Pub Date : 2023-05-05DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0038
J. Carson
Purpose This paper aims to provide a living tribute to the mental health activist and international trainer Peter Bullimore. Design/methodology/approach Peter provided a list of people to who he wanted to provide tributes. Jerome approached all these people. All agreed. Findings Several people from around the world attest to the influence that Peter’s teaching and personality have had on their clinical practice and on their lives. Research limitations/implications The disappearance of an Open Mind has left a shortage of journals, which welcome the user perspective. Mental Health and Social Inclusion have always championed the voice of people with lived experience. These are selected tributes to one man’s work in the field of mental health. Practical implications These accounts provide insights into the work of a remarkable individual. Social implications Students of the mental health professions are mainly exposed to work produced by their peers. The history of mental health is filled with the stories of professionals, not the people who have used services. Originality/value Historically accounts of psychiatry are written by mental health professionals. Service user or lived experience accounts are often written from the perspective of the person’s story of illness and recovery. There are comparatively few, which celebrate the additional achievements of specific individuals with lived experience.
{"title":"Peter Bullimore: a living tribute","authors":"J. Carson","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0038","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0038","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This paper aims to provide a living tribute to the mental health activist and international trainer Peter Bullimore.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Peter provided a list of people to who he wanted to provide tributes. Jerome approached all these people. All agreed.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Several people from around the world attest to the influence that Peter’s teaching and personality have had on their clinical practice and on their lives.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000The disappearance of an Open Mind has left a shortage of journals, which welcome the user perspective. Mental Health and Social Inclusion have always championed the voice of people with lived experience. These are selected tributes to one man’s work in the field of mental health.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000These accounts provide insights into the work of a remarkable individual.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000Students of the mental health professions are mainly exposed to work produced by their peers. The history of mental health is filled with the stories of professionals, not the people who have used services.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000Historically accounts of psychiatry are written by mental health professionals. Service user or lived experience accounts are often written from the perspective of the person’s story of illness and recovery. There are comparatively few, which celebrate the additional achievements of specific individuals with lived experience.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"19 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"84637172","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-04DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0040
Valeriia Palii, Mariana Velykodna, Márcio Pereira, Rosaleen McElvaney, Sam Bernard, V. Klymchuk, Oleg Burlachuk, Alex Lupis, Nadiia Diatel, J. Ireland, K. McNeill, Janina L. Scarlet, Ana L. Jaramillo-Sierra, B. Khoury, Diana Rocio Sánchez Munar, Sarah L. Hedlund, T. Flanagan, Jean-Ganesh Leblanc, D.M. Agudelo Vélez, Yvonne Gómez-Maquet
Purpose This paper aims to discuss current work and further steps of the psychological hotline launched by the National Psychological Association of Ukraine (NPA), along with a call for action to mental health professionals worldwide. Design/methodology/approach This paper describes the training and support of the NPA’s hotline staff as well as reflections on the hotline’s work from June 2022 to April 2023. Findings With broad international support, the NPA’s psychological hotline currently operates in 21 countries providing psychological assistance and referrals to other service providers within Ukraine and abroad. The authors propose further steps of its work, including international collaboration. Originality/value Providing citizens of Ukraine with broad public access to evidence-based remote psychological support through NPA’s hotlines is a high priority considering the war’s negative impact on mental health diverse and the limited capacity of the state mental health system.
{"title":"The experience of launching a psychological hotline across 21 countries to support Ukrainians in wartime","authors":"Valeriia Palii, Mariana Velykodna, Márcio Pereira, Rosaleen McElvaney, Sam Bernard, V. Klymchuk, Oleg Burlachuk, Alex Lupis, Nadiia Diatel, J. Ireland, K. McNeill, Janina L. Scarlet, Ana L. Jaramillo-Sierra, B. Khoury, Diana Rocio Sánchez Munar, Sarah L. Hedlund, T. Flanagan, Jean-Ganesh Leblanc, D.M. Agudelo Vélez, Yvonne Gómez-Maquet","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0040","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0040","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This paper aims to discuss current work and further steps of the psychological hotline launched by the National Psychological Association of Ukraine (NPA), along with a call for action to mental health professionals worldwide.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This paper describes the training and support of the NPA’s hotline staff as well as reflections on the hotline’s work from June 2022 to April 2023.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000With broad international support, the NPA’s psychological hotline currently operates in 21 countries providing psychological assistance and referrals to other service providers within Ukraine and abroad. The authors propose further steps of its work, including international collaboration.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000Providing citizens of Ukraine with broad public access to evidence-based remote psychological support through NPA’s hotlines is a high priority considering the war’s negative impact on mental health diverse and the limited capacity of the state mental health system.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"37 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"77829714","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-02DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0029
Ayesha Adeel, C. Kannangara, H. Bharaj, A. Basu, Barrie Green, L. Ogilvie, J. Carson
Purpose Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) are promising alternatives to traditional face-to-face psychological interventions to improve psychological outcomes in various chronic health conditions. However, their efficacy among people with diabetes is yet to be established. Therefore, this narrative review aims to identify the importance and need for evidence-based research on DMHIs targeting the psychological outcomes in people with diabetes. Design/methodology/approach Using a narrative review approach, this study highlights the technological advancements in diabetes health care and identifies a need for developing DMHIs for people with diabetes. Findings DMHIs are promising for improving psychological outcomes in people with diabetes. However, there is a need for further rigorous, controlled and high-quality diabetes-focused studies, to make firm conclusions on the effectiveness and appropriateness of DMHIs for patients with diabetes. This review also suggests that DMHIs based on psychological theories and studies with higher quality methodologies are also needed. Originality/value This review highlights the contemporary literature on diabetes and related technological advancements. The findings of this study serve as a basis of the improvement of policy on digital mental health services for people with diabetes, to impact the global burden of the disease.
{"title":"The importance of digital mental health interventions to support people with diabetes-related psychological outcomes: a narrative review","authors":"Ayesha Adeel, C. Kannangara, H. Bharaj, A. Basu, Barrie Green, L. Ogilvie, J. Carson","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0029","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0029","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000Digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) are promising alternatives to traditional face-to-face psychological interventions to improve psychological outcomes in various chronic health conditions. However, their efficacy among people with diabetes is yet to be established. Therefore, this narrative review aims to identify the importance and need for evidence-based research on DMHIs targeting the psychological outcomes in people with diabetes.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Using a narrative review approach, this study highlights the technological advancements in diabetes health care and identifies a need for developing DMHIs for people with diabetes.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000DMHIs are promising for improving psychological outcomes in people with diabetes. However, there is a need for further rigorous, controlled and high-quality diabetes-focused studies, to make firm conclusions on the effectiveness and appropriateness of DMHIs for patients with diabetes. This review also suggests that DMHIs based on psychological theories and studies with higher quality methodologies are also needed.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000This review highlights the contemporary literature on diabetes and related technological advancements. The findings of this study serve as a basis of the improvement of policy on digital mental health services for people with diabetes, to impact the global burden of the disease.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-05-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85550562","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-02DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0039
M. Steger, Angelina Sung, Truc Anh L. Dao, Trudy M. Tompkins
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine meaning in life as an important resource during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach This paper summarized key research establishing links between meaning in life and mental health and well-being variables, reviewed the literature on meaning as a protective factor and meaning-making as a coping mechanism amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as provided focal points in cultivating meaning in life. Findings Studies strongly support the notion that meaning in life is essential for health and well-being. Research also suggests that meaning protects against worsening mental health, and that engaging in meaning-making is a coping process that ultimately leads to improved adjustment despite the stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight themes are also identified in cultivating skills to build meaning during adverse times. Practical implications Integrating what research has found about meaning, resilience and coping can help individuals develop practical strategies to cultivate meaning in their lives to support themselves and their communities during stressful times. Originality/value Understanding the ways in which meaning can support individuals’ health and well-being is critical during a global upheaval such as that of the COVID-19 pandemic.
{"title":"Meaning in challenging times: how we might respond to the global COVID-19 pandemic?","authors":"M. Steger, Angelina Sung, Truc Anh L. Dao, Trudy M. Tompkins","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0039","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-04-2023-0039","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this paper is to examine meaning in life as an important resource during the COVID-19 pandemic.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This paper summarized key research establishing links between meaning in life and mental health and well-being variables, reviewed the literature on meaning as a protective factor and meaning-making as a coping mechanism amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as provided focal points in cultivating meaning in life.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Studies strongly support the notion that meaning in life is essential for health and well-being. Research also suggests that meaning protects against worsening mental health, and that engaging in meaning-making is a coping process that ultimately leads to improved adjustment despite the stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eight themes are also identified in cultivating skills to build meaning during adverse times.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000Integrating what research has found about meaning, resilience and coping can help individuals develop practical strategies to cultivate meaning in their lives to support themselves and their communities during stressful times.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000Understanding the ways in which meaning can support individuals’ health and well-being is critical during a global upheaval such as that of the COVID-19 pandemic.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"39 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-05-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81448269","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-28DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0036
M. Morrison, R. Ben-Moshe, Freda N. Gonot-Schoupinsky
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to meet Mary Kay Morrison, an active member and past president of the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor (AATH). Design/methodology/approach This case study is presented in two sections: an autobiography of Mary Kay Morrison, followed by a ten-question interview. Findings Mary Kay recommends exploration of the benefits of humor and laughter for mental health professionals. In recognition of the need for clarifying terminology, she coined the terms Humergy, which is joyful, optimistic, healthy energy and Humordoomer, which denotes a person who zaps that energy from us. Her work includes exploring the five stages of Humor Development as a significant factor in understanding cognitive development. Research limitations/implications This is a personal narrative, albeit from an educator who has been active in the field of applied and therapeutic humor for over 30 years. Practical implications Humor and laughter research is recommended to explore their use in optimizing mental health. Mary Kay endorses expanding pioneering work in therapeutic humor as a treatment for anxiety and depression. She shares recommendations for humor practice in both prevention of mental health challenges and as a viable treatment for anxiety and depression. Social implications Three humor benefits with particular social applications are highlighted. Humor facilitates communication, creates an optimal learning environment and supports change. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study about Mary Kay Morrison, Past President of the AATH and founder of the AATH Certified Humor Professional program.
{"title":"Humor, laughter and mental health: a case study of Mary Kay Morrison","authors":"M. Morrison, R. Ben-Moshe, Freda N. Gonot-Schoupinsky","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0036","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0036","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this paper is to meet Mary Kay Morrison, an active member and past president of the Association for Applied and Therapeutic Humor (AATH).\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This case study is presented in two sections: an autobiography of Mary Kay Morrison, followed by a ten-question interview.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Mary Kay recommends exploration of the benefits of humor and laughter for mental health professionals. In recognition of the need for clarifying terminology, she coined the terms Humergy, which is joyful, optimistic, healthy energy and Humordoomer, which denotes a person who zaps that energy from us. Her work includes exploring the five stages of Humor Development as a significant factor in understanding cognitive development.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000This is a personal narrative, albeit from an educator who has been active in the field of applied and therapeutic humor for over 30 years.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000Humor and laughter research is recommended to explore their use in optimizing mental health. Mary Kay endorses expanding pioneering work in therapeutic humor as a treatment for anxiety and depression. She shares recommendations for humor practice in both prevention of mental health challenges and as a viable treatment for anxiety and depression.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000Three humor benefits with particular social applications are highlighted. Humor facilitates communication, creates an optimal learning environment and supports change.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study about Mary Kay Morrison, Past President of the AATH and founder of the AATH Certified Humor Professional program.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"12 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75257809","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-27DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-01-2023-0015
M. Kornacka, Anna Jaskulska, Kinga H. Skorupska, Marta Szastok, Małgorzata Nadziejko, Wiesław Kopeć
Purpose One of the recommendations in process-based cognitive therapies suggests that functional analysis created by the clinician should be supported by empirical data collected through daily sampling. It enables the computing of a dynamic network of psychological processes and symptoms supporting clinical decisions but also therapeutic progress monitoring. However, the experience sampling solutions available in the market do not enable the automatic creation of this kind of network; thus, the use of this approach in clinical practice is practically impossible without advanced statistical skills and significant time investment. The purpose of the present paper is to describes a protocol of a research project based on a participatory approach aiming to create a solution enabling therapists not only to set up a personalized daily sampling for their patients and collect the data but also providing a fully automated visualization of the network adapted for therapeutic purposes. Design/methodology/approach The project will require creating a platform for therapists where they can set up monitoring and receive dynamic networks visualization, creating an experience sampling application for patients connected to the platform and creating an optimal data visualization system that will enable therapists to accurately and quickly interpret the network. A series of participatory workshops, qualitative and quantitative studies are described. Findings The presented studies will enable us to evaluate the ergonomy of use of both platform and app in laboratory and ecological settings along with the evaluation of network interpretation accuracy. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first participatory design protocol for creating a solution that might enable clinicians to use a dynamic network approach in their everyday clinical practice. The challenges and opportunities of creating this kind of mHealth solution are discussed.
{"title":"A solution for creating dynamic networks of symptoms in cognitive-behavioral functional analysis and therapy – participatory design protocol","authors":"M. Kornacka, Anna Jaskulska, Kinga H. Skorupska, Marta Szastok, Małgorzata Nadziejko, Wiesław Kopeć","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-01-2023-0015","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-01-2023-0015","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000One of the recommendations in process-based cognitive therapies suggests that functional analysis created by the clinician should be supported by empirical data collected through daily sampling. It enables the computing of a dynamic network of psychological processes and symptoms supporting clinical decisions but also therapeutic progress monitoring. However, the experience sampling solutions available in the market do not enable the automatic creation of this kind of network; thus, the use of this approach in clinical practice is practically impossible without advanced statistical skills and significant time investment. The purpose of the present paper is to describes a protocol of a research project based on a participatory approach aiming to create a solution enabling therapists not only to set up a personalized daily sampling for their patients and collect the data but also providing a fully automated visualization of the network adapted for therapeutic purposes.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000The project will require creating a platform for therapists where they can set up monitoring and receive dynamic networks visualization, creating an experience sampling application for patients connected to the platform and creating an optimal data visualization system that will enable therapists to accurately and quickly interpret the network. A series of participatory workshops, qualitative and quantitative studies are described.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The presented studies will enable us to evaluate the ergonomy of use of both platform and app in laboratory and ecological settings along with the evaluation of network interpretation accuracy.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first participatory design protocol for creating a solution that might enable clinicians to use a dynamic network approach in their everyday clinical practice. The challenges and opportunities of creating this kind of mHealth solution are discussed.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"32 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"80269322","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-26DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-02-2023-0020
J. Prescott, T. Hanley
Purpose The aim of this research is to gain an insight into the attitudes that therapists, both qualified and trainee, have towards the use of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine therapy in therapeutic practice. The paper also aims to gain an insight into attitudes towards machine therapy and the potential of developing a therapeutic alliance with a machine therapist. Design/methodology/approach A short questionnaire was developed to gauge therapists and trainee therapists’ attitudes towards machine therapy. The questionnaire included a scenario for participants to read and then respond to questions on the therapeutic alliance using questions based upon those asked on the working alliance short inventory scale. At the end of the questionnaire, there was also the opportunity for participants to respond to an open-ended question. Findings It is evident from the responses that there is a clear reservation about the use of AI technology within the therapeutic setting. In spite of this reticence, many participants recognised the potential and are open to the possibilities this technology can bring. It was notable that the therapists largest concern was about the potential to create a strong bond with a machine therapist. Originality/value This paper presents findings on therapists’ attitudes towards AI use within therapeutic practice and machine therapy. Whilst limited in scope, it provides a yardstick for considering the way that attitudes towards these emerging technologies might change in the future.
{"title":"Therapists’ attitudes towards the use of AI in therapeutic practice: considering the therapeutic alliance","authors":"J. Prescott, T. Hanley","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-02-2023-0020","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-02-2023-0020","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The aim of this research is to gain an insight into the attitudes that therapists, both qualified and trainee, have towards the use of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine therapy in therapeutic practice. The paper also aims to gain an insight into attitudes towards machine therapy and the potential of developing a therapeutic alliance with a machine therapist.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000A short questionnaire was developed to gauge therapists and trainee therapists’ attitudes towards machine therapy. The questionnaire included a scenario for participants to read and then respond to questions on the therapeutic alliance using questions based upon those asked on the working alliance short inventory scale. At the end of the questionnaire, there was also the opportunity for participants to respond to an open-ended question.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000It is evident from the responses that there is a clear reservation about the use of AI technology within the therapeutic setting. In spite of this reticence, many participants recognised the potential and are open to the possibilities this technology can bring. It was notable that the therapists largest concern was about the potential to create a strong bond with a machine therapist.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000This paper presents findings on therapists’ attitudes towards AI use within therapeutic practice and machine therapy. Whilst limited in scope, it provides a yardstick for considering the way that attitudes towards these emerging technologies might change in the future.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"32 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81857335","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-26DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0035
Barrie Green
Purpose This paper aims to describe a link between and benefits of two initiatives targeted at mental health and social inclusion. One being informal, the sport of walking football; the other a formal self-help well-being group. Design/methodology/approach This reflective commentary describes two group activities which are aimed at addressing physical and mental health challenges of older adults. These are described by the author to highlight the benefits that they provide for some of the challenges faced by men in particular in later life. Using a narrative approach to describe a synergy between the two initiatives created by the link between the activities, and the participants. Findings The Lawnmower Maintenance Society has proved to be a successful model for promoting and supporting the participant’s mental health and well-being. As we emerge from the trauma of COVID-19 and the isolation of lockdown, such initiatives may help redress the imbalance in health which resulted. Although there are several similar groups, there seems to be a positive link between the physical and mental health benefits of using Walking Football as a shared interest of the attendees. Feedback from participants and interest from the wider community suggest the positive impact of such groups, particularly as National Health Service resources are stretched beyond capacity. Research limitations/implications Although this study reports on one new group for men, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first to bring together the areas of Walking Football and a men’s support group. Practical implications This type of support group could easily be extended if the footballing authorities wish to replicate it in other parts of the country. Social implications It is well known that men are very reluctant to talk about personal problems. Other workers have also tried innovative solutions to this problem, such as Men in Sheds. This case study offers a further contribution to this area. Originality/value There are several academic papers, as well as information on well-being groups in both the print and social media. This commentary outlines a small, but contemporary, description of one such initiative.
{"title":"“No country for old men”: the Lawnmower Maintenance Society","authors":"Barrie Green","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0035","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0035","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000This paper aims to describe a link between and benefits of two initiatives targeted at mental health and social inclusion. One being informal, the sport of walking football; the other a formal self-help well-being group.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This reflective commentary describes two group activities which are aimed at addressing physical and mental health challenges of older adults. These are described by the author to highlight the benefits that they provide for some of the challenges faced by men in particular in later life. Using a narrative approach to describe a synergy between the two initiatives created by the link between the activities, and the participants.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The Lawnmower Maintenance Society has proved to be a successful model for promoting and supporting the participant’s mental health and well-being. As we emerge from the trauma of COVID-19 and the isolation of lockdown, such initiatives may help redress the imbalance in health which resulted. Although there are several similar groups, there seems to be a positive link between the physical and mental health benefits of using Walking Football as a shared interest of the attendees. Feedback from participants and interest from the wider community suggest the positive impact of such groups, particularly as National Health Service resources are stretched beyond capacity.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000Although this study reports on one new group for men, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first to bring together the areas of Walking Football and a men’s support group.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000This type of support group could easily be extended if the footballing authorities wish to replicate it in other parts of the country.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000It is well known that men are very reluctant to talk about personal problems. Other workers have also tried innovative solutions to this problem, such as Men in Sheds. This case study offers a further contribution to this area.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000There are several academic papers, as well as information on well-being groups in both the print and social media. This commentary outlines a small, but contemporary, description of one such initiative.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"19 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"73858027","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-11DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0032
Madan Kataria, R. Ben-Moshe, Freda N. Gonot-Schoupinsky
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to meet Dr Madan Kataria, the founder and creator of Laughter Yoga. Design/methodology/approach This case study is presented in two sections: a transcribed autobiography of Madan Kataria, followed by a ten-question interview with him. Findings The popularity of Laughter Yoga (LY) has spread from a handful of people since 1995 to a global movement with tens of thousands of people who commune in person and online, laughing for the health of it. Research limitations/implications This is a personal narrative, albeit from someone who has been at the forefront of using intentional laughter for well-being for 30 years. Practical implications LY promotes an array of physical, psychological and emotional health outcomes that does not rely on humour or jokes to stimulate laughter. It is a beneficial resource suited for use in vulnerable population groups, including people experiencing depression or anxiety. Social implications The LY methodology is suited to people of all ages and abilities, enhancing mental health, decreasing stress levels and growing social connections and community through the universal language of laughter. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study and interview with Dr Kataria that delves into his personal background, outlining his motivation and experience behind founding LY internationally.
{"title":"Laughter and mental health: a case study of Dr Madan Kataria","authors":"Madan Kataria, R. Ben-Moshe, Freda N. Gonot-Schoupinsky","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0032","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0032","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this paper is to meet Dr Madan Kataria, the founder and creator of Laughter Yoga.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000This case study is presented in two sections: a transcribed autobiography of Madan Kataria, followed by a ten-question interview with him.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000The popularity of Laughter Yoga (LY) has spread from a handful of people since 1995 to a global movement with tens of thousands of people who commune in person and online, laughing for the health of it.\u0000\u0000\u0000Research limitations/implications\u0000This is a personal narrative, albeit from someone who has been at the forefront of using intentional laughter for well-being for 30 years.\u0000\u0000\u0000Practical implications\u0000LY promotes an array of physical, psychological and emotional health outcomes that does not rely on humour or jokes to stimulate laughter. It is a beneficial resource suited for use in vulnerable population groups, including people experiencing depression or anxiety.\u0000\u0000\u0000Social implications\u0000The LY methodology is suited to people of all ages and abilities, enhancing mental health, decreasing stress levels and growing social connections and community through the universal language of laughter.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case study and interview with Dr Kataria that delves into his personal background, outlining his motivation and experience behind founding LY internationally.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"34 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"73783893","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-07DOI: 10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0026
Raluca Ioana Pascale, Calli Tzani, M. Ioannou, Thomas James Vaughan Williams, D. Hunt
Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychological consequences of human trafficking and to reveal the importance of appropriate post-trafficking psychological interventions. Specifically, this study provides a detailed analysis of human trafficking categories, as well as the characteristics of victims and traffickers’ motives. More recent data in the literature show that trauma-coerced attachments and complex post-traumatic stress disorder are also observed among trafficking survivors. Design/methodology/approach Each of the mentioned mental disorders is presented separately, and results are discussed throughout this study. Consequently, psychological interventions are proposed in accordance with the human trafficking category, survivors’ characteristics and needs and with the relevant personal risk factors determined among victims. Findings Sex trafficking can have a severe effect on a victim’s mental health, and mental health disorders are substantially higher in human trafficking victims compared to non-trafficked victims or general psychiatric population. Limitations, implications and future recommendations are discussed. Originality/value A limited number of past studies evaluated the mental health consequences and identified that survivors have a higher prevalence of anxiety disorders, depression disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.
{"title":"Trafficking trauma: a review on the psychological effects of human trafficking","authors":"Raluca Ioana Pascale, Calli Tzani, M. Ioannou, Thomas James Vaughan Williams, D. Hunt","doi":"10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0026","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/mhsi-03-2023-0026","url":null,"abstract":"\u0000Purpose\u0000The purpose of this study is to investigate the psychological consequences of human trafficking and to reveal the importance of appropriate post-trafficking psychological interventions. Specifically, this study provides a detailed analysis of human trafficking categories, as well as the characteristics of victims and traffickers’ motives. More recent data in the literature show that trauma-coerced attachments and complex post-traumatic stress disorder are also observed among trafficking survivors.\u0000\u0000\u0000Design/methodology/approach\u0000Each of the mentioned mental disorders is presented separately, and results are discussed throughout this study. Consequently, psychological interventions are proposed in accordance with the human trafficking category, survivors’ characteristics and needs and with the relevant personal risk factors determined among victims.\u0000\u0000\u0000Findings\u0000Sex trafficking can have a severe effect on a victim’s mental health, and mental health disorders are substantially higher in human trafficking victims compared to non-trafficked victims or general psychiatric population. Limitations, implications and future recommendations are discussed.\u0000\u0000\u0000Originality/value\u0000A limited number of past studies evaluated the mental health consequences and identified that survivors have a higher prevalence of anxiety disorders, depression disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.\u0000","PeriodicalId":44476,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Social Inclusion","volume":"26 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.2,"publicationDate":"2023-04-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"91276161","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}