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Coulling R, Johnston MS, Ricciardelli R. "We must be mentally strong": exploring barriers to mental health in correctional services. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1258944. [PMID: 38323157 PMCID: PMC10844506 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1258944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The inherent nature of work in correctional services can have negative effects on correctional worker mental health and well-being. Methods The current study, a replication, analyzes survey data collected from provincial and territorial correctional workers staffed in six regions across Canada (n = 192). Specifically, participants were asked at the end of an extensive mental health and well-being survey an open-ended question requesting any additional feedback or information. Results Four predominant themes were identified in the data: (1) stigma pertaining to a need to recognize mental health concerns within correctional services; (2) the idea that correctional services wear on the mind and body; (3) a need for better relationships with and support from correctional supervisors, upper management, and ministerial leadership; and (4) suggestions to improve correctional services to help the sector realize its full potential and maximize workplace health. Discussion We discuss the implications of these findings, with an emphasis on finding ways to promote positive organizational and cultural change in correctional services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Coulling
- Providence University College and Theological Seminary, Otterburne, MB, Canada
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2
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Foley G, Ricciardelli R. Views on the Functionality and Use of the PeerConnect App Among Public Safety Personnel: Qualitative Analysis. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e46968. [PMID: 37930765 PMCID: PMC10660208 DOI: 10.2196/46968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research supports that public safety personnel (PSP) are regularly exposed to potentially psychologically traumatic events and occupational stress, which can compromise their well-being. To help address PSP well-being and mental health, peer support is increasingly being adopted (and developed) in PSP organizations. Peer support apps have been developed to connect the peer and peer supporter anonymously and confidentially, but little is known about their effectiveness, utility, and uptake. OBJECTIVE We designed this study to evaluate the functionality and use of the PeerConnect app, which is a vehicle for receiving and administering peer support. The app connects peers but also provides information (eg, mental health screening tools, newsfeed) to users; thus, we wanted to understand why PSP adopted or did not adopt the app and the app's perceived utility. Our intention was to determine if the app served the purpose of connectivity for PSP organizations implementing peer support. METHODS A sample of PSP (N=23) participated in an interview about why they used or did not use the app. We first surveyed participants across PSP organizations in Ontario, Canada, and at the end of the survey invited participants to participate in a follow-up interview. Of the 23 PSP interviewed, 16 were PeerConnect users and 7 were nonusers. After transcribing all audio recordings of the interviews, we used an emergent theme approach to analyze themes within and across responses. RESULTS PSP largely viewed PeerConnect positively, with the Connect feature being most popular (this feature facilitated peer support), followed by the Newsfeed and Resources. App users appreciated the convenience of the app and felt the app helped reduce the stigma around peer support use and pressure on peer supporters while raising awareness of wellness. PSP who did not use the app attributed their nonuse to disinterest or uncertainty about the need for a peer support app and the web-based nature of the app. To increase app adoption, participants recommended increased communication and promotion of the app by the services and continued efforts to combat mental health stigma. CONCLUSIONS We provide contextual information about a peer support app's functionality and use. Our findings demonstrate that PSP are open to the use of mental health and peer support apps, but more education is required to reduce mental health stigma. Future research should continue to evaluate peer support apps for PSP to inform their design and ensure they are fulfilling their purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gillian Foley
- Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | - Rosemary Ricciardelli
- Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
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3
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Johnston MS, Ricciardelli R. Documenting the mental health climate in correctional work and the realities of suicide. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1026821. [PMID: 36687848 PMCID: PMC9845727 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1026821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Public safety personnel are at an elevated risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors relative to the general public. Correctional workers in particular report some of the highest prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. To better understand this phenomenon, the current study draws on qualitative, open-ended survey response data (n = 94) that explores three distinct themes (occupational environment, lack of support, social silence) and how entrenched notions of mental health stigma and occupational culture inform how Canadian correctional workers understand their experiences with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. We conclude with a brief discussion of the research and policy implications, with an emphasis on mobilizing efforts to normalize mental health discussion in correctional workplaces, bolstering peer support resources, and collaboration, and assessing the limited organizational supports available to struggling staff.
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Kronfli N, Dussault C, Maheu-Giroux M, Halavrezos A, Chalifoux S, Park H, Balso LD, Cheng MP, Cox J. Importance of occupation for SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence and COVID-19 vaccination among correctional workers in Quebec, Canada: A cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1021871. [PMID: 36438247 PMCID: PMC9683106 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1021871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Correctional workers are at increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We examined the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2, determined the effects of carceral and occupational exposures on seropositivity, and explored predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake among correctional workers in Quebec, Canada. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional seroprevalence study in three provincial prisons. The primary and secondary outcomes were SARS-CoV-2 antibody seropositivity (Roche Elecsys® serology test) and self-reported COVID-19 vaccination status ("fully vaccinated" defined as two doses or prior infection plus one dose), respectively. Poisson regression models with robust standard error were used to examine the effect of occupational variables with SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity and predictors of COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Estimates are presented as crude and adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Results From 14 July to 15 November 2021, 105/600 (18%) correctional workers tested positive across three prisons (range 11-21%); 76% were fully vaccinated. Seropositivity was affected by prison occupation (aPR 1.59, 95% CI 1.11-2.27 for correctional officers vs. all other occupations) and low perceived concern of SARS-CoV-2 acquisition (aPR 1.62, 95% CI 1.11-2.38 for not/hardly worried vs. somewhat/extremely worried). Predictors of being fully vaccinated included race/ethnicity (aPR 0.86, 95% CI 0.76-0.99 for visible minority vs. White), presence of comorbidities (aPR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02-1.28 for > 2 vs. none), and prison occupation (aPR 0.82, 95% CI 0.73-0.92 for correctional officers vs. all other occupations). Conclusions Correctional officers were most likely to have acquired SARS-CoV-2, but least likely to be vaccinated, underscoring the importance of addressing both occupational risks and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy to mitigate future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Kronfli
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,*Correspondence: Nadine Kronfli
| | - Camille Dussault
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mathieu Maheu-Giroux
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alexandros Halavrezos
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Chalifoux
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Hyejin Park
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lina Del Balso
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Matthew P. Cheng
- Department of Medicine, Divisions of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joseph Cox
- Centre for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases and Chronic Viral Illness Service, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Population and Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Johnston MS, Ricciardelli R, McKendy L. Fight or flight? Exploring suicide thoughts, experiences, and behaviours among correctional workers and their interventions of agency. Sociol Health Illn 2022; 44:1500-1516. [PMID: 35983895 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Research indicates that, relative to the general public and most other types of public safety personnel, correctional workers are more likely to engage in suicide ideation, planning, and attempts. Yet, less is known about lived experiences towards, of, and beyond suicidality among correctional staff. To contribute to this gap in knowledge, the current study draws on qualitative, open-ended survey response data (n = 94) to explore how Canadian provincial correctional workers navigate experiences of suicide, with a focus on the individual, personal, and social factors tied to experiences towards and of suicide thoughts and behaviours. By engaging the seminal works of Foucault, Žižek, and Deleuze and Guattari, we explore respondents' distinct forms of agency when grappling with, challenging, and transcending thoughts around suicide. We then discuss the research implications, with an emphasis on providing correctional workers with confidential, non-stigmatised well-being and treatment-seeking resources and processes, and more health care funding to fully cover timely and sufficient mental health treatment, prevention, and intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Johnston
- Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Rosemary Ricciardelli
- Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
| | - Laura McKendy
- Fisheries and Marine Institute, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
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Ricciardelli R, Tamara T, Mitchell MM, Groll D, Afifi T, Nicholas Carleton R. Exposures to Potentially Psychologically Traumatic Events Among Provincial Correctional Workers in Ontario, Canada. Violence Vict 2022; 37:77-100. [PMID: 35165161 DOI: 10.1891/vv-d-21-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We know little about potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTE) exposures among provincial correctional workers in diverse occupational positions and even less regarding how exposure to events are associated with mental health disorders. We designed the current study to unpack and quantify estimates of the frequencies that correctional workers, across occupational roles, experience exposure to diverse incidents. We categorized 1,338 of our 1,487 participants into six occupational categories and our measures included established self-report items measuring PPTE exposure and mental disorder symptoms. Almost all correctional workers reported exposures to most PPTE types. Correctional workers collectively report exposures to physical assault (90.2%) and sudden violent death (81.8%), with many (3.1%-46%) reporting 11+ exposures (M = 10.01, SD = 4.29). We found significant differences in exposure patterns across correctional worker categories; specifically, we found a higher prevalence of exposure to toxic substances, physical assault, assault with a weapon, severe human suffering, sudden accidental or sudden violent death, among those working in institutional correctional services (e.g., governance, correctional officers). PPTE exposure and all assessed mental health disorder symptom profiles were closely related, as correctional workers report high exposure to PPTE. Population attributable fractions indicated that the burden of mental disorders among provincial correction workers might be reduced by between 38%-70% if PPTE exposures were eliminated from the population. We conclude with recommendations for mental health related policies, such as investing in peer and psychologically support, as well as interventions for exposure to PPTE and readiness to inform strategies for employee mental health and well-being.
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Moghimi E, Knyahnytska Y, Omrani M, Nikjoo N, Stephenson C, Layzell G, Frederic Simpson AI, Alavi N. Benefits of Digital Mental Health Care Interventions for Correctional Workers and Other Public Safety Personnel: A Narrative Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:921527. [PMID: 35873240 PMCID: PMC9304966 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.921527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic exposure to stressors and potentially psychologically traumatic events contributes to the high prevalence of mental health disorders in correctional workers (CWs) and other public safety personnel (PSP). Digital mental health interventions are an accessible and scalable method of improving and maintaining the mental health of this population. The current review explores the benefits of digital mental health interventions for PSP-with a focus on CWs-and how these innovations can address the limitations in in-person mental health care. A systematic literature search of five databases (Medline, PsycInfo, Embase, CINAHL, Google Scholar) was conducted until March 2022. The search yielded 16 publications that focused on digital mental health interventions or care available to CWs and other PSP. The benefits of digital innovations were summarized into five categories which discussed (1) their ability to enhance accessibility and reduce stigma; (2) the provision of evidence-based and structured psychotherapy programs; (3) variability in the degree of therapist engagement; (4) the integration of proactive interventions; and (5) enhancing engagement by acknowledging unique experiences and interpersonal relationships. Although digital mental health technologies for CWs are still in their infancy, there is strong evidence to support their effectiveness in ameliorating symptoms of mental distress. Future research should consider how ethnicity, gender, culture, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status can be integrated into these therapies and how the interplay between different stakeholders and organizations can impact the effectiveness of online therapies and programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Moghimi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Mohsen Omrani
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,OPTT Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Niloofar Nikjoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Callum Stephenson
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Gina Layzell
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Nazanin Alavi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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8
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Moghimi E, Knyahnytska Y, Zhu Y, Kumar A, Knyahnytski A, Patel C, Omrani M, Gerritsen C, Martin M, Simpson AIF, Alavi N. A qualitative exploration of the mental health challenges and therapeutic needs of Canadian correctional workers. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:1004143. [PMID: 36386978 PMCID: PMC9641701 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1004143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Correctional work is described as a high-stress environment associated with increased prevalence of mental health disorders in employees. Identifying appropriate healthcare services necessitates investigating the mental health challenges and needs of correctional workers (CWs). METHODS Individual interviews (n = 9; 5 M and 4 W) and a mixed gender focus group (n = 6; 3 M and 3 W) were conducted to gather a general sense of the mental health landscape. Data were analyzed to develop a targeted and comprehensive question guide for gender-specific focus groups (n = 14 unique participants; 6 M and 8 W). RESULTS Eight themes emerged from the gender-specific focus groups. Themes focusing on work culture described the negative repercussions of job stress and the inability to discuss challenges openly due to confidentiality concerns and feelings of seclusion associated with the CW profession. Men were more likely to be subjected to physical violence and women to emotional and sexual harassment from staff and inmates. Themes related to mental health care described the benefits and limitations of the current services and digital mental healthcare. Stigma and accessibility were notable treatment barriers. Lastly, sector-specific therapy was seen as an important component in enhancing engagement and therapist interaction. CONCLUSION The study demonstrates the interconnection between work culture and CW mental health that needs to be acknowledged when addressing mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Moghimi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Yiran Zhu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Anchan Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Charmy Patel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Mohsen Omrani
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,OPTT Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cory Gerritsen
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Martin
- Correctional Service of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Nazanin Alavi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,OPTT Inc., Toronto, ON, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
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9
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Konyk K, Ricciardelli R, Taillieu T, Afifi TO, Groll D, Carleton RN. Assessing Relative Stressors and Mental Disorders among Canadian Provincial Correctional Workers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:10018. [PMID: 34639320 PMCID: PMC8508585 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
In the current study, we quantified the mean stress levels of 43 occupational stressors for 868 Correctional Workers (CWs) and analyzed the relationships between occupational stressors, exposure to potentially psychologically traumatic events (PPTEs), and mental health disorders. Our findings emphasize the importance of the occupational environment in relation to CW mental health and indicate that occupational stressors (e.g., staff shortages, inconsistent leadership style, bureaucratic red tape) are more salient contributors to CW mental health than exposure to PPTEs. Finding strategies to ameliorate staff shortages, improve leadership style and communication, and support CWs to maintain physical, mental, and social well-being would be interventions tied to significant organizational and operational stressors within the current study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katy Konyk
- School of Social Work, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1E3, Canada;
| | - Rosemary Ricciardelli
- Department of Sociology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
| | - Tamara Taillieu
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W3, Canada; (T.T.); (T.O.A.)
| | - Tracie O. Afifi
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W3, Canada; (T.T.); (T.O.A.)
| | - Dianne Groll
- Departments of Psychiatry and Psychology, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada;
| | - R. Nicholas Carleton
- Department of Psychology, Anxiety and Illness Behaviours Laboratory, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada;
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10
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Alavi N, Stephenson C, Omrani M, Gerritsen C, Martin MS, Knyahnytskyi A, Zhu Y, Kumar A, Jagayat J, Shirazi A, Moghimi E, Patel C, Knyahnytska Y, Simpson AIF, Zaheer J, Andersen J, Munshi A, Groll D. Delivering an Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program to Address Mental Health Challenges Faced by Correctional Workers and Other Public Safety Personnel: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2021; 10:e30845. [PMID: 34088656 PMCID: PMC8367142 DOI: 10.2196/30845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public safety personnel have regular and often intense exposure to potentially traumatic events at work, especially workplace violence in the case of correctional workers. Subsequently, correctional workers are at higher risk of developing mental health problems such as posttraumatic stress disorder. Public safety personnel are up to 4 times more likely to experience suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and death by suicide compared to the general population. Despite this high prevalence, help-seeking behaviors from public safety personnel are low due to stigma and irregular work hours limiting access to care. Innovative treatments are needed to address these challenges. OBJECTIVE This study will investigate the efficacy of an electronically delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (e-CBT) program tailored to correctional workers' mental health problems. METHODS This study is composed of 4 phases. In phase 1, we will interview correctional workers individually and in focus groups to identify personal, social, and cultural factors affecting their mental health and barriers to care. Phase 2 will use the information gathered from the interviews to develop gender- and diagnosis-specific e-CBT modules. These will be presented to a new group of participants who will provide further feedback on their usability and accessibility. In phase 3, we will randomly assign participants to either an e-CBT or treatment as usual arm. The program will be evaluated with validated symptomatology questionnaires and interviews. Phase 4 will use this additional information to fine-tune the e-CBT modules for a larger-scale randomized controlled trial design comparing the e-CBT program to in-person CBT. All e-CBT modules will be delivered through a secure online platform. RESULTS The study received ethics approval in December 2020, and participant recruitment began in March 2021. Participant recruitment has been conducted through targeted advertisements and physician referrals. To date, there have been 15 participants recruited for Phase 1, and it is expected to conclude in July 2021, with phase 2 beginning in September 2021. Complete data collection and analysis from all phases are expected to conclude by July 2023. Linear and binomial regression (for continuous and categorical outcomes, respectively) will be conducted along with interpretive qualitative methods. CONCLUSIONS If proven efficacious and feasible, this e-CBT program can provide a high-quality and clinically validated resource to address the mental health problems of correctional workers. Additionally, findings can contribute to the development of innovative treatments for other public safety professions. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04666974; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04666974. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/30845.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Alavi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Callum Stephenson
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Mohsen Omrani
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- OPTT Inc, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cory Gerritsen
- Forensic Early Intervention Service, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychological Clinical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael S Martin
- Health Services Sector, Correctional Service Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Alex Knyahnytskyi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Yiran Zhu
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's Unviersity, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Anchan Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Jasleen Jagayat
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Amirhossein Shirazi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Centre for Neuroscience Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- OPTT Inc, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Elnaz Moghimi
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Charmy Patel
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Yuliya Knyahnytska
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- General Psychiatry Division, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alexander I F Simpson
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Juveria Zaheer
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Judith Andersen
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Alpna Munshi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dianne Groll
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Military and Veteran Health Research, Kingston, ON, Canada
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11
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Genest C, Ricciardelli R, Carleton RN. Correctional Work: Reflections Regarding Suicide. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18084280. [PMID: 33920704 PMCID: PMC8074055 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The Public Health Agency of Canada declared suicide a public health problem in Canada (2016). Employees working in correctional services, researchers find, experience high rates of life-time suicidal ideation in comparison to other public safety professionals and the general population. Suicide behaviours (i.e., ideation, planning, attempts, death) are a multifactorial phenomenon, explained in part by the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide that suggests attempted suicide is facilitated by perceived burdensomeness, a lost sense of belonging, a feeling of hopelessness, and a progressively reduced fear of death, as well as capacity and planning to engage a lethal attempt. In the current study, we unpack the factors that can influence suicide behaviours as reported by correctional workers. Our intent is to make explicit the experiences of a small sample (n = 25) of correctional workers in relation to suicidal behaviours, highlighting stories of recovery and acknowledging the importance of facilitating psychologically safe workplaces. Analysis entailed an inductive semi-grounded emergent theme approach. Participants identified certain risk factors as being able to induce suicidal ideation, such as marital or family problems as well as difficulties at work (i.e., bullying or difficult working conditions). Having children and a partner may act as factors preventing suicide for those with ideation. Participants sought help from professionals, such as their family doctor, a psychologist, or the Employee Assistance Program (EAP); however, the lack of perceived organisational supports and recognition of the issue of suicide by the employer are two elements that can hinder the search for help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Genest
- Faculté des Sciences Infirmières, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
- Centre d’étude sur le Trauma du Centre de Recherche de l’Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC H1N 3V2, Canada
- Centre for Research and Intervention on Suicide, Ethical Issues and End-of-Life Practices, Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 37360)
| | - Rosemary Ricciardelli
- Department of Sociology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
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Carleton RN, Ricciardelli R, Taillieu T, Mitchell MM, Andres E, Afifi TO. Provincial Correctional Service Workers: The Prevalence of Mental Disorders. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:ijerph17072203. [PMID: 32218316 PMCID: PMC7177517 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17072203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Correctional service employees in Ontario, Canada (n = 1487) began an online survey available from 2017 to 2018 designed to assess the prevalence and correlates of mental health challenges. Participants who provided data for the current study (n = 1032) included provincial staff working in institutional wellness (e.g., nurses) (n = 71), training (e.g., program officers) (n = 26), governance (e.g., superintendents) (n = 82), correctional officers (n = 553), administration (e.g., record keeping) (n = 25), and probation officers (n = 144, parole officers). Correctional officers, workers in institutional administration and governance positions, and probation officers reported elevated risk for mental disorders, most notably posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder. Among institutional correctional staff, 61.0% of governance employees, 59.0% of correctional officers, 43.7% of wellness staff, 50.0% of training staff, and 52.0% of administrative staff screened positive for one or more mental disorders. In addition, 63.2% of probation officers screened positive for one or more mental disorders. Women working as correctional officers were more likely to screen positive than men (p < 0.05). Across all correctional occupational categories positive screens for each disorder were: 30.7% for PTSD, 37.0% for major depressive disorder, 30.5% for generalized anxiety disorder, and 58.2% for one or more mental disorders. Participants between ages 40 and 49 years, working in institutional governance, as an institutional correctional officer, or as a probational officer, separated or divorced, were all factors associated (p < 0.05) with screening positive for one or more mental disorders. The prevalence of mental health challenges for provincial correctional workers appears to be higher than federal correctional workers in Canada and further supports the need for evidence-based mental health solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Nicholas Carleton
- Anxiety and Illness Behaviours Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada;
| | - Rosemary Ricciardelli
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, Saint John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(709)-864-7446
| | - Tamara Taillieu
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W3, Canada; (T.T.); (T.O.A.)
| | - Meghan M. Mitchell
- Department of Criminal Justice, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32810, USA;
| | - Elizabeth Andres
- Memorial University of Newfoundland, Saint John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada;
| | - Tracie O. Afifi
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0W3, Canada; (T.T.); (T.O.A.)
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Jin X, Sun IY, Jiang S, Wang Y, Wen S. The Impact of Job Characteristics on Burnout Among Chinese Correctional Workers. Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol 2018; 62:551-570. [PMID: 29301468 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x16648419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Job burnout has long been recognized as a common occupational hazard among correctional workers. Although past studies have investigated the effects of job-related characteristics on correctional staff burnout in Western societies, this line of research has largely been absent from the literature on community corrections in China. Using data collected from 225 community correction workers in a Chinese province, this study assessed the effects of positive and negative job characteristics on occupational burnout. Positive job characteristics included job autonomy, procedural justice, and role clarity. Negative characteristics included role conflict, job stress, and job dangerousness. As expected, role clarity tended to reduce burnout, whereas role conflict, job stress, and job dangerousness were likely to produce greater burnout among Chinese community correction workers. Male correctional officers were also subjected to a higher level of burnout than their female coworkers. Implications for future research and policy were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Shufang Wen
- 1 Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China
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