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Feasibility of online psychosocial interventions to promote mental health recovery and well-being.

Authors :
Leah P
Riewpaiboon W
Sirirungruang I
Visuttipun P
Source :
The International journal of social psychiatry [Int J Soc Psychiatry] 2024 Nov; Vol. 70 (7), pp. 1311-1324. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Aug 05.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Background: Amid the increasing trend and huge impact of mental illness, psychosocial support (PSS) has been asserted to support individuals' recovery. Unfortunately, about 80% of affected people cannot access care as needed. Meanwhile, digital technology has a considerable role in closing service gaps.<br />Aims: This convergent parallel mixed methods study examines existing mental health service utilization, users' needs for PSS, and feasibility of online PSS development.<br />Methods: A cross-sectional interview survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire at a super tertiary psychiatric hospital in Thailand from March to May 2023, with three groups of service users, having self-perceived conditions/diagnosis of schizophrenia ( n  = 100), mood disorders ( n  = 84), and others including alcohol and substance use, anxiety and personality disorders ( n  = 52). Four focus group discussions with three user groups ( n  = 16) and one multidisciplinary provider group ( n  = 7) were parallelly executed. Quantitative and qualitative data were convergently analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and thematic and content analysis.<br />Results: Critical shortcomings of PSS were indicated by 75.8% of user participants. Six common types of self-determined PSS were psychoeducational program, support group, skills training, counseling, supported employment, and complimentary therapy. While psychoeducational program was feasible, support group, and counseling were possibly featured within the 'all-at-once' online intervention development.<br />Conclusions: PSS development based on users' needs can promote clinical and personal recovery outcomes, and close the service gaps. Users with mood disorders have the potential for online interventions. Peer-provider formalization, co-production approach, community engagement, digital literacy, infrastructures, and equal access factors are crucial for sustainable development.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1741-2854
Volume :
70
Issue :
7
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
The International journal of social psychiatry
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
39104060
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/00207640241264656