The efficacy of app‐supported smartphone interventions for mental health problems: a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundThere is a lack of available evidence in relation to the effectiveness of interventions for adults with mild to moderate intellectual disability and mental health problems.AimsTo evaluate the efficacy of interventions for adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities and co-occurring mental health problems.MethodAn electronic literature search of the databases Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO and EBM Reviews aimed at identifying randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled trials testing any type of intervention (psychotherapy, biological or system level) for people with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (IQ score 35–69) targeting comorbid mental health problems. Additionally a meta-analysis was conducted.ResultsTwelve studies met the inclusion criteria. No significant effect was found for the predefined outcome domains behavioural problems, depression, anxiety, quality of life and functioning. The effect size for depression (d = 0.49) was moderate but non-significant. Quality of studies was moderate and heterogeneity was high.ConclusionsThere is no compelling evidence supporting interventions aiming at improving mental health problems in people with mild to moderate intellectual disability. The number of available trials is too low for definite conclusions. Some interventions are promising and should be evaluated further in larger and more rigorous trials.

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Immunological and Psychological Efficacy of Meditation/Yoga Intervention Among People Living With HIV (PLWH): A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses of 19 Randomized Controlled Trials

Annals of Behavioral Medicine ◽

10.1093/abm/kaaa084 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Taiyi Jiang ◽

Jianhua Hou ◽

Runsong Sun ◽

Lili Dai ◽

Wen Wang ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

T Cell ◽

Randomized Controlled Trials ◽

Meta Analysis ◽

Cd4 T Cell ◽

Controlled Trials ◽

People Living With Hiv ◽

Yoga Intervention ◽

Randomized Controlled ◽

Cell Counts

Abstract Background An expanding number of mind–body therapies are being used to reduce the psychological burden of peoples living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). However, the effects on the immune system and mental health varied among studies. Purpose This meta-analysis was conducted to summarize the randomized controlled trials to draw comprehensive conclusions regarding the psycho-immunological efficacy. Methods Random-effects models were used to assess the outcome of interest. Egger’s tests were used to identify publication bias. Subgroup and meta-regression were used to explore potential moderators. This review was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42019148118). Results Nineteen randomized controlled trials with a total sample size of 1,300 were included in this meta-analysis. Regarding immune system outcome, mind–body therapy significantly improved CD4 T-cell counts (Cohen’s d = 0.214, p = .027) and maintained (0.427, p = .049). In addition, baseline CD4 T-cell counts and years since HIV diagnosis significantly moderated the efficacy of mind–body practices on CD4 improvement (all ps < .001). Regarding mental health outcome, mind–body therapy significantly reduced stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms (0.422, p < .001; 0.506, p < .001, and 0.709, p < .001, respectively) while improving quality of life (0.67, p < .001). Conclusions Meditation/yoga intervention could result in potential benefits with regard to improved CD4 T-cell counts immediately after the intervention and at long-term follow-up, while also improving their mental health. The cost-effective meditation/yoga intervention should be integrated into routine care for people living with HIV, especially for those with lower CD4 baseline and fewer years since diagnosis.

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