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Computer-based cognitive testing is gaining in popularity because of desirable features such as ease of use, standardized administration and online data acquisition. Information technology and computer familiarity are clearly influenced by age in the general population, but the impact of this situation on cognitive testing of patients with schizophrenia has received little attention. In the present paper, participants underwent cognitive testing with computer and paper versions of the same tests. Patients underperformed controls by 1.36 DS (paper tests) and 2.27 DS (computer tests) after controlling for education. Results were highly correlated but patients with schizophrenia were disproportionately impaired on computer tests compared with their paper counterparts. Moreover, for subtests implying active keyboard input from the participant, the difference between paper and computer scores correlated with age in patients, a pattern that was not found in controls. These results have methodological implications because of the implied risk of measuring (lack of) computer proficiency in addition to bona fide cognitive deficits. They confirm, moreover, that patients with schizophrenia are victims of the “digital divide”, which adds to the potential benefits of approaches like computer assisted cognitive remediation in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Social inclusion of people living with serious mental illness is widely promoted. However, only limited consideration has been given to the meanings of social inclusion within different settings and the ways in which it is envisioned, negotiated, and practised. In this paper, we explore meanings and practises of social inclusion from the perspectives of people living with serious mental illness and their families in Ghana and Palestine and how this is shaped by differing political and socio-cultural contexts. Methods: This paper draws on comparative ethnographic research including participant observation and interviews with people living with mental illness and family members in Ghana and the occupied Palestinian territory. Data were triangulated and analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Participants described experiences of social inclusion and participation within communities, home and family life, friendships and social life, and work and livelihoods. This revealed how such experiences were variously shaped by differing political contexts and socio-cultural norms and expectations within the two settings. These in turn intersected with aspects such as gender roles, age, and socio-economic status. Aspirations for inclusion included greater awareness and understanding within society, accompanied by opportunities and support for meaningful inclusion at the political as well as community level. Conclusion: Findings point to the value of a contextual understanding of social inclusion, taking account of the impact of the wider socio-cultural, political, and economic environment. They also point to the need for an intersectoral approach, beyond communities and mental health services, to provide meaningful opportunities and support for social inclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper asks whether the separation of mental health from its wider social context during the UK benefits assessment processes is a contributing factor to widely recognised systemic difficulties, including intrinsically damaging effects and relatively ineffective welfare-to-work outcomes. Methods: Drawing on multiple sources of evidence, we ask whether placing mental health—specifically a biomedical conceptualisation of mental illness or condition as a discrete agent—at the core of the benefits eligibility assessment process presents obstacles to (i) accurately understanding a claimant's lived experience of distress (ii) meaningfully establishing the specific ways it affects their capacity for work, and (iii) identifying the multifaceted range of barriers (and related support needs) that a person may have in relation to moving into employment. Results: We suggest that a more holistic assessment of work capacity, a different kind of conversation that considers not only the (fluctuating) effects of psychological distress but also the range of personal, social and economic circumstances that affect a person's capacity to gain and sustain employment, would offer a less distressing and ultimately more productive approach to understanding work capability. Conclusion: Such a shift would reduce the need to focus on a state of medicalised incapacity and open up space in encounters for more a more empowering focus on capacity, capabilities, aspirations, and what types of work are (or might be) possible, given the right kinds of contextualised and personalised support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An intersectionality framework has been increasingly incorporated into quantitative study of health inequity, to incorporate social power in meaningful ways. Researchers have identified "person-centered" methods that cluster within-individual characteristics as appropriate to intersectionality. We aimed to review their use and match with theory. Methods: We conducted a multidisciplinary systematic review of English-language quantitative studies wherein authors explicitly stated an intersectional approach, and used clustering methods. We extracted study characteristics and applications of intersectionality. Results: 782 studies with quantitative applications of intersectionality were identified, of which 16 were eligible: eight using latent class analysis, two latent profile analysis, and six clustering methods. Papers used cross-sectional data (100.0%) primarily had U.S. lead authors (68.8%) and were published within psychology, social sciences, and health journals. While 87.5% of papers defined intersectionality and 93.8% cited foundational authors, engagement with intersectionality method literature was more limited. Clustering variables were based on social identities/positions (e.g., gender), dimensions of identity (e.g., race centrality), or processes (e.g., stigma). Results most commonly included four classes/clusters (60.0%), which were frequently used in additional analyses. These described sociodemographic differences across classes/clusters, or used classes/clusters as an exposure variable to predict outcomes in regression analysis, structural equation modeling, mediation, or survival analysis. Author rationales for method choice included both theoretical/intersectional and statistical arguments. Conclusion: Latent variable and clustering methods were used in varied ways in intersectional approaches, and reflected differing matches between theory and methods. We highlight situations in which these methods may be advantageous, and missed opportunities for additional uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This review aimed to evaluate interventions led by peer counselors (PCs) for adults with common mental disorders in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) along indices of overall effectiveness and key implementation outcomes (acceptability, feasibility, cost, fidelity, sustainability). Methods: This review followed a mixed-methods systematic review design. MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, and Global Health databases were searched for PC-led interventions for adults in LMICs targeting depressive and/or anxiety disorders or PTSD. Quantitative data was narratively synthesized, and qualitative data was thematically synthesized separately. The results from the qualitative and quantitative syntheses were then combined in a cross-study synthesis. Results: Twenty-four papers describing thirteen PC-led interventions were included for review. Narrative synthesis results indicated mixed effectiveness of PC-led interventions in reducing depressive, anxiety, PTSD symptoms and high PC competency. Thematic synthesis revealed five descriptive themes: (1) Preferred PC characteristics; (2) Incentives and motivation for PCs; (3) Barriers to PC-led intervention implementation; (4) Helpful supervision/training practices; and (5) Overall high acceptability of PC-led interventions. Cross-study synthesis revealed high acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity, but cost and sustainability outcomes were underreported in included papers. Conclusion: PC-led interventions seem to show initial promise in terms of effectiveness, acceptability, feasibility, cost, fidelity, and sustainability. Future research should focus on standardizing measurements of implementation outcomes to facilitate cross-study analysis. Additional empirical attention should be paid to underrepresented implementation outcomes (e.g., cost, sustainability). Finally, researchers should adopt a participatory approach that elevates the perspectives of PCs throughout all stages of the implementation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In recent decades, Europe has seen a steady increase in psychiatric diagnoses, which, besides affecting the population in many ways, also challenges the organization of welfare. This paper explores how welfare classification processes impact the contemporary production of mental (ill) health and social inequality in the German welfare state. Methods: Based on comprehensive ethnographic research in the public mental healthcare landscape in Berlin between 2011 and 2017, this paper discusses in detail the case of a mandatory prescription of a psychosocial rehabilitation measure for Ms Reisch, a psychiatric service user and ethnographic research partner. The analysis draws on the methodological approach of praxeography to examine how this case challenges the social determinants of mental health framework and the conceptual work of the sociology of inequality on which the categories of welfare are largely built. Results: The paper highlights the essentializing properties of social categories, whether in the sociology of inequality or in social and mental health policy. It also demonstrates the strength of praxeography to expose how multiple welfare categorization processes shape experiences and events of dis/ability in practice, potentially contradicting the stated intentions of social policy. Conclusion: The results suggest that the attachment of categories to people in public welfare needs to be changed to make public administration more flexible to responding to the situated processes that bring about differentiations of equal and unequal in practice. The paper, therefore, encourages social inquiry into the potentialities of a post-categorical social policy framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate associations between early childhood and current indicators of socioeconomic inequality and the onset (incident), persistence and progression (increase in severity) of psychotic experiences (PEs) in a longitudinal follow-up of a community-based population. Methods: Households in the metropolitan area of Izmir, Turkey were contacted in a multistage clustered probability sampling frame, at baseline (T1, n = 4011) and at 6-year follow-up (T2, n = 2185). Both at baseline and follow-up, PEs were assessed using Composite International Diagnostic Interview 2.1. The associations between baseline socioeconomic features and follow-up PEs were analysed using logistic regression models. Indicators of social inequality included income, educational level, current socioeconomic status (SES), social insurance, the area resided, ethnicity, parental educational level, and SES at birth. Results: The risk of onset of PEs was significantly higher in lower education, lower SES, and slum-semi-urban areas. The persistence of PEs was significantly associated with the lowest levels of education and current SES, and rural residency. Persistent PEs were significantly and negatively associated with paternal SES at birth. Progression of PEs was significantly higher among respondents with educational achievements lower than university level and lower levels of SES, who have no social insurance and who reside in slum-semi-urban areas. Parental education and paternal SES at birth were not associated with the persistence of PEs. Conclusion: Indicators of social inequality (low education, low SES, low income, and poverty in the neighbourhood) were associated with the onset and persistence of PEs and progression along the extended psychosis phenotype. The early indicators seem to have a modest life-long impact on the psychosis phenotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Building partnerships between mental health services and Black faith communities to co-produce culturally tailored interventions is an essential step towards improving access to services and reducing stigma among the Black population. Given that Black faith organisations are considered a primary source of emotional and psychological support they are well positioned as 'gatekeepers' for services, to overcome barriers to engagement and build trusting relationships with the Black community. The aim of this paper is to pilot a manualised mental health awareness and stigma reduction intervention for Black faith communities in the UK, and to make an initial assessment of feasibility, acceptability and outcomes. Methods: This study employed a mixed methods pre–post-design, based upon the Medical Research Council Framework (MRC) for complex interventions, and the Implementation Science Research Development. Results: The qualitative assessments indicate that the intervention was found overall to be acceptable and feasible to the Black faith community population. This pilot study did not find statistically significant changes for the Mental Health Knowledge schedule (MAKS), Reported and Intended Behaviour Scale (RIBS), intended help-seeking or willingness to disclose (Attitudes to Mental Illness Survey) measures. However, the direction of all the non-significant changes in these measures suggests positive changes in mental health knowledge, a reduction in participants' desire for social distance, and greater willingness to disclose personal experiences of mental health problems. A statistically significant improvement in the Community Attitudes towards Mental Illness (CAMI) scale results indicated a lower level of stigmatising attitudes towards people with lived experience of mental health conditions (PWLE), and an increase in tolerance and support towards PWLE after the intervention. Significant improvement in the willingness to disclose measure suggests increased preparedness to seek help amongst participants, a lesser desire for social distance, and greater willingness to engage with PWLE after the intervention. Three key themes, including 9 subthemes were identified from the qualitative data analysis: (i) initial implementation and intention to adopt; (ii) perceived suitability and usefulness of intervention to address cultural issues relating to mental health in the Black community; and (iii) strengthening the capacity of faith leaders. Conclusions: This ON TRAC pilot study shows that the intervention was feasible and acceptable, and that it has promising positive impacts and next requires larger scale evaluation. These results demonstrate that the intervention was a culturally acceptable way to potentially increase mental health awareness and reduce stigma in Black faith communities. Trial registration: ISRCTN12253092. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In Ghana, we know little about the epidemiology of suicide ideation, plan and attempts among junior high school (JHS) students in Ghana including the years preceding high school. This study explores the onset, characteristics, and recent patterns of 12-month suicide behavior among Ghanaian junior high school (JHS) students. Materials and Methods: Paper-based surveys were administered to a sample (n = 800) of junior high school students in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Self-reported measures on suicide ideation, plan and attempt as well as several psychological and psychosocial factors related to mental health, substance use, poverty, sexual behavior, interpersonal relationships, and family structure were employed. Bi-variate, multivariate and logistic regression analyses were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 25). Results: This study found that 1 out of 5 adolescents have experienced suicide ideation in the last 12 months. Girls had significantly higher 12-month (χ2 = 3.5, p < 0.05) suicide ideation rates than boys. More importantly, the study found stress significantly increasing the odds of suicide behaviors in the last 12 months (β = 1.14; CI = 1.05–1.24, p < 0.05) and parental support significantly reducing the odds of suicide behaviors in the last 12 months (β = 0.86; CI = 0.81–0.91, p < 0.05). Additionally, we found significant associations between sexual intercourse, dating, hunger, substance use, suicide stigma and suicide behaviors. Conclusion: This finding highlights a potential emerging suicide crisis among preteens which warrants attention. Additional studies are needed to observe these increasing trends and identify risk, protective and precipitating factors to help prevent suicide among these children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: People with mental disorders are more likely to experience sexual violence than the general population, but little is known about the prevalence of sexual violence in people who use psychiatric services. This paper aims to estimate the prevalence and odds of sexual violence victimisation within mental health services by gender and mental health setting (i.e. inpatient, outpatient and mixed settings). Methods: This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration number: CRD4201810019). Three databases (Medline, Embase, PsychINFO) were searched and citation tracking, and reference screening of included studies was conducted. Studies were included if the prevalence and/or risk of sexual violence in psychiatric service users were reported or calculable across the past year or adult lifetime. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed. A random effects meta-analyses was conducted to estimate odds ratios and pooled prevalence estimates of sexual violence in different mental health settings. Results: Twenty-six studies were included encompassing 197,194 participants. The meta-analyses revealed high pooled prevalence estimates and increased odds of sexual violence victimisation in male and female psychiatric service users compared to non-psychiatric service users. Conclusions: Mental health practitioners should be trained to respond effectively to disclosures of sexual violence, particularly from these vulnerable groups. Future sexual violence interventions should consider mental health as a treatment outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Use of alcohol and other substances is a multifaceted issue impacting young people across multiple life domains. This paper aims to elucidate patterns of substance use and associated demographic and clinical factors among young people seeking treatment for their mental health. Methods: Young people (12–25 years old) were recruited from five youth-specific primary mental health ("headspace") services in Australia. Self-reported substance use and harms in the past 3 months were measured using WHO-ASSIST. Network analyses were conducted to evaluate interrelationships between use and harms associated with different substances. Subgroups were then identified based on whether participants reported using high centrality substances, and associated demographic and clinical factors were assessed with multinomial logistic regression. Results: 1107 youth participated. 70% reported use of at least one substance in the past 3 months, with around 30% of those reporting related health, social, legal or financial problems. Network analysis highlighted substantial interconnections between use and harm indicators for all substances, with amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) and cannabis being high central substances. Higher levels of substance use and harms were reported in subgroups with ATS or cannabis use and different risk factors were associated with these subgroups. Conclusions: Findings highlight the importance of screening for substance use in youth primary mental healthcare settings, offering a key opportunity for early intervention. Clinicians should be aware of the inner connections of use and harms of different drugs and the role of cannabis and amphetamine use as a marker for more substance use profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Previous population-based studies have partially provided inconsistent results regarding the co-variates of chronic depression, which were likely to be attributable to methodological limitations. The present paper that compared people with chronic major depressive disorder (MDD), non-chronic MDD and no mood disorder in the community focused on specific atypical and melancholic depression symptoms and subtypes of MDD, family history (FH) of mood disorders, measured physical cardio-vascular risk factors (CVRF), personality traits, coping style and adverse life-events. Methods: Data stemmed from a population-based cohort including 3618 participants (female 53%, n=1918; mean age 50.9 years, s.d. 8.8 years). Among them 563 had a lifetime history of chronic MDD, 1060 of non-chronic MDD and 1995 of no mood disorder. Diagnostic and FH information were elicited through semi-structured interviews, CVRF were assessed through physical investigations. Results: The major findings were that chronic MDD was associated with increase in appetite/weight and suicidal ideation/attempts during the most severe episode, higher exposure to life-events in adulthood, higher levels of neuroticism, lower levels of extraversion and lower levels of informal help-seeking behavior but less frequent FH of MDD compared to non-chronic MDD. Conclusion: Chronic MDD is associated with a series of potential modifiable risk factors which are accessible via psychotherapeutic approaches that may improve the course of chronic MDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Social connections have been linked to the genesis and amelioration of mental health problems and thus have potential therapeutic value. Purpose: To identify the current evidence base, assess risk of bias and synthesise findings on the effectiveness of social network interventions for people with mental health problems. Methods: Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus) and grey literature databases were systematically searched from inception to October 2021 using free text syntax combining synonyms for 'mental health problems' and 'social network interventions'. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they reported data from randomised controlled trials on the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve social networks for adults (18+) with mental health problems. Papers were independently reviewed for inclusion with conflicts resolved through consensus. Included papers were quality assessed and data extracted and synthesized narratively. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Results: Nine studies randomising 2226 participants were included. Four focused on those with a diagnosis of schizophrenia or psychosis, one on major depressive disorder and four included all types of mental health diagnoses. The current evidence base is of unclear quality. However, interventions which focused on supporting social activities appear to hold the most promise for enhancing social networks. Data on cost-effectiveness and research acceptability were limited, but suggest the potential economic feasibility of and acceptability for evaluating these interventions. Conclusion: There is emerging evidence that social network interventions can be effective in improving social connections for people with mental health problems. However, further evaluations with robust methodological approaches are required to inform evidence-based recommendations for health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To synthesize the available evidence on the extent to which area-level socioeconomic conditions are associated with drug overdose deaths in the United States. Methods: We performed a systematic review (in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Web of Science, EconLit) for papers published prior to July 2022. Eligible studies quantitatively estimated the association between an area-level measure of socioeconomic conditions and drug overdose deaths in the US, and were published in English. We assessed study quality using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool. The protocol was preregistered at Prospero (CRD42019121317). Results: We identified 28 studies that estimated area-level effects of socioeconomic conditions on drug overdose deaths in the US. Studies were scored as having moderate to serious risk of bias attributed to both confounding and in analysis. Socioeconomic conditions and drug overdose death rates were moderately associated, and this was a consistent finding across a large number of measures and differences in study designs (e.g., cross-sectional versus longitudinal), years of data analyzed, and primary unit of analysis (e.g., ZIP code, county, state). Conclusions: This review highlights the evidence for area-level socioeconomic conditions are an important factor underlying the geospatial distribution of drug overdose deaths in the US and the need to understand the mechanisms underlying these associations to inform future policy recommendations. The current evidence base suggests that, at least in the United States, employment, income, and poverty interventions may be effective targets for preventing drug overdose mortality rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: It is estimated that someone dies by suicide every 40 s globally and that 3000 people end their lives daily. Of these deaths, 79% occur in low-resource settings. The very nature of the low-resource settings often serves as a barrier to the adoption and implementation of evidence-based suicide prevention models that have demonstrated success in high-resource countries. As such rates of suicide continue to increase, the workforce of trained mental health providers equipped to effectively engage, assess, and treat individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts and behaviors remains relatively stagnant. This paper aims to illustrate the implementation of the Engaged Community Action for Preventing Suicide (ECAPS) model as a means of developing a culturally relevant and responsive model of suicide prevention that is acceptable and sustainable in low-resource settings. Methods: University faculty and staff (n=34) and psychology students (n=25), and community-based mental health providers (n=41) providing mental health services to at-risk individuals in highly vulnerable communities in Lima, Peru participated in the implementation of ECAPS process. Results: The resulting program, ¡PEDIR!, demonstrates the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of the ECAPS model. Conclusion: The ECAPS model is a feasible and effective framework for use in low-resource settings to guide the development of a culturally relevant community-level intervention to address the systemic, societal, and individual level factors that serve as barriers to suicide prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Research is beginning to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on people with pre-existing mental health conditions. Our paper addresses a lack of in-depth qualitative research exploring their experiences and perceptions of how life has changed at this time. Methods: We used qualitative interviews (N = 49) to explore experiences of the pandemic for people with pre-existing mental health conditions. In a participatory, coproduced approach, researchers with lived experiences of mental health conditions conducted interviews and analysed data as part of a multi-disciplinary research team. Results: Existing mental health difficulties were exacerbated for many people. People experienced specific psychological impacts of the pandemic, struggles with social connectedness, and inadequate access to mental health services, while some found new ways to cope and connect to the community. New remote ways to access mental health care, including digital solutions, provided continuity of care for some but presented substantial barriers for others. People from black and ethnic minority (BAME) communities experienced heightened anxiety, stigma and racism associated with the pandemic, further impacting their mental health. Conclusion: There is a need for evidence-based solutions to achieve accessible and effective mental health care in response to the pandemic, especially remote approaches to care. Further research should explore the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on people with pre-existing mental health conditions. Particular attention should be paid to understanding inequalities of impact on mental health, especially for people from BAME communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this review we discuss how the study of dementia epidemiology in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) has changed in the last 20 years, and specifically to review the evidence created by the 10/66 Dementia Research Group (DRG) and discuss future directions for research.Methods: We identified and collated all the papers related to the 10/66 Dementia Research Group, including papers from groups who adopted the 10/66 methodology, that have been published in peer-reviewed journals.Results: Over 200 papers including data from Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America and the Caribbean were identified by this review. Many of the findings revolved around the epidemiology of dementia, mental health and non-communicable diseases, including the cross-cultural development and validation of measurement tools of cognition and functioning, need for care, care arrangements and mental health. Social ageing, care dependence and caregiver interventions were also topics that the group had published on.Discussion: A body of evidence has been generated that has challenged the view, prevalent when the group started, that dementia is comparatively rare in LMICs. The experience of the 10/66 DRG has shown that descriptive epidemiological research can be important and impactful, where few data exist. Monitoring population trends in the prevalence and incidence of dementia may be our best chance to confirm hypotheses regarding modifiable risk factors of dementia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: An analysis model based on monthly or fortnight data is inadequate to precisely evaluate the impact of media reporting of suicide on suicide rates as well as the time lag from exposure to the report of a suicide. Thus, we used daily time-series data and examined the association between newspaper articles on suicide and suicide attempts in Japan. Methods: The Box-Jenkins transfer function model was applied to daily time-series data for the period March 27-May 21, 2008. Results: Newspaper articles on suicide using hydrogen sulfide at ( t − 1) were related to suicide attempts at ( t) ( ps < 0.001 and 0.05). Newspaper articles on suicides using hydrogen sulfide on the front page at ( t − 1) were related to suicide attempts at ( t) ( p < 0.00). The magnitude of the impact of newspaper articles about suicide at ( t − 1) or ( t − 3) on 'copy-cat' suicide attempts became greater as the number of news articles violating the media suicide recommendations increased. Conclusions: The time lag between exposure to newspaper reports of suicide and attempts was 1 or 3 days, and the magnitude of the impact of front page articles was about four times as great as that of suicide articles in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In this paper, we explore how Brazilian socially sensitive therapy can respond to care-users' desire to change the social and political forces shaping their lives. We use this case to demonstrate the limits of the "social determinants of health" agenda which, when operationalized, tends to leave questions of lasting structural change aside. Methods: We report on mixed methods ethnographic and epidemiological results from the 1982 Pelotas (Brazil) birth cohort study, a prospective study of 5914 children. Ethnographic analysis explored the cyclical relationship between schooling, mental health care, conceptualizations of mental distress, social and political engagement, and experiences with diverse forms of discrimination. Epidemiological bivariate and multivariate analyses examined differences in socio-political participation and the reporting of discrimination at different time-points for participants who used therapy with those who did not. Effect modification analysis tested the hypothesis that the socially empowering effects of therapy were greater for marginalized and minoritized youth. Results: Most young people living in situations of precarity experienced therapy, particularly when based in schools, to be a blame-inducing process. A more fulfilling and impactful therapeutic experience took shape when young people were able to shift the focus away from symptom reduction and behavioral management toward narrative life analyses, social debate, and political agency. Use of socially sensitive therapy was statistically associated with increased political participation and reporting of discrimination after controlling for confounders. The empowering effects of therapy were greater for those with less formal education and family income, but not for young people who identified as black, brown, or non-white. Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of considering agency, sociality, and politics when theorizing "the social" in clinical practice, and health and social policy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Western Pacific region accounts for 25% of global suicide rates globally. In the last decade, however, there is a rising concern over the rate of youth suicides in the region. In line with the regional vision of reducing the rate of non-communicable diseases by 2025, the study contributes to the literature by utilizing a scoping review approach to identify psychosocial risk factors associated with youth suicide in the region. Method: Publications on youth suicide in the Western Pacific region between 2010 and 2021 were reviewed. A total of 43 publications met the inclusion criteria and were read in full. Results: Psychosocial risk factors associated with suicide in each publication were identified and thematically classified into five themes: interpersonal factors, history of abuse, academic factors, work factors, and minority status. Discussion: Findings showed discrepancies in youth suicide research across member nations in the Western Pacific. Implications for regional policies on suicide prevention and future research were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Social psychiatry considers the ways in which mental disorders are shaped by particular social environments. This paper outlines a cultural-ecosocial approach that emphasizes the ways in which cultural meaning and practices mediate the effects of the social determinants of mental health on the mechanisms of illness, disorder, and disease.Selective review of literature and conceptual synthesis.“The social” in psychiatry stands for the structures and dynamics of groups of people interacting on multiple scales from the intimate sphere of couple and family to neighbourhoods, communities, societies, nations, and transnational or global networks. These interactions create social contexts, niches, forms of belonging, identities, institutions, and larger systems that influence the causes, expression, course, and outcome of mental disorders. Characterizing these systems requires theory that considers the ways in which social systems constitute dynamical systems that configure material, energetic, and informational flows that give rise to human experience. Unpacking the health consequences of these local and extended systems requires an interdisciplinary approach that considers: (1) the social psychological, psychophysiological, and sociophysiological processes that mediate the impact of the environment on body, mind, and person; (2) the interactional dynamics of social systems that give rise to structural adversity and inequity as well as resilience; and (3) the recursive effects of self-understanding, agency and subjectivity.In the cultural-ecosocial view, “the social” is shorthand for interactional processes that constitute material and symbolic structures that provide cultural affordances, constraints, and challenges as well as resources for healing, recovery, and adaptation.Methods: Social psychiatry considers the ways in which mental disorders are shaped by particular social environments. This paper outlines a cultural-ecosocial approach that emphasizes the ways in which cultural meaning and practices mediate the effects of the social determinants of mental health on the mechanisms of illness, disorder, and disease.Selective review of literature and conceptual synthesis.“The social” in psychiatry stands for the structures and dynamics of groups of people interacting on multiple scales from the intimate sphere of couple and family to neighbourhoods, communities, societies, nations, and transnational or global networks. These interactions create social contexts, niches, forms of belonging, identities, institutions, and larger systems that influence the causes, expression, course, and outcome of mental disorders. Characterizing these systems requires theory that considers the ways in which social systems constitute dynamical systems that configure material, energetic, and informational flows that give rise to human experience. Unpacking the health consequences of these local and extended systems requires an interdisciplinary approach that considers: (1) the social psychological, psychophysiological, and sociophysiological processes that mediate the impact of the environment on body, mind, and person; (2) the interactional dynamics of social systems that give rise to structural adversity and inequity as well as resilience; and (3) the recursive effects of self-understanding, agency and subjectivity.In the cultural-ecosocial view, “the social” is shorthand for interactional processes that constitute material and symbolic structures that provide cultural affordances, constraints, and challenges as well as resources for healing, recovery, and adaptation.Results: Social psychiatry considers the ways in which mental disorders are shaped by particular social environments. This paper outlines a cultural-ecosocial approach that emphasizes the ways in which cultural meaning and practices mediate the effects of the social determinants of mental health on the mechanisms of illness, disorder, and disease.Selective review of literature and conceptual synthesis.“The social” in psychiatry stands for the structures and dynamics of groups of people interacting on multiple scales from the intimate sphere of couple and family to neighbourhoods, communities, societies, nations, and transnational or global networks. These interactions create social contexts, niches, forms of belonging, identities, institutions, and larger systems that influence the causes, expression, course, and outcome of mental disorders. Characterizing these systems requires theory that considers the ways in which social systems constitute dynamical systems that configure material, energetic, and informational flows that give rise to human experience. Unpacking the health consequences of these local and extended systems requires an interdisciplinary approach that considers: (1) the social psychological, psychophysiological, and sociophysiological processes that mediate the impact of the environment on body, mind, and person; (2) the interactional dynamics of social systems that give rise to structural adversity and inequity as well as resilience; and (3) the recursive effects of self-understanding, agency and subjectivity.In the cultural-ecosocial view, “the social” is shorthand for interactional processes that constitute material and symbolic structures that provide cultural affordances, constraints, and challenges as well as resources for healing, recovery, and adaptation.Conclusions: Social psychiatry considers the ways in which mental disorders are shaped by particular social environments. This paper outlines a cultural-ecosocial approach that emphasizes the ways in which cultural meaning and practices mediate the effects of the social determinants of mental health on the mechanisms of illness, disorder, and disease.Selective review of literature and conceptual synthesis.“The social” in psychiatry stands for the structures and dynamics of groups of people interacting on multiple scales from the intimate sphere of couple and family to neighbourhoods, communities, societies, nations, and transnational or global networks. These interactions create social contexts, niches, forms of belonging, identities, institutions, and larger systems that influence the causes, expression, course, and outcome of mental disorders. Characterizing these systems requires theory that considers the ways in which social systems constitute dynamical systems that configure material, energetic, and informational flows that give rise to human experience. Unpacking the health consequences of these local and extended systems requires an interdisciplinary approach that considers: (1) the social psychological, psychophysiological, and sociophysiological processes that mediate the impact of the environment on body, mind, and person; (2) the interactional dynamics of social systems that give rise to structural adversity and inequity as well as resilience; and (3) the recursive effects of self-understanding, agency and subjectivity.In the cultural-ecosocial view, “the social” is shorthand for interactional processes that constitute material and symbolic structures that provide cultural affordances, constraints, and challenges as well as resources for healing, recovery, and adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: There are elevated mental health concerns in paramedic students, but estimates vary between studies and countries, and no review has established the overall prevalence. This systematic review addressed this by estimating the global prevalence of common mental health disorders, namely anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in paramedic students internationally.A systematic search of six databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and medRxiv, was conducted to identify studies relating to mental health among paramedicine students. The search encompassed studies from inception until February 2023. To be considered for inclusion in the review, the studies had to report prevalence data on at least one symptom of anxiety, depression, or PTSD in paramedicine students, using quantitative validated scales. The quality of the studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist, which is a specific methodological tool for assessing prevalence studies. Subgroup analyses were not conducted due to insufficient data.1638 articles were identified from the searches, and 193 full texts were screened, resulting in 13 papers for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The total number of participants was 1064 from 10 countries. The pooled prevalence of moderate PTSD was 17.9% (95% CI 14.8–21.6%), anxiety was 56.4% (95% CI 35,9–75%), and depression was at 34.7% (95% CI 23.4–48.1%).This systematic review and meta-analysis has found that paramedicine students globally exhibit a high prevalence of moderate PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The prevalence of these mental health conditions surpasses those among paramedic providers and the general population, as indicated by previous reviews. Further research is therefore warranted to determine appropriate support and interventions for this group.Methods: There are elevated mental health concerns in paramedic students, but estimates vary between studies and countries, and no review has established the overall prevalence. This systematic review addressed this by estimating the global prevalence of common mental health disorders, namely anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in paramedic students internationally.A systematic search of six databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and medRxiv, was conducted to identify studies relating to mental health among paramedicine students. The search encompassed studies from inception until February 2023. To be considered for inclusion in the review, the studies had to report prevalence data on at least one symptom of anxiety, depression, or PTSD in paramedicine students, using quantitative validated scales. The quality of the studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist, which is a specific methodological tool for assessing prevalence studies. Subgroup analyses were not conducted due to insufficient data.1638 articles were identified from the searches, and 193 full texts were screened, resulting in 13 papers for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The total number of participants was 1064 from 10 countries. The pooled prevalence of moderate PTSD was 17.9% (95% CI 14.8–21.6%), anxiety was 56.4% (95% CI 35,9–75%), and depression was at 34.7% (95% CI 23.4–48.1%).This systematic review and meta-analysis has found that paramedicine students globally exhibit a high prevalence of moderate PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The prevalence of these mental health conditions surpasses those among paramedic providers and the general population, as indicated by previous reviews. Further research is therefore warranted to determine appropriate support and interventions for this group.Results: There are elevated mental health concerns in paramedic students, but estimates vary between studies and countries, and no review has established the overall prevalence. This systematic review addressed this by estimating the global prevalence of common mental health disorders, namely anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in paramedic students internationally.A systematic search of six databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and medRxiv, was conducted to identify studies relating to mental health among paramedicine students. The search encompassed studies from inception until February 2023. To be considered for inclusion in the review, the studies had to report prevalence data on at least one symptom of anxiety, depression, or PTSD in paramedicine students, using quantitative validated scales. The quality of the studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist, which is a specific methodological tool for assessing prevalence studies. Subgroup analyses were not conducted due to insufficient data.1638 articles were identified from the searches, and 193 full texts were screened, resulting in 13 papers for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The total number of participants was 1064 from 10 countries. The pooled prevalence of moderate PTSD was 17.9% (95% CI 14.8–21.6%), anxiety was 56.4% (95% CI 35,9–75%), and depression was at 34.7% (95% CI 23.4–48.1%).This systematic review and meta-analysis has found that paramedicine students globally exhibit a high prevalence of moderate PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The prevalence of these mental health conditions surpasses those among paramedic providers and the general population, as indicated by previous reviews. Further research is therefore warranted to determine appropriate support and interventions for this group.Conclusion: There are elevated mental health concerns in paramedic students, but estimates vary between studies and countries, and no review has established the overall prevalence. This systematic review addressed this by estimating the global prevalence of common mental health disorders, namely anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), in paramedic students internationally.A systematic search of six databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, and medRxiv, was conducted to identify studies relating to mental health among paramedicine students. The search encompassed studies from inception until February 2023. To be considered for inclusion in the review, the studies had to report prevalence data on at least one symptom of anxiety, depression, or PTSD in paramedicine students, using quantitative validated scales. The quality of the studies was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Checklist, which is a specific methodological tool for assessing prevalence studies. Subgroup analyses were not conducted due to insufficient data.1638 articles were identified from the searches, and 193 full texts were screened, resulting in 13 papers for the systematic review and meta-analysis. The total number of participants was 1064 from 10 countries. The pooled prevalence of moderate PTSD was 17.9% (95% CI 14.8–21.6%), anxiety was 56.4% (95% CI 35,9–75%), and depression was at 34.7% (95% CI 23.4–48.1%).This systematic review and meta-analysis has found that paramedicine students globally exhibit a high prevalence of moderate PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The prevalence of these mental health conditions surpasses those among paramedic providers and the general population, as indicated by previous reviews. Further research is therefore warranted to determine appropriate support and interventions for this group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Studies have reported children born by caesarean section are more likely to have lower cognitive outcomes compared to those born by vaginal delivery. This paper reviews the literature examining caesarean birth and offspring cognitive outcomes. Methods: A systematic search for observational studies or case–control studies that compared cognitive outcomes of people born by caesarean section with those born by vaginal delivery was conducted in six databases (Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, PsychInfo, CINAHL, Web of Science) from inception until December 2019 according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were assessed for quality and a narrative synthesis was undertaken considering the evidence for a causal relationship according to the Bradford Hill Criteria. Results: A total of seven studies were identified. Of these, four found a significant association between elective and emergency caesarean birth and reduction in offspring cognitive performance as measured by school performance or validated cognitive testing. Three studies found no association. There was variability in the quality of the studies, assessment of the reason for caesarean section (emergency vs elective), measurement of outcomes and adjustment for confounding factors. Conclusion: The evidence of an association between CS birth and lower offspring cognitive functioning is inconsistent. Based on currently available data, there is no evidence that a causal association exists. To better examine this association, future studies should (a) distinguish elective and emergency caesareans, (b) adequately adjust for confounding variables and (c) have valid outcome measures of cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background:. Service users and providers have stated that delivering continuity of care to people with severe mental illness should be a service priority. We reviewed literature on continuity of care for people with severe mental illness (SMI) in order to identify factors that promote and impede this process. Method:. A systematic search of electronic databases, sources of grey literature and contact with experts in the field. Two reviewers independently rated all papers for possible inclusion. Data extracted from papers formed the basis of a narrative review. Results:. We identified 435 papers on continuity of care, of which 60 addressed the study aims. Most did not define continuity of care. Available evidence suggests that assertive community treatment, case management, community mental health teams and crisis intervention reduce the likelihood of patients dropping out of contact with services. Conclusions:. Evidence on which to base services that enhance continuity of care for people with SMI is limited because previous research has often failed to define continuity of care or consider the patient’s perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This work complements a quantitative review by Nortje et al. (Lancet Psychiatry 3(2):154-170, 2016) by exploring the qualitative literature in regard to the perceived effectiveness of traditional and faith healing of mental disorders.Method: Qualitative studies focusing specifically on traditional and/or faith healing practices for mental illness were retrieved from eight databases. Data were extracted  into basic coding sheets to facilitate the assessment of the quality of eligible papers using the COREQ.Results: Sixteen articles met the inclusion criteria. Despite methodological limitations, there was evidence from the papers that stakeholders perceived traditional and/or faith healing to be effective in treating mental illness, especially when used in combination with biomedical treatment.Conclusion: Patients will continue to seek treatment from traditional and/or faith healers for mental illness if they perceive it to be effective regardless of alternative biomedical evidence. This provides opportunities for collaboration to address resource scarcity in low to middle income countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Growing evidence demonstrates that daily stressors such as family violence, unemployment, and living conditions play an important part in causing psychological distress. This paper investigates the impact of distressing events and day-to-day living conditions on psychological distress in the fragile context of Sierra Leone. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 904 adults (454 men, 450 women) in 5 districts of Sierra Leone. The survey questionnaire comprised the Sierra Leone Psychological Distress scale and measures of demographic variables and personal characteristics, current life circumstances and potentially distressing events. Results: Multiple regression results identified three factors to be the greatest contributors to psychological distress: family conflict (β = 0.185, p < 0.001) and inability to afford basic needs (β = 0.175, p < 0.001). Gender differences were evident: factors predicting men's psychological distress included severe sickness or injury (β = 0.203, p < 0.001) and being unable to afford basic needs (β = 0.190, p < 0.001); for women, predicting factors were family conflict (β = 0.212, p < 0.001), perceived poor health (β = 0.192, p < 0.001) and inability to afford basic needs (β = 0.190, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Initiatives to promote good mental health and psychosocial wellbeing in Sierra Leone should focus on enhancing income-generating and employment opportunities, promoting access to education, and strengthening family relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bipolar and borderline personality disorders share similar features, are challenging to differentiate and sometimes co-occur in the same individual. This paper compares people with bipolar, borderline, both or neither, analyzing sociodemographic characteristics, lifetime exposure to stressors, and emotional, social, and physical wellbeing to illuminate differences in life experiences associated with expressing symptoms consistent with bipolar, borderline, or both. Methods: Data were analyzed from the 2012–13 National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC-III), N = 36,309. Survey participants were classified as bipolar (N = 488, 1.3%), borderline (N = 1758, 4.8%), both (N = 388, 1.1%), or neither (N = 33,675, 92.8%). Differences between these groups regarding demographics, adverse childhood experiences, recent stressors, lifetime trauma, psychiatric co-morbidities, and emotional, social, and physical wellbeing were assessed with the adjusted Wald F test. Results: People with bipolar were more likely to also have borderline (44.3%) than the reverse (18.1%). People with both disorders were least advantaged socioeconomically, most exposed to stressors and traumas across the life course, and had the worst wellbeing emotionally, socially, and physically. Differences between people with both disorders vs. borderline only were smaller than between people with borderline vs. bipolar, although bipolar disorder was associated with considerable hardship relative to having neither disorder. Conclusion: Borderline personality disorder alone or in combination with bipolar is associated with worse economic, social, and health outcomes than bipolar alone. Borderline can resolve with evidence-based treatment, and it is critical to correctly differentiate between the two conditions, so people with borderline and/or bipolar have the optimum chance for recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Loneliness is an important issue for mental health service users. However, it has not been a particularly prominent focus of recent mental health research. This paper aimed to explore the severity of loneliness among people leaving mental health community crisis services, and to identify factors associated with loneliness.Methods: A total of 399 participants experiencing mental health crises recruited for a research trial from community crisis services were included in this cross-sectional study. They completed the eight-item measure of the University of California at Los Angeles Loneliness Scale and a set of instruments assessing socio-demographic, psychosocial, and psychiatric variables.Results: Severity of loneliness was high among people leaving community crisis services. Longer years since first contact with mental health services (2-10 years, coefficient = 1.83, 95% CI 0.49-3.16; more than 10 years, coefficient = 1.91, 95% CI 0.46-3.36) and more severe affective symptoms (coefficient = 0.32, 95% CI 0.23-0.40) were associated with greater loneliness, whereas bigger social network size (coefficient = - 0.56, 95% CI - 0.76 to - 0.36) and greater social capital (coefficient = - 0.16, 95% CI - 0.31 to - 0.003) were associated with less severe loneliness.Conclusions: This paper supports a view that people experiencing mental health crises often report relatively severe loneliness, and that loneliness tends to become more severe during the course of illness. A greater awareness of loneliness among mental health professionals may be beneficial. Loneliness is a potential focus of the development of interventions to improve the lives and outcomes of people with significant mental health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Loneliness and social isolation can occur at all stages of the life course and are recognized as a global health priority. The aim of this study was to review existing literature on the economic costs associated with loneliness and social isolation as well as evidence on the cost-effectiveness of interventions to prevent or address loneliness and social isolation.Methods: A bibliographic database search was undertaken in Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Embase, supplemented by a grey literature search and a reference list search. Papers were included that were published in English language in peer-reviewed literature in the past 10 years, reporting costs of loneliness and/or social isolation or economic evaluations of interventions whose primary purpose is to reduce loneliness and/or social isolation, including return on investment (ROI) or social return on investment (SROI) studies.Results: In total, 12 papers were included in this review, consisting of four cost-of-illness studies, seven economic evaluations and five ROI or SROI studies. Most studies were conducted in the UK and focused on older adults. Due to the inconsistent use of the terms loneliness and social isolation, as well as their measurement, the true economic burden can only be estimated to a certain extent and the comparability across economic evaluations and ROI studies is limited.Conclusions: The paucity of evidence that is available primarily evaluating the economic costs of loneliness indicates that more research is needed to assess the economic burden and identify cost-effective interventions to prevent or address loneliness and social isolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The evidence base for peer support work in mental health is established, yet implementation remains a challenge. The aim of this systematic review was to identify influences which facilitate or are barriers to implementation of mental health peer support work.Methods: Data sources comprised online databases (n = 11), journal table of contents (n = 2), conference proceedings (n = 18), peer support websites (n = 2), expert consultation (n = 38) and forward and backward citation tracking. Publications were included if they reported on implementation facilitators or barriers for formal face-to-face peer support work with adults with a mental health problem, and were available in English, French, German, Hebrew, Luganda, Spanish or Swahili. Data were analysed using narrative synthesis. A six-site international survey [Germany (2 sites), India, Israel, Tanzania, Uganda] using a measure based on the strongest influences was conducted. The review protocol was pre-registered (Prospero: CRD42018094838).Results: The search strategy identified 5813 publications, of which 53 were included. Fourteen implementation influences were identified, notably organisational culture (reported by 53% of papers), training (42%) and role definition (40%). Ratings on a measure using these influences demonstrated preliminary evidence for the convergent and discriminant validity of the identified influences.Conclusion: The identified influences provide a guide to implementation of peer support. For services developing a peer support service, organisational culture including role support (training, role clarity, resourcing and access to a peer network) and staff attitudes need to be considered. The identified influences provide a theory base to prepare research sites for implementing peer support worker interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Individuals affected by psychotic disorders frequently disengage from mental health services, although reports of this rate in the literature have ranged from 6 to 60%. One of the potential explanations for the large variation is that studies have adopted different definitions. Without a universal definition it is challenging to compare rates and factors leading to disengagement across studies. This systematic review aims to identify and compare how disengagement from psychosis services has been defined, measured and operationalised in the literature to date.Methods: A systemic literature search of the PubMed, PsycINFO and CINAHL databases was completed following the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews.Results: 1506 Studies were identified, of which 30 were eligible to be included. It was found that disengagement was operationalized as either a categorical or continuous variable across studies, with 18 studies classifying it as a categorical, binary variable. Only four studies applied a time period over which disengagement was said to occur, and only four studies used an instrument to measure or predict disengagement. Few studies considered similar factors in their definition, when this occurred it was because the papers came from the same research group.Discussion: To truly understand the phenomenon of disengagement, studies need to have a comparable outcome variable. The need for consensus on a gold standard definition of disengagement that considers the full breadth of its complexity remains. A potential process for establishing a definition that includes set parameters, agreed upon terminology and time periods of assessment is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00127-021-02073-1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Psychotherapy assessments are key decision points for both clients and services, carrying considerable weight on both sides. Limited research indicates that assessments have immediate and long-term impacts on clients, particularly where trauma has been experienced, affecting engagement with therapy. Understanding assessments from clients' perspectives can inform service development and improve client experience. Methods: This is a survivor-led exploration of clients' experiences of undergoing assessment for talking therapies. Interviews were conducted with seven people who had undergone assessment for psychological therapies in third sector and NHS services. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically. Results: The core theme was 'respect for the journey' reflecting the need expressed by participants for their life experiences prior to the assessment to be given full respect and consideration. Six sub-themes were identified: trauma and desperation, fear of judgement, search for trust and safety, sharing and withholding (a balancing act), feeling deconstructed, and finding hope. Conclusions: The findings highlight the heightened emotional power surrounding psychotherapy assessments, reflecting the journey participants had undertaken to reach this point. The dilemma facing clients at the heart of an assessment—how much to share and how much to withhold—demonstrates the importance for services and assessors of treating the journey a client has made to the assessment with care and respect. Findings indicate the value of services and practitioners undertaking a trauma-informed approach to assessment encounters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Social adversity experiences have increased during the pandemic and are potential risk factors for both depression and support for violent radicalization (VR). However, the cumulative and independent effects of various social adversity experiences on support for VR have yet to be explored. This paper examines the cumulative and independent effects of COVID- and non-COVID-related discrimination, exposure to violence, traditional and cyberbullying victimization on support for VR. In addition, we investigate whether depression mediates the relationship between these forms of social adversity and support for VR. Methods: A total of 6003 young adults (Mage = 27, SDage = 4.40, range 18–35) living in metropolitan areas in Canada responded to an online survey. We used multivariable regression models, controlling for socio-demographic characteristics, to infer covariate adjusted associations between social adversity measures and support for VR. Additionally, we conducted a formal mediation analysis to estimate the proportion mediated by depression. Results: There was a cumulative relationship between experiences of social adversity and support for VR (β = 1.52; 95% CI: 1.32, 1.72). COVID-related discrimination and cyberbullying victimization were independently associated with stronger support for VR. Depression partially mediated the effect of cumulative social adversity, COVID-related discrimination and cyberbullying on support for VR. Conclusion: Prevention programs during the present pandemic should prioritize decreasing discrimination and providing psychosocial support to depressed young adults who experience social adversity. Practitioners should prioritize developing programs that foster digital literacy skills and critical thinking among young adults to address the concerning impact of cyberbullying on support for VR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper describes the design of a theory-informed pragmatic intervention for adolescent perinatal depression in primary care in Nigeria. Methods: We conducted Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) among 17 adolescent mothers and 25 maternal health care providers with experience in the receipt and provision of care for perinatal depression. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was used to systematically examine the barriers and facilitators affecting adolescent mothers' use of an existing intervention package for depression. The Theoretical Domain Framework (TDF) and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model were used to analyze the results of the data across the five CFIR domains. Results: FGD analysis revealed that care providers lacked knowledge on approaches to engage young mothers in treatment. Young mothers had poor treatment engagement, low social support, and little interest in parenting. A main characteristic of the newly designed intervention is the inclusion of age-appropriate psychoeducation supported with weekly mobile phone calls, to address treatment engagement and parenting behaviours of young mothers. Also in the outer setting, low social support from relatives was addressed with education, "as need arises" phone calls, and the involvement of "neighborhood mothers". In the inner settings, care providers' behaviour is addressed with training to increase their capacity to engage young mothers in treatment. Conclusion: A theory-based approach helped develop an age-appropriate intervention package targeting depression and parenting skills deficit among perinatal adolescents in primary maternal care and in which a pragmatic use of mobile phone was key. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: War-torn populations are often hard to screen for mental health disorders. Classical data collection approaches, such as paper-based, online, or SMS-operated, are either infeasible or lack accuracy due to a variety of challenges associated with dynamics and consequences of war.Methods: In this paper, we introduce a novel approach for accurate and fast screening using free open-source software, Open Data Kit (ODK) mobile application. This approach was developed by the Palestine Children's Relief Fund (PCRF) to assess the mental health symptoms of 986 Palestinian children (age 6-18) in the aftermath of Israel's Operation Protective Edge (OPE) in 2014. The organization developed assessment questionnaires and trained local field workers on the use of the mobile application, and on recruiting and interviewing war victims.Results: War-affected children were found to suffer from several alarming symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and somatic symptoms. Children with highest number of psychological symptoms were referred for further evaluation and treatment.Conclusions: The use of ODK mobile technologies facilitated efficient screening of affected children in war zones. The offline data collection capability was crucial for handling the difficult conditions associated with war-torn areas, enabling timely intervention for urgent cases. Further applications of the novel mobile technology are to be explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Syndemic model of health experience in severe mental illness (SMI) involving modifiable health behaviour contributors has been theorised but has not yet been investigated. Over the next 10 years mental ill-health and suicidal behaviours have been predicted to increase which will decrease health experience and increase hospitalisation and associated costs. This paper investigated a Syndemic model of health experience in people with SMI informed by physical activity levels, exposure to nature, personal resilience levels, drugs related (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption), and sleep behaviours using UK Biobank data. Results implementing SEM indicate partial evidence for a Syndemic model, with personal resilience being at its centre. Contrary to previous findings, drugs related behaviours did not play an important role in the model. Implementing a Syndemic framework approach to current health care strategies could be beneficial in the development of self-management strategies for people with SMI. This is the first paper using SEM analyses to investigate SMI under the Syndemic theory paradigm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions.A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report.A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants’ relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals’ awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection.Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made.Methods: Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions.A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report.A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants’ relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals’ awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection.Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made.Results: Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions.A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report.A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants’ relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals’ awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection.Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made.Conclusions: Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions.A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report.A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants’ relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals’ awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection.Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS and associated factors among (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts.Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, and a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.In total, 35 papers consisting of 19,073 participants were included. Of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States (US) and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder had a lower mean PSS score (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Approximately half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors.Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future research should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures, based on the lack of studies that focused on PSS in countries outside of the US.Methods: Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS and associated factors among (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts.Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, and a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.In total, 35 papers consisting of 19,073 participants were included. Of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States (US) and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder had a lower mean PSS score (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Approximately half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors.Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future research should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures, based on the lack of studies that focused on PSS in countries outside of the US.Results: Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS and associated factors among (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts.Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, and a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.In total, 35 papers consisting of 19,073 participants were included. Of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States (US) and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder had a lower mean PSS score (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Approximately half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors.Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future research should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures, based on the lack of studies that focused on PSS in countries outside of the US.Conclusion: Combat deployment increases exposure to potentially traumatic events. Perceived social support (PSS) may promote health and recovery from combat trauma. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize studies investigating the level of PSS and associated factors among (ex-)military personnel who served in the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts.Five electronic databases were searched in August 2023 and searches were restricted to the beginning of the Iraq/Afghanistan conflicts in 2001. The search was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A quality assessment was carried out, and a meta-analysis and narrative synthesis were performed.In total, 35 papers consisting of 19,073 participants were included. Of these, 31 studies were conducted in the United States (US) and 23 were cross-sectional. The pooled mean PSS score was 54.40 (95% CI: 51.78 to 57.01). Samples with probable post-traumatic stress disorder had a lower mean PSS score (44.40, 95% CI: 39.10 to 49.70). Approximately half of the included studies (n = 19) investigated mental health in relation to PSS, whilst only four explored physical health. The most frequently reported risk factors for low PSS included post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety, whilst post-traumatic growth and unit support were protective factors.Higher levels of PSS were generally associated with more positive psychosocial and mental health-related outcomes following deployment. PSS should be targeted in psychosocial interventions and education programmes. Future research should investigate PSS in (ex-)military personnel across other countries and cultures, based on the lack of studies that focused on PSS in countries outside of the US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to distressing events before age 18 that can lead to potential mental and physical health consequences. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the association between ACEs and the risk of dementia in elderly adults who experienced ACEs during childhood, addressing the existing inconsistencies and methodological variations.A comprehensive search strategy was employed across key databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) to identify relevant articles. Our primary outcome was ACEs-dementia risk, and our secondary outcome was mild cognitive impairment risk. A quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and GRADE. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the reliability of the results.Out of 1,376 screened papers, nine studies were included. The studies consisted of two case-control, one prospective cohort, and six retrospective cohort studies conducted in the UK, France, USA, China, and Spain. Five studies were of good methodological quality according to the NOS. according to the GRADE, all outcomes were classified as very low or low quality of evidence. A significant association was observed between ACEs and dementia risk (OR = 1.35; 95% CI 1.20, 1.52; P = 0.00001) and mild cognitive impairment risk (OR = 1.28; 95% CI 0.63, 2.62; P = 0.49). A meta-analysis by type of adversity revealed significant results for the maltreatment subgroup(OR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.07-1.58; P = 0.007; I² = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the dementia definition revealed no between-subgroup difference (P = 0.71) between tool-based and register/criteria-based subgroups. No possibility of Publication bias was observed upon inspection of the funnel plot.Adverse childhood experiences may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, caution is warranted in interpreting these results due to the limited number of studies. Larger high-quality studies investigating the association between ACEs and dementia risk are needed to confirm the reliability of our results.Methods: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to distressing events before age 18 that can lead to potential mental and physical health consequences. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the association between ACEs and the risk of dementia in elderly adults who experienced ACEs during childhood, addressing the existing inconsistencies and methodological variations.A comprehensive search strategy was employed across key databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) to identify relevant articles. Our primary outcome was ACEs-dementia risk, and our secondary outcome was mild cognitive impairment risk. A quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and GRADE. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the reliability of the results.Out of 1,376 screened papers, nine studies were included. The studies consisted of two case-control, one prospective cohort, and six retrospective cohort studies conducted in the UK, France, USA, China, and Spain. Five studies were of good methodological quality according to the NOS. according to the GRADE, all outcomes were classified as very low or low quality of evidence. A significant association was observed between ACEs and dementia risk (OR = 1.35; 95% CI 1.20, 1.52; P = 0.00001) and mild cognitive impairment risk (OR = 1.28; 95% CI 0.63, 2.62; P = 0.49). A meta-analysis by type of adversity revealed significant results for the maltreatment subgroup(OR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.07-1.58; P = 0.007; I² = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the dementia definition revealed no between-subgroup difference (P = 0.71) between tool-based and register/criteria-based subgroups. No possibility of Publication bias was observed upon inspection of the funnel plot.Adverse childhood experiences may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, caution is warranted in interpreting these results due to the limited number of studies. Larger high-quality studies investigating the association between ACEs and dementia risk are needed to confirm the reliability of our results.Results: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to distressing events before age 18 that can lead to potential mental and physical health consequences. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the association between ACEs and the risk of dementia in elderly adults who experienced ACEs during childhood, addressing the existing inconsistencies and methodological variations.A comprehensive search strategy was employed across key databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) to identify relevant articles. Our primary outcome was ACEs-dementia risk, and our secondary outcome was mild cognitive impairment risk. A quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and GRADE. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the reliability of the results.Out of 1,376 screened papers, nine studies were included. The studies consisted of two case-control, one prospective cohort, and six retrospective cohort studies conducted in the UK, France, USA, China, and Spain. Five studies were of good methodological quality according to the NOS. according to the GRADE, all outcomes were classified as very low or low quality of evidence. A significant association was observed between ACEs and dementia risk (OR = 1.35; 95% CI 1.20, 1.52; P = 0.00001) and mild cognitive impairment risk (OR = 1.28; 95% CI 0.63, 2.62; P = 0.49). A meta-analysis by type of adversity revealed significant results for the maltreatment subgroup(OR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.07-1.58; P = 0.007; I² = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the dementia definition revealed no between-subgroup difference (P = 0.71) between tool-based and register/criteria-based subgroups. No possibility of Publication bias was observed upon inspection of the funnel plot.Adverse childhood experiences may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, caution is warranted in interpreting these results due to the limited number of studies. Larger high-quality studies investigating the association between ACEs and dementia risk are needed to confirm the reliability of our results.Conclusion: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) refer to distressing events before age 18 that can lead to potential mental and physical health consequences. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the association between ACEs and the risk of dementia in elderly adults who experienced ACEs during childhood, addressing the existing inconsistencies and methodological variations.A comprehensive search strategy was employed across key databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase) to identify relevant articles. Our primary outcome was ACEs-dementia risk, and our secondary outcome was mild cognitive impairment risk. A quality assessment was conducted using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale and GRADE. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the reliability of the results.Out of 1,376 screened papers, nine studies were included. The studies consisted of two case-control, one prospective cohort, and six retrospective cohort studies conducted in the UK, France, USA, China, and Spain. Five studies were of good methodological quality according to the NOS. according to the GRADE, all outcomes were classified as very low or low quality of evidence. A significant association was observed between ACEs and dementia risk (OR = 1.35; 95% CI 1.20, 1.52; P = 0.00001) and mild cognitive impairment risk (OR = 1.28; 95% CI 0.63, 2.62; P = 0.49). A meta-analysis by type of adversity revealed significant results for the maltreatment subgroup(OR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.07-1.58; P = 0.007; I² = 0%). Subgroup analysis based on the dementia definition revealed no between-subgroup difference (P = 0.71) between tool-based and register/criteria-based subgroups. No possibility of Publication bias was observed upon inspection of the funnel plot.Adverse childhood experiences may be associated with an increased risk of dementia. However, caution is warranted in interpreting these results due to the limited number of studies. Larger high-quality studies investigating the association between ACEs and dementia risk are needed to confirm the reliability of our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preliminary country-specific reports suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic has a negative impact on the mental health of the healthcare workforce. In this paper, we summarize the protocol of the COVID-19 HEalth caRe wOrkErS (HEROES) study, an ongoing, global initiative, aimed to describe and track longitudinal trajectories of mental health symptoms and disorders among health care workers at different phases of the pandemic across a wide range of countries in Latin America, Europe, Africa, Middle-East, and Asia. Methods: Participants from various settings, including primary care clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, and mental health facilities, are being enrolled. In 26 countries, we are using a similar study design with harmonized measures to capture data on COVID-19 related exposures and variables of interest during two years of follow-up. Exposures include potential stressors related to working in healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as sociodemographic and clinical factors. Primary outcomes of interest include mental health variables such as psychological distress, depressive symptoms, and posttraumatic stress disorders. Other domains of interest include potentially mediating or moderating influences such as workplace conditions, trust in the government, and the country's income level. Results: As of August 2021, ~ 34,000 health workers have been recruited. A general characterization of the recruited samples by sociodemographic and workplace variables is presented. Most participating countries have identified several health facilities where they can identify denominators and attain acceptable response rates. Of the 26 countries, 22 are collecting data and 2 plan to start shortly. Conclusions: This is one of the most extensive global studies on the mental health of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, including a variety of countries with diverse economic realities and different levels of severity of pandemic and management. Moreover, unlike most previous studies, we included workers (clinical and non-clinical staff) in a wide range of settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A systematic review was undertaken to determine whether research supports: (i) an association between income inequality and adult mental health when measured at the subnational level, and if so, (ii) in a way that supports the Income Inequality Hypothesis (i.e. between higher inequality and poorer mental health) or the Mixed Neighbourhood Hypothesis (higher inequality and better mental health). Methods: Systematic searches of PsycINFO, Medline and Web of Science databases were undertaken from database inception to September 2020. Included studies appeared in English-language, peer-reviewed journals and incorporated measure/s of objective income inequality and adult mental illness. Papers were excluded if they focused on highly specialised population samples. Study quality was assessed using a custom-developed tool and data synthesised using the vote-count method. Results: Forty-two studies met criteria for inclusion representing nearly eight million participants and more than 110,000 geographical units. Of these, 54.76% supported the Income Inequality Hypothesis and 11.9% supported the Mixed Neighbourhood Hypothesis. This held for highest quality studies and after controlling for absolute deprivation. The results were consistent across mental health conditions, size of geographical units, and held for low/middle and high income countries. Conclusions: A number of limitations in the literature were identified, including a lack of appropriate (multi-level) analyses and modelling of relevant confounders (deprivation) in many studies. Nonetheless, the findings suggest that area-level income inequality is associated with poorer mental health, and provides support for the introduction of social, economic and public health policies that ameliorate the deleterious effects of income inequality. Clinical registration number: PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020181507. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In an earlier paper of the European multi-centre ODIN study (Ayuso-Mateos et al. 2001) we found remarkable urban preponderance in comparison to the corresponding rural site in the female prevalence of depressive disorder in the UK and Ireland. The aim of this paper is to analyse the possible reasons for this finding. Method A representative sample of 12,702 people aged between 18 and 64 residing in specified urban and rural areas were screened by the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for depressive disorder in four European countries (Finland, Ireland, Norway and the UK). Those over cut-off (BDI score < 12) and a 5% random sample of those under cut-off underwent diagnostic interview including the SCAN version 2.0, and completed a battery of additional research instruments. Results The estimated 1-month prevalence of depressive disorder according to ICD-10 was 9% in the total ODIN sample. A large between-country variation was found in female urban prevalence, with Ireland (Dublin) and the UK (Liverpool) having a remarkably high rate. The women in these same countries showed a significant urban/rural difference, whereas in men and in the total sample this difference was non-significant. Logistic regression analysis including some selected risk factors of depression showed still higher risk of depressive disorder both in Dublin and Liverpool compared with the Finnish urban site (Turku), which had the lowest urban prevalence. In addition, also such factors as lack of confidant and having difficulties in getting practical help from neighbours were important predictors of depressive disorder. Similarly, when analysing the different countries separately, the significance of the urban/rural difference in women remained for Ireland and the UK, indicating that the other risk factors studied could not totally explain the difference. Conclusions ODIN is the first European study on occurrence of depressive disorder in both urban and rural settings allowing closer... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although community mental health services aim to support patients' autonomy and independence, they have repeatedly been criticised for making patients dependent. Yet, it remains often unclear what exactly is meant with dependency in this context. This review aimed to identify the meaning of the term dependency on community services in the literature.Methods: A systematic search and conceptual review of papers where dependency is used in the context of community mental health services. Narrative synthesis was used to identify thematic concepts linked to dependency in these settings.Results: Fifteen papers met the inclusion criteria. The analysis identified five different concepts of dependency on community mental health services: dislocation from the outside world; inflexibility and lack of freedom; obligation as resentment or appreciation; living with or without meaningful activities; and security.Conclusions: The findings suggest that, distinct from the exclusively negative connotation of the term dependency in a conventional medical context, dependency on community mental health services contains both negative and positive aspects. The different aspects might guide the future evaluation of the care provided in such services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This study aims to replicate Przybylski and Weinstein (Psychol Sci 28(2):204–215, 2017), using a large population cohort to examine the validity of the proposed Goldilocks Hypothesis, which states that moderate digital media engagement may be beneficial and that both high and low usage may have a negative relationship with mental wellbeing. Methods: Using the GUI98 cohort, we used separate weekday and weekend time-based categorical variables indicating time spent online, playing video games, watching TV/films as well as a frequency variable indicating multiscreening, and their associations with SDQ internalizing and externalizing symptoms using linear and quadratic regression parameters. We followed procedures for confounder adjustments outlined in Przybylski and Weinstein (Psychol Sci 28(2):204–215, 2017). Results: As hypothesized by the Goldilocks Hypothesis, time spent online watching TV/films at the weekend and multiscreening all had curvilinear relationships with internalizing and externalizing symptoms with significantly higher symptoms for no time as well as for higher exposures. internalizing and externalizing symptoms increased with time spent playing video games. Conclusions: This brief report supports the Goldilocks Hypothesis, that suggests that moderate use of digital technology is not intrinsically harmful and may instead be beneficial, even necessary in a world becoming ever more increasingly reliant on digital media (Przybylski and Weinstein in Psychol Sci 28(2):204–215, 2017). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Evidence suggests that the distinctive relational qualities of peer support—compared to clinical-patient relationships—can be eroded in regulated healthcare environments. Measurement of fidelity in trials of peer support is lacking. This paper reports the development and testing of a fidelity index for one-to-one peer support in mental health services, designed to assess fidelity to principles that characterise the distinctiveness of peer support. Methods: A draft index was developed using expert panels of service user researchers and people doing peer support, informed by an evidence-based, peer support principles framework. Two rounds of testing took place in 24 mental health services providing peer support in a range of settings. Fidelity was assessed through interviews with peer workers, their supervisors and people receiving peer support. Responses were tested for spread and internal consistency, independently double rated for inter-rater reliability, with feedback from interviewees and service user researchers used to refine the index. Results: A fidelity index for one-to-one peer support in mental health services was produced with good psychometric properties. Fidelity is assessed in four principle-based domains; building trusting relationships based on shared lived experience; reciprocity and mutuality; leadership, choice and control; building strengths and making connections to community. Conclusions: The index offers potential to improve the evidence base for peer support in mental health services, enabling future trials to assess fidelity of interventions to peer support principles, and service providers a means of ensuring that peer support retains its distinctive qualities as it is introduced into mental health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Childhood maltreatment elevates risk for common mental disorders (CMDs) during late adolescence and adulthood. Although CMDs are highly prevalent among university students, few studies have examined the relationship between childhood maltreatment and 12 month CMDs in a low- to middle-income countries. This paper describes the prevalence of maltreatment and the relationship between type, number and patterns of maltreatment exposure and 12 month CMDs among first-year university students in South Africa. Methods: Maltreatment and CMD data were collected via well-validated self-report scales (corresponding with DSM-IV diagnoses) in a web-based survey of first-year students from two large urban universities (n = 1290) in South Africa. Various multivariate modelling approaches (additive, restrictive interactive and latent class) were used to examine the relationship between maltreatment and CMDs. Results: Overall, 48.4% of participants reported childhood maltreatment, the most common type being emotional abuse (26.7%). Regardless of the modelling approach used, emotional abuse was the only type of maltreatment independently associated with 12-month diagnoses of major depressive disorder (MDD), generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) or drug use disorder (DUD) even after adjusting for types and number of types of maltreatment. Similarly, students in the latent class reflecting histories of emotional abuse (either alone or combined with physical abuse) were more likely to meet criteria for 12-month MDD, GAD or DUD. Conclusion: Findings confirm the high prevalence of childhood maltreatment among South African students. As this exposure elevates risk for MDD, GAD and DUD, interventions aimed at preventing and treating CMDs among first-year students should address experiences of childhood maltreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]