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Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges for healthcare systems to meet patients' and families' complex care needs, including spiritual care needs. Little data are available about spiritual care delivery in light of the pandemic. Aim: This study examined the impact of COVID-19 on spiritual care by healthcare chaplains in the United States. Design: An online survey of 563 board-certified chaplains was conducted from March to July 2020. The survey, designed to identify chaplains' roles in facilitating conversations about goals of care, included an open-ended question asking how COVID-19 affected chaplaincy practices; 236 chaplains responded. Quantitative data and written qualitative responses were analyzed using descriptive analysis and content analysis, respectively. Setting/participants: Majority of participants were white (88%), female (59%), Protestant (53%), and employed full time (86%). Almost half were working in community hospitals (45%) and designated to one or more special units (48%) including ICU, palliative care, and oncology. Results: Three major themes emerged from chaplains' qualitative responses: (1) COVID-19—related risk mitigation and operational changes; (2) impact of social distancing guidelines; and (3) increased need for and provision of psychosocial and spiritual support. Conclusions: Chaplains reported that COVID-19 challenges contributed to greater social isolation, and mental health concerns for patients, families, and healthcare staff, and substantially changed the way healthcare chaplains provided spiritual care. With evolving healthcare contexts, developing safer, more creative modes of spiritual care delivery while offering systematic support for chaplains can help meet the increasing psychosocial and spiritual needs of patients, families, and healthcare team members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current approaches to non-specialized help with stress are set out in this article and stress management tools are provided, which are developed by WHO in the stress management handbook “Doing What Matters in Times of Stress: An Illustrated Guide”. This knowledge is especially current in the giving of first aid in emergencies, and in giving psychosocial support to patients as well, by primary care physicians, who must have effective communication skills and mutual understanding, and have experience in supporting people in difficult situations too, as it is specified in numerous WHO recommendations on mental health, in such as : «mhGAP Intervention Guide for mental, neurological and substance use disorders in nonspecialized health settings», «IASC Guidelines for mental health and psychosocial support in emergency settings»,«mhGAP Humanitarian Intervention Guide (mhGAP-HIG): clinical management of mental, neurological and substance use conditions in humanitarian emergencies», «Support for Rehabilitation: Self-Management after COVID-19 Related Illness» and etc. Aim – to give the information for the distant self-learning of the primary care professionals to use the simple stress-management tools in difficult circumstances Distance learning is built on the basis of the evidence based WHO documents and recommendations about low intensity psychological interventions. The WHO Guide has five sections, where five ideas and techniques for reducing stress are descibed, which are designed as the acquisition of five skills. The authors at the end of each section of the Guide developed algorithms of use the skills of such tools as: «Grounding», «Unhooking», «Acting according to own values», «Showing kindness», «Creating space». The psychosocial support provided by the primary care physician / facilitator / assistant lies in helping people to use guidance and apply strategies in their own lives, and it prevents the professional burnout of healthcare professionals as well. The short information about WHO guide and stress -management methods are described in sufficient details to enhance the awareness level of the primary care personnel about stress-management tools use. As the result of using the Guide will enhance the capacity of local helth care staff and non-medical staff to provide the mental health services and psychosocial support during the current COVID-19 pandemic, and readiness for the future emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incontrovertibly, COVID-19 has overwhelmed institutions of learning in a big way with various institutions in South Africa endeavoring to surmount the challenges in different ways. This article has reviewed various sources of secondary literature from mainly journals. Findings established that institutions of higher learning need to strengthen their institutional modus operandi of communicating coronavirus messages; to change the staff and students' mindset to strengthen response; advocacy to relay message to staff and students; infrastructural support to mitigate the effects of staff and students; and to avail requisite psychosocial support. The article also established the following hurdles: teaching adjustments and gadget deficits; disruption of school curriculum and academic calendar; and pitfalls of working from home. The article has recognized the need for institutions to enlist the support of social service professionals such as social workers in availing the requisite psychosocial support to both students and the staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mortality in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains high and referral to palliative or supportive care (P/SC) specialist services is recommended when appropriate. However, access to P/SC is frequently a challenge for patients with a noncancer diagnosis and few patients living with PAH report P/SC involvement in their care. A modified Delphi process of three questionnaires completed by a multidisciplinary panel (N = 15) was used to develop expert consensus statements regarding the use of P/SC to support patients with PAH. Panelists rated their agreement with each statement on a Likert scale. There was a strong consensus that patients should be referred to P/SC when disease symptoms become unmanageable or for end‐of‐life care. Services that achieved consensus were pain management techniques, end‐of‐life care, and psychosocial recommendations. Palliative or supportive care should be discussed with patients, preferably in‐person, when disease symptoms become unmanageable, when starting treatment, when treatment‐related adverse events occur or become refractory to initial intervention. Care partners and patient support groups were considered important in improving a patient's overall health outcomes, treatment adherence, and perception of care. Most patients with PAH experience cognitive and/or psychosocial changes and those who receive psychosocial management have better persistence and/or compliance with their treatment. These consensus statements provide guidance to healthcare providers on the "who and when" of referral to palliative care services, as well as the importance of focusing on the psychosocial aspects of patient care and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various countries in Europe have different strategies for promoting care solutions for dementia challenges. The different approaches of Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Gibraltar, Ireland, Israel, Malta, Nederland, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom (Scotland and Wales) were investigated. Dementia has a significant social, psychological and economic impact on the individual, family and society. As the disease progresses dementia sufferers become increasingly dependent. As many dementia sufferers are at home during the initial stages, the physical, emotional, and social demands of the dementia sufferers are often covered by informal caregivers. This study, therefore, aims to investigate the integration of psychosocial interventions for comprehensive care pertaining to informal caregivers of people with dementia in Europe. Furthermore, the study will highlight how implementation of technologies might enable psychosocial support of informal caregivers. The data is based on 15 national dementia strategies from various European countries. Data was based on preexisting coding systems with the predefined keywords and analyzed by qualitative content analysis by four of the authors. Our results show that psychosocial support is provided in various modalities and that informal caregivers need to be supported by a psychosocial approach. Due to this need the national dementia strategies should include measures to reduce the emotional burden of informal caregivers. Psychosocial support provided to informal caregivers in a comprehensive and systematic way is likely to enable informal caregivers to handle the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral consequences of the disease and its treatment, while helping to maintain their work-life balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient evidence guides mental health service development for survivors of violence against women in Sri Lanka. Provider and survivor perspectives on (1) what constitutes mental health, (2) quality of care, and (3) priority areas and stakeholders for intervention were identified through framework analysis of 53 in-depth interviews. Desired care is chiefly psychosocial—not psychological—prioritizing socioeconomic, parenting, and safe environment needs in non-clinical community settings. Our evidence points strongly to the need to strengthen non-mental health community-based providers as “first contacts” and reassessment of health system-centric interventions which neglect preferred community responses and more holistic approaches accounting for women's full circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mobile phone-based interventions have been demonstrated in different settings to overcome barriers to accessing critical psychosocial support. In this study, we aimed to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a phone-based, peer-to-peer support group intervention for adolescent pregnant women aged 15–24 years living with HIV in Zambia. Methods: Sixty-one consenting participants were recruited from Antenatal Clinics of two large urban communities in Lusaka. They were invited to participate in the mobile phone-based intervention that allowed them to anonymously communicate in a small group led by a facilitator for 4 months. A mixed methods approach was used to assess acceptability and feasibility, including a focus group discussion, pre- and post-intervention interview and analysis of the content of the text message data generated. Results: Participants reported finding the platform "not hard to use" and enjoyed the anonymity of the groups. Seventy-one percent of participants (n = 43) participated in the groups, meaning they sent text messages to their groups. Approximately 12,000 text messages were sent by participants (an average of 169 messages/user and 6 mentors in 6 groups. Topics discussed were related to social support and relationships, stigma, HIV knowledge and medication adherence. Conclusion: The study showed that the intervention was acceptable and feasible, and highlighted the potential of the model for overcoming existing barriers to provision of psychosocial support to this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Preparation for end of life is one of the greatest challenges faced by parents with cancer who have dependent children (< 18 years old), with requirement for support from professionals. The aim of this study is to explore how parents can be best supported in relation to their children, when a parent is at end of life from cancer. Methods: This is an interpretive qualitative study, using 79 semi-structured interviews with parents at end of life (n3), bereaved parents (n21), health and social care professionals (HSCPs) (n32) and funeral directors (n23). Data were analysed thematically and triangulated. Results: Parents are central to preparing their children for the death of a parent. Striving for everyday ordinariness, maximising social networks, maintaining hope and making preparations for the future are helpful for families when a parent is at end of life. Most HSCPs were unaware of the challenges faced by parents at end of life, and psychosocial support was often left outside the caring realm. As a result, funeral directors noted complexities faced by the families after the death. Results are discussed under four themes: (1) communication with the children as a process, (2) coping throughout the unfolding end of life experience, (3) tension and complexities at end of life and (4) preparing for the future. Conclusions: Parents should be reassured that by involving the children early in the end of life experience when the ill-parent is 'well enough' to parent enables them to be actively involved in supporting their child through one of the greatest life changing event. A number of recommendations are discussed for professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study systematically reviewed and thematically analyzed studies that investigated psychosocial support services provided to Syrian refugees with disabilities between 2011 and 2020. Nine studies published in the English language were identified from database searches (Google Scholar, PsychInfo, EBSCOhost, Web of Science, and Scopus). Results showed that the forms of psychosocial support services provided to Syrian refugees with disabilities were varied based on the nature of the study and the disability type. The results also provided detailed information about methods, participants, and findings of the identified studies. The thematic analysis results identified six themes that represent the factors related to the psychosocial support services, which were assessment, mental health, psychological well-being, rehabilitation, social participation, and vulnerability. This study provided a set of recommendations that may improve the quality of mental health and psychosocial support services provided to Syrian refugees with disabilities and their families, which are professional development, researches, and policy reforming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess perspectives and experiences of healthcare professionals and other relevant stakeholders regarding psychosocial support and palliative care in mesothelioma patients and their relatives, to identify gaps and to explore potential improvements in current healthcare. Methods: Individual, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals and other relevant stakeholders. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti. Results: In total, 16 respondents participated in an interview (69% women; mean age: 51.8 years (SD 12.41; range 28–75)). Four key themes were identified: (1) availability of tailored psychosocial and palliative care, (2) timely integration and organisation of psychosocial support and palliative care, (3) differences in provided support and care between healthcare professionals and hospitals and (4) training of healthcare professionals and stakeholders on psychosocial problems. Conclusion: Our study showed that psychosocial support and palliative care for patients with mesothelioma could be improved. A more fluent transition between primary and secondary cancer care and early integration of psychosocial support and palliative care is advised. Lastly, more attention is needed for psychosocial and palliative care in the basic medical training of healthcare professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Mesothelioma is a rare cancer with a poor prognosis caused by exposure to asbestos. Psychosocial support and care for mesothelioma patients and their carers is limited and not tailored to their specific needs. The aim of this study was to explore patients' and carers' needs and experiences regarding psychosocial support and their coping mechanisms dealing with psychosocial problems. Methods: A qualitative study was performed using semi‐structured interviews with both mesothelioma patients and their carers. Participants were recruited through two specialised hospitals and two patient organisations. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results: Ten patients (70% male, mean age 67.7) and five carers (20% male, mean age 65) participated in the study. The main themes identified for patients were active coping, limited needs and limited knowledge and awareness about psychosocial support. The main themes for carers were passive coping and 'it's all about the patient'. Conclusion: Mesothelioma patients do not seem to have high needs for psychosocial support, whereas carers do. However, knowledge about and awareness of psychosocial support is low among mesothelioma patients. The findings from this study should be used to adjust guidelines for psychosocial support in mesothelioma patients and their carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Syrian conflict, now in its eleventh year, has been described by the United Nations as the worst complex humanitarian emergency since World War II. It has resulted in widespread and profound adverse mental health and psychosocial consequences for Syrians who were internally displaced and refugees in neighboring countries. Aims: The aims of this narrative overview are to examine the epidemiology research on the burden of mental disorders in displaced Syrians; to review the evidence base for psychosocial interventions and to translate these findings into effective health policies and practice. Method: Databases were searched for this review, including PubMed and Google Scholar. Search terms included conflict, epidemiology, mental disorders, cultural issues, intervention, mental health, capacity building, policy, practice, psychosocial support, Syrian refugees, and treatment. We included only English language papers. The final search was done on 17 May 2021. Results: Many relevant studies, reviews and UN and WHO resources were identified and included in this review. The findings were summarized into the following subcategories: epidemiology and burden of mental disorders among Syrians, MHPSS interventions for Syrian refugees, building capacity for MHPSS for Syrian refugees and translating research evidence into policy and best practice. Conclusions: There are formidable challenges to the provision of MHPSS for Syrian refugees. There is need for more research on the long-term consequences of the conflict on all Syrians, on evaluation of MHPSS within complex interventions and models of care and on the challenges of their implementation to inform optimal health policies and best practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Because more than three million children are hospitalized every year in the United States, psychosocial and emotional impacts of hospitalization on children cannot be overlooked. As such, a variety of psychosocial support services are offered in pediatric facilities to reduce the negative effects often associated with hospitalization. This review examines current evidence for the effectiveness of common psychosocial interventions for children and youth undergoing medical procedures. Methods: A total of 34 studies that met selection guidelines, as outlined in Section 2, were included and coded based on study characteristics, intervention type, and study outcomes. Results: Findings from this literature review indicate that most studies examining the efficacy of psychosocial interventions reported at least positive outcomes for children. Although the review highlighted an overall pattern for improved outcomes following psychosocial intervention, there were some differences in outcomes based on type of intervention. In general, procedural support, preparation, and coping strategies were associated with reduced child anxiety/fear and distress. Procedural support was commonly associated with reduced pain, although many types of interventions demonstrated reduction in child pain. Procedural support was associated with improved procedural success. Conclusions: This systematic review illustrates the benefits of offering psychosocial interventions, such as procedural support, preparation, teaching coping strategies, and medical play, that support children undergoing medical procedures. There is a need for additional studies that examine psychosocial interventions, including studies that examine long‐term outcomes post‐procedure or hospitalization. Furthermore, more studies need to collect cost‐analysis information specific to the use of psychosocial interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Palliative care has played a key role in the response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Australia. This review of consecutive patients with COVID-19 referred to the palliative care consultancy service of a tertiary health service in Melbourne describes the palliative care experience with COVID-19 in Australia. Methods. The experiences of 55 patients (median age 86 years; interquartile range (IQR) 81-90 years; 55% male; median Charlson comorbidity score 6 (IQR 5-8); 85% with Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Status ≤50; 67% from residential aged care facilities) were reviewed to collect relevant data points. Results. Most patients were referred for end-of-life care with symptoms including dyspnoea (80%) and agitation/delirium (60%). Continuous subcutaneous infusions were commenced in 71% of patients, with the most frequent medications being opioids and benzodiazepines in relatively small doses; 81% required ≤20 mg subcutaneous morphine equivalent and 64% required ≤10 mg subcutaneous midazolam over 24 h. Fifty patients (91%) died in hospital and the median time from palliative care referral to death was 3 days (IQR 1-5 days). Five patients were discharged back to residential aged care facilities. Overall, 80% of referrals were from the aged care team. Conclusion. Our patients had similar demographics, symptoms, medication needs and outcomes to patients in similar settings overseas. We found the symptom management of patients with COVID-19 to be generally straightforward. However, the psychosocial needs of patients were predominant and contributed to complexity. This study highlights the need for well-integrated relationships between the palliative care consultancy service and the diverse range of key treating teams involved in the delivery of pandemic health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and objectives: To map the existing literature on support models provided to family members during the cancer trajectory. Background: Cancer diagnosis, treatment and survivorship have a profound influence on the surrounding family members. This scoping review is part of the development of a support model for family members of persons diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Design: The method was guided by the Arksey and O'Malley framework, described in the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, and the reporting is compliant with PRISMA‐ScR Checklist. Searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL and PsycINFO from November 2019–February 2020 with no limitation in publication year or study design. Complementing searches were conducted in reference lists and for grey literature, followed by an additional search in September 2020. Inclusion criteria were primary research about support provided by health care, to family members, during cancer, of an adult person, in Swedish or English, of moderate or high methodological quality. Quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Data were extracted using a charting form. Result: A total of 32 studies were included in the review describing 39 support models. Conclusion: The mapping of the existing literature resulted in the identification of three themes of support models: psychoeducation, caregiver training and psychological support. In addition, that future research should target a specific diagnosis and trajectory phase as well as include family members and intervention providers in model development. Relevance for clinical practice: Knowledge from the literature on both the needs of the family members and existing support models should be incorporated with the prerequisites of clinical practice. Clinical practice should also be complemented with structured assessments of family members' needs conducted regularly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Anxiety is commonly observed in oncology patients but infrequently screened, assessed or addressed. According to psychosocial guidelines, all healthcare professionals, including radiation therapists, are responsible for the psychosocial care of patients. Radiation therapists (RTs) interact with patients daily throughout treatment; however, little research exists to evaluate RTs' ability to identify and manage patients' psychosocial needs. This study aimed to determine if RTs can detect and manage patient anxiety. Method: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods survey containing two clinically relevant vignettes was developed. Two fictitious patients were presented to elicit responses reflective of RTs' experiences and judgements in the recognition and management of anxiety. Surveys were distributed via email in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Sydney (2016/227) and informed consent was obtained from participants. Results: Eligible and complete surveys were received from 582 respondents (240 (41.2%) from Australia; 78 (13.4%) New Zealand; 264 (45.4%) Canada). Almost all respondents endorsed a relevant descriptor of anxiety (vignette 1, 577 (99.1%); vignette 2, 579 (99.5%)). For both vignettes, the most frequently endorsed management strategy was to acknowledge the patients' feelings and encourage them to express their concerns (vignette 1, 548 (94.2%); vignette 2, 455 (78.2%)). Conclusion: RTs in Australia, New Zealand and Canada are able to detect anxiety and endorse a strategy to manage patients experiencing anxiety depicted in written vignettes. Exploring RTs' abilities to detect and manage patient anxiety whilst in the high-pressure clinical environment is an important next step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International and national humanitarian aid workers were recruited for this study via purposive sampling techniques using social media. Eight interviews and one focus group discussion were carried out (n=13), and a survey disseminated (n=62), to garner a broad range of perspectives on barriers to aid workers seeking out and accessing psychosocial support. A thematic analysis was performed on the transcriptions of the interviews and focus group discussion. The hypothesis was that participants would describe a variety of personal, professional, and environmental obstacles, with 'tough‐guy macho culture' and/or 'martyr culture' being the strongest deterrents. Fourteen barriers in total were identified: accessibility; appropriateness; attitude; availability; confidentiality and trust; duty of care; guidance; normalisation; experience; repercussions; self‐awareness; self‐reliance; stigma; and time. It is recommended that organisations improve the provision of quality, appropriate psychosocial support for staff, and that it is communicated regularly, and they train staff in pinpointing when others are in need of assistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tornado hit the territory of several municipalities in South Moravia in the evening on Thursday, June 24, 2021. Although it was a relatively small area, the extent of the damage was extraordinary and of unprecedented proportions. Many people found themselves in direct danger of themselves and their loved ones. In psychology, we call such an event potentially traumatic, and we know from experience that it can have serious effects on the human psyche. The article aims to present how the system of psychosocial crisis intervention and psychological first aid provided by the Integrated Rescue System of the Czech Republic worked. This psychosocial assistance in the acute phase of a disaster builds the core of psychosocial help. There is a link to other organizations, which have their function mainly in the stabilization phase, in the medium and long-term care of the affected persons. We also consider it necessary to repeat the principles of psychosocial assistance in emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Specialty palliative care (SPC) provides patient-centered care to people with serious illness and may reduce costs. Specific cost-saving functions of SPC remain unclear. Objectives: (1) To assess the effect of SPC on inpatient costs and length of stay (LOS) and (2) to evaluate differences in costs by indication and timing of SPC. Design: Case–control with in patients who received an SPC consultation and propensity matched controls. Setting: One large U.S. integrated delivery finance system. Measurements: Using administrative data, we assessed costs associated with inpatient stays, a subset of whom received an SPC consultation. Consultations were stratified by reasons based on physician discretion: goals of care, pain management, hospice evaluation, nonpain symptom management, or support. The primary outcome was total operating costs and the secondary outcome was hospital LOS. Results: In total, 1404 patients with SPC consultations associated with unique hospital encounters were matched with 2806 controls. Total operating costs were lower for patients who received an SPC consultation when the consultation was within 0 to 1 days of admission ($6,924 vs. $7,635, p = 0.002). Likewise, LOS was shorter (4.3 vs. 4.7 days, p < 0.001). Upon stratification by reason, goals-of-care consultations early in the hospital stay (days 0–1) were associated with reduced total operating costs ($7,205 vs. $8,677, p < 0.001). Costs were higher for pain management consultations ($7,727 vs. $6,914, p = 0.047). Consultation for hospice evaluation was associated with lower costs, particularly when early (hospital days 0–1: $4,125 vs. $7,415, p < 0.001). Conclusions: SPC was associated with significant cost saving and decreased LOS when occurring early in a hospitalization and used for goals-of-care and hospice evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mobile phone-based interventions have been demonstrated in different settings to overcome barriers to accessing critical psychosocial support. In this study, we aimed to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a phone-based, peer-to-peer support group intervention for adolescent pregnant women aged 15-24 years living with HIV in Zambia.Methods: Sixty-one consenting participants were recruited from Antenatal Clinics of two large urban communities in Lusaka. They were invited to participate in the mobile phone-based intervention that allowed them to anonymously communicate in a small group led by a facilitator for 4 months. A mixed methods approach was used to assess acceptability and feasibility, including a focus group discussion, pre- and post-intervention interview and analysis of the content of the text message data generated.Results: Participants reported finding the platform "not hard to use" and enjoyed the anonymity of the groups. Seventy-one percent of participants (n = 43) participated in the groups, meaning they sent text messages to their groups. Approximately 12,000 text messages were sent by participants (an average of 169 messages/user and 6 mentors in 6 groups. Topics discussed were related to social support and relationships, stigma, HIV knowledge and medication adherence.Conclusion: The study showed that the intervention was acceptable and feasible, and highlighted the potential of the model for overcoming existing barriers to provision of psychosocial support to this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare workers across the world have risen to the demands of treating COVID-19 patients, potentially at significant cost to their own health and wellbeing. There has been increasing recognition of the potential mental health impact of COVID-19 on frontline workers and calls to provide psychosocial support for them. However, little attention has so far been paid to understanding the impact of working on a pandemic from healthcare workers' own perspectives or what their views are about support.Methods: We searched key healthcare databases (Medline, PsychINFO and PubMed) from inception to September 28, 2020. We also reviewed relevant grey literature, screened pre-print servers and hand searched reference lists of key texts for all published accounts of healthcare workers' experiences of working on the frontline and views about support during COVID-19 and previous pandemics/epidemics. We conducted a meta-synthesis of all qualitative results to synthesise findings and develop an overarching set of themes and sub-themes which captured the experiences and views of frontline healthcare workers across the studies.Results: This review identified 46 qualitative studies which explored healthcare workers' experiences and views from pandemics or epidemics including and prior to COVID-19. Meta-synthesis derived eight key themes which largely transcended temporal and geographical boundaries. Participants across all the studies were deeply concerned about their own and/or others' physical safety. This was greatest in the early phases of pandemics and exacerbated by inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), insufficient resources, and inconsistent information. Workers struggled with high workloads and long shifts and desired adequate rest and recovery. Many experienced stigma. Healthcare workers' relationships with families, colleagues, organisations, media and the wider public were complicated and could be experienced concomitantly as sources of support but also sources of stress.Conclusions: The experiences of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic are not unprecedented; the themes that arose from previous pandemics and epidemics were remarkably resonant with what we are hearing about the impact of COVID-19 globally today. We have an opportunity to learn from the lessons of previous crises, mitigate the negative mental health impact of COVID-19 and support the longer-term wellbeing of the healthcare workforce worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The year 2020 imposed on the world an unprecedented challenge: the Covid-19 pandemic. Physical isolation as an essential measure to stop the spread of the virus interrupts social connections, imposes modifications to people's habits and lifestyles, work and relationships, with the appearance of the consequent states of anxiety and stress generated by said changes. The present work aims to socialize a community experience in coping with covid-19, developed in a rural settlement in the Caimito municipality (Artemisa province) and supported by theoretical and methodological precepts of Action-Participatory Research. The intervention project presented is entitled "From my House" and promotes the development of community leaders for the diagnosis and ad hoc design of actions that, without compromising the health of the community, promote psychosocial well-being. The benefits of the proposal are evident in a community that with scarce material resources but a high psychological sense of community, remains free from contagion and promotes the psychosocial well-being of the cohabitants. The present work seeks to socialize an experience of psychosocial support based on the community, through the development of social actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the perceptions of Maskandi on violent crime in KwaMashu, a crime hotspot in Durban, South Africa. Music plays an essential role in critiquing social ills. A qualitative approach located within the constructivist paradigm was adopted. We selected four songs to explore the socio-economic and mental health implications of violent crime. These were analysed using Critical Discourse Analysis. Three artists; Malahle, Majotha and Mthandiwenyama were selected because of their songs' relevance to the topic. A proliferation of unlicensed firearms, high rate of sexual partner exchange and sheer criminality were the frontline causes of killings. Families of the victims of hostel killings were affected differently. Children bore the brunt of hostel killings. Victims required psychosocial support to cope with the stresses emanating from brutal killings. Interventions incorporating various stakeholders should be developed to curb criminality and mitigate the consequences of such crimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We are committed to an AIDS free generation by 2030 – nine short years away. This article reflects on the global and South African data on new infections, total number of children and adolescents living with HIV as well as data on vertical transmission. The article includes the voices of key stakeholders in the quest to end HIV in children so that lessons from their experiences can be used by policy makers in strengthening services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of the spreading of world wide's COVID-19 pandemic are significant and noticeable. The economic downturn and the impact on health have had a huge impact on the human life. Both direct and indirect effects of the outbreak have profound implications, including mental health. This situation imperils the psychological well-being of individual due to feel uncertainty, insecurity and anxiety and isolation. In this review paper, mindfulness approaches that can be learned by any individuals to manage stress in order to cope with their psychological issues during pandemic of COVID-19 such as mindfulness techniques. Application of mindfulness technique can be taught online through psychological first aid (psychological first aid) in tele-mental health services. The tele-mental health services' user is encouraged to practice mindfulness technique by engaging in the self-dialogue while applying the mindfulness-training exercises that have been learned through psychological first aid. This approaches able to coordinate the higher mental function to calm an individual to the state of relaxation. This action will help the person in taking an advantage during the implementation of movement control order to maintain optimum health by self-care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate radiation therapists' (RTs) perceptions regarding the perceived barriers, knowledge, attitudes, confidence and role in administering an electronic screening tool to routinely screen for cancer patients' symptoms and distress. Methods: RTs at two radiation therapy departments completed a cross‐sectional paper/pen survey to assess their demographic and workplace characteristics, perceptions of barriers, knowledge, attitudes, confidence and opinion of their role in symptom and distress screening. Responses were evaluated using simple frequencies and free‐text responses using thematic analysis. Results: Of 39 RTs approached, 37 (95%) participated. The majority had not previously attended any emotional cues (77%) or psychosocial training (86%); 68% reported confidence discussing psychosocial concerns and recognising signs of anxiety and depression in patients, and 65% felt discussing patients' psychosocial concerns was part of their role. Administering the tool to patients was agreed to be the role of RTs by 38% of participants. Lack of education about psychosocial issues was the highest‐ranked barrier to delivering the patient screening tool, with 74% of RTs responding 'it has made it difficult'. Conclusion: Whilst RTs are willing to play a role in patients' psychosocial support, they do not feel able to fulfil this role adequately because they lacked knowledge and confidence to administer symptom and distress screening. This research has highlighted the need for RT education on psychosocial concerns and recognising and responding to emotional cues. Understanding the impact education may have on the knowledge, attitude, confidence and role of RTs performing routine symptom and distress screening is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile health (mHealth) has gained considerable interest recently due to its potential to improve health outcomes in developing countries with high outreach yet low costs. Several studies have explored the use of short message service (SMS) reminders to improve antiretroviral (ARV) retention and adherence, with mixed results. The majority of these studies has a quantitative nature and employs randomized designs, which do not provide further qualitative insights about other possible impacts of the messages. Based on the qualitative assessment of an SMS intervention in Burkina Faso, which complemented a (quantitative) Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), we show that beyond the functional role of improving ARV retention and adherence, SMS messages can also play important symbolic roles in offering psychosocial support to people living with HIV (PLHIV) and improving their perception of life. Concomitantly, we show that sufficient (ICT) literacy skills cannot be taken for granted in resource-poor settings. Yet, regardless of (ICT) literacy skills, the symbolism of care was perceived. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of complementing quantitative evidence of mHealth interventions with qualitative assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Long-term outcomes of smoking cessation treatments are crucial to optimize standards of cessation services, which are known to prevent excess morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes of a smoking cessation program, to compare the success rates of interventions, to assess relapse rates after quitting, and to determine the duration until relapse. METHODS Patients admitted for smoking cessation between 2010--2018 were contacted to evaluate short- and long-term treatment outcomes. The patients were asked whether they were currently smoking, and whether they quit after smoking cessation treatment and the duration of abstinence. RESULTS The study included 579 patients (341 males) with a mean age of 50±12 years. The median time from the date of visit to the smoking cessation clinic to analysis was 5 years (range: 2--10). Of the patient, 436 used medications, including varenicline, bupropion, and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The overall quit rate was 31.8% by the primary intervention (varenicline: 45.5%, bupropion: 38.2%, NRT: 33%, psychosocial support: 4.2%), and quit rate was similar in the intervention groups (p=0.073). In the long-term, the quit rates were 19.6, 22.5, 25.9, and 21.7%, respectively (p=0.405). About 9% of the patients failed to quit smoking initially but succeeded for a while after the first intervention at the cessation clinic. The relapse rate after initial cessation was 19%. The longest period of abstinence was in patients using NRT (14±17 months), followed by the patients using varenicline (9.5±12.7 months) and bupropion (8.2±14.8 months). CONCLUSIONS Both short- and long-term quit rates with varenicline, bupropion, and NRT, were similar. The long-term quit rates among patients who did not use medication and received psychosocial support initially were comparable to those who used a smoking cessation drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Child psychological distress in refugee settings is a significant public health concern, which is exacerbated by poor caregiver mental health and functioning. However, there are limited studies about effective interventions to improve caregiver mental health in support of child wellbeing. The objective of the current study is to evaluate the effectiveness and implementation of the Journey of Life (JoL) intervention to improve caregiver mental health in a refugee camp in Western Uganda.Methods: A waitlist-control quasi-experimental design is being implemented in the Kiryandongo refugee settlement (intervention n = 600, control n = 600). Caregiver mental distress, measured using the Kessler-6, was selected as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include (a) functioning measured by the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, (b) social support measured by the Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey, and (c) caregiving behaviors according to the Parental Acceptance and Rejection Questionnaire and the Child Protection Index. The study aims to examine the implementation of the JoL intervention through qualitative assessments of intervention feasibility, adaptations, and reach.Discussion: This trial will add much-needed evidence for the implementation of caregiver psychosocial programming within the humanitarian community. Findings will be disseminated amongst local, regional, and global actors in order to guide potential scale up within humanitarian settings.Trial Registration: Clinical Trials NCT04817098 (Registered: 3/24/21). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This paper revisits the themes of an influential 1993 review regarding the factors shaping the mental health and psychosocial well‐being of refugees to take stock of developments in the evidence base and conceptualisation of issues for refugee children over the last 25 years. Methods: The study deployed a systematic search strategy. This initially identified 784 papers, which was reduced to 65 studies following application of inclusion and exclusion criteria. We used a later iteration of Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model of human development – the PPCT model – to consolidate evidence. Results: We identify a range of risk and protective factors operating at individual, familial, community and institutional and policy levels that influence outcomes for refugee children. The dynamics shaping the interaction of these influences are linked to the life course principles of socio‐historical time and developmental age, proximal processes and child agency. Conclusions: Actions at individual, familial, community, school, institutional and policy levels all have potential traction on mental health and psychosocial well‐being of refugee children. However, evidence suggests that greatest impact will be secured by multilevel interventions addressing synergies between ecological systems, approaches engaging proximal processes (including parenting programmes) and interventions facilitating the agency of the developing refugee child. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like most education systems all over the world, Egypt's schools and universities turned to online teaching at the end of March 2020, after face-to-face classes had been brought to a halt by the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. While few teachers were prepared for delivering their lessons online and for dealing with the stress and anxiety of the situation, this article showcases a group of teachers who had just acquired collaboration skills in peer communities of learners (PCLs), which proved to be an immediate source of support in this time of crisis. The authors present the results of a rapid study they conducted in June 2020 on a sample of 49 teachers from 17 schools in Egypt who had participated in a school–university partnership for reform. This included a continuous professional development (CPD) project which ran from February 2017 to March 2020. Within the project, these teachers had already successfully created PCLs in 43 schools partnering with faculties of education (FOEs) in three large Egyptian universities. The reform partnership, an ERASMUS+ initiative funded by the European Union (EU), was the "School University Partnership for Peer Communities of Learners" (SUP4PCL). By March 2020, the participating teachers had already significantly changed their teaching styles, school culture, identities and attitude towards their profession, and they continued to communicate with their peers in the PCLs they had created during the project. Prompted by the emergency situation of the pandemic and inspired by the work of Etienne Wenger and others on communities of practice, the authors' study investigates the sustainability, viability and effectiveness of the project PCLs, their relationship to lifelong learning and their value in offering psychosocial support. The article concludes with a consideration of the usefulness of PCLs for reforms to ensure quality learning in crisis situations and more generally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nearly 60,000 people applied for asylum in the Netherland in 2015, confronting the governmental structures and services with great administrative, logistical and service provision challenges. Refugee children's psychosocial needs and wellbeing are often overlooked, and post-migration support is of pivotal importance. Methods: An easy accessible movement–based psychosocial intervention, called TeamUp, was developed for children aged 6–17 living in refugee reception centres. A mixed-method process evaluation was conducted of (1) implementation process, assessing attendance (n = 2183 children, and n = 209 children); (2) implementation quality, using structured observations at two time points to evaluate facilitator's (2a) individual-level fidelity (n = 81 facilitators); (2b) team-level fidelity (n = 22 teams); (2c) facilitators' competencies (n = 81); (2d) trainee perceived self-efficacy pre-post training (n = 73); and (3) perceptions on implementation and outcomes, employing a survey (n = 99), focus group discussions and key informant interviews with children (n = 94), facilitators (n = 24) and reception centre staff (n = 10). Results: Attendance lists showed a mean of 8.5 children per session, and children attending 31.3% of sessions. Structured observations demonstrated 49.2% and 58.2% individual-level fidelity, 72.5% and 73.0% team-level fidelity, and 82.9% and 88.4% adequacy in competencies, each at T1 and T2 respectively. The main reported challenges included managing children's energy regulation (e.g. offering settling moments) and challenging behaviour. Training participation significantly improved perceived self-efficacy for trainees. The facilitator survey demonstrated on average, high satisfaction and self-efficacy, low experienced burden, and high perceived capacity-building support. Qualitatively, TeamUp was positively perceived by all stakeholders and was regarded as contributing to children's psychosocial outcomes. Conclusion: (1) Attendance and group size were lower than expected. (2) The intervention's facilitator fidelity ranged from moderate to adequate—exhibiting a need for specific fidelity and capacity strengthening—while facilitator competencies were high. Trainee's perceived self-efficacy improved significantly following a 2-day training. (3) Facilitators expressed high levels of satisfaction, self-efficacy and support, and low burden. The intervention was positively perceived by all stakeholders and to have a positive impact on children's psychosocial learning and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study explores the arriving process of an unaccompanied minor refugee in Germany and his perception of the psychosocial support he received. The aim is to elaborate possibilities to support refugee adolescents' arrival processes adequately. Two interviews—theme‐centered and narrative—were conducted and afterwards examined by a group of five researchers who used experts' validation as the analyzing tool. Four main dimensions were identified contributing to the complex dynamics in psychosocial work with unaccompanied minor refugees: (a) the distinct need for self‐determination and idealization, (b) the fight for state recognition as a legal refugee, (c) the attempt of achieving recognition by the society, and (d) the inability of building trusting and affective relationships with friends and caregivers in the host country. Thus, professionals working with unaccompanied minor refugees need to consider the adolescents' demand for self‐determination and perceive idealization not only as a defense mechanism but also as a coping strategy to survive in an unpredictable environment. Being a reliable object that can be used by the adolescent can help to establish a trusting basis for the relationship. This case study indicates that approaches of psychosocial support with unaccompanied minor refugees need to acknowledge and work with the interrelation between the inner world and the external reality of refugee adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Parents often feel ill‐equipped to prepare their dependent children (<18 years old) for the death of a parent, necessitating support from professionals. The aim of this study is to explore health and social care professionals' (HSCPs) experiences and perceptions of providing supportive care to parents regarding their children, when a parent is dying from cancer. Methods: Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 32 HSCPs, including nurses, allied health professionals, social workers and doctors from specialist or generalist roles, across acute or community sectors. Results: HSCPs' perceptions of the challenges faced by many families when a parent is dying from cancer included: parental uncertainties surrounding if, when and how to tell the children that their parent was dying, the demands of managing everyday life, and preparing the children for the actual death of their parent. Many HSCPs felt ill‐equipped to provide care to parents at end of life concerning their children. The results are discussed under two themes: (1) hurdles to overcome when providing psychological support to parents at end of life and (2) support needs of families for the challenging journey ahead. Conclusions: There appears to be a disparity between HSCPs' awareness of the needs of families when a parent is dying and what is provided in practice. HSCPs can have a supportive role and help equip parents, as they prepare their children for the death of their parent. Appropriate training and guideline provision could promote this important aspect of end of life care into practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic has caused unprecedented economic disruption and unemployment worldwide, threatening to become both a financial and a humanitarian crisis. Prolonged labor market recession and an acute rise of unemployment are expected. The main question for career counselors will be how to provide effective career counseling to unemployed people in the post‐COVID‐19 world, where they may face many other unemployment‐related problems. In this article, we suggest application of a holistic intervention model of career counseling for unemployed people that was designed to address the consequences of the acute financial recession in Greece. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the absence of a cure for the majority of rare diseases, the disease management aims to provide optimal supportive care. The goal of this study was to assess supportive care needs in patients with chronic rare diseases.Methods: Cross-sectional mixed-method study was conducted using validated self-report scales and open-ended questions to assess supportive care needs. Participants affected by rare diseases across Germany were contacted via patient organizations and centers for rare diseases. N = 304 participants with 81 different rare diseases completed the study, 81.6% were female, mean age was 44.2 years (SD = 12.8, range 16-74). The quantitative results regarding supportive care needs were compared to a reference population of patients affected by cancer (N = 888). Main outcomes were unmet supportive care needs of patients with rare diseases, as assessed by the Supportive Care Needs Survey (SNCS-SF34) and an open-ended question on support wishes.Results: Patients with rare diseases did not feel sufficiently supported with regard to psychological support, health system and information, physical and daily living, patient care and support, and sexuality needs. The unmet supportive care needs were significantly higher in the patient sample with rare diseases compared to the SCNS-SF34 reference sample of patients with cancer. 60% of patients with rare diseases did not feel sufficiently socially supported.Conclusions: Patients affected by rare diseases have high unmet support needs in all areas studied. Multidisciplinary care, including psychological support and the provision of information regarding the healthcare system, treatment options, disease course and sexuality, might help address these needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Existing self-management and behavioural interventions for diabetes vary widely in their content, and their sustained long-term effectiveness is uncertain. Autonomy supporting interventions may be a prerequisite to achieve 'real life' patient engagement and more long-term improvement through shared decision-making and collaborative goal setting. Autonomy supportive interventions aim to promote that the person with diabetes' motivation is autonomous meaning that the person strives for goals they themselves truly believe in and value. This is the goal of self-determination theory and guided self-determination interventions. Self-determination theory has been reviewed but without assessing both benefits and harms and accounting for the risk of random errors using trial sequential analysis. The guided self-determination has not yet been systematically reviewed. The aim of this protocol is to investigate the benefits and harms of self-determination theory-based interventions versus usual care in adults with diabetes. Methods/design: We will conduct the systematic review following The Cochrane Collaboration guidelines. This protocol is reported according to the PRISMA checklist. A comprehensive search will be undertaken in the CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS, PsycINFO, SCI-EXPANDED, CINAHL, SSCI, CPCI-S and CPCI-SSH to identify relevant trials. We will include randomised clinical trials assessing interventions theoretically based on guided self-determination or self-determination theory provided face-to-face or digitally by any healthcare professional in any setting. The primary outcomes will be quality of life, mortality, and serious adverse events. The secondary will be diabetes distress, depressive symptoms and adverse events not considered serious. Exploratory outcomes will be glycated haemoglobin and motivation. Outcomes will be assessed at the end of the intervention and at maximum follow-up. The analyses will be performed using Stata version 16 and trial sequential analysis. Two authors will independently screen, extract data from and perform risk of bias assessment of included studies using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Certainty of the evidence will be assessed by GRADE. Discussion: Self-determination theory interventions aim to promote a more autonomous patient engagement and are commonly used. It is therefore needed to evaluate the benefit and harms according to existing trials. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO CRD42020181144 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In the aftermath of the devastating 2015 earthquakes in Nepal, three non-governmental organizations collaborated to develop a program responding to the immediate mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) needs in three severely affected districts: Dhading, Gorkha, and Sindhuli. The program was implemented between April 2015 and February 2017 and aimed to (i) strengthen health worker capacity to provide integrated MHPSS services; and (ii) increase access to mental health services. This paper describes the program's implementation and the results of a pragmatic evaluation of the program's overall reach, effectiveness, and lessons learned. Methods: The mixed-methods evaluation used routine program data, quantitative data from pre- and post-tests conducted with trainees and service users, and qualitative data from stakeholder interviews and focus group discussions. Results: A total of 1041 health workers received MHPSS training and supervision. Participants demonstrated significant improvements in skills, knowledge, and self-rated perceived competency. Trainees went on to provide MHPSS services to 3422 people. The most commonly identified presenting problems were epilepsy (29%) and depression (26%). A total of 67% of service users reported being 'completely satisfied' with the services received and 83% of those experiencing severe functional impairments on enrollment demonstrated improvement after receiving services. Conclusions: Despite operational challenges, the program successfully engaged both laypeople and health workers to provide MHPSS in the aftermath of the crisis. Lessons learned can inform the planning and implementation of future training and integration programs to provide large-scale MHPSS efforts in humanitarian settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Families impacted by paediatric cancer are met with logistical, financial and psychological impacts, with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus two creating additional barriers and stressors for these families. Connected Health (CH) may facilitate cancer care. The objective of the present study was to systematically review CH for families/informal caregivers affected by paediatric cancer. Methods: Using search terms relating to: (1) paediatric cancer, (2) family/caregivers and (3) CH, the databases of PsycINFO, Pubmed, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched. Inclusion criteria included an evaluation of CH technologies for supportive care for families/caregivers affected by paediatric cancer at any stage of treatment or survivorship. Results: Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria. CH was primarily web‐based (n = 6), however smartphone applications (n = 5), telehealth (n = 2) and online groups (n = 3) were utilised. Intervention areas included psycho‐social (n = 6), health and information provision (n = 8) and palliative care (n = 2). Conclusions: While limited studies have evaluated the impact of CH on families living with paediatric cancer, emerging evidence suggests potential benefits. More evidenced‐based interventions are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Approximately 10% of Syrian refugees currently reside in camp settings, which can impose additional post-migration stressors. With elevated rates of psychological distress and few available resources, task-shifting psychosocial programmes are necessary to provide adequate care. One such programme developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) is Group Problem Management Plus (GroupPM+). This study aimed to test the safety and acceptability of GroupPM+ in a refugee camp and to identify areas for adaptation in preparation for a definitive RCT. A feasibility randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted in Azraq refugee camp in Jordan. Inclusion criteria were: (1) Syrian adults aged ≥18 years, (2) parent of a child aged 10–16 years, (3) experiencing psychological distress as defined by a score of ≥16 on the Kessler Distress Scale, and (4) ≥17 on the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0. Following baseline assessments, participants were randomized to receive GroupPM+ or enhanced treatment-as-usual. Post-assessments were conducted one week following the last GroupPM+ session. Primary outcomes were feasibility and acceptance of GroupPM+; symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, prodromal psychosis, grief, and child's self-reported psychological distress were also assessed. Of the 207 persons screened, 64 (31%) screened positive for psychological distress. Of the 35 randomized into the GroupPM+ intervention, 24 (69%) completed the intervention. No adverse events were reported throughout the trial. Children whose parents received GroupPM+ had greater reductions in internalizing and externalizing symptoms at posttreatment. 55 (86%) participants completed the post-assessment follow-up. These results demonstrate both the feasibility of conducting the trial in a camp and acceptance of the GroupPM+ intervention by Syrian refugees. Following the feasibility trial, both the implementation procedures and intervention were safe and culturally acceptable. The results support the readiness for a definitive RCT to determine the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention in camp settings. Feasibility trial of GroupPM+ in a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan. 64 participants randomized; safety and cultural acceptance was observed. Positive results support the readiness for a definitive RCT to test effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most refugees are less than 18 years and at heightened risk of common mental disorders (CMDs) relative to other youth. Limited evidence exists for psychosocial programsfor youth in low-resource settings. Early Adolescent Skills for Emotions (EASE) was developed by the World Health Organization to address this gap. This study tested the safety, feasibility, and trial procedures of the EASE intervention among Syrian refugee youth in preparation for a definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT). A feasibility RCT was conducted in Amman, Jordan with Syrian children aged 10–14 years who reported psychological distress. Following community screening, youth and their caregivers were randomized to receive either the EASE intervention or enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU). EASE comprised seven group sessions teaching children coping skills, and caregivers received three group sessions to augment the youth sessions. Assessments were conducted at baseline and 1 week following the last EASE session (8 weeks following baseline). Following the trial, a qualitative process evaluation with staff and beneficiaries took place. Primary outcomes were safety and feasibility indicators, and distress was measured by the Paediatric Symptom Checklist. In November 2018, 179 children were screened; 61 (33%) met criteria for distress (34.1%), two were excluded for suicidal risk, and 59 were randomized (EASE = 33, ETAU = 26). Of those who received EASE, 26 children (79%) completed the intervention. Group attendance was high and no adverse events were reported in either arm. Psychological distress did not show signs of abating in either group over time. This feasibility trial demonstrated the safety and acceptability of the intervention. Important lessons were learnt regarding entry criteria into the study and engagement of caregivers in the intervention. A fully powered randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate the efficacy of EASE. Feasibility trial of group psychological intervention (GroupPM+) in a Syrian refugee camp in Jordan. Sixty-four participants randomized; safety and cultural acceptance was observed. Positive results support the readiness for a definitive RCT to test effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2012, BIG FIX Uganda, an American-based animal welfare organisation, began offering veterinary health services and animal welfare education in northern Uganda to improve the wellbeing of animals and their guardians. In 2014, the organisation expanded its inclusive health platform with the creation of the Comfort Dog Project − an animal-assisted psychosocial intervention for survivors of war trauma through the facilitation of human-dog companionship. This article focuses on how blending community trauma counselling with dog training and bonding instruction can improve the social and emotional skills of dog guardians while creating loving, stress-buffering relationships with their dogs. Fifty-nine guardians and their comfort dogs graduated this 20-week animal assisted trauma intervention between 2015 and 2020. Psychological assessments taken pre- and post-graduation, as well as annual follow-up testing over a 4-year-period, indicate that this therapeutic model can be effective at reducing the symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder and improving the wellbeing of both the guardians and their comfort dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Living with a mental health condition in rural Chiapas, the southernmost state of Mexico, where adversity, poverty and health in accessibility prevail, make it challenging to reach for mental health services since they are mostly centralised in urban settings, understaffed and underfunded. The Mexican sister organisation of the international non-profit, Partners In Health, has served in marginalised communities in collaboration with the Mexican Ministry of Health and has provided mental health services since 2014. In 2019, community mental health workers began delivering individual Problem Management Plus (PM+) sessions to people with mental health conditions through home visits. This field report aims to share implementation practice findings through the voice of four implementers, two of whom currently deliver PM+, and through two brief case reports. Results show PM+ has had a positive impact on patients' symptoms and community health workers' attitudes toward mental health and themselves. However, incompletion of sessions, appropriateness and acceptability of the intervention are issues that implementers still need to tailor to the context. Despite having made adaptations, complex problems such as intimate partner violence, stress due to structural adversity and grief related to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic represent challenges that the intervention needs to address to meet the needs of underserved areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has stricken mental health worldwide. Marginalized populations in low- and middle-income countries have been the most affected, as they were already experiencing barriers to accessing mental health care prior to the pandemic and are unequally exposed to the stressors associated with the health emergency, such as economic ravages or increased risk of complicated disease outcomes. The aim of this paper is to describe a comprehensive initiative resulting from a public-civil partnership to address the increased burden of mental health illness associated with the COVID-19 pandemic in rural Chiapas, Mexico. To address the emerging health needs of the general population and health professionals resulting from the pandemic, Compañeros En Salud (CES), a non-profit civil society organization based in Chiapas, implemented a comprehensive strategy to compensate for the shortage of mental health services in the region in collaboration with the Chiapas Ministry of Health. The strategy included three components: capacity building in mental health care delivery, psychosocial support to the general population, and provision of mental health care to CES collaborating staff. In this capacity building article, implementers from CES and the government share descriptive information on the specific interventions carried out and their beneficiaries, as well as a critical discussion of the strategy followed. Through this strategy, we have been successful in filling the gaps in the public health system to ensure that CES-served populations and CES-collaborating health professionals have access to mental health care. However, further studies to quantify the impact of this intervention in alleviating the burden of mental health illnesses associated with the pandemic are needed. The current situation represents an opportunity to reimagine global mental health. Only through the promotion of community-based initiatives and the development of integrated approaches will we ensure the well-being of marginalized populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Th e global COVID-19 pandemic has signifi cantly aff ected, and continues to aff ect, many areas of our lives, including mental well-being and socio-emotional needs. Th e current uncertain times and the associated psychological burden also have a negative eff ect on the behaviour of both adults and pupils. In the school context, it is necessary to respect the increased psychological burden of students and to address inappropriate behaviour on the part of students in a sensitive and eff ective way, as well as to prevent further confl icts. Th e article aims to discuss the possibilities of using the concept of Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports (PBIS) as a set of methods designed to support appropriate behaviour of students during distance learning in the implementation of educational activities using online platforms. Th e emphasis in the text is mainly placed on the possibilities for the prevention of inappropriate behaviour and the principles of preventive support for behaviour within the entire classroom and school. Th e preventive support corresponds with the fi rst tíer of the PBIS system, which is presented. Because of the comprehensiveness of the whole system, the second and third tiers are only briefl y introduced in the text. Content analysis of the literature and foreign methodological materials developed for the PBIS system was chosen as the method for the work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low-cost, scalable strategies are necessary to reach the UNAIDS 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat. Use of treatment partners, informal caregivers selected by people living with HIV to support antiretroviral therapy adherence, is one such strategy that is included in many countries’ HIV guidelines, including Botswana, a country with high HIV prevalence.From June 2021 to June 2022, we pilot tested a clinic-based treatment partner intervention (“Mopati”), including standardized language for providers to guide patients on treatment partner selection and workshops to train treatment partners on providing non-directive support to patients using a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Sixty unsuppressed patients (30 per clinic) and 45 treatment partners (17 intervention, 28 control) were recruited from an intervention–control clinic matched-pair in Gaborone, Botswana.Mopati had medium-to-large effects on increasing patients’ adherence, adherence self-efficacy, intrinsic adherence motivation, and perceived non-directive support from treatment partners, and decreasing treatment partner caregiver burden. Aggregate viral suppression rates significantly increased in the intervention (vs. control) clinic. Qualitative data from 14 clinic staff, 21 patients, and 16 treatment partners indicated that Mopati was viewed as effective. Providers said the guidance empowered them to be proactive in communicating about adherence; most reported using the guidance.This study shows preliminary support for the use of treatment partners in HIV care, and further evidence for interventions that leverage patients’ existing support. This research can inform ways to improve adherence to HIV treatment as well as the treatment of HIV-related comorbid conditions in lower-resource settings.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04796610.Method: Low-cost, scalable strategies are necessary to reach the UNAIDS 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat. Use of treatment partners, informal caregivers selected by people living with HIV to support antiretroviral therapy adherence, is one such strategy that is included in many countries’ HIV guidelines, including Botswana, a country with high HIV prevalence.From June 2021 to June 2022, we pilot tested a clinic-based treatment partner intervention (“Mopati”), including standardized language for providers to guide patients on treatment partner selection and workshops to train treatment partners on providing non-directive support to patients using a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Sixty unsuppressed patients (30 per clinic) and 45 treatment partners (17 intervention, 28 control) were recruited from an intervention–control clinic matched-pair in Gaborone, Botswana.Mopati had medium-to-large effects on increasing patients’ adherence, adherence self-efficacy, intrinsic adherence motivation, and perceived non-directive support from treatment partners, and decreasing treatment partner caregiver burden. Aggregate viral suppression rates significantly increased in the intervention (vs. control) clinic. Qualitative data from 14 clinic staff, 21 patients, and 16 treatment partners indicated that Mopati was viewed as effective. Providers said the guidance empowered them to be proactive in communicating about adherence; most reported using the guidance.This study shows preliminary support for the use of treatment partners in HIV care, and further evidence for interventions that leverage patients’ existing support. This research can inform ways to improve adherence to HIV treatment as well as the treatment of HIV-related comorbid conditions in lower-resource settings.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04796610.Results: Low-cost, scalable strategies are necessary to reach the UNAIDS 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat. Use of treatment partners, informal caregivers selected by people living with HIV to support antiretroviral therapy adherence, is one such strategy that is included in many countries’ HIV guidelines, including Botswana, a country with high HIV prevalence.From June 2021 to June 2022, we pilot tested a clinic-based treatment partner intervention (“Mopati”), including standardized language for providers to guide patients on treatment partner selection and workshops to train treatment partners on providing non-directive support to patients using a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Sixty unsuppressed patients (30 per clinic) and 45 treatment partners (17 intervention, 28 control) were recruited from an intervention–control clinic matched-pair in Gaborone, Botswana.Mopati had medium-to-large effects on increasing patients’ adherence, adherence self-efficacy, intrinsic adherence motivation, and perceived non-directive support from treatment partners, and decreasing treatment partner caregiver burden. Aggregate viral suppression rates significantly increased in the intervention (vs. control) clinic. Qualitative data from 14 clinic staff, 21 patients, and 16 treatment partners indicated that Mopati was viewed as effective. Providers said the guidance empowered them to be proactive in communicating about adherence; most reported using the guidance.This study shows preliminary support for the use of treatment partners in HIV care, and further evidence for interventions that leverage patients’ existing support. This research can inform ways to improve adherence to HIV treatment as well as the treatment of HIV-related comorbid conditions in lower-resource settings.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04796610.Conclusion: Low-cost, scalable strategies are necessary to reach the UNAIDS 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat. Use of treatment partners, informal caregivers selected by people living with HIV to support antiretroviral therapy adherence, is one such strategy that is included in many countries’ HIV guidelines, including Botswana, a country with high HIV prevalence.From June 2021 to June 2022, we pilot tested a clinic-based treatment partner intervention (“Mopati”), including standardized language for providers to guide patients on treatment partner selection and workshops to train treatment partners on providing non-directive support to patients using a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Sixty unsuppressed patients (30 per clinic) and 45 treatment partners (17 intervention, 28 control) were recruited from an intervention–control clinic matched-pair in Gaborone, Botswana.Mopati had medium-to-large effects on increasing patients’ adherence, adherence self-efficacy, intrinsic adherence motivation, and perceived non-directive support from treatment partners, and decreasing treatment partner caregiver burden. Aggregate viral suppression rates significantly increased in the intervention (vs. control) clinic. Qualitative data from 14 clinic staff, 21 patients, and 16 treatment partners indicated that Mopati was viewed as effective. Providers said the guidance empowered them to be proactive in communicating about adherence; most reported using the guidance.This study shows preliminary support for the use of treatment partners in HIV care, and further evidence for interventions that leverage patients’ existing support. This research can inform ways to improve adherence to HIV treatment as well as the treatment of HIV-related comorbid conditions in lower-resource settings.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04796610.Trial Registration: Low-cost, scalable strategies are necessary to reach the UNAIDS 2030 target of ending HIV as a public health threat. Use of treatment partners, informal caregivers selected by people living with HIV to support antiretroviral therapy adherence, is one such strategy that is included in many countries’ HIV guidelines, including Botswana, a country with high HIV prevalence.From June 2021 to June 2022, we pilot tested a clinic-based treatment partner intervention (“Mopati”), including standardized language for providers to guide patients on treatment partner selection and workshops to train treatment partners on providing non-directive support to patients using a non-confrontational, non-judgmental approach. Sixty unsuppressed patients (30 per clinic) and 45 treatment partners (17 intervention, 28 control) were recruited from an intervention–control clinic matched-pair in Gaborone, Botswana.Mopati had medium-to-large effects on increasing patients’ adherence, adherence self-efficacy, intrinsic adherence motivation, and perceived non-directive support from treatment partners, and decreasing treatment partner caregiver burden. Aggregate viral suppression rates significantly increased in the intervention (vs. control) clinic. Qualitative data from 14 clinic staff, 21 patients, and 16 treatment partners indicated that Mopati was viewed as effective. Providers said the guidance empowered them to be proactive in communicating about adherence; most reported using the guidance.This study shows preliminary support for the use of treatment partners in HIV care, and further evidence for interventions that leverage patients’ existing support. This research can inform ways to improve adherence to HIV treatment as well as the treatment of HIV-related comorbid conditions in lower-resource settings.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04796610. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balancing having cancer and parenting a major stressor, and may result in parenting distress, negatively affecting the whole family. To provide adequate support, knowledge of existing psychosocial interventions are crucial to guide future interventions. This study aimed to describe available psychosocial interventions for parents with cancer and dependent children (<18 years). We conducted a systematic review, and four databases were searched from January 2000 to March 2023. Thirty studies were included, reporting on 22 psychosocial interventions for parents with cancer. They aimed to improve different aspects of parenting distress, and included psychoeducation and communication strategies. Interventions were beneficial to and acceptable among parents, but only a few had been evaluated. The study quality was, overall, assessed as moderate. The results of this review highlight the diversity of available psychosocial interventions for parents with cancer and the outcomes on parenting distress, as well as methodological challenges. [Display omitted] • Available psychosocial interventions are heterogeneous regarding design and content. • Content include psychoeducation, skill building and communication strategies. • Psychosocial interventions can, or may improve many aspects of parenting distress. • Few interventions have been formally evaluated, often due to methodological issues. • Successful interventions are: brief, meaningful, and delivered in a convenient way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Behavioral addictions (BA)are specific conditions usually treated on specialized psychiatric services. The discharge from specialized services is often difficult. The present research analyzes factors associated with difficulties for outpatient discharge from a specialized BA service. Method: A preliminar questionnaire with qualitative and quantitative questions was applied to patients under treatment on a specialized BA outpatient clinic. The quantitative data is descriptive of the sample, the qualitative analysis was performed according to the discourse of the collective subject method. Results: All patients were diagnosed with BA disorders, under treatment for 5 years or more and stabilized or remitted for more than 1 year. The group consisted of 14 participants, 8 women (57.1%) and 6 men (42.9%), aged approximately 37 to 77 years. 5 regularly attend the Basic Health Unit and 9 don't. Regarding feeling safe to be discharged to continue their follow-up on a general psychiatric outpatient unit at the Basic Health Unit, 6 patients said they did not feel secure at all, 1 somewhat secure, 3 reasonably secure and 2 completely secure. The social network support and occupational support were also analyzed. The qualitative analysis describes the distrust on the quality of general psychiatric support quality and lack of social network support as the main reasons related to the resistance to discharge from the specialized service. Conclusions: Stimulating the development of a healthy social network and cooperation with general psychiatric services are important factors for a safe discharge from specialized behavioral addictions services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mental health disorders such as high levels of anxiety, isolation, depression and suicide ideation reported among young people living with HIV (10-24 years;YPLHIV) contribute significantly to poor medication adherence and retention in care. While there is evidence supporting the role of psychosocial support interventions in promoting adherence and retention in antiretroviral treatment (ART) among adults living with HIV, there is little evidence on the role of psychosocial support on medication adherence among YPLHIV. This scoping review was designed to identify and classify the types and effects of psychosocial support interventions designed to improve adherence and retention in ART among YPLHIV globally.Method: We searched six electronic databases (i.e., Scopus, Pubmed and EBSCOHost (Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, Psycarticles and Medline). Six relevant articles published between 2011 and 2019 met our inclusion criteria. We extracted information relevant to the nature and outcomes of the reported interventions using thematic content analysis informed by the Population, Intervention, comparison, outcome, and time (PICOT) framework.Results: Four distinctive treatment modalities that focused on improving ART adherence and retention in care were identified: individual counselling, support groups, family-centered services, and treatment supporters.Conclusion: There is a dearth of psychosocial support interventions to improve adherence and retention in ART amongst adolescents and young adults living with HIV. Future research and programming should seek to address psychosocial support interventions or approaches specifically designed to address the needs of YPLHIV.Trial Registration: PROSPERO: Registration CRD42018105057 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Palliative care social workers (PCSWs) play a crucial role in optimizing communication and family-centered care for seriously ill patients. However, PCSWs often struggle to demonstrate and receive open acknowledgment of their essential skill set within medical teams. Objective: This case discussion focuses on the care of patients and families surrounding family meetings to highlight the crucial role of the PCSW in (1) preparing the family; (2) participating in the provider meeting; (3) participating in the family meeting; and (4) following up after the meeting. The aim is to illuminate how the PCSWs can demonstrate their unique and essential skill set to medical teams and as a means of furthering the work of psychosocial clinicians throughout medical systems. Conclusion: As the medical model continues to shift toward family-centered care, it is crucial for medical teams to optimize their partnership with patients and families. PCSWs can offer a trauma-informed biopsychosocial–spiritual lens that is instructed by continuity of care and exemplary clinical and rapport-building skills. PCSWs can play a critical role in optimizing communication, support, collaboration, and family-centered whole-person care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]