scholarly journals The MATES Case Management Model: Presenting Problems and Referral Pathways for a Novel Peer-Led Approach to Addressing Suicide in the Construction Industry

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (13) ◽  
pp. 6740
Author(s):  
Christopher M Doran ◽  
Lisa Wittenhagen ◽  
Edward Heffernan ◽  
Carla Meurk
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Case Management ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Work And Family ◽  
Management Model ◽  
Service Demand ◽  
Occupational Profile ◽  
Management Database

MATES in Construction (MATES) is a multimodal, peer-led, workplace suicide prevention and early intervention program developed to reduce the risk of suicide among construction industry workers through active facilitation of appropriate support. The MATES case management model provides an example of a nonclinical service for meeting the needs of individuals in the construction industry who, while at elevated risk of mental health problems and suicidality, are traditionally less likely to seek help. The aim of this research was to conduct an evaluation of the MATES case management database to quantify service demand, and to examine the demographic, occupational profile, presenting issues, referral pathways, and perceived benefit of case management among individuals who used this service. The research reports on routinely collected data from the Queensland MATES case management database, which contains records on 3759 individuals collected over the period 2010–2018, and findings from a small and opportunistic exit survey undertaken with 14 clients in 2019. Overall, findings suggest that the demand for case management through MATES has increased significantly and that clients felt that their needs and concerns were appropriately addressed. The most common presenting issues were relationship, work, and family problems, suicide, and mental health concerns. Findings confirm that causes of distress extend beyond the realm of mental disorder and span a range of psychosocial issues. Significantly, it offers an approach that may divert individuals in crisis away from presenting to over-run emergency departments, and towards services that are more equipped to meet their individual needs.

scholarly journals A live-online mindfulness-based intervention for children living with epilepsy and their families: protocol for a randomized controlled trial of Making Mindfulness Matter©

Trials ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Klajdi Puka ◽  
Karen Bax ◽  
Andrea Andrade ◽  
Margo Devries-Rizzo ◽  
Hema Gangam ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Randomized Controlled Trial ◽  
Family Environment ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Local Community ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Randomized Controlled

Abstract Background Epilepsy extends far beyond seizures; up to 80% of children with epilepsy (CWE) may have comorbid cognitive or mental health problems, and up to 50% of parents of CWE are at risk for major depression. Past research has also shown that family environment has a greater influence on children’s and parents’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and mental health than epilepsy-related factors. There is a pressing need for low-cost, innovative interventions to improve HRQOL and mental health for CWE and their parents. The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) is to evaluate whether an interactive online mindfulness-based intervention program, Making Mindfulness Matter (M3), can be feasibly implemented and whether it positively affects CWE’s and parents’ HRQOL and mental health (specifically, stress, behavioral, depressive, and anxiety symptoms). Methods This parallel RCT was planned to recruit 100 child-parent dyads to be randomized 1:1 to the 8-week intervention or waitlist control and followed over 20 weeks. The intervention, M3, will be delivered online and separately to parents and children (ages 4–10 years) in groups of 4–8 by non-clinician staff of a local community epilepsy agency. The intervention incorporates mindful awareness, social-emotional learning skills, and positive psychology. It is modeled after the validated school-based MindUP program and adapted for provision online and to include a parent component. Discussion This RCT will determine whether this online mindfulness-based intervention is feasible and effective for CWE and their parents. The proposed intervention may be an ideal vector to significantly improve HRQOL and mental health for CWE and their parents given its low cost and implementation by community epilepsy agencies. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04020484. Registered on July 16, 2019. 

scholarly journals Engagement and Effectiveness of a Healthy-Coping Intervention via Chatbot for University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Silvia Gabrielli ◽  
Silvia Rizzi ◽  
Giulia Bassi ◽  
Sara Carbone ◽  
Rosa Maimone ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
University Students ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Short Form ◽  
User Engagement ◽  
Proof Of Concept ◽  
Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire ◽  
Concept Study ◽  
Concept Evaluation

BACKGROUND University students are increasingly reporting common mental health problems, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, and they frequently face barriers to seeking psychological support because of stigma, cost, and availability of mental health services. This issue is even more critical in the challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital mental health interventions, such as those delivered via chatbots on mobile devices, offer the potential to achieve scalability of healthy-coping interventions by lowering cost and supporting prevention. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to conduct a proof-of-concept evaluation measuring the engagement and effectiveness of Atena, a psychoeducational chatbot supporting healthy coping with stress and anxiety, among a population of university students. METHODS In a proof-of-concept study, 71 university students were recruited during the COVID-19 pandemic; 68% (48/71) were female, they were all in their first year of university, and their mean age was 20.6 years (SD 2.4). Enrolled students were asked to use the Atena psychoeducational chatbot for 4 weeks (eight sessions; two per week), which provided healthy-coping strategies based on cognitive behavioral therapy, positive psychology, and mindfulness techniques. The intervention program consisted of conversations combined with audiovisual clips delivered via the Atena chatbot. Participants were asked to complete web-based versions of the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), and the Five-Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ) at baseline and postintervention to assess effectiveness. They were also asked to complete the User Engagement Scale–Short Form at week 2 to assess engagement with the chatbot and to provide qualitative comments on their overall experience with Atena postintervention. RESULTS Participants engaged with the Atena chatbot an average of 78 (SD 24.8) times over the study period. A total of 61 out of 71 (86%) participants completed the first 2 weeks of the intervention and provided data on engagement (10/71, 14% attrition). A total of 41 participants out of 71 (58%) completed the full intervention and the postintervention questionnaires (30/71, 42% attrition). Results from the completer analysis showed a significant decrease in anxiety symptoms for participants in more extreme GAD-7 score ranges (<i>t</i><sub>39</sub>=0.94; <i>P</i>=.009) and a decrease in stress symptoms as measured by the PSS-10 (<i>t</i><sub>39</sub>=2.00; <i>P</i>=.05) for all participants postintervention. Participants also improved significantly in the <i>describing</i> and <i>nonjudging</i> facets, based on their FFMQ subscale scores, and asked for some improvements in the user experience with the chatbot. CONCLUSIONS This study shows the benefit of deploying a digital healthy-coping intervention via a chatbot to support university students experiencing higher levels of distress. While findings collected during the COVID-19 pandemic show promise, further research is required to confirm conclusions.

scholarly journals Effect of Holistic Approach Program on Mental Health among Adolescents of Barangay Dita, City of Santa Rosa, Laguna

2018 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 59
Author(s):  
Glena Fe A. Yapchulay-Alcabasa ◽  
Mary Jane Botabara-Yap
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Peer Pressure ◽  
Holistic Approach ◽  
Self Esteem ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Academic Difficulties ◽  
Phase Sampling ◽  
Lack Of Sleep

Latest studies have shown growing concerns on the adolescents’ mental health problems specifically depression, anxiety and stress. This study utilized one group pre-test post-test descriptive design that aims to determine the prevalence of mental health problems and to determine the effect of holistic approach program to adolescents at risk. Two-phase sampling technique was applied. Initial sampling was done to determine those who have mental health problems among the population. Using modified and translated DASS-21, result revealed an over-all prevalence of 89%. Second-phase sampling included the 32 adolescents with mental health problems and underwent holistic approach intervention program. The specific prevalence showed 93.75% for depression, 84.38% for anxiety and 75% for stress. The following causes of mental health problem addressed were heavy use of social media, lack of socialization and self-esteem, peer pressure, academic difficulties, unhealthy diet, lack of sleep, low spirituality, conflict with family and friends. After the 8-sessions of the intervention program, initial over-all prevalence (100%) decreased (56.25%); depression, anxiety, and stress decreased as well (9.34%, 50% and 18.75%). Prevalence of lack of self-esteem and socialization decreased (53.12% to 18.75%), praying time increased to 62.50%. Eating junkfoods decreased (100% to 46.87%) and lack of sleep decreased as well (75% to 15.62%). Peer pressure decreased (43.75% to 18.75%), conflicts with family and friends decreased from 65.62% to 12.5% and 62.50% to 25%, respectively. Academic difficulties were resolved (62.5% to 6.25%). Therefore, the holistic approach intervention program was seen to be an effective tool in addressing depression, anxiety and stress among the adolescents.

The relationship between an electronic mental health stigma campaign and suicidal thoughts and behaviours: a two-arm randomized controlled trial in the Australian construction industry

2019 ◽  
Vol 35 (3) ◽  
pp. 478-485
Author(s):  
A Milner ◽  
Z Aitken ◽  
P C F Law ◽  
A D LaMontagne ◽  
C Mann ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Construction Industry ◽  
Suicide Ideation ◽  
Suicide Attempts ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Intervention Group ◽  
Mental Health Stigma ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Suicidal Thoughts

Abstract Males employed in the construction industry are at greater risk of suicide than other employed males. It is plausible that a high level of stigma against mental health problems explains the elevated rates of suicide among this group. This study sought to test the effectiveness of an electronic mental health stigma intervention on suicide ideation, communication about suicide and attempts. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a series of brief contact interventions over a 6-week period or a wait list control. Suicidal ideation, communication about suicide and suicide attempts were assessed using the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised at post-intervention. We used linear regression to assess effectiveness at post-intervention, adjusting for relevant covariates using both conventional methods and a propensity score approach. Results indicate that the intervention had no significant impact on suicidal thoughts, communication or suicide attempts. There was some indication that individuals in the intervention group reported a slight increase in attempts and communication about suicide. These observations underscore an urgent need for more research to understand the complex and nuanced relationship between stigma and suicide in non-clinical populations.

scholarly journals Research Progress on the Mechanism of College Students' Emotional Disorder and Sports Intervention Program

2021 ◽  
pp. 405-417
Author(s):  
Li Zhang, Xiaowan Song, Hao Zhang
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
College Students ◽  
Emotional Disorders ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Relevant Literature ◽  
Emotional Disorder ◽  
Research Progress ◽  
Education In China ◽  
External Intervention

At present, the problem of emotional disorders in college student has attracted more and more attention from the society, and mental health problems have become a common problem in the process of young people’s growth, learning and life. Especially, the physiological characteristics of growth and development during university leads to the occurrence of anxiety, which require external intervention and guidance. Now, mental health education in China is generally absent, and the treatment of mental health is incomplete. There is a lack of scientific method guidance for mental health intervention and guidance for college students. The college students have just gone through the learning in universities. After entering the society, they are in a relatively relaxed state both in body and mind. This phase is also a stage when problems are easy to occur. This paper studies the relevant literature, analyzes the mechanism of college students' emotional disorder, and puts forward reasonable sports intervention programs.

scholarly journals Protocol for a phase III wait-listed cluster randomised controlled trial of an intervention for mental wellbeing through enhancing mental health literacy and improving work friendliness in Hong Kong

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lawrence T. Lam ◽  
Prudence Wong ◽  
Mary K Lam
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Literacy ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Cluster Randomised

Abstract Background Mental health has long been recognised as a major global health issue. Some work-related characteristics have been identified to be associated with common mental health problems, thus the workplace is an important venue for the prevention of mental health problems and promoting mental wellness. Burnout is one of the important aspects of workplace organisational stressor and, in recent years, the lack of Mental Health Literacy has also been identified as a fundamental issue. Studies have demonstrated that an improvement in Mental Health Literacy is an effective measure for enhancing mental wellbeing. It would be prudent to combine an organisation-directed component and the enhancement of mental health literacy in an intervention program. This trial is to examine the novel approach of an intervention aiming to provide an evidence-based prevention program. Methods This study utilised a wait-listed cluster randomised control trial design. Using the branch offices as the primary sampling units, employees from three large companies in different industries will be recruited. Upon enrolment and after the baseline assessment of the outcome measures, participants nested in the branch offices will be allocated to the intervention or wait-listed arms. The intervention program comprises of two main elements: an organisation-directed component and an individual-directed psychoeducation training. This intervention will be delivered by a senior social worker well-versed in workplace issues over a period of three months. The trail will determine if an integrated workplace mental health literacy and wellbeing program is effective in increasing the mental health literacy scores and reducing burnout and stress scores, as measured by standardised and validated scales. Discussion If the trial results are in line with the hypothesis that support the efficacy of the intervention program, it will provide an evidence-based approach for an effective Workplace Mental Wellbeing intervention program that could, not only enhance the understanding of mental health issues, but also reduce work-related burnout and stress as well as increase workers’ quality of life.

scholarly journals Protocol for a phase III wait-listed cluster randomised controlled trial of an intervention for mental wellbeing through enhancing mental health literacy and improving work friendliness in Hong Kong

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lawrence T. Lam ◽  
Prudence Wong ◽  
Mary K Lam
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Health Literacy ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Literacy ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Mental Wellbeing ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Work Related ◽  
Cluster Randomised

Abstract Background Mental health has long been recognised as a major global health issue. Some work-related characteristics have been identified to be associated with common mental health problems, thus the workplace is an important venue for the prevention of mental health problems and promoting mental wellness. Burnout is one of the important aspects of workplace organisational stressor and, in recent years, the lack of Mental Health Literacy has also been identified as a fundamental issue. Studies have demonstrated that an improvement in Mental Health Literacy is an effective measure for enhancing mental wellbeing. It would be prudent to combine an organisation-directed component and the enhancement of mental health literacy in an intervention program. This trial is to examine the novel approach of an intervention aiming to provide an evidence-based prevention program. Methods This study utilised a wait-listed cluster randomised control trial design. Using the branch offices as the primary sampling units, employees from three large companies in different industries will be recruited. Upon enrolment and after the baseline assessment of the outcome measures, participants nested in the branch offices will be allocated to the intervention or wait-listed arms. The intervention program comprises of two main elements: an organisation-directed component and an individual-directed psychoeducation training. This intervention will be delivered by a senior social worker well-versed in workplace issues over a period of three months. The trail will determine if an integrated workplace mental health literacy and wellbeing program is effective in increasing the mental health literacy scores and reducing burnout and stress scores, as measured by standardised and validated scales. Discussion If the trial results are in line with the hypothesis that support the efficacy of the intervention program, it will provide an evidence-based approach for an effective Workplace Mental Wellbeing intervention program that could, not only enhance the understanding of mental health issues, but also reduce work-related burnout and stress as well as increase workers’ quality of life.

scholarly journals Protocol for the Implementation and Evaluation of a Mindfulness-Based Intervention for Caregivers of Children with Mental Disorders in a Clinical Setting

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (20) ◽  
pp. 10777
Author(s):  
Ana Pizarro-Carmona ◽  
Sofía Baena ◽  
Patricia Jiménez ◽  
Lucía Jiménez
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Clinical Setting ◽  
Intervention Program ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Psychological Impact ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction ◽  
Structured Program

Being a parent is complicated in typical circumstances, with a great psychological impact as well as feelings and experiences of great intensity. This impact is greater in families in vulnerable situations, such as those with children with mental health problems, receiving treatment in a clinical setting. Due to these challenges, parenting in these circumstances is often accompanied by experiences of stress. An approach that has shown evidence of effectiveness in mitigating the negative impact of stress is mindfulness-based interventions, including the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention program. The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention program is designed as a psychoeducational, instructional, multimodal, and structured program whose main objective is to provide strategies for the management, coping, and awareness of stress in order to reduce it. In this paper, a protocol for the implementation and evaluation of the original Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention program with the added positive parenting component is presented, in order to systematize the incorporation of a parenting component in the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction intervention program, analyze its effectiveness for parents whose children have mental health problems (in terms of stress, mindfulness, emotional intelligence, general health, and parental role), explore the mechanisms of change operating in this intervention as perceived by the participants, and examine the application of acquired strategies to daily life.

scholarly journals Effectiveness of Strengths-Based Case Management for People with Mental Health Problems in Hong Kong

2016 ◽  
Vol 16 (2) ◽  
pp. 323-337 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kevin Y. C. Hui ◽  
Cressida W. C. Leung ◽  
Morgan C. K. Ng ◽  
Wing Ching Yu ◽  
Edison K. L. Lau ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Hong Kong ◽  
Case Management ◽  
Satisfaction With Life ◽  
Mental Health Problems ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Health Problems ◽  
Management Intervention ◽  
Case Management Intervention ◽  
The University

This study examined the effectiveness of a 6-month strengths-based case management intervention with 45 Chinese participants with mental health problems in Hong Kong. Social workers provided service according to the strengths-based case management (SCM) model developed at the University of Kansas. Changes in participants’ recovery components (Stage of Recovery Scale), mental health symptoms (GHQ), and satisfaction with life were assessed using a single group pretest and posttest design. Results suggest that participants had some improvement in their autonomy, hope, and overall well-being as well as satisfaction with life after receiving services. No significant improvements in the other recovery components and GHQ score were found. Significantly, a number of participants progressed from stages of being overwhelmed or struggling with disability to stages of living with or beyond disability. Strengths-based practice helped participants develop a transformed self which sees hope and possibility despite the vulnerabilities caused by their illness. Though further refinement and testing are vital, adoption of SCM in Hong Kong mental health services is promising.

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