichenberg
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Psychosomatic, Sigmund Freud Private University, Austria
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Khan K, Hall CL, Babbage C, Dodzo S, Greenhalgh C, Lucassen M, Merry S, Sayal K, Sprange K, Stasiak K, Tench CR, Townsend E, Stallard P, Hollis C. Precision computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (cCBT) for adolescents with depression: a pilot and feasibility randomised controlled trial protocol for SPARX-UK. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2024; 10:53. [PMID: 38532490 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-024-01475-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A serious game called SPARX (Smart, Positive, Active, Realistic, X-factor thoughts), originally developed in New Zealand and incorporating cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) principles, has been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents with mild to moderate depression in studies undertaken in Australasia. However, SPARX has never been trialled in the United Kingdom (UK), and there have been issues relating to low engagement when it has been used in a real-world context. AIMS To conduct the first pilot and feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) in England to explore the use of SPARX in different settings. The trial will explore whether SPARX supported by an e-coach (assistant psychologists) improves adherence and engagement compared with self-directed (i.e. self-help) use. The trial results will be used to inform the optimal mode of delivery (SPARX supported vs. SPARX self-directed), to calculate an appropriate sample size for a full RCT, and to decide which setting is most suitable. METHODS Following consultation with young people to ensure study suitability/appropriateness, a total of 120 adolescents (11-19 years) will be recruited for this three-arm study. Adolescents recruited for the study across England will be randomised to receive either SPARX with human support (from an e-coach), self-directed SPARX, or a waitlist control group. Assessments will be conducted online at baseline, week 4, and 8-10-week post-randomisation. The assessments will include measures which capture demographic, depression (Patient Health Questionnaire modified for adolescents [PHQ-A]) and anxiety (Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale [RCADS]) symptomatology, and health-related quality-of-life data (EQ-5D-Y and proxy version). Analyses will be primarily descriptive. Qualitative interviews will be undertaken with a proportion of the participants and clinical staff as part of a process evaluation, and the qualitative data gathered will be thematically analysed. Finally, feasibility data will be collected on recruitment details, overall study uptake and engagement with SPARX, participant retention, and youth-reported acceptability of the intervention. DISCUSSION The findings will inform the design of a future definitive RCT of SPARX in the UK. If the subsequent definitive RCT demonstrates that SPARX is effective, then an online serious game utilising CBT principles ultimately has the potential to improve the provision of care within the UK's health services if delivered en masse. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN: ISRCTN15124804. Registered on 16 January 2023, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN15124804 .
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Affiliation(s)
- K Khan
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK.
| | - C L Hall
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - C Babbage
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
| | - S Dodzo
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
| | - C Greenhalgh
- School of Computer Science, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - M Lucassen
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, University of London, London, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - S Merry
- School of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - K Sayal
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for Mood Disorders, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - K Sprange
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - K Stasiak
- School of Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - C R Tench
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
- Precision Imaging Beacon, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - E Townsend
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - P Stallard
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - C Hollis
- Mental Health & Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham, UK
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7
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Wols A, Pingel M, Lichtwarck-Aschoff A, Granic I. Effectiveness of applied and casual games for young people's mental health: A systematic review of randomised controlled studies. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 108:102396. [PMID: 38320420 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102396] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Many youth experience mental health problems and digital games hold potential as mental health interventions. This systematic review provides an overview of randomised controlled studies assessing the effectiveness of digital applied and casual games for improving mental health in youth aged 6-24 years. A systematic search of PsycINFO, Web of Science and Pubmed yielded 145 eligible studies. Studies on (sub)clinical participant samples (n = 75) most often focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and anxiety. Applied games were found most effective for improving social skills, verbal memory and anxiety, whereas casual games were found most effective for improving depression, anxiety and ADHD. Studies involving healthy youth (n = 70) were grouped into papers examining anxiety in medical settings, momentary effects on positive and negative affect, and papers employing a longitudinal design measuring mental health trait outcomes. Promising results were found for the use of games as distraction tools in medical settings, and for applied and casual games for improving momentary affect. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential of digital games for improving mental health. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed, such as developing evaluation guidelines, clearly defining applied games, harmonising outcome measures, including positive outcomes, and examining nonspecific factors that may influence symptom improvement as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniek Wols
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Michelle Pingel
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Lichtwarck-Aschoff
- Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Department of Pedagogical & Educational Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isabela Granic
- McMaster University, Health, Aging & Society, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Bos E, Preller KH, Kaur G, Malhotra P, Kharawala S, Motti D. Challenges With the Use of Digital Sham: Systematic Review and Recommendations. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e44764. [PMID: 37874638 PMCID: PMC10630857 DOI: 10.2196/44764] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital therapeutics (DTx) are software-based products that prevent, manage, or treat a medical condition and are delivered through a smartphone app, web application, or wearable device. Clinical trials assessing DTx pose challenges, foremost among which is designing appropriate digital shams (or digital placebos), which should ideally mimic DTx (in terms of design, components, and duration of treatment) while omitting the active principle or component. OBJECTIVE The objective of our review was to understand how digital shams are being used in clinical research on DTx in neuroscience, which is the most common therapy area for DTx. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review of DTx in neuroscience (including neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric disorders) with a focus on controlled clinical trials involving digital shams. Studies were identified from trial registries (ClinicalTrials.gov, the European Union Clinical Trials Register, and Trial Trove) and through structured searches in MEDLINE and Embase (both via the Embase website) and were limited to articles in English published from 2010 onward. These were supplemented by keyword-based searches in PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar and bibliographic searches. Studies assessing DTx in neuroscience (including neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric disorders) were included. Details related to the publication, DTx, comparator, patient population, and outcomes were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS Our search criteria identified 461 neuroscience studies involving 213 unique DTx. Most DTx were extended reality based (86/213, 40.4%) or mobile device based (56/213, 26.3%); 313 were comparative, of which 68 (21.7%) used shams. The most common therapeutic areas assessed in these studies were stroke (42/213, 19.7%), depression (32/213, 15%), and anxiety (24/213, 11.3%). The most common treatments were cognitive behavioral therapy or behavioral therapy (67/213, 32.4%), physical rehabilitation (60/213, 28.2%), and cognitive training (41/213, 19.2%). We identified the following important issues related to the use of digital shams in neuroscience: shams were not validated before use in studies, they varied widely in design (from being nearly identical to the DTx to using different software programs altogether), and the level of patient engagement or satisfaction with the sham and the impact of the sham on study outcomes were infrequently reported. CONCLUSIONS Digital shams are critical for the clinical development of DTx in neuroscience. Given the importance of sham controls in evaluating DTx efficacy, we provide recommendations on the key information that should be reported in a well-designed DTx trial and propose an algorithm to allow the correct interpretation of DTx study results. Sham-controlled studies should be routinely used in DTx trials-in early-phase studies-to help identify DTx active components and-in late-phase studies-to confirm the efficacy of DTx. The use of shams early in development will ensure that the appropriate sham control is used in later confirmatory trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernst Bos
- F Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Gavneet Kaur
- Bridge Medical Consulting Limited, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pooja Malhotra
- Bridge Medical Consulting Limited, London, United Kingdom
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Yang Y, Wang H, Sha W, Guo X, Deng W, Wang J, Fu C. Short Video-Based Mental Health Intervention for Depressive Symptoms in Junior High School Students: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:4169-4181. [PMID: 37868654 PMCID: PMC10588807 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s433467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Digital interventions for adolescent mental health are emerging in high-income countries, but have faced challenges and are scarce in China. This study investigated the effect of a short video-based mental health intervention on depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents. Methods A three-arm cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in four junior high schools in Shanghai from December 2020 to December 2021 with the measurement at baseline, 6 months after study entry, and 12 months. Outcomes were collected by self-completed questionnaires administered by teachers masked to allocation. The primary outcome was depressive symptoms assessed by the Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children (DSRSC). Mixed effects models were used to compare psychologist-led intervention (n=428 students) and teacher-led intervention (n=385) including six short video-based sessions to usual school provision (n=751). Results Using intention-to-treat analyses, psychologist-led intervention showed more reduction in depressive symptoms compared to usual school provision at 6 months (coefficient -1.00, 95% CI -1.94 to -0.05), but not at 12 months. Using per-protocol analyses among participants who watched at least three video episodes, both psychologist-led (-1.14, -2.20 to -0.09) and teacher-led intervention (-1.23, -2.45 to -0.02) reduced depressive symptoms compared to usual school provision at 6 months, and the effect of teacher-led intervention persisted at 12 months (-1.58, -3.13 to -0.03). Further exploration found that compared with urban students, the between-group differences for depressive symptoms in rural students were more significant (p<0.05 for interaction) and the effects were maintained at 12 months. Conclusion The short video-based mental health intervention showed potential to reduce depressive symptoms among Chinese adolescents, and the effects were more significant if the minimum video viewing frequency was reached.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Yang
- School of Public Health; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Public Health; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Sha
- Shanghai Municipal Center for Health Promotion, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoqin Guo
- Songjiang District Center for Health Promotion, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Deng
- School of Public Health; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Wang
- School of Public Health; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chaowei Fu
- School of Public Health; NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, People’s Republic of China
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10
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Werner‐Seidler A, Maston K, Calear AL, Batterham PJ, Larsen ME, Torok M, O’Dea B, Huckvale K, Beames JR, Brown L, Fujimoto H, Bartholomew A, Bal D, Schweizer S, Skinner SR, Steinbeck K, Ratcliffe J, Oei J, Venkatesh S, Lingam R, Perry Y, Hudson JL, Boydell KM, Mackinnon A, Christensen H. The Future Proofing Study: Design, methods and baseline characteristics of a prospective cohort study of the mental health of Australian adolescents. Int J Methods Psychiatr Res 2023; 32:e1954. [PMID: 36444163 PMCID: PMC10485316 DOI: 10.1002/mpr.1954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Future Proofing Study (FPS) was established to examine factors associated with the onset and course of mental health conditions during adolescence. This paper describes the design, methods, and baseline characteristics of the FPS cohort. METHODS The FPS is an Australian school-based prospective cohort study with an embedded cluster-randomized controlled trial examining the effects of digital prevention programs on mental health. Data sources include self-report questionnaires, cognitive functioning, linkage to health and education records, and smartphone sensor data. Participants are assessed annually for 5 years. RESULTS The baseline cohort (N = 6388, M = 13.9 years) is broadly representative of the Australian adolescent population. The clinical profile of participants is comparable to other population estimates. Overall, 15.1% of the cohort met the clinical threshold for depression, 18.6% for anxiety, 31.6% for psychological distress, and 4.9% for suicidal ideation. These rates were significantly higher in adolescents who identified as female, gender diverse, sexuality diverse, or Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander (all ps < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This paper provides current and comprehensive data about the status of adolescent mental health in Australia. The FPS cohort is expected to provide significant insights into the risk, protective, and mediating factors associated with development of mental health conditions during adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kate Maston
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Alison L. Calear
- Centre for Mental Health ResearchThe Australian National UniversityCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | - Philip J. Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health ResearchThe Australian National UniversityCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | - Mark E. Larsen
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Bridianne O’Dea
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Kit Huckvale
- Centre for Digital Transformation of HealthUniversity of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Joanne R. Beames
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Lyndsay Brown
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Hiroko Fujimoto
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | | | - Debopriyo Bal
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Susanne Schweizer
- School of PsychologyUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Institute of Cognitive NeuroscienceUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - S. Rachel Skinner
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent HealthFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Katharine Steinbeck
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent HealthFaculty of Medicine and HealthThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Julie Ratcliffe
- College of Nursing and Health SciencesFlinders UniversityAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Ju‐Lee Oei
- School of Women's and Children's HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Svetha Venkatesh
- Applied Artificial Intelligence InstituteDeakin UniversityBurwoodVictoriaAustralia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- School of Women's and Children's HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Yael Perry
- Telethon Kids InstituteUniversity of Western AustraliaPerthWestern AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jennifer L. Hudson
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Katherine M. Boydell
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Andrew Mackinnon
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental HealthUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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Meyerhoff J, Kruzan KP, Kim KYA, Van Orden K, Mohr DC. Exploring the Safety of a General Digital Mental Health Intervention to Effect Symptom Reduction among Individuals with and without Suicidal Ideation: A Secondary Analysis. Arch Suicide Res 2023; 27:966-983. [PMID: 35822235 PMCID: PMC9834433 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2022.2096520] [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: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Trials of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) often exclude individuals with suicide-related thoughts and behaviors precluding an understanding of whether DMHIs for affective disorders are safe for, and perform similarly within, this high-risk group. We explore the safety and performance of a DMHI for depression in participants with and without suicidal ideation (SI) at baseline. Three hundred and one participants were included in this secondary data analysis from a trial of an 8-week DMHI comprising 14 smartphone apps. We found that SI decreased across the study among participants with baseline SI and that baseline SI status did not attenuate depression treatment effects. Through a case study of the IntelliCare platform, we find that DMHIs for general affective disorders can be safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah Meyerhoff
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Department of Preventive Medicine, Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies (CBITs), 750 North Lake Shore Drive, 10 Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Kaylee P. Kruzan
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Department of Preventive Medicine, Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies (CBITs), 750 North Lake Shore Drive, 10 Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Kwang-Youn A. Kim
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Department of Preventive Medicine, 750 North Lake Shore Drive, 10 Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
| | - Kimberly Van Orden
- University of Rochester Medical Center, Department of Psychiatry, 300 Crittenden Blvd. Rochester, NY 14642
| | - David C. Mohr
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Department of Preventive Medicine, Center for Behavioral Intervention Technologies (CBITs), 750 North Lake Shore Drive, 10 Floor, Chicago, IL 60611
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12
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Bevan Jones R, Hussain F, Agha SS, Weavers B, Lucassen M, Merry S, Stallard P, Simpson SA, Rice F. Digital technologies to support adolescents with depression and anxiety: review. BJPSYCH ADVANCES 2023; 29:239-253. [PMID: 37521105 PMCID: PMC10374830 DOI: 10.1192/bja.2022.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are common in adolescents, but most affected will not get any formal help. Digital mental health technologies (i.e. resources and interventions to support and improve mental health) are a potential way to extend the reach and increase adolescents' access to therapies, at a relatively low cost. Many young people can access the internet and mobile technologies, including in low- and middle-income countries. There has been increased interest in integrating technologies in a range of settings, especially because of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health, at a time when services are under pressure. This clinical review gives an overview of digital technologies to support the prevention and management of depression and anxiety in adolescence. The technologies are presented in relation to their technological approaches, underlying psychological or other theories, setting, development, evaluations to date and how they might be accessed. There is also a discussion of the potential benefits, challenges and future developments in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhys Bevan Jones
- Senior Clinical Research Fellow in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, and a psychiatrist with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - Faris Hussain
- Academic Foundation Year 2 doctor with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - Sharifah Shameem Agha
- Lecturer with Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and an honorary lecturer in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
| | - Bryony Weavers
- Research assistant in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
| | - Mathijs Lucassen
- Senior lecturer in mental health in the Department of Health and Social Care, The Open University, UK, and an honorary senior lecturer in psychological medicine at the University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally Merry
- Professor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at the University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Paul Stallard
- Professor of Child and Family Mental Health in the Department for Health at the University of Bath, England, UK
| | - Sharon Anne Simpson
- Professor of Behavioural Sciences and Health in the Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office (MRC/CSO) Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Frances Rice
- Professor of Developmental Psychopathology in the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Wales, UK
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13
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Subotic-Kerry M, Braund TA, Gallen D, Li SH, Parker BL, Achilles MR, Chakouch C, Baker S, Werner-Seidler A, O'Dea B. Examining the impact of a universal positive psychology program on mental health outcomes among Australian secondary students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:70. [PMID: 37308960 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00623-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to examine the impact of a web-based positive psychology program delivered universally to secondary school students during school closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in New South Wales, Australia. METHODS Using a quasi-experimental design conducted in 2020, 438 students aged 12-15 years (73% male) from 4 secondary schools were invited to complete the 'Bite Back Mental Fitness Challenge'. This web-based program consisted of 7 self-directed modules that targeted 5 key domains of positive psychology. Self-reported symptoms of anxiety and depression and help-seeking intentions for mental health were assessed at baseline prior to school closures (February to March 2020) and at post-test after the return to school (July to August 2020). At post-test, students also reported on their perceived changes in mental health and help-seeking behavior for mental health during the pandemic. Completion of the program modules was recorded. RESULTS A total of 445 students consented and 336 (75.5%) completed both assessments. On average, participants completed 2.31 modules (SD: 2.38, range: 0 to 7). There was no change in symptoms of anxiety and depression or help-seeking intentions between baseline and post-test, with no significant effects for gender and history of mental illness. Students who were symptomatic for anxiety and depression at baseline reported lower symptoms at post-test, but this change was not significant. Ninety-seven students (27.5%) reported that their mental health had worsened during the pandemic, and a significant increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms was found in this subsample at post-test. Only 7.7% of students reported a change in their help-seeking behavior, with increased mental health support sought from the Internet, parents, and friends. CONCLUSIONS The universal delivery of a web-based positive psychology program during school closures did not appear to be associated with improved mental health symptoms; however, completion of the modules was low. Different effects may emerge when selectively delivered to students with mild or greater symptoms. The findings also suggest that broader measures of mental health and wellbeing, including perceived change, are key to the mental health surveillance of students during periods of remote learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjana Subotic-Kerry
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Taylor A Braund
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dervla Gallen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Sophie H Li
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Belinda L Parker
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Melinda R Achilles
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Cassandra Chakouch
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Baker
- Orygen, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Aliza Werner-Seidler
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Bridianne O'Dea
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Hospital Road, Randwick, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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14
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Beames JR, Werner-Seidler A, Hodgins M, Brown L, Fujimoto H, Bartholomew A, Maston K, Huckvale K, Zbukvic I, Torok M, Christensen H, Batterham PJ, Calear AL, Lingam R, Boydell KM. Implementing a Digital Depression Prevention Program in Australian Secondary Schools: Cross-Sectional Qualitative Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2023; 6:e42349. [PMID: 37307051 PMCID: PMC10337254 DOI: 10.2196/42349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is common during adolescence and is associated with adverse educational, employment, and health outcomes in later life. Digital programs are increasingly being implemented in schools to improve and protect adolescent mental health. Although digital depression prevention programs can be effective, there is limited knowledge about how contextual factors influence real-world delivery at scale in schools. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the contextual factors that influence the implementation of the Future Proofing Program (FPP) from the perspectives of school staff. The FPP is a 2-arm hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial evaluating whether depression can be prevented at scale in schools, using an evidence-based smartphone app delivered universally to year 8 students (13-14 years of age). METHODS Qualitative interviews were conducted with 23 staff from 20 schools in New South Wales, Australia, who assisted with the implementation of the FPP. The interviews were guided by our theory-driven logic model. Reflexive thematic analysis, using both deductive and inductive coding, was used to analyze responses. RESULTS Staff perceived the FPP as a novel ("innovative approach") and appropriate way to address an unmet need within schools ("right place at the right time"). Active leadership and counselor involvement were critical for planning and engaging; teamwork, communication, and staff capacity were critical for execution ("ways of working within schools"). Low student engagement and staffing availability were identified as barriers for future adoption and implementation by schools ("reflecting on past experiences"). CONCLUSIONS Four superordinate themes pertaining to the program, implementation processes, and implementation barriers were identified from qualitative responses by school staff. On the basis of our findings, we proposed a select set of recommendations for future implementation of digital prevention programs delivered at scale in schools. These recommendations were designed to facilitate an organizational change and help staff to implement digital mental health programs within their schools. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Michael Hodgins
- Population Child Health Clinical Research Group, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lyndsay Brown
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hiroko Fujimoto
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Kate Maston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kit Huckvale
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabel Zbukvic
- Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- Population Child Health Clinical Research Group, School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Edge D, Watkins ER, Limond J, Mugadza J. The efficacy of self-guided internet and mobile-based interventions for preventing anxiety and depression - A systematic review and meta-analysis. Behav Res Ther 2023; 164:104292. [PMID: 37003138 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2023.104292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent mental disorders which are associated with a considerable personal and economic burden. As treatment alone has a minimal impact on prevalence, there is now a growing focus on interventions which may help prevent anxiety and depression. Internet and mobile based interventions have been identified as a useful avenue for the delivery of preventative programmes due to their scalability and accessibility. The efficacy of interventions that do not require additional support from a trained professional (self-guided) in this capacity is yet to be explored. METHOD A systematic search was conducted on the Cochrane Library, PubMed, PsycARTICLES, PsycINFO, OVID, MEDline, PsycEXTRA and SCOPUS databases. Studies were selected according to defined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The primary outcome was evaluating the effect of self-guided internet and mobile based interventions on incidence of anxiety and depression. The secondary outcome was effect on symptom severity. RESULTS After identifying and removing duplicates, 3211 studies were screened, 32 of which were eligible for inclusion in the final analysis. Nine studies also reported incidence data (depression = 7, anxiety = 2). The overall Risk Ratios for incidence of anxiety and depression were 0.86 (95% CI [0.28, 2.66], p = .79) and 0.67 (95% CI [0.48, 0.93], p = .02) respectively. Analysis for 27 studies reporting severity of depressive symptoms revealed a significant posttreatment standardised mean difference of -0.27 (95% CI [ -0.37, -0.17], p < .001) for self-guided intervention groups relative to controls. A similar result was observed for 29 studies reporting severity of anxiety symptoms with a standardised mean difference of -0.21 (95% CI [-0.31, -0.10], p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Self-guided internet and mobile based interventions appear to be effective at preventing incidence of depression, though further examination of the data suggests that generalisability of this finding may be limited. While self-guided interventions also appear effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, their ability to prevent incidence of anxiety is less clear. A heavy reliance on symptom measures in the data analysed suggests future research could benefit from prioritising the use of standardised diagnostic measuring tools to assess incidence. Future systematic reviews should aim to include more data from grey literature and reduce the impact of study heterogeneity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Edge
- Mood Disorders Centre, School of Psychology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom.
| | - Edward R Watkins
- Mood Disorders Centre, School of Psychology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny Limond
- Mood Disorders Centre, School of Psychology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Mugadza
- Mood Disorders Centre, School of Psychology, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
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Gliosci R, Barros Pontes E Silva T. Therapeutic Interventions with Videogames in Treatments for Depression: A Systematic Review. Games Health J 2023. [PMID: 36946750 DOI: 10.1089/g4h.2022.0094] [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: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Particularly in the last 2 years, due to the new coronavirus pandemic, people with depression have increasingly sought human connection and relief from depressive symptoms through playing in the world of videogames, and a small yet growing portion of researchers have been investigating the therapeutic potential of that kind of interaction. Objective: The objective of this review was to provide an exploration of the current panorama of scientific research with videogames used as therapeutic intervention tools for depression. Method: A systematic review was performed for that purpose, with a semantic field of 12 keywords around the terms "depression," "mental health," and "video games" narrowed down into a concise syntax-(games OR serious games) AND (depression) AND (treatment)-applied to relevant databases for health research; followed by the execution of a search and screening protocol based on one guiding question; and analysis of results based on four elaborative questions. Results: Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria and provided a set of both quantitative and qualitative data about demographics, kinds of therapeutic interventions, types of videogames used in the interventions, places, and forms of interaction. Conclusion: Important gaps were found in the review, such as a lack of research aimed at the age group most affected by the disorder, who is also the largest consumer of games; and fresh opportunities to expand the understanding of the subject as well as guide developments of game-based therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Gliosci
- Department of Design, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
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17
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Walsh EH, Herring MP, McMahon J. A Systematic Review of School-Based Suicide Prevention Interventions for Adolescents, and Intervention and Contextual Factors in Prevention. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2023; 24:365-381. [PMID: 36301381 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-022-01449-2] [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] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death among adolescents, globally. Though post-primary, school-based suicide prevention (PSSP) has the potential to be a key strategy for preventing adolescent suicidal thoughts and behaviours (STBs), there are persisting challenges to translating PSSP research to practice. Intervention and contextual factors relevant to PSSP are likely key to both PSSP effectiveness and implementation. As such, this systematic review aimed to summarise the effectiveness of PSSP for adolescent STBs and highlight important intervention and contextual factors with respect to PSSP. PsycINFO, Medline, Education Source, ERIC, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched to identify randomised and non-randomised studies evaluating the effectiveness of interventions located in post-primary, school-based settings targeting adolescent STBs. PSSP effectiveness and intervention and contextual factors were synthesised narratively. Twenty-eight studies were retained, containing nearly 47,000 participants. Twelve out of twenty-nine trials comparing intervention and independent control comparators reported statistically significant reductions in STBs postintervention, and 5/7 trials comparing preintervention and postintervention scores demonstrated significant reductions in STBs over time. Reporting and analysis of intervention and contextual factors were lacking across studies, but PSSP effectiveness and intervention acceptability varied across type of school. Although school personnel commonly delivered PSSP interventions, their input and perspectives on PSSP interventions were lacking. Notably, adolescents had little involvement in designing, inputting on, delivering and sharing their perspectives on PSSP interventions. Twenty out of twenty-eight studies were rated as moderate/high risk of bias, with non-randomised trials demonstrating greater risks of bias and trial effectiveness, in comparison to cluster randomised trials. Future research should prioritise complete reporting and analysis of intervention and contextual factors with respect to PSSP, involving key stakeholders (including adolescents and school personnel) in PSSP, and investigating key stakeholders' perspectives on PSSP. Given the inverse associations between both study quality and study design with PSSP effectiveness, particular consideration to study quality and design in PSSP research is needed. Future practice should consider PSSP interventions with universal components and PSSP which supports and involves key stakeholders in engaging with PSSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eibhlin H Walsh
- School, Child & Youth (SCY) Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
- National Institute of Studies in Education, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.
| | - Matthew P Herring
- Physical Activity for Health Cluster, Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Jennifer McMahon
- School, Child & Youth (SCY) Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- National Institute of Studies in Education, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
- Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Walsh EH, McMahon J, Herring MP. Research Review: The effect of school-based suicide prevention on suicidal ideation and suicide attempts and the role of intervention and contextual factors among adolescents: a meta-analysis and meta-regression. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:836-845. [PMID: 35289410 PMCID: PMC9544521 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, suicide is the fourth highest cause of adolescent mortality (Suicide: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/suicide). The effects of post-primary school-based suicide prevention (PSSP) on adolescent suicidal thoughts and behaviours (STBs) have not been comprehensively synthesised. We aim to estimate the population effect for PSSP interventions on adolescent STBs and explore how intervention effects vary based on intervention and contextual moderators. METHODS Searches of PsycINFO, Medline, Education Source, ERIC, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials identified cluster randomised trials examining the effectiveness of PSSP on adolescent STBs. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool assessed bias. Crude and adjusted back-transformed odds ratios (ORs) were calculated. Multilevel random-effects models accounted for dependencies of effects. Univariate meta-regression explored variability of intervention and contextual moderators on pooled effects. RESULTS There were 19 and 12 effects for suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SA). Compared with controls, interventions were associated with 13% (OR = 0.87, 95%CI [0.78, 0.96]) and 34% (OR = 0.66, 95%CI [0.47, 0.91]) lower crude odds reductions for SI and SA, respectively. Effects were similar for adjusted SI (OR = 0.85, 95%CI [0.75, 0.95]) and SA (OR = 0.72, 95%CI [0.59, 0.87]) models. Within-study (0.20-9.10%) and between-study (0-51.20%) heterogeneity ranged for crude and adjusted SA models and SI heterogeneity was 0%. Moderator analyses did not vary SA effects (ps > .05). CONCLUSIONS This meta-analysis contributes to the PSSP evidence-base by demonstrating that PSSP targeting STBs as both primary intervention outcomes and with other health and well-being outcomes reduced SI and SA among 33,155 adolescents attending 329 schools, compared to controls. The number needed to treat estimates suggests the potential of reducing the incidence of SA and SI in one adolescent by implementing PSSP in 1-2 classrooms, supporting PSSP as a clinically relevant suicide prevention strategy. Although moderator analyses were nonsignificant and contained a small number of trials, larger SA effect sizes support particular effectiveness for interventions of a duration of ≤1 week, involving multiple stakeholders and with a 12-month follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eibhlin H. Walsh
- School, Child & Youth (SCY) Mental Health and Wellbeing Research LabNational Institute of Studies in EducationHealth Research InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Jennifer McMahon
- School, Child & Youth (SCY) Mental Health and Wellbeing Research LabNational Institute of Studies in EducationHealth Research InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
| | - Matthew P. Herring
- Physical Activity for Health Cluster, Health Research InstituteUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
- Department of Physical Education and Sports SciencesUniversity of LimerickLimerickIreland
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Yu T, Xu J, Jiang Y, Hua H, Zhou Y, Guo X. School educational models and child mental health among K-12 students: a scoping review. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:32. [PMID: 35477408 PMCID: PMC9047301 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00469-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The promotion of mental health among children and adolescents is a public health imperative worldwide, and schools have been proposed as the primary and targeted settings for mental health promotion for students in grades K-12. This review sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of key factors involved in models of school education contributing to student mental health development, interrelationships among these factors and the cross-cultural differences across nations and societies. METHODS This scoping review followed the framework of Arksey and O'Malley and holistically reviewed the current evidence on the potential impacts of school-related factors or school-based interventions on student mental health in recent 5 years based on the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and PsycExtra databases. RESULTS/FINDINGS After screening 558 full-texts, this review contained a total of 197 original articles on school education and student mental health. Based on the five key factors (including curriculum, homework and tests, physical activities, interpersonal relationships and after-school activities) identified in student mental development according to thematic analyses, a multi-component school educational model integrating academic, social and physical factors was proposed so as to conceptualize the five school-based dimensions for K-12 students to promote student mental health development. CONCLUSIONS The lessons learned from previous studies indicate that developing multi-component school strategies to promote student mental health remains a major challenge. This review may help establish appropriate school educational models and call for a greater emphasis on advancement of student mental health in the K-12 school context among different nations or societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yu
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jian Xu
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Yining Jiang
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Hui Hua
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yulai Zhou
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiangrong Guo
- The International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No. 910 Hengshan Road, Shanghai, 200030, China
- MOE-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Department of Child and Adolescent Healthcare, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
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Chen M, Chan KL. Effectiveness of Digital Health Interventions on Unintentional Injury, Violence, and Suicide: Meta-Analysis. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2022; 23:605-619. [PMID: 33094703 DOI: 10.1177/1524838020967346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Digital technologies are increasingly used in health-care delivery and are being introduced into work to prevent unintentional injury, violence, and suicide to reduce mortality. To understand the potential of digital health interventions (DHIs) to prevent and reduce these problems, we conduct a meta-analysis and provide an overview of their effectiveness and characteristics related to the effects. We searched electronic databases and reference lists of relevant reviews to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in or before March 2020 evaluating DHIs on injury, violence, or suicide reduction. Based on the 34 RCT studies included in the meta-analysis, the overall random effect size was 0.21, and the effect sizes for reducing suicidal ideation, interpersonal violence, and unintentional injury were 0.17, 0.24, and 0.31, respectively, which can be regarded as comparable to the effect sizes of traditional face-to-face interventions. However, there was considerable heterogeneity between the studies. In conclusion, DHIs have great potential to reduce unintentional injury, violence, and suicide. Future research should explore DHIs' successful components to facilitate future implementation and wider access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengtong Chen
- Department of Social Work, 26679Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
| | - Ko Ling Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, 26680The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hunghom, Hong Kong
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Núñez D, Gaete J, Meza D, Andaur J, Robinson J. Testing the Effectiveness of a Blended Intervention to Reduce Suicidal Ideation among School Adolescents in Chile: A Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19073947. [PMID: 35409630 PMCID: PMC8997451 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19073947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Suicidal ideation is prevalent in adolescents and is a marker for subsequent psychiatric vulnerability and symptom severity. Literature shows that blended care (integrating online and offline components in a treatment process) could improve the effectiveness and adherence of interventions targeting suicidal ideation in adolescents, but the evidence is inconclusive. Thus, we will test the effectiveness of a blended intervention to reduce suicidal ideation (primary outcome) in school settings using a single-blind two-armed cluster randomized controlled trial (cRCT). The internet-based component corresponds to the Reframe-IT, a program encompassing eight online sessions based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. The face-to-face intervention will be delivered through four CBT sessions. Additionally, we will assess the effect of the intervention on the following secondary outcomes: suicidal attempts, depressive symptoms, hopelessness, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills. Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at post-intervention, 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month follow-up. Finally, we will explore the mediation role of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral correlates of suicide on the effect of the intervention. Results will inform whether the intervention can reduce suicide among school adolescents and be implemented on a large scale in Chile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Núñez
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (D.M.); (J.A.)
- Millennium Nucleus to Improve the Mental Health of Adolescents and Youths, Imhay, Santiago 8320000, Chile
- Associative Research Program, Center of Cognitive Sciences, Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile
- Correspondence: (D.N.); (J.G.); Tel.: +56-9-2201775 (D.N.); +56-2-2618-2277 (J.G.)
| | - Jorge Gaete
- Millennium Nucleus to Improve the Mental Health of Adolescents and Youths, Imhay, Santiago 8320000, Chile
- Faculty of Education, Universidad de los Andes, Monseñor Álvaro del Portillo, 12455 Santiago, Chile
- Correspondence: (D.N.); (J.G.); Tel.: +56-9-2201775 (D.N.); +56-2-2618-2277 (J.G.)
| | - Daniela Meza
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (D.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Javiera Andaur
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3460000, Chile; (D.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Jo Robinson
- Orygen, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia;
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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Abd-Alrazaq A, Alajlani M, Alhuwail D, Schneider J, Akhu-Zaheya L, Ahmed A, Househ M. The Effectiveness of Serious Games in Alleviating Anxiety: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JMIR Serious Games 2022; 10:e29137. [PMID: 35156932 PMCID: PMC8887639 DOI: 10.2196/29137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety is a mental disorder characterized by apprehension, tension, uneasiness, and other related behavioral disturbances. One of the nonpharmacological treatments used for reducing anxiety is serious games, which are games that have a purpose other than entertainment. The effectiveness of serious games in alleviating anxiety has been investigated by several systematic reviews; however, they were limited by design and methodological weaknesses. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess the effectiveness of serious games in alleviating anxiety by summarizing the results of previous studies and providing an up-to-date review. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The following seven databases were searched: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ACM Digital Library, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We also conducted backward and forward reference list checking for the included studies and relevant reviews. Two reviewers independently carried out the study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality of evidence appraisal. We used a narrative and statistical approach, as appropriate, to synthesize the results of the included studies. RESULTS Of the 935 citations retrieved, 33 studies were included in this review. Of these, 22 RCTs were eventually included in the meta-analysis. Very low-quality evidence from 9 RCTs and 5 RCTs showed no statistically significant effect of exergames (games entailing physical exercises) on anxiety levels when compared with conventional exercises (P=.70) and no intervention (P=.27), respectively. Although 6 RCTs demonstrated a statistically and clinically significant effect of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy games on anxiety levels when compared with no intervention (P=.01), the quality of the evidence reported was low. Similarly, low-quality evidence from 3 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant effect of biofeedback games on anxiety levels when compared with conventional video games (P=.03). CONCLUSIONS This review shows that exergames can be as effective as conventional exercises in alleviating anxiety; computerized cognitive behavioral therapy games and exergames can be more effective than no intervention, and biofeedback games can be more effective than conventional video games. However, our findings remain inconclusive, mainly because there was a high risk of bias in the individual studies included, the quality of meta-analyzed evidence was low, few studies were included in some meta-analyses, patients without anxiety were recruited in most studies, and purpose-shifted serious games were used in most studies. Therefore, serious games should be considered complementary to existing interventions. Researchers should use serious games that are designed specifically to alleviate depression, deliver other therapeutic modalities, and recruit a diverse population of patients with anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abd-Alrazaq
- Division of Information and Computing Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
- Artificial Intelligence Center for Precision Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohannad Alajlani
- Institute of Digital Healthcare, Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Dari Alhuwail
- Information Science Department, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Kuwait
- Health Informatics Unit, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait, Kuwait
| | - Jens Schneider
- Division of Information and Computing Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Laila Akhu-Zaheya
- Department of Adults Health Nursing, Nursing Faculty, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Arfan Ahmed
- Artificial Intelligence Center for Precision Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mowafa Househ
- Division of Information and Computing Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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Abd-Alrazaq A, Al-Jafar E, Alajlani M, Toro C, Alhuwail D, Ahmed A, Reagu SM, Al-Shorbaji N, Househ M. The Effectiveness of Serious Games for Alleviating Depression: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JMIR Serious Games 2022; 10:e32331. [PMID: 35029530 PMCID: PMC8800090 DOI: 10.2196/32331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by disturbances in mood, thoughts, or behaviors. Serious games, which are games that have a purpose other than entertainment, have been used as a nonpharmacological therapeutic intervention for depression. Previous systematic reviews have summarized evidence of effectiveness of serious games in reducing depression symptoms; however, they are limited by design and methodological shortcomings. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of serious games in alleviating depression by summarizing and pooling the results of previous studies. METHODS A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. The search sources included 6 bibliographic databases (eg, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore), the search engine "Google Scholar," and backward and forward reference list checking of the included studies and relevant reviews. Two reviewers independently carried out the study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality of evidence appraisal. Results of the included studies were synthesized narratively and statistically, as appropriate, according to the type of serious games (ie, exergames or computerized cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT] games). RESULTS From an initial 966 citations retrieved, 27 studies met the eligibility criteria, and 16 studies were eventually included in meta-analyses. Very low-quality evidence from 7 RCTs showed no statistically significant effect of exergames on the severity of depressive symptoms as compared with conventional exercises (P=.12). Very low-quality evidence from 5 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant difference in the severity of depressive symptoms (P=.004) between exergame and control groups, favoring exergames over no intervention. Very low-quality evidence from 7 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant effect of computerized CBT games on the severity of depressive symptoms in comparison with no intervention (P=.003). CONCLUSIONS Serious games have the potential to alleviate depression as other active interventions do. However, we could not draw definitive conclusions regarding the effectiveness of serious games due to the high risk of bias in the individual studies examined and the low quality of meta-analyzed evidence. Therefore, we recommend that health care providers consider offering serious games as an adjunct to existing interventions until further, more robust evidence is available. Future studies should assess the effectiveness of serious games that are designed specifically to alleviate depression and deliver other therapeutic modalities, recruit participants with depression, and avoid biases by following recommended guidelines for conducting and reporting RCTs. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021232969; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=232969.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaa Abd-Alrazaq
- Division of Information and Computing Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Eiman Al-Jafar
- Health Informatics & Information Management Department, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Kuwait
| | - Mohannad Alajlani
- Institute of Digital Healthcare, Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Carla Toro
- Institute of Digital Healthcare, Warwick Manufacturing Group, University of Warwick, Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Dari Alhuwail
- Information Science Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Kuwait.,Health Informatics Unit, Dasman Diabetes Institute, Kuwait, Kuwait
| | - Arfan Ahmed
- AI Center for Precision Health, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Mowafa Househ
- Division of Information and Computing Technology, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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Freeland L, O’Reilly M, Fleury J, Adams S, Vostanis P. Digital Social and Emotional Literacy Intervention for Vulnerable Children in Brazil: Participants’ Experiences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MENTAL HEALTH PROMOTION 2022. [DOI: 10.32604/ijmhp.2022.015706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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Martinez K, Menéndez-Menéndez MI, Bustillo A. Awareness, Prevention, Detection, and Therapy Applications for Depression and Anxiety in Serious Games for Children and Adolescents: Systematic Review. JMIR Serious Games 2021; 9:e30482. [PMID: 34927589 PMCID: PMC8726021 DOI: 10.2196/30482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety in children and adolescents are major health problems worldwide. In recent years, serious games research has advanced in the development of tools to address these mental health conditions. However, there has not been an extensive analysis of these games, their tendencies, and capacities. OBJECTIVE This review aims to gather the most current serious games, published from 2015 to 2020, with a new approach focusing on their applications: awareness, prevention, detection, and therapy. The purpose is also to analyze the implementation, development, and evaluation of these tools to obtain trends, strengths, and weaknesses for future research lines. METHODS The identification of the serious games through a literature search was conducted on the databases PubMed, Scopus, Wiley, Taylor and Francis, Springer, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, Web of Science, and Science Direct. The identified records were screened to include only the manuscripts meeting these criteria: a serious game for PC, smartphone, or virtual reality; developed by research teams; targeting only depression or anxiety or both; aiming specifically at children or adolescents. RESULTS A total of 34 studies have been found that developed serious games for PC, smartphone, and virtual reality devices and tested them in children and adolescents. Most of the games address both conditions and are applied in prevention and therapy. Nevertheless, there is a trend that anxiety is targeted more in childhood and depression targeted more in adolescence. Regarding design, the game genres arcade minigames, adventure worlds, and social simulations are used, in this order. For implementation, these serious games usually require sessions of 1 hour and are most often played using a PC. Moreover, the common evaluation tools are normalized questionnaires that measure acquisition of skills or reduction of symptoms. Most studies collect and compare these data before and after the participants play. CONCLUSIONS The results show that more awareness and detection games are needed, as well as games that mix the awareness, prevention, detection, and therapy applications. In addition, games for depression and anxiety should equally target all age ranges. For future research, the development and evaluation of serious games should be standardized, so the implementation of serious games as tools would advance. The games should always offer support while playing, in addition to collecting data on participant behavior during the game to better analyze their learning. Furthermore, there is an open line regarding the use of virtual reality for these games due to the capabilities offered by this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Martinez
- Department of History, Geography and Communication, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
| | | | - Andres Bustillo
- Department of Computer Engineering, University of Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Mahon-Daly S, Jeyasingam N. A narrative literature review: the application of video games as therapeutic tools for psychological therapy. Australas Psychiatry 2021; 29:614-616. [PMID: 34157897 DOI: 10.1177/10398562211022751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Video games (games played by electronically manipulating images produced by a computer programme on a screen) are being developed with a specific focus on treating mental health. This narrative review briefly discusses the history of video games and mental health. It then provides a critical discussion on the application of video games as therapeutic tools, then discusses the notion of 'serious games' (games designed for a primary purpose other than entertainment) and their applicability. CONCLUSIONS Serious games have preliminary evidence to support their use practically in the clinical treatment of mental illness. Future randomised control trials are necessary to further explore their efficacy and potential areas of application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Mahon-Daly
- Northern Sydney Local Health District, Saint Leonards, NSW, Australia
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Warsinsky S, Schmidt-Kraepelin M, Rank S, Thiebes S, Sunyaev A. Conceptual Ambiguity Surrounding Gamification and Serious Games in Health Care: Literature Review and Development of Game-Based Intervention Reporting Guidelines (GAMING). J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e30390. [PMID: 34505840 PMCID: PMC8463952 DOI: 10.2196/30390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In health care, the use of game-based interventions to increase motivation, engagement, and overall sustainability of health behaviors is steadily becoming more common. The most prevalent types of game-based interventions in health care research are gamification and serious games. Various researchers have discussed substantial conceptual differences between these 2 concepts, supported by empirical studies showing differences in the effects on specific health behaviors. However, researchers also frequently report cases in which terms related to these 2 concepts are used ambiguously or even interchangeably. It remains unclear to what extent existing health care research explicitly distinguishes between gamification and serious games and whether it draws on existing conceptual considerations to do so. OBJECTIVE This study aims to address this lack of knowledge by capturing the current state of conceptualizations of gamification and serious games in health care research. Furthermore, we aim to provide tools for researchers to disambiguate the reporting of game-based interventions. METHODS We used a 2-step research approach. First, we conducted a systematic literature review of 206 studies, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research and its sister journals, containing terms related to gamification, serious games, or both. We analyzed their conceptualizations of gamification and serious games, as well as the distinctions between the two concepts. Second, based on the literature review findings, we developed a set of guidelines for researchers reporting on game-based interventions and evaluated them with a group of 9 experts from the field. RESULTS Our results show that less than half of the concept mentions are accompanied by an explicit definition. To distinguish between the 2 concepts, we identified four common approaches: implicit distinction, synonymous use of terms, serious games as a type of gamified system, and distinction based on the full game dimension. Our Game-Based Intervention Reporting Guidelines (GAMING) consist of 25 items grouped into four topics: conceptual focus, contribution, mindfulness about related concepts, and individual concept definitions. CONCLUSIONS Conceptualizations of gamification and serious games in health care literature are strongly heterogeneous, leading to conceptual ambiguity. Following the GAMING can support authors in rigorous reporting on study results of game-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Warsinsky
- Department of Economics and Management, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | - Sascha Rank
- Department of Economics and Management, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Scott Thiebes
- Department of Economics and Management, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Ali Sunyaev
- Department of Economics and Management, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
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Abd-alrazaq A, Alajlani M, Alhuwail D, Schneider J, Akhu-zaheya L, Ahmed A, Househ M. The Effectiveness of Serious Games in Alleviating Anxiety: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint).. [DOI: 10.2196/preprints.29137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Anxiety is a mental disorder characterized by apprehension, tension, uneasiness, and other related behavioral disturbances. One of the nonpharmacological treatments used for reducing anxiety is serious games, which are games that have a purpose other than entertainment. The effectiveness of serious games in alleviating anxiety has been investigated by several systematic reviews; however, they were limited by design and methodological weaknesses.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of serious games in alleviating anxiety by summarizing the results of previous studies and providing an up-to-date review.
METHODS
We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The following seven databases were searched: MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ACM Digital Library, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We also conducted backward and forward reference list checking for the included studies and relevant reviews. Two reviewers independently carried out the study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality of evidence appraisal. We used a narrative and statistical approach, as appropriate, to synthesize the results of the included studies.
RESULTS
Of the 935 citations retrieved, 33 studies were included in this review. Of these, 22 RCTs were eventually included in the meta-analysis. Very low–quality evidence from 9 RCTs and 5 RCTs showed no statistically significant effect of exergames (games entailing physical exercises) on anxiety levels when compared with conventional exercises (<i>P</i>=.70) and no intervention (<i>P</i>=.27), respectively. Although 6 RCTs demonstrated a statistically and clinically significant effect of computerized cognitive behavioral therapy games on anxiety levels when compared with no intervention (<i>P</i>=.01), the quality of the evidence reported was low. Similarly, low-quality evidence from 3 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant effect of biofeedback games on anxiety levels when compared with conventional video games (<i>P</i>=.03).
CONCLUSIONS
This review shows that exergames can be as effective as conventional exercises in alleviating anxiety; computerized cognitive behavioral therapy games and exergames can be more effective than no intervention, and biofeedback games can be more effective than conventional video games. However, our findings remain inconclusive, mainly because there was a high risk of bias in the individual studies included, the quality of meta-analyzed evidence was low, few studies were included in some meta-analyses, patients without anxiety were recruited in most studies, and purpose-shifted serious games were used in most studies. Therefore, serious games should be considered complementary to existing interventions. Researchers should use serious games that are designed specifically to alleviate depression, deliver other therapeutic modalities, and recruit a diverse population of patients with anxiety.
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Beames JR, Johnston L, O'Dea B, Torok M, Christensen H, Boydell KM, Werner-Seidler A. Factors That Help and Hinder the Implementation of Digital Depression Prevention Programs: School-Based Cross-sectional Study. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e26223. [PMID: 34448701 PMCID: PMC8433863 DOI: 10.2196/26223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Digital prevention programs that are delivered in a school environment can inoculate young people against depression. However, little is known about the school-based factors that help and hinder the implementation of these programs. Staff members are integral for supporting mental health programs in schools and are likely to have a wealth of expertise and knowledge about the factors that affect implementation. Objective The primary objective of this study was to explore the barriers and facilitators to implementing a digital depression prevention program in Australian secondary schools with teachers, counselors, and principals. The secondary objective was to explore variations in these factors across different school contexts, including the school type (government or nongovernment), location (capital city, regional/or rural areas), and socioeconomic status (SES) (low, medium, high). Methods This quantitative cross-sectional survey study assessed the barriers and facilitators to implementing a hypothetical digital prevention program in Australian schools. The survey was taken by 97 teachers (average age 38.3 years), 93 counselors (average age 39.5 years), and 11 principals (average age 50.9 years) across Australia between November 2017 and July 2018. Results A range of barriers and facilitators relating to logistics and resources, staff support, and program factors were endorsed by the surveyed staff. Consistent with prior research, common barriers included a lack of time and resources (ie, staff and rooms). These barriers were particularly evident in government, rural/regional, and low socioeconomic schools. Other barriers were specific to digital delivery, including privacy issues and a lack of clarity around staff roles and responsibilities. Facilitators included upskilling staff through training, embedding the program into the curriculum, and other program factors including universal delivery, screening of students’ mental health, and clear referral pathways. Knowledge about the program efficacy was also perceived as important by a large proportion of the respondents. Conclusions The digital depression prevention program was perceived as suitable for use within different schools in Australia, although certain factors need to be considered to enable effective implementation. Logistics and resources, support, and program factors were identified as particularly important for school-based implementation. To maximize the effectiveness in delivering digital programs, implementation may need to be tailored to the staff roles and school types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Lara Johnston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Bridianne O'Dea
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
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Birrell L, Furneaux-Bate A, Chapman C, Newton NC. A Mobile Peer Intervention for Preventing Mental Health and Substance Use Problems in Adolescents: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (The Mind Your Mate Study). JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e26796. [PMID: 34328426 PMCID: PMC8367112 DOI: 10.2196/26796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anxiety, mood, and substance use disorders have significant social and economic impacts, which are largely attributable to their early age of onset and chronic disabling course. Therefore, it is critical to intervene early to prevent chronic and debilitating trajectories. Objective This paper describes the study protocol of a CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials)-compliant randomized controlled trial for evaluating the effectiveness of the Mind your Mate program, a mobile health (mHealth) peer intervention that aims to prevent mental health (focusing on anxiety and depression) and substance use problems in adolescents. Methods Participants will consist of approximately 840 year 9 or year 10 students (60 students per grade per school) from 14 New South Wales high schools in Sydney, Australia. Schools will be recruited from a random selection of independent and public schools across the New South Wales Greater Sydney Area by using publicly available contact details. The intervention will consist of 1 introductory classroom lesson and a downloadable mobile app that will be available for use for 12 months. Schools will be randomly allocated to receive either the mHealth peer intervention or a waitlist control (health education as usual). All students will be given web-based self-assessments at baseline and at 6- and 12-month follow-ups. The primary outcomes of the trial will be the self-reported use of alcohol and drugs, anxiety and depression symptoms, knowledge about mental health and substance use, motives for not drinking, and willingness to seek help. Secondary outcomes will include positive well-being, the quality of life, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyses will be conducted using mixed-effects linear regression analyses for normally distributed data and mixed-effects logistic regression analyses for categorical data. Results The Mind your Mate study was funded by an Australian Rotary Health Bruce Edwards Postdoctoral Research Fellowship from 2019 to 2022. Some of the development costs for the Mind your Mate intervention came from a seed funding grant from the Brain and Mind Centre of the University of Sydney. The enrollment of schools began in July 2020; 12 of 14 schools were enrolled at the time of submission. Baseline assessments are currently underway, and the first results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2022. Conclusions The Mind your Mate study will generate vital new knowledge about the effectiveness of a peer support prevention strategy in real-world settings for the most common mental disorders in youth. If effective, this intervention will constitute a scalable, low-cost prevention strategy that has significant potential to reduce the impact of mental and substance use disorders. Trial Registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12620000753954; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=379738&isReview=true International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/26796
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Birrell
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ainsley Furneaux-Bate
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Cath Chapman
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola C Newton
- The Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Abd-alrazaq A, Al-jafar E, Alajlani M, Toro C, Alhuwail D, Ahmed A, Reagu SM, Al-shorbaji N, Househ M. The Effectiveness of Serious Games for Alleviating Depression: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint).. [DOI: 10.2196/preprints.32331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Depression is a common mental disorder characterized by disturbances in mood, thoughts, or behaviors. Serious games, which are games that have a purpose other than entertainment, have been used as a nonpharmacological therapeutic intervention for depression. Previous systematic reviews have summarized evidence of effectiveness of serious games in reducing depression symptoms; however, they are limited by design and methodological shortcomings.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of serious games in alleviating depression by summarizing and pooling the results of previous studies.
METHODS
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) statement. The search sources included 6 bibliographic databases (eg, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, IEEE Xplore), the search engine “Google Scholar,” and backward and forward reference list checking of the included studies and relevant reviews. Two reviewers independently carried out the study selection, data extraction, risk of bias assessment, and quality of evidence appraisal. Results of the included studies were synthesized narratively and statistically, as appropriate, according to the type of serious games (ie, exergames or computerized cognitive behavioral therapy [CBT] games).
RESULTS
From an initial 966 citations retrieved, 27 studies met the eligibility criteria, and 16 studies were eventually included in meta-analyses. Very low-quality evidence from 7 RCTs showed no statistically significant effect of exergames on the severity of depressive symptoms as compared with conventional exercises (<i>P</i>=.12). Very low-quality evidence from 5 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant difference in the severity of depressive symptoms (<i>P</i>=.004) between exergame and control groups, favoring exergames over no intervention. Very low-quality evidence from 7 RCTs showed a statistically and clinically significant effect of computerized CBT games on the severity of depressive symptoms in comparison with no intervention (<i>P</i>=.003).
CONCLUSIONS
Serious games have the potential to alleviate depression as other active interventions do. However, we could not draw definitive conclusions regarding the effectiveness of serious games due to the high risk of bias in the individual studies examined and the low quality of meta-analyzed evidence. Therefore, we recommend that health care providers consider offering serious games as an adjunct to existing interventions until further, more robust evidence is available. Future studies should assess the effectiveness of serious games that are designed specifically to alleviate depression and deliver other therapeutic modalities, recruit participants with depression, and avoid biases by following recommended guidelines for conducting and reporting RCTs.
CLINICALTRIAL
PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021232969; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=232969
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Anttila M, Lantta T, Ylitalo M, Kurki M, Kuuskorpi M, Välimäki M. Impact and Feasibility of Information Technology to Support Adolescent Well-Being and Mental Health at School: A Quasi-Experimental Study. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:1741-1753. [PMID: 34262287 PMCID: PMC8275109 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s311788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Health-related behaviors that arise during adolescence can have important, sometimes lifelong, implications on a person’s health. Psychiatric and neurodevelopmental diagnoses among minors have increased, and the related depressive symptoms may negatively affect quality of life. There is great potential for information technology (IT) to benefit the area of mental health for adolescents, and schools can serve as a setting in which this can be done. We tested whether the IT-based program “DepisNet” could be used as a universal school-based program to support adolescents’ well-being and mental health. Patients and Methods We used a quasi-experimental, pre-post design with two preference arms (intervention and control groups). The study setting comprised two lower secondary schools (N=151 adolescents) in one city in Finland. To analyze the impact of the program, we compared the changes in the outcome measures between the two groups using T-tests and Mann–Whitney U-tests. We analyzed the changes within the groups using T-tests and Wilcoxon tests. Results Our analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the groups in any of the outcomes (depression, quality of life, self-esteem, self-efficacy). Regarding adolescents’ quality of life, the observed change was more positive in the intervention group, compared to that of the control group (change mean 1.36 vs −0.49), although statistical significance was not achieved (p=0.10). Our results indicated encouraging results related to the feasibility components: adherence and acceptance. Conclusion Universal interventions and programs that relate to adolescent well-being and mental health can be integrated into school curricula to promote the awareness of adolescents’ general well-being and mental health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Anttila
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland
| | - Tella Lantta
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland
| | - Milla Ylitalo
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland.,Laurea University of Applied Sciences, Vantaa, Uusimaa Region, Finland
| | - Marjo Kurki
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland.,Itla Children's Foundation, Helsinki, Uusimaa Region, Finland
| | - Marko Kuuskorpi
- Piikkiö comprehensive school, Kaarina, Southwest Finland, Finland
| | - Maritta Välimäki
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Southwest Finland, Finland.,Xiangya School of Nursing, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China
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Caldwell DM, Davies SR, Thorn JC, Palmer JC, Caro P, Hetrick SE, Gunnell D, Anwer S, López-López JA, French C, Kidger J, Dawson S, Churchill R, Thomas J, Campbell R, Welton NJ. School-based interventions to prevent anxiety, depression and conduct disorder in children and young people: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/phr09080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Schools in the UK increasingly have to respond to anxiety, depression and conduct disorder as key causes of morbidity in children and young people.
Objective
The objective was to assess the comparative effectiveness of educational setting-based interventions for the prevention of anxiety, depression and conduct disorder in children and young people.
Design
This study comprised a systematic review, a network meta-analysis and an economic evaluation.
Data sources
The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE™ (Elsevier, Amsterdam, the Netherlands), PsycInfo® (American Psychological Association, Washington, DC, USA) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched to 4 April 2018, and the NHS Economic Evaluation Database (NHS EED) was searched on 22 May 2019 for economic evaluations. No language or date filters were applied.
Main outcomes
The main outcomes were post-intervention self-reported anxiety, depression or conduct disorder symptoms.
Review methods
Randomised/quasi-randomised trials of universal or targeted interventions for the prevention of anxiety, depression or conduct disorder in children and young people aged 4–18 years were included. Screening was conducted independently by two reviewers. Data extraction was conducted by one reviewer and checked by a second. Intervention- and component-level network meta-analyses were conducted in OpenBUGS. A review of the economic literature and a cost–consequence analysis were conducted.
Results
A total of 142 studies were included in the review, and 109 contributed to the network meta-analysis. Of the 109 studies, 57 were rated as having an unclear risk of bias for random sequence generation and allocation concealment. Heterogeneity was moderate. In universal secondary school settings, mindfulness/relaxation interventions [standardised mean difference (SMD) –0.65, 95% credible interval (CrI) –1.14 to –0.19] and cognitive–behavioural interventions (SMD –0.15, 95% CrI –0.34 to 0.04) may be effective for anxiety. Cognitive–behavioural interventions incorporating a psychoeducation component may be effective (SMD –0.30, 95% CrI –0.59 to –0.01) at preventing anxiety immediately post intervention. There was evidence that exercise was effective in preventing anxiety in targeted secondary school settings (SMD –0.47, 95% CrI –0.86 to –0.09). There was weak evidence that cognitive–behavioural interventions may prevent anxiety in universal (SMD –0.07, 95% CrI –0.23 to 0.05) and targeted (SMD –0.38, 95% CrI –0.84 to 0.07) primary school settings. There was weak evidence that cognitive–behavioural (SMD –0.04, 95% CrI –0.16 to 0.07) and cognitive–behavioural + interpersonal therapy (SMD –0.18, 95% CrI –0.46 to 0.08) may be effective in preventing depression in universal secondary school settings. Third-wave (SMD –0.35, 95% CrI –0.70 to 0.00) and cognitive–behavioural interventions (SMD –0.11, 95% CrI –0.28 to 0.05) incorporating a psychoeducation component may be effective at preventing depression immediately post intervention. There was no evidence of intervention effectiveness in targeted secondary, targeted primary or universal primary school settings post intervention. The results for university settings were unreliable because of inconsistency in the network meta-analysis. A narrative summary was reported for five conduct disorder prevention studies, all in primary school settings. None reported the primary outcome at the primary post-intervention time point. The economic evidence review reported heterogeneous findings from six studies. Taking the perspective of a single school budget and based on cognitive–behavioural therapy intervention costs in universal secondary school settings, the cost–consequence analysis estimated an intervention cost of £43 per student.
Limitations
The emphasis on disorder-specific prevention excluded broader mental health interventions and restricted the number of eligible conduct disorder prevention studies. Restricting the study to interventions delivered in the educational setting may have limited the number of eligible university-level interventions.
Conclusions
There was weak evidence of the effectiveness of school-based, disorder-specific prevention interventions, although effects were modest and the evidence not robust. Cognitive–behavioural therapy-based interventions may be more effective if they include a psychoeducation component.
Future work
Future trials for prevention of anxiety and depression should evaluate cognitive–behavioural interventions with and without a psychoeducation component, and include mindfulness/relaxation or exercise comparators, with sufficient follow-up. Cost implications must be adequately measured.
Study registration
This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42016048184.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 9, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah M Caldwell
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sarah R Davies
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Joanna C Thorn
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Jennifer C Palmer
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paola Caro
- School for Policy Studies, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sarah E Hetrick
- Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - David Gunnell
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
| | - Sumayya Anwer
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - José A López-López
- Department of Basic Psychology and Methodology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Clare French
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Judi Kidger
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Sarah Dawson
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | - James Thomas
- Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Co-ordinating Centre (EPPI-Centre), University College London, London, UK
| | - Rona Campbell
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Nicky J Welton
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, UK
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Facilitating improvements in young people's social relationships to prevent or treat depression: A review of empirically supported interventions. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:305. [PMID: 34021113 PMCID: PMC8139977 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01406-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Interpersonal difficulties are often implicated in the onset of depressive disorders, and typically exacerbate depressive symptoms. This is particularly true for young people, given rapid changes in, and the increased importance of, their social relationships. The purpose of this narrative review was to identify empirically supported interventions that aim to prevent or treat depression in young people by facilitating improvements in their social environment. We conducted a search of controlled trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of such interventions, published between 1980 and June 2020. Our literature search and interpretation of results was informed by consultations with clinical experts and youth consumers and advocates. A number of promising approaches were identified with respect to prevention and treatment. Preliminary evidence was identified suggesting that school- and Internet-based approaches present a viable means to prevent the worsening of depressive symptoms in young people. Notably, delivering interpersonal psychotherapy-adolescent skills training (IPT-AST) in schools appears to be a promising early intervention strategy for young people at risk of full-threshold depressive disorder. In terms of treating depressive disorders in young people, there is strong evidence for the efficacy of interpersonal psychotherapy for adolescents (IPT-A), and preliminary evidence in favour of attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Results are discussed with respect to recommendations for future research and practice.
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Desan PH, Setton MK, Holzer AA, Young KC, Sun Y, He F, Li B, Weinstein AJ, Yu X. Attitude change after a curriculum on the science and philosophy of well-being and happiness for high school students: A classroom-randomized trial. BRITISH JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 91:1333-1348. [PMID: 33893744 DOI: 10.1111/bjep.12419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple interventions have been tested to promote well-being in high school students, often focusing on depression prevention. AIMS To test the impact of a one-semester active learning curriculum covering the modern science and philosophy of well-being and happiness on attitudinal measures related to the curriculum and standard measures of depression and well-being. SAMPLE Subjects were first-year students in an urban high school in Beijing, China (equivalent to US tenth grade). METHODS Nine classrooms were randomly assigned to the intervention curriculum (n = 252), and nine classrooms were randomly assigned to a traditional psychology curriculum (n = 263). Students completed questionnaires pre- and post-semester including a Positive Attitude Scale (PAS, concerning Relatedness, Competence, Autonomy, Gratitude, Calmness, Mindfulness, and Hope), Positive and Negative Affect Scale (PANAS), Centers for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), Life Satisfaction Scale (LS), Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), Meaning in Life Questionnaire (MLQ), and a test of knowledge about well-being (Knowledge Test, KT). RESULTS In a hierarchical linear model, there were statistically significant intervention effects on six of the seven subscales of the PAS, on PANAS balance, and on the KT. CES-D, LS, SHS, and MLQ were improved but not significantly so. Notable overall secular trends in measures of well-being were observed, with a peak in September and nadir in April. CONCLUSIONS A one-semester course for high school students regarding well-being and happiness demonstrated significant changes in positive attitudes, affective balance, and knowledge about happiness. Circannual trends in well-being measures over the academic year have implications for those designing school intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul H Desan
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mark K Setton
- School of Public and International Affairs, University of Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Kevin C Young
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Psychology, Beijing High School #19, Beijing, China.,Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Fei He
- Department of Psychology, Beijing High School #19, Beijing, China
| | - Baosong Li
- Department of Psychology, Beijing High School #19, Beijing, China
| | - Andrea J Weinstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Xiaoling Yu
- Department of Psychology, Beijing High School #19, Beijing, China
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Randomised Controlled Trial of Study Without Stress: A Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Program to Reduce Stress in Students in the Final Year of High School. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2021; 52:205-216. [PMID: 33387165 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-020-01099-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Typically students in their final year of school report high levels of anxiety, depression and stress. This study evaluated Study without Stress, a group cognitive behavioural program to reduce student stress. Fifty-six final year students (77% female) from four Australian secondary schools were randomly allocated to Study without Stress delivered by school staff, or to an 8-week usual care condition. Changes in self-reported stress, anxiety, depression, self-efficacy, and teacher reported emotional problems were assessed pre to post-treatment using intent-to-treat analyses. Maintenance of changes were examined 3-months later. Compared to usual care, Study without Stress led to significant reductions in self-reported stress and distress, and increases in self-efficacy that were maintained over time, with no significant changes in anxiety, depression or teacher reported emotional problems. Study without Stress is beneficial for reducing academic stress and improving self-efficacy in final year students when delivered in a school setting.
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37
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Fleming T, Lucassen M, Stasiak K, Sutcliffe K, Merry S. Technology Matters: SPARX - computerised cognitive behavioural therapy for adolescent depression in a game format. Child Adolesc Ment Health 2021; 26:92-94. [PMID: 33393723 DOI: 10.1111/camh.12444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Adolescent depression is common, and its prevalence is thought to be increasing in many high income nations. Addressing adolescent depression has proven challenging using traditional face-to-face psychotherapies, with major barriers including workforce shortages internationally and reluctance to seek help among some adolescents. There is substantial evidence to support the use of digital tools to treat mental health problems, with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) now recommending such tools as a first-line treatment. In this article, we outline the evidence base for SPARX, a digital tool named specifically in NICE guideline NG134, and discuss its use in clinical settings. We also consider implementation issues and future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Fleming
- School of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Mathijs Lucassen
- Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Karolina Stasiak
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kylie Sutcliffe
- School of Psychology, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Sally Merry
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Beames JR, Lingam R, Boydell K, Calear AL, Torok M, Maston K, Zbukvic I, Huckvale K, Batterham PJ, Christensen H, Werner-Seidler A. Protocol for the process evaluation of a complex intervention delivered in schools to prevent adolescent depression: the Future Proofing Study. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e042133. [PMID: 33436468 PMCID: PMC7805380 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-042133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Process evaluations provide insight into how interventions are delivered across varying contexts and why interventions work in some contexts and not in others. This manuscript outlines the protocol for a process evaluation embedded in a cluster randomised trial of a digital depression prevention intervention delivered to secondary school students (the Future Proofing Study). The purpose is to describe the methods that will be used to capture process evaluation data within this trial. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Using a hybrid type 1 design, a mixed-methods approach will be used with data collected in the intervention arm of the Future Proofing Study. Data collection methods will include semistructured interviews with school staff and study facilitators, automatically collected intervention usage data and participant questionnaires (completed by school staff, school counsellors, study facilitators and students). Information will be collected about: (1) how the intervention was implemented in schools, including fidelity; (2) school contextual factors and their association with intervention reach, uptake and acceptability; (3) how school staff, study facilitators and students responded to delivering or completing the intervention. How these factors relate to trial effectiveness outcomes will also be assessed. Overall synthesis of the data will provide school cluster-level and individual-level process outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethics approval was obtained from the University of New South Wales (NSW) Human Research Ethics Committee (HC180836; 21st January 2019) and the NSW Government State Education Research Applications Process (SERAP 2019201; 19th August 2019). Results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals and discussed at conferences. Our process evaluation will contextualise the trial findings with respect to how the intervention may have worked in some schools but not in others. This evaluation will inform the development of a model for rolling out digital interventions for the prevention of mental illness in schools. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ANZCTRN12619000855123; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=377664&isReview=true.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- School of Women's and Children's Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Boydell
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alison L Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kate Maston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Isabel Zbukvic
- Orygen The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kit Huckvale
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Philip J Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aliza Werner-Seidler
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Reis S, Matthews EL, Grenyer BFS. Characteristics of effective online interventions: implications for adolescents with personality disorder during a global pandemic. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 23:488. [PMID: 33585296 PMCID: PMC7875074 DOI: 10.4081/ripppo.2020.488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the necessity of providing online interventions for adolescents, as an alternative to face-to-face interventions, has become apparent due to several barriers some adolescents face in accessing treatment. This need has become more critical with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic impacting the delivery of psychotherapy and limiting accessibility of face-to-face therapy. Whilst it has been established that face-to-face psychotherapy for adolescents with personality disorder can be effective in reducing the impact these complex mental illnesses have on functioning, online interventions for adolescents are rare, and to our knowledge there are no empirically validated online interventions for personality disorder. The development of novel online interventions are therefore necessary. To inform the development of online interventions for adolescents with personality disorder or symptoms of emerging personality disorder, a two-phase rapid review was conducted. Phase one consisted of a search and examination of existing online mental health programs for adolescents with symptoms of personality disorder, to understand how to best use online platforms. Phase two consisted of a rapid review of empirical literature examining online interventions for adolescents experiencing symptoms of personality disorder to identify characteristics that promote efficacy. There were no online programs specific to personality disorder in adolescence. However, 32 online mental health programs and 41 published empirical studies were included for analysis. Common intervention characteristics included timeframes of one to two months, regular confidential therapist contact, simple interactive online components and modules, and the inclusion of homework or workbook activities to practice new skills. There is an urgent need for online interventions targeting personality dysfunction in adolescence. Several characteristics of effective online interventions for adolescents were identified. These characteristics can help inform the development and implementation of novel online treatments to prevent and reduce the burden and impact of personality disorder, or symptoms of emerging personality disorder, in adolescents. This has implications for the COVID-19 pandemic when access to effective online interventions has become more urgent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Brin F S Grenyer
- School of Psychology.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia
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Bergin AD, Vallejos EP, Davies EB, Daley D, Ford T, Harold G, Hetrick S, Kidner M, Long Y, Merry S, Morriss R, Sayal K, Sonuga-Barke E, Robinson J, Torous J, Hollis C. Preventive digital mental health interventions for children and young people: a review of the design and reporting of research. NPJ Digit Med 2020; 3:133. [PMID: 33083568 PMCID: PMC7562906 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-020-00339-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital health interventions (DHIs) have frequently been highlighted as one way to respond to increasing levels of mental health problems in children and young people. Whilst many are developed to address existing mental health problems, there is also potential for DHIs to address prevention and early intervention. However, there are currently limitations in the design and reporting of the development, evaluation and implementation of preventive DHIs that can limit their adoption into real-world practice. This scoping review aimed to examine existing evidence-based DHI interventions and review how well the research literature described factors that researchers need to include in their study designs and reports to support real-world implementation. A search was conducted for relevant publications published from 2013 onwards. Twenty-one different interventions were identified from 30 publications, which took a universal (n = 12), selective (n = 3) and indicative (n = 15) approach to preventing poor mental health. Most interventions targeted adolescents, with only two studies including children aged ≤10 years. There was limited reporting of user co-design involvement in intervention development. Barriers and facilitators to implementation varied across the delivery settings, and only a minority reported financial costs involved in delivering the intervention. This review found that while there are continued attempts to design and evaluate DHIs for children and young people, there are several points of concern. More research is needed with younger children and those from poorer and underserved backgrounds. Co-design processes with children and young people should be recognised and reported as a necessary component within DHI research as they are an important factor in the design and development of interventions, and underpin successful adoption and implementation. Reporting the type and level of human support provided as part of the intervention is also important in enabling the sustained use and implementation of DHIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aislinn D. Bergin
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Mental Health and Technology Theme, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Elvira Perez Vallejos
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Mental Health and Technology Theme, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - E. Bethan Davies
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Mental Health and Technology Theme, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - David Daley
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for ADHD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Across the Lifespan, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Tamsin Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gordon Harold
- Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- School of Psychology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sarah Hetrick
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Orygen, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Megan Kidner
- The Children and Young People’s Mental Health Research Collaboration, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Yunfei Long
- Horizon Digital Economy Research Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, University of Essex, Colchester, UK
| | - Sally Merry
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Richard Morriss
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Mental Health and Technology Theme, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Centre East Midlands, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kapil Sayal
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Centre for ADHD and Neurodevelopmental Disorders Across the Lifespan, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Centre East Midlands, Nottingham, UK
| | - Edmund Sonuga-Barke
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jo Robinson
- Orygen, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - John Torous
- Department of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA
| | - Chris Hollis
- NIHR MindTech MedTech Co-operative, Institute of Mental Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Mental Health and Technology Theme, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- NIHR Applied Research Centre East Midlands, Nottingham, UK
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Peiris-John R, Dizon L, Sutcliffe K, Kang K, Fleming T. Co-creating a large-scale adolescent health survey integrated with access to digital health interventions. Digit Health 2020; 6:2055207620947962. [PMID: 32922828 PMCID: PMC7453446 DOI: 10.1177/2055207620947962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This paper describes how we engaged with adolescents and health providers to integrate access to digital health interventions as part of a large-scale secondary school health and wellbeing survey in New Zealand. Methods We conducted nine participatory, iterative co-design sessions involving 29 adolescents, and two workshops with young people (n = 11), digital and health service providers (n = 11) and researchers (n = 9) to gain insights into end-user perspectives on the concept and how best to integrate digital interventions in to the survey. Results Students’ perceived integrating access to digital health interventions into a large-scale youth health survey as acceptable and highly beneficial. They did not want personalized/normative feedback, but thought that every student should be offered all the help options. Participants identified key principles: assurance of confidentiality, usability, participant choice and control, and language. They highlighted wording as important for ease and comfort, and emphasised the importance of user control. Participants expressed that it would be useful and acceptable for survey respondents to receive information about digital help options addressing a range of health and wellbeing topics. Conclusion The methodology of adolescent-practitioner-researcher collaboration and partnership was central to this research and provided useful insights for the development and delivery of adolescent health surveys integrated with digital help options. The results from the ongoing study will provide useful data on the impact of digital health interventions integrated in large-scale surveys, as a novel methodology. Future research on engaging with adolescents once interventions are delivered will be useful to explore benefits over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshini Peiris-John
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lovely Dizon
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kylie Sutcliffe
- Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Kristy Kang
- Section of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population Health, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Theresa Fleming
- Faculty of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
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Tachibana Y, Koizumi N, Mikami M, Shikada K, Yamashita S, Shimizu M, Machida K, Ito H. An integrated community mental healthcare program to reduce suicidal ideation and improve maternal mental health during the postnatal period: the findings from the Nagano trial. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:389. [PMID: 32727420 PMCID: PMC7390164 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02765-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the perinatal period, suicides are more likely to occur in those with depression and who are not receiving active treatment at the time of death. Suicide is a common outcome in people with suicide ideation. We developed an intervention program taking care of comprehensive perinatal maternal mental healthcare to prevent suicide ideation. We hypothesized that our intervention program could reduce postnatal suicide ideation and improve maternal mental health. METHODS We performed a controlled trial to examine the usual postnatal care plus a maternal suicide prevention program (the intervention group) compared with usual postnatal care alone, which comprised home visits by public health nurses without mental health screening (the control group) in Nagano city, Japan. In total, 464 women were included; 230 were allocated to the control group and 234 to the intervention group. The intervention had three components: 1) all the women received postnatal mental health screening by public health nurses who completed home visits during the neonatal period, 2) the intervention was administered by a multidisciplinary clinical network, and 3) systematic follow-up sheets were used to better understand bio-psycho-social characteristics of both the mothers and their infants and develop responsive care plans. We measured the participants' mental health at 3-4 months postpartum (T1) and 7-8 months postpartum (T2) using the Japanese version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). RESULTS Suicidal ideation was significantly lower in the intervention group compared with the control group at T1 (p = 0.014); however, this significant between-group difference did not continue to T2 (p = 0.111). We measured the intervention effects on maternal mental health using the total score of the EPDS, which was significantly improved in the intervention group compared with the control group at T1. Here, the significant difference continued to T2 (p = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that our program may reduce maternal suicidal ideation at 3-4 months postnatally and improve women's mental health during the postnatal periods of 3-4 to 7-8 months. Postnatal maternal mental healthcare, including services to reduce suicide ideation, should be included as an important component of general postnatal care. TRIAL REGISTRATION Name of registry: A multidisciplinary intervention program for maternal mental health in perinatal periods. UMIN Clinical Trials Registry number: UMIN000033396 . Registration URL: https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgibin/ctr/ctr_view_reg.cgi?recptno=R000038076 Registration date: July 15, 2018. Registration timing: retrospective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyuki Tachibana
- Division of Infant and Toddler Mental Health, Department of Psychosocial Medicine, National Center for Child Health and Development, 2-10-1 Okura, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, 157-8535, Japan.
| | - Noriaki Koizumi
- Nagano Prefectural Center for Mental Health and Welfare, Nagano, Japan
| | - Masashi Mikami
- Department of Biostatistics, Clinical Research Center, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | - Hiroto Ito
- Japan Organization of Occupational Health and Safety, Kanagawa, Japan
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Ma L, Zhang Y, Huang C, Cui Z. Resilience-oriented cognitive behavioral interventions for depressive symptoms in children and adolescents: A meta-analytic review. J Affect Disord 2020; 270:150-164. [PMID: 32339107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.03.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study aimed to evaluate whether resilience-oriented cognitive behavioral interventions (CBIs) which teach cognitive, problem-solving, and social skills are effective for addressing depressive symptoms in the school setting and to investigate factors that could moderate the intervention effects. METHOD Electronic databases Medline, PsycINFO and Cochrane Central were searched to identify potentially relevant trials. The difference of change from baseline in depressive symptoms between intervention and control condition was assessed. Mean effect sizes (Hedges'g) were calculated using random-effects models. Study-specific characteristics relevant to participant demographics (age, gender, and risk status), intervention conditions (program type, intervention duration, group leader type, and use of homework), and study features (sample size, and methodological quality) were evaluated as potential moderators of the effect size. RESULTS 38 controlled studies were identified, including 24,135 individuals. At post-intervention, the mean effect size was considered significantly small (Hedges'g = 0.13) and subgroup analyses revealed significant effect sizes for programs administered to both universal and targeted samples, programs both with and without homework, and programs led by school personnel. The mean effect size was largely maintained at 6 months follow-up and subgroup analyses indicated significant effect sizes for programs administered to targeted samples, programs based on Penn Resiliency Program, programs with homework, and programs led by professional interventionists. CONCLUSION This study reinforces the efficacy of resilience-oriented CBIs for addressing depressive symptoms in the school setting. Although more research is needed to confirm and extend the findings of this study, our findings suggest a range of directions in particular for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ma
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yingnan Zhang
- The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Cong Huang
- Department of Sports and Exercise Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Department of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Zeshi Cui
- School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Yokomitsu K, Irie T, Sekiguchi M, Shimizu A, Matsuoka H, Merry SN, Stasiak K. Gamified Mobile Computerized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Japanese University Students With Depressive Symptoms: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e15164. [PMID: 32254045 PMCID: PMC7175183 DOI: 10.2196/15164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence shows that computerized self-help interventions are effective for reducing symptoms of depression. One such intervention, SPARX, is a gamified mobile computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (cCBT) developed for adolescents in New Zealand, which was shown to be as effective as usual care for young people with mild-to-moderate symptoms of depression. However, gamified cCBT has not yet been tested in Japan. OBJECTIVE This trial is designed to investigate whether a Japanese-adapted version of SPARX improves depressive symptoms in Japanese university students with mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms. METHODS In this 7-week, multicenter, stratified, parallel-group, superiority randomized trial, participants will be allocated to either a treatment condition (SPARX) or a wait-list control condition. SPARX is a fully automated program, which will be delivered to the mobile phone or tablet device of the participants. SPARX is designed as an interactive fantasy game to guide the user through seven modules that teach key CBT strategies. All participants will be recruited from universities via advertisements on online bulletin boards, the campus newspaper, and posters. Participants in the treatment condition will use the SPARX program weekly. The primary outcome is the reduction of depressive symptoms (using Patient Health Questionnaires-9) measured at baseline and weekly: once after the 7-week intervention and once at a 1-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include satisfaction with the program and satisfaction with life, measured by the Satisfaction With Life Scale; positive and negative moods, measured by the Profile of Mood States Second Edition; social functioning, measured by the EuroQol Instrument; rumination, measured by the Ruminative Responses Scale; and coping, measured by the Brief Coping Orientation to Problem Experienced Inventory. RESULTS This study received funding from The Research Institute of Personalized Health Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, and obtained institutional review board approval in September 2019. Data collection began in April 2019. CONCLUSIONS Results of this trial may provide further evidence for the efficacy of gamified cCBT for the treatment of depression and, specifically, provide support for using SPARX with Japanese university students. TRIAL REGISTRATION Japan Primary Registries Network UMIN000034354; https://tinyurl.com/uu7xd77. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/15164.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kengo Yokomitsu
- College of Comprehensive Psychology, Ritsumeikan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tomonari Irie
- School of Education and Culture, Hokusho University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Mayu Sekiguchi
- School of Psychological Science, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Hirofumi Matsuoka
- School of Dentistry, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sally Nicola Merry
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Karolina Stasiak
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Werner-Seidler A, Huckvale K, Larsen ME, Calear AL, Maston K, Johnston L, Torok M, O’Dea B, Batterham PJ, Schweizer S, Skinner SR, Steinbeck K, Ratcliffe J, Oei JL, Patton G, Wong I, Beames J, Wong QJJ, Lingam R, Boydell K, Salmon AM, Cockayne N, Mackinnon A, Christensen H. A trial protocol for the effectiveness of digital interventions for preventing depression in adolescents: The Future Proofing Study. Trials 2020; 21:2. [PMID: 31898512 PMCID: PMC6941300 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3901-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression frequently first emerges during adolescence, and one in five young people will experience an episode of depression by the age of 18 years. Despite advances in treatment, there has been limited progress in addressing the burden at a population level. Accordingly, there has been growing interest in prevention approaches as an additional pathway to address depression. Depression can be prevented using evidence-based psychological programmes. However, barriers to implementing and accessing these programmes remain, typically reflecting a requirement for delivery by clinical experts and high associated delivery costs. Digital technologies, specifically smartphones, are now considered a key strategy to overcome the barriers inhibiting access to mental health programmes. The Future Proofing Study is a large-scale school-based trial investigating whether cognitive behaviour therapies (CBT) delivered by smartphone application can prevent depression. METHODS A randomised controlled trial targeting up to 10,000 Year 8 Australian secondary school students will be conducted. In Stage I, schools will be randomised at the cluster level either to receive the CBT intervention app (SPARX) or to a non-active control group comparator. The primary outcome will be symptoms of depression, and secondary outcomes include psychological distress, anxiety and insomnia. At the 12-month follow-up, participants in the intervention arm with elevated depressive symptoms will participate in an individual-level randomised controlled trial (Stage II) and be randomised to receive a second CBT app which targets sleep difficulties (Sleep Ninja) or a control condition. Assessments will occur post intervention (both trial stages) and at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months post baseline. Primary analyses will use an intention-to-treat approach and compare changes in symptoms from baseline to follow-up relative to the control group using mixed-effect models. DISCUSSION This is the first trial testing the effectiveness of smartphone apps delivered to school students to prevent depression at scale. Results from this trial will provide much-needed insight into the feasibility of this approach. They stand to inform policy and commission decisions concerning if and how such programmes should be deployed in school-based settings in Australia and beyond. TRIAL REGISTRATION Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, ACTRN12619000855123. Registered on 31 May 2019. Clinical Trial Notification Scheme (CTN), CT-2019-CTN-02110-1-v1. Registered on 30 June 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kit Huckvale
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Mark E. Larsen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Alison L. Calear
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT Australia
| | - Kate Maston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Lara Johnston
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Bridianne O’Dea
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Philip J. Batterham
- Centre for Mental Health Research, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT Australia
| | - Susanne Schweizer
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - S. Rachel Skinner
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Katharine Steinbeck
- Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Julie Ratcliffe
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA Australia
| | - Ju-Lee Oei
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - George Patton
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Iana Wong
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Joanne Beames
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Quincy J. J. Wong
- School of Social Sciences and Psychology, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Raghu Lingam
- Population Child Health Clinical Research Group, School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Katherine Boydell
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Allison M. Salmon
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Nicole Cockayne
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Andrew Mackinnon
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW Australia
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Zayeni D, Raynaud JP, Revet A. Therapeutic and Preventive Use of Video Games in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: A Systematic Review. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:36. [PMID: 32116851 PMCID: PMC7016332 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past decade, the use of commercial video games and serious games has developed in child and adolescent psychiatry. These games may become relevant alternatives or adjuncts to traditional psychotherapy, providing that their effectiveness is properly established. The purpose of this literature review was to evaluate the effectiveness of serious games and commercial video games in the treatment or prevention of psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents. METHODS Medline's database was used to search articles published between January 2012 and July 2019. The following keywords were used for this search: "Video games" OR "Active video game" OR "serious gaming" OR "Serious game" OR "Exergame" AND "Child mental disorder" OR "Adolescent" OR "Child" AND "Therapy" OR "Prevention". Only comparative studies which targeted interventions on children and adolescents suffering from psychiatric disorders were included. RESULTS Twenty-two studies, focusing on a wide range of psychiatric conditions, met our inclusion criteria's: 14 evaluated serious games and 8 commercial games. All studies were randomized controlled trials but only two studies compared the intervention game to psychotherapeutic gold standard; other studies used a no-intervention control group or an alternative game as the control group. Eighteen studies reported significant improvements on the symptoms and test scores targeted. CONCLUSION Serious games and commercially available video games can be an effective trajectory for psychotherapy in child and adolescent psychiatry. However, there is a lack of longitudinal studies which assess the sustained effects of these games, and standards for proper evaluation of their effectiveness are missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darius Zayeni
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Philippe Raynaud
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,UMR 1027, Inserm, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Alexis Revet
- Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de l'Enfant et de l'Adolescent, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,UMR 1027, Inserm, Université Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
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Torok M, Han J, Baker S, Werner-Seidler A, Wong I, Larsen ME, Christensen H. Suicide prevention using self-guided digital interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. LANCET DIGITAL HEALTH 2019; 2:e25-e36. [PMID: 33328037 DOI: 10.1016/s2589-7500(19)30199-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital interventions that deliver psychological self-help provide the opportunity to reach individuals at risk of suicide who do not access traditional health services. Our primary objective was to test whether direct (targeting suicidality) and indirect (targeting depression) digital interventions are effective in reducing suicidal ideation and behaviours, and our secondary analyses assessed whether direct interventions were more effective than indirect interventions. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched online databases MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Cochrane CENTRAL for randomised controlled trials published between database inception to May 21, 2019. Superiority randomised controlled trials of self-guided digital interventions (app or web based, which delivered theory-based therapeutic content) were included if they reported suicidal ideation, suicidal plans, or suicide attempts as an outcome. Non-inferiority randomised controlled trials were excluded to ensure comparability of the effect. Data were extracted from published reports, and intention-to-treat data were used if available. The primary outcome was the difference in mean scores of validated suicidal ideation measures (Hedges'g) with the associated 95% CI for the analysis of digital intervention effectiveness on suicidal ideation. We also present funnel plots of the primary outcome measure (suicidal ideation) for direct and indirect interventions to assess for publication bias. We calculated I2 (with I2 CI) values to test heterogeneity. We used random-effects modelling for the meta-analyses to assess the primary and secondary outcomes. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42018102084. FINDINGS The literature search yielded 739 articles (including manual searching) for suicidality and 8842 articles for depression. After screening, 14 papers reporting on 16 studies were included in the narrative review and meta-analysis. The 16 studies (ten on direct interventions and six on indirect interventions) provided baseline data for 4398 participants. The primary outcome of overall post-intervention effect for suicidal ideation was small but significant immediately following the active intervention phase (Hedges'g -0·18, 95% CI -0·27 to -0·10, p<0·0001; I2=0%, I2 CI 0·0-47·9). The secondary objective, comparing direct and indirect interventions, showed that direct interventions (targeting suicidality) significantly reduced suicidal ideation at post-intervention (g -0·23, 95% CI -0·35 to -0·11, p<0·0001; I2=17·6%, I2 CI 0·0-58·6), but indirect interventions (targeting depression) failed to reach significance (g -0·12, 95% CI -0·25 to 0·01, p=0·071; I2=0%, I2 CI 0·0-30·7). INTERPRETATION Self-guided digital interventions directly targeting suicidal ideation are effective immediately post-intervention. Indirect interventions were not significant for reducing suicidal ideation. Our findings suggest that digital interventions should be promoted and disseminated widely, especially where there is a lack of, or minimal access to, health services. FUNDING Australian National Health and Medical Research Council.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Torok
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jin Han
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon Baker
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Iana Wong
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark E Larsen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Fleming TM, Stasiak K, Moselen E, Hermansson-Webb E, Shepherd M, Lucassen M, Bavin LM, Merry SN. Revising Computerized Therapy for Wider Appeal Among Adolescents: Youth Perspectives on a Revised Version of SPARX. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:802. [PMID: 31824344 PMCID: PMC6883402 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The way in which computerized therapy is presented may be important for its uptake. We aimed to explore adolescents' views on the appeal of a tested computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (CCBT) for depression (SPARX), and a revised version (SPARX-R). The versions were similar but while SPARX is presented explicitly as a treatment for depression, SPARX-R is presented as providing skills that could be useful for young people for when they were depressed, down, angry, or stressed. Methods: We held 9 focus groups with a total of 79 adolescents (13-19 years old; 47 females; 34 New Zealand European; 22 Māori or Pacific; 60 reported having experienced feeling down or low for at least several days in a row). Groups viewed the opening sequences of SPARX and SPARX-R (in random order), then took part in a semi-structured discussion and completed a brief questionnaire. Responses were analyzed using a general inductive approach. Results: Participants considered both SPARX and SPARX-R useful and considered the stated purpose of the program to be important. Four themes contrasted the two approaches. The first, "naming depression is risky", referred to perceptions that an explicit focus on depression could be off-putting, including for adolescents with depression. The second theme of "universality" reflected preferences for a universal approach as young people might not recognize that they were depressed, and all would benefit from the program. In contrast, "validation" reflected the view of a significant minority that naming depression could be validating for some. Finally, the theme of "choice" reflected a near-unanimously expressed preference for both options to be offered, allowing user choice. In questionnaire responses, 40 (68%) of participants preferred SPARX-R, 13 (18%) preferred SPARX, while 10 (14%) "didn't mind". Responses were similar among participants who reported that they had experienced at least a few days of low mood and those who had not. Conclusions: The way a CCBT program is presented may have implications for its appeal. The potential population impact of CCBT programs explicitly targeting depression and those targeting more universal feelings such as being stressed or feeling depressed should be explored for varied user groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa M. Fleming
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Health, Victoria University of Wellington, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Karolina Stasiak
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Emma Moselen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Eve Hermansson-Webb
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Mathijs Lucassen
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- School of Health, Wellbeing and Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
| | - Lynda M. Bavin
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sally Nicola Merry
- Department of Psychological Medicine, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Fleming TM, Gillham B, Bavin LM, Stasiak K, Lewycka S, Moore J, Shepherd M, Merry SN. SPARX-R computerized therapy among adolescents in youth offenders' program: Step-wise cohort study. Internet Interv 2019; 18:100287. [PMID: 31890634 PMCID: PMC6926289 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2019.100287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth offenders have high rates of unmet mental health needs, including elevated rates of subclinical or clinical depression. Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy (cCBT) has been shown to be effective for depression, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is among the most effective psychological treatments for offence related behaviours. We planned to evaluate the impact of SPARX-R 1.0 (the first iteration of a revised version of SPARX cCBT) for adolescents in a community day program (Mentoring Youth New Directions or MYND) for male recidivist youth aged between 14 and 17 years. Recruitment and retention in the trial were lower than anticipated. In this brief report we present main findings and discuss implications. METHODS We developed a stepwise cohort design to investigate the acceptability and effectiveness of SPARX-R in a complex, real-world setting. Participants were allocated to the MYND program only (treatment as usual), or MYND with the addition of SPARX-R. All adolescents referred to MYND within a specified period were assigned to one of four social workers, as per usual practice. Each social worker was randomized to begin SPARX-R with consenting new clients from one of four time points. Assessments were completed within the first two weeks of commencing the MYND program and then at 10 and 20 weeks after commencement. We solicited brief feedback on SPARX-R from young people and staff who used it. RESULTS Of 64 eligible youth who began MYND during the trial period, 51 consented but 25 stopped attending MYND despite court orders or because their court orders were changed. Nineteen participants were randomized to SPARX-R but only two completed two or more levels of the 7-level program, so it was not possible to evaluate the impact as planned. The four participants who provided feedback were indifferent or negative about SPARX-R. Staff advised that technical difficulties (such as loading or saving problems) were off putting and that SPARX-R was slow and not appealing to their clients. CONCLUSIONS Computerized CBT was not successfully implemented in this group, highlighting challenges in retention in this non-residential justice program. The findings also indicate that computerized therapies of proven acceptability and effectiveness in one setting may be unappealing in another. Implementation and equity efforts need to consider and test the specialist needs of diverse groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa M. Fleming
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand,Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand,Corresponding author at: Victoria University of Wellington, PO Box 600, Wellington 6140, New Zealand.
| | - Bridgette Gillham
- Graeme Dingle Foundation, PO Box 305 474, Triton Plaza, Auckland 0757, New Zealand
| | - Lynda M. Bavin
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Karolina Stasiak
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Sonia Lewycka
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Julie Moore
- Graeme Dingle Foundation, PO Box 305 474, Triton Plaza, Auckland 0757, New Zealand
| | - Matthew Shepherd
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Sally Nicola Merry
- The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Victoria Street West, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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O’Dea B, King C, Subotic-Kerry M, Achilles MR, Cockayne N, Christensen H. Smooth Sailing: A Pilot Study of an Online, School-Based, Mental Health Service for Depression and Anxiety. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:574. [PMID: 31481904 PMCID: PMC6710361 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Schools play an important role in supporting young people's mental health, but face challenges identifying and responding to students in need of care. To assist secondary schools, the Black Dog Institute has developed an online, school-based, mental health service (Smooth Sailing). Delivered in the classroom, Smooth Sailing uses a website to screen, assess, allocate, and deliver care for depression and anxiety. The service is based on the principles of stepped care, offering treatments with varied intensity and follow-up by a school counselor when necessary. The current study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and safety of this new type of service among secondary school students. Methods: Between February and June 2017, a single-arm, pre-post, pilot study was conducted among students from four NSW secondary schools. Schools were given access to the service for 6 weeks. Feasibility measures (consent rates and step allocations), acceptability measures (service use and satisfaction) and safety measures (deterioration in help-seeking intention scores and mental health symptoms) were assessed at baseline and completion of the 6-week trial period. Results: A total of 59 students took part in the service pilot (mean age, 14.57 years; SD, 0.89 years; range, 13-16 years). At baseline, 18.64% of students were found to require follow-up from the school counselor, and 80% of these were new cases. Although completion of the online modules was low, service satisfaction was high. At 6 weeks, the mean scores for help-seeking, depression, and anxiety remained relatively stable or improved. Conclusions: The current study presents important findings for the development and implementation of an online mental health service that screens students' mental health and allocates care accordingly, all within the school setting. Although the findings provide some support for the feasibility, acceptability, and safety, service improvements are needed. The modifications outlined are likely to improve the quality of the service and its effectiveness. Trial Registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR): ACTRN12617000977370.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridianne O’Dea
- Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine King
- Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | - Nicole Cockayne
- Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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