Pub Date : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200485
Peta Stapleton , Matthew D. Blanchard
Aim
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a daily mindfulness meditation program on emotional, behavioural, and wellbeing outcomes among Australian primary school students. The study was run across a school term for students aged 4.5 to 12 years.
Method
a daily intervention study was conducted with primary school students across junior (n = 1312) and senior (n = 223) levels over 8–9 weeks using the Smiling Mind Primary School Program, a freely available digital mindfulness-based social and emotional learning program. Outcomes measured included emotional difficulties, behavioural difficulties, happiness, wellbeing (junior students), and mindfulness (senior students).
Results
Emotional and behavioural difficulties decreased significantly, and wellbeing (junior) and mindfulness (senior) improved over time. Happiness showed a significant improvement only at week 3. Most gains occurred in the first week and were maintained, with limited incremental improvements thereafter. Students with low-to-moderate baseline difficulties demonstrated the greatest benefits.
Conclusions
Daily mindfulness practice produced small but meaningful improvements in emotional regulation, behavioural functioning, and wellbeing. Effects were strongest early in the intervention and varied by baseline severity, supporting the role of daily mindfulness as a universal preventive strategy in schools. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
{"title":"Daily mindfulness meditation for improved student outcomes: An Australian primary school trial","authors":"Peta Stapleton , Matthew D. Blanchard","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200485","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200485","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a daily mindfulness meditation program on emotional, behavioural, and wellbeing outcomes among Australian primary school students. The study was run across a school term for students aged 4.5 to 12 years.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>a daily intervention study was conducted with primary school students across junior (<em>n</em> = 1312) and senior (<em>n</em> = 223) levels over 8–9 weeks using the Smiling Mind Primary School Program, a freely available digital mindfulness-based social and emotional learning program. Outcomes measured included emotional difficulties, behavioural difficulties, happiness, wellbeing (junior students), and mindfulness (senior students).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Emotional and behavioural difficulties decreased significantly, and wellbeing (junior) and mindfulness (senior) improved over time. Happiness showed a significant improvement only at week 3. Most gains occurred in the first week and were maintained, with limited incremental improvements thereafter. Students with low-to-moderate baseline difficulties demonstrated the greatest benefits.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Daily mindfulness practice produced small but meaningful improvements in emotional regulation, behavioural functioning, and wellbeing. Effects were strongest early in the intervention and varied by baseline severity, supporting the role of daily mindfulness as a universal preventive strategy in schools. Limitations and future directions are discussed.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200485"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078094","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 : 2026-01-22DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200486
Ellie Tsiamis , Nicola J Reavley , Anthony F Jorm , Stephen Carbone , Amy Morgan
Background
The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes of Australian professionals with expertise in mental health promotion and prevention towards prevention of mental ill-health and their support for government action in this area.
Methods
Seventy-three professionals with experience in mental health prevention and promotion were recruited through key public health, mental health promotion and prevention membership networks in Australia. An online survey explored attitudes towards the prevention of mental and physical health problems and support for government action. Respondents were also asked to rank the top priority areas and age groups in which the government should invest.
Results
Professionals supported increased spending on mental ill-health prevention, with 58.9% [95% CI: 47.2, 69.7] in support of the government spending equal amounts on prevention and treatment of mental ill-health. Over a third (35.6%, [95% CI: 25.4, 47,4]) supported spending more on prevention than treatment. Compared to physical health, professionals were more likely to assign responsibility for mental health to the government rather than individuals (p < 0.001, Cohen’s d – 0.51). Professionals prioritised intervening earlier in life, particularly adolescence and childhood. Addressing social inequalities and reducing child abuse and neglect were rated as the top areas requiring government action.
Conclusion
Our findings reveal strong support among professionals for mental ill-health prevention initiatives and increased government involvement and investment. The alignment between professional opinions and the growing body of evidence supporting prevention interventions earlier in life, particularly those addressing social determinants, highlights the importance of making prevention a core element of mental health policy.
{"title":"Upstream thinking: Professionals' attitudes on mental ill-health prevention in Australia","authors":"Ellie Tsiamis , Nicola J Reavley , Anthony F Jorm , Stephen Carbone , Amy Morgan","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200486","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200486","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes of Australian professionals with expertise in mental health promotion and prevention towards prevention of mental ill-health and their support for government action in this area.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Seventy-three professionals with experience in mental health prevention and promotion were recruited through key public health, mental health promotion and prevention membership networks in Australia. An online survey explored attitudes towards the prevention of mental and physical health problems and support for government action. Respondents were also asked to rank the top priority areas and age groups in which the government should invest.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Professionals supported increased spending on mental ill-health prevention, with 58.9% [95% CI: 47.2, 69.7] in support of the government spending equal amounts on prevention and treatment of mental ill-health. Over a third (35.6%, [95% CI: 25.4, 47,4]) supported spending more on prevention than treatment. Compared to physical health, professionals were more likely to assign responsibility for mental health to the government rather than individuals (<em>p</em> < 0.001, Cohen’s d – 0.51). Professionals prioritised intervening earlier in life, particularly adolescence and childhood. Addressing social inequalities and reducing child abuse and neglect were rated as the top areas requiring government action.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Our findings reveal strong support among professionals for mental ill-health prevention initiatives and increased government involvement and investment. The alignment between professional opinions and the growing body of evidence supporting prevention interventions earlier in life, particularly those addressing social determinants, highlights the importance of making prevention a core element of mental health policy.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200486"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078093","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 : 2026-01-16DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200482
Annabelle E. Prescott , Suzi Wereta , Finn Newnham-Scarth , Sarah E. Hetrick , Chester Holt-Quick , Nicola M. Ludin , Sarah Fortune , Tania Cargo , Bonnie Scarth
Background
Suicide is the leading cause of death for young people aged 15–19 in Aotearoa (New Zealand), with rangatahi Māori tāne (Indigenous adolescent males) inequitably impacted. Brief interventions are often effective for individuals experiencing suicidal distress, but these interventions are typically designed for non-Māori (non-Indigenous) adults. Despite knowledge of the disproportionate burden of risk factors and suicide that rangatahi Māori face, there continue to be few youth-specific, culturally safe interventions for rangatahi Māori.
Objective
We sought to co-design the content and interface of a digital safety planning intervention with rangatahi Māori in Aotearoa and completed beta testing to assess acceptability and safety.
Methods
Utilising a He Awa Whiria (braided rivers bicultural approach), this study blended kaupapa Māori and co-design methodologies to co-design a safety planning app. Across ten workshops, five rangatahi Māori tāne from an extended whānau group co-designed a safety planning chatbot. Thematic analysis of data informed the development of a mobile safety planning app called BRO.
Results
Rangatahi developed a youth-centric approach to safety planning that is culturally responsive, Māori-centred, and prioritises accessibility through design, positive representation and a holistic approach to well-being. Rangatahi advocated for the development of tools that reflect their identity, integrate whānau connections, and utilise approachable, non-clinical language.
Conclusions
This research highlights the importance of digital tools in facilitating real-world connections and whanaungatanga (kinship relationships) to address suicidal behaviours. Importantly, working with rangatahi Māori tāne emphasised the importance of creating interventions where Māori males feel seen, valued, and supported in their unique intersecting identities.
{"title":"Tautoko bro: Redesigning Māori youth safety planning for suicide prevention through a chatbot-enhanced approach","authors":"Annabelle E. Prescott , Suzi Wereta , Finn Newnham-Scarth , Sarah E. Hetrick , Chester Holt-Quick , Nicola M. Ludin , Sarah Fortune , Tania Cargo , Bonnie Scarth","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200482","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200482","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Suicide is the leading cause of death for young people aged 15–19 in Aotearoa (New Zealand), with rangatahi Māori tāne (Indigenous adolescent males) inequitably impacted. Brief interventions are often effective for individuals experiencing suicidal distress, but these interventions are typically designed for non-Māori (non-Indigenous) adults. Despite knowledge of the disproportionate burden of risk factors and suicide that rangatahi Māori face, there continue to be few youth-specific, culturally safe interventions for rangatahi Māori.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>We sought to co-design the content and interface of a digital safety planning intervention with rangatahi Māori in Aotearoa and completed beta testing to assess acceptability and safety.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Utilising a He Awa Whiria (braided rivers bicultural approach), this study blended kaupapa Māori and co-design methodologies to co-design a safety planning app. Across ten workshops, five rangatahi Māori tāne from an extended whānau group co-designed a safety planning chatbot. Thematic analysis of data informed the development of a mobile safety planning app called BRO.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Rangatahi developed a youth-centric approach to safety planning that is culturally responsive, Māori-centred, and prioritises accessibility through design, positive representation and a holistic approach to well-being. Rangatahi advocated for the development of tools that reflect their identity, integrate whānau connections, and utilise approachable, non-clinical language.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This research highlights the importance of digital tools in facilitating real-world connections and whanaungatanga (kinship relationships) to address suicidal behaviours. Importantly, working with rangatahi Māori tāne emphasised the importance of creating interventions where Māori males feel seen, valued, and supported in their unique intersecting identities.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200482"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038135","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}
This study aimed to examine associations between current tobacco use, passive smoking, and polydrug use (alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis) with mental health problems among Thai adolescents aged 11–18 years. A total 14,322 students from three national cross-sectional surveys (2008, 2015, and 2021) of the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) in Thailand were included in the analysis. The results reported that polydrug use, tobacco use and passive smoking were significantly associated with mental health outcomes. Compared to adolescents not engaged in any drug use, adolescents with polydrug use (current tobacco use, current alcohol use, and current cannabis use) were more likely lonely (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.58 to 4.22]), had anxiety (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI [2.20 to 6.14]), suicidal ideation (AOR = 3.91, 95% CI [2.29 to 6.68]), made a suicide plan (AOR = 4.12, 95% CI [2.38 to 7.12]), had a suicide attempt (AOR = 6.56, 95% CI [4.15 to 10.38]), and had no close friends (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI [1.05 to 3.15]). The study suggested that in order to lessen the negative impacts on mental health, it is crucial to give adolescents targeted preventative treatments for tobacco use, passive smoking, and polydrug use. Additionally, this study highlights how important it is for teenagers with substance use in Thailand to have access to professional assistance and national suicide hotlines, among other effective mental health preventive methods.
{"title":"Associations between tobacco use, passive smoking and polydrug use with adolescent mental health in Thailand","authors":"Huyen-Trang Luu-Thi , Nazaf Quaiser , Vernard Indranata Pontjoharyo , Karl Peltzer","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200479","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200479","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study aimed to examine associations between current tobacco use, passive smoking, and polydrug use (alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis) with mental health problems among Thai adolescents aged 11–18 years. A total 14,322 students from three national cross-sectional surveys (2008, 2015, and 2021) of the Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS) in Thailand were included in the analysis. The results reported that polydrug use, tobacco use and passive smoking were significantly associated with mental health outcomes. Compared to adolescents not engaged in any drug use, adolescents with polydrug use (current tobacco use, current alcohol use, and current cannabis use) were more likely lonely (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI [1.58 to 4.22]), had anxiety (AOR = 3.67, 95% CI [2.20 to 6.14]), suicidal ideation (AOR = 3.91, 95% CI [2.29 to 6.68]), made a suicide plan (AOR = 4.12, 95% CI [2.38 to 7.12]), had a suicide attempt (AOR = 6.56, 95% CI [4.15 to 10.38]), and had no close friends (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI [1.05 to 3.15]). The study suggested that in order to lessen the negative impacts on mental health, it is crucial to give adolescents targeted preventative treatments for tobacco use, passive smoking, and polydrug use. Additionally, this study highlights how important it is for teenagers with substance use in Thailand to have access to professional assistance and national suicide hotlines, among other effective mental health preventive methods.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200479"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078095","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 : 2026-01-13DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200481
Martie P. Thompson , Justin Cole Gilbert , Savanna Kennedy , Charlie Kingree , Alex G. Langlais , Manan Roy , Sophia C. Ryan
Background
Suicide is a significant public health concern for all ages and is particularly so for youth. The goal of this scoping review was to identify and synthesize the literature on how the COVID-19 pandemic affected suicide risk among 14–24-year-olds in the United States.
Methods
This review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Two electronic databases (PubMed and PsycINFO) were searched and studies published between January 2020 and July 2024 that met inclusion criteria were included.
Results
Of the 12,947 articles that were screened, 40 met the eligibility criteria. Most of these eligible studies used a trend design, and time (pre-COVID onset versus post-COVID onset) was the most common pandemic measure.
Conclusions
This review suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic was detrimental to the suicide risk of youth and emerging adults. It elucidates the need for preventive interventions to mitigate suicidal behaviors among youth and young adults when a community-wide crisis occurs. Future research should leverage opportunities to follow the same individuals over the course of a crisis.
{"title":"COVID-19 pandemic and suicide risk among youth in the United States: A scoping review","authors":"Martie P. Thompson , Justin Cole Gilbert , Savanna Kennedy , Charlie Kingree , Alex G. Langlais , Manan Roy , Sophia C. Ryan","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200481","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200481","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Suicide is a significant public health concern for all ages and is particularly so for youth. The goal of this scoping review was to identify and synthesize the literature on how the COVID-19 pandemic affected suicide risk among 14–24-year-olds in the United States.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This review followed the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Two electronic databases (PubMed and PsycINFO) were searched and studies published between January 2020 and July 2024 that met inclusion criteria were included.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Of the 12,947 articles that were screened, 40 met the eligibility criteria. Most of these eligible studies used a trend design, and time (pre-COVID onset versus post-COVID onset) was the most common pandemic measure.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>This review suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic was detrimental to the suicide risk of youth and emerging adults. It elucidates the need for preventive interventions to mitigate suicidal behaviors among youth and young adults when a community-wide crisis occurs. Future research should leverage opportunities to follow the same individuals over the course of a crisis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200481"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038138","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 : 2026-01-12DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200480
Josephine Kroll, Lisa Oppitz, Nadja Walter
Objective
Junior professional athletes face elevated psychosocial demands related to elite sport participation, academic requirements, and adolescent development, which may increase vulnerability to mental health difficulties. While prevention programs exist, few adopt a comprehensive approach tailored to the elite youth sport context. The 2Steps4Health project aims to promote well-being and reduce mental health risks through a structured two-step prevention program. This study reports preliminary findings from the universal prevention level.
Methods
A quasi-randomized controlled design was employed, including an intervention group (IG; n = 52) and a waiting control group (CG; n = 53) of junior professional athletes aged 12–21 years (M = 14.9). The universal prevention level comprised three interactive workshops (3 × 3 h) focusing on stress and coping, communication and conflict management, and sleep and nutrition. Participants completed the KIDSCREEN-10 (quality of life) questionnaire and the RESTQ-Sport (stress-recovery-balance) at pre-, post-, and six-week follow-up assessments. Session-specific feedback on the workshops was also collected.
Results
Due to substantial attrition at follow-up, complete data were available for fewer than 30 participants per group. A 2 × 3 repeated-measures ANOVA revealed no significant changes. However, participant feedback indicated high acceptance and perceived relevance.
Conclusion
Although no significant differences between IG and CG were observed, the findings provide important insights into the feasibility of universal mental health prevention programs in youth elite sport settings. Key methodological considerations include participant retention, age-appropriate content, session duration, and the alignment of outcome measures with targeted competencies, informing ongoing program refinement and future evaluation.
目的：青少年职业运动员在参加精英运动、学业要求和青少年发展方面面临较高的心理社会需求，这可能会增加心理健康问题的易感性。虽然存在预防项目，但很少有针对精英青年体育环境的综合方法。2step4health项目旨在通过结构化的两步预防方案，促进福祉并减少心理健康风险。本研究报告了普遍预防水平的初步结果。方法采用准随机对照设计，将12 ~ 21岁青少年职业运动员（M = 14.9）分为干预组（IG, n = 52）和等待对照组（CG, n = 53）。普遍预防级别包括三个互动式讲习班（3 × 3小时），重点是压力和应对、沟通和冲突管理以及睡眠和营养。参与者完成了KIDSCREEN-10（生活质量）问卷和RESTQ-Sport（压力-恢复-平衡）问卷，分别进行了前、后和六周的随访评估。还收集了关于讲习班的具体届会反馈意见。结果：由于随访期间的大量损耗，每组只有不到30名参与者的完整数据。2 × 3重复测量方差分析显示无显著变化。然而，参与者的反馈表明了高接受度和感知相关性。结论：虽然IG和CG之间没有显著差异，但研究结果为在青少年精英体育环境中普遍实施心理健康预防计划的可行性提供了重要见解。关键的方法学考虑因素包括参与者留存率、适合年龄的内容、课程持续时间以及结果测量与目标能力的一致性，为正在进行的项目改进和未来评估提供信息。
{"title":"2Steps4Health – Prevention level one: Results of a universal, sport psychological workshop program for junior professional athletes","authors":"Josephine Kroll, Lisa Oppitz, Nadja Walter","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200480","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200480","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Junior professional athletes face elevated psychosocial demands related to elite sport participation, academic requirements, and adolescent development, which may increase vulnerability to mental health difficulties. While prevention programs exist, few adopt a comprehensive approach tailored to the elite youth sport context. The 2Steps4Health project aims to promote well-being and reduce mental health risks through a structured two-step prevention program. This study reports preliminary findings from the universal prevention level.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A quasi-randomized controlled design was employed, including an intervention group (IG; <em>n</em> = 52) and a waiting control group (CG; <em>n</em> = 53) of junior professional athletes aged 12–21 years (<em>M</em> = 14.9). The universal prevention level comprised three interactive workshops (3 × 3 h) focusing on stress and coping, communication and conflict management, and sleep and nutrition. Participants completed the KIDSCREEN-10 (quality of life) questionnaire and the RESTQ-Sport (stress-recovery-balance) at pre-, post-, and six-week follow-up assessments. Session-specific feedback on the workshops was also collected.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Due to substantial attrition at follow-up, complete data were available for fewer than 30 participants per group. A 2 × 3 repeated-measures ANOVA revealed no significant changes. However, participant feedback indicated high acceptance and perceived relevance.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Although no significant differences between IG and CG were observed, the findings provide important insights into the feasibility of universal mental health prevention programs in youth elite sport settings. Key methodological considerations include participant retention, age-appropriate content, session duration, and the alignment of outcome measures with targeted competencies, informing ongoing program refinement and future evaluation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200480"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038136","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 : 2026-01-08DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200475
Nabeel Al-Yateem , Baraah A.S. Jaber , Shatha Salah Alqdimat , Sukoon Jihad Khalil , Shahed Main AlKhatib , Fatma Refaat Ahmed , Muhammad Arsyad Subu , Heba Hijazi , Heba Khalil , Ahmad Rajeh Saifan , Sawsan Abuhammad , Ibraheem Mhaidat
Background
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are prevalent neurodevelopmental differences that shape children’s experiences in ways that can present both opportunities and challenges for them and their families. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), cultural stigma, inconsistent services, and limited public understanding often delay diagnosis and hinder effective caregiving. Capturing parental experiences in this context is essential for informing culturally responsive practices and support systems.
Objective
To explore the lived experiences of parents raising children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD in the UAE, focusing on challenges related to diagnosis, societal perceptions, caregiving demands, and support mechanisms.
Methods
Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 27 parents of children with ASD and/or ADHD recruited from specialized centers across the UAE. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory.
Results
Four themes emerged: (1) the solo journey for clarity and certainty, highlighting parental confusion and emotional strain during the diagnostic process; (2) parenting in a society striving for understanding, capturing the dual impact of stigma and community support; (3) symptom identification reveals hidden truths, describing early behavioral and communication concerns; and (4) parenting through daily challenges, illustrating the emotional, practical, and disciplinary complexities of caregiving.
Conclusion
Parents of children with ASD and ADHD in the UAE face significant emotional and systemic barriers shaped by cultural norms and service gaps. Addressing these requires integrated support structures, culturally competent professional training, and greater public awareness. Centering parental voices is key to building inclusive, effective, and sustainable interventions.
{"title":"Navigating cultural challenges: UAE parental experiences raising children with ASD and ADHD amid stigma, limited awareness, and support system barriers","authors":"Nabeel Al-Yateem , Baraah A.S. Jaber , Shatha Salah Alqdimat , Sukoon Jihad Khalil , Shahed Main AlKhatib , Fatma Refaat Ahmed , Muhammad Arsyad Subu , Heba Hijazi , Heba Khalil , Ahmad Rajeh Saifan , Sawsan Abuhammad , Ibraheem Mhaidat","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200475","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200475","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are prevalent neurodevelopmental differences that shape children’s experiences in ways that can present both opportunities and challenges for them and their families. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), cultural stigma, inconsistent services, and limited public understanding often delay diagnosis and hinder effective caregiving. Capturing parental experiences in this context is essential for informing culturally responsive practices and support systems.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To explore the lived experiences of parents raising children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD in the UAE, focusing on challenges related to diagnosis, societal perceptions, caregiving demands, and support mechanisms.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 27 parents of children with ASD and/or ADHD recruited from specialized centers across the UAE. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Four themes emerged: (1) the solo journey for clarity and certainty, highlighting parental confusion and emotional strain during the diagnostic process; (2) parenting in a society striving for understanding, capturing the dual impact of stigma and community support; (3) symptom identification reveals hidden truths, describing early behavioral and communication concerns; and (4) parenting through daily challenges, illustrating the emotional, practical, and disciplinary complexities of caregiving.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Parents of children with ASD and ADHD in the UAE face significant emotional and systemic barriers shaped by cultural norms and service gaps. Addressing these requires integrated support structures, culturally competent professional training, and greater public awareness. Centering parental voices is key to building inclusive, effective, and sustainable interventions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200475"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145978087","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}
Many school-based mental health and wellbeing interventions are not sustained beyond initial implementation. Embedding these interventions within communities may promote their sustainability. However, relatively little is known about their implementation and how this is linked to purported outcomes.
Aim
This paper describes the protocol for a flagship study of the ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation exploring the implementation of Live4Life, a whole-of-community youth mental health education and suicide prevention intervention for Australian rural and regional communities, guided by three research questions: 1) How is Live4Life implemented? 2) What are the community- and organisation-, school- and individual-level factors that impact the implementation and sustainability of Live4Life? and 3) Are there any associations between implementation factors and any mental health and wellbeing outcomes?
Methods
This study is part of a larger three-year longitudinal evaluation which examines the effect of Live4Life on mental health and wellbeing. It follows a cohort of adolescents when they are in Year 8 (T1), Year 9 (T2), and Year 10 (T3). Data collection for the current study will occur once school communities have implemented all components of the Live4Life model regardless of their implementation phase (e.g., beginning, established) and in parallel with the longitudinal evaluation analyses (i.e., between T2 and T3). This study will employ a mixed methods convergent parallel design using quantitative and qualitative data from surveys, semi-structured individual and group interviews, and documents. Theoretical frameworks guiding the study include the Behavior Change Consortium framework, the Theoretical Domains Framework, and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Approximately 40 participants in total from five communities in Victoria, Australia will be recruited from among school leaders and staff, community partnership group members, and students. Qualitative data will primarily undergo framework synthesis and quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics.
Discussion
As the first implementation study of Live4Life, findings will address evidence gaps in implementing whole-of-community adolescent mental health interventions. Findings will be disseminated widely to communities, academic, government, and public audiences.
{"title":"A whole-of-community adolescent mental health promotion and suicide prevention intervention (the Live4Life model) in regional Victoria, Australia: protocol for a mixed-methods implementation study","authors":"Monika Raniti , Nina Logan , Nicola Reavley , Lakshmi Neelakantan","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200476","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200476","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Many school-based mental health and wellbeing interventions are not sustained beyond initial implementation. Embedding these interventions within communities may promote their sustainability. However, relatively little is known about their implementation and how this is linked to purported outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Aim</h3><div>This paper describes the protocol for a flagship study of the ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation exploring the implementation of Live4Life, a whole-of-community youth mental health education and suicide prevention intervention for Australian rural and regional communities, guided by three research questions: 1) How is Live4Life implemented? 2) What are the community- and organisation-, school- and individual-level factors that impact the implementation and sustainability of Live4Life? and 3) Are there any associations between implementation factors and any mental health and wellbeing outcomes?</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This study is part of a larger three-year longitudinal evaluation which examines the effect of Live4Life on mental health and wellbeing. It follows a cohort of adolescents when they are in Year 8 (T1), Year 9 (T2), and Year 10 (T3). Data collection for the current study will occur once school communities have implemented all components of the Live4Life model regardless of their implementation phase (e.g., beginning, established) and in parallel with the longitudinal evaluation analyses (i.e., between T2 and T3). This study will employ a mixed methods convergent parallel design using quantitative and qualitative data from surveys, semi-structured individual and group interviews, and documents. Theoretical frameworks guiding the study include the Behavior Change Consortium framework, the Theoretical Domains Framework, and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Approximately 40 participants in total from five communities in Victoria, Australia will be recruited from among school leaders and staff, community partnership group members, and students. Qualitative data will primarily undergo framework synthesis and quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>As the first implementation study of Live4Life, findings will address evidence gaps in implementing whole-of-community adolescent mental health interventions. Findings will be disseminated widely to communities, academic, government, and public audiences.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200476"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038034","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 : 2026-01-07DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200477
Elizabeth M Dascombe , Philip J Morgan , Ryan J Drew , Myles D Young
Background
Many Australian men face mental health challenges yet often avoid therapy, which has low uptake and high dropout rates. Podcasts offer a flexible, self-directed alternative that may enhance mental health literacy and engagement.
Methods
cross-sectional survey of 150 Australian men (18–70 years) assessed acceptability and preference for two types of mental health support: psychotherapy versus podcast-based support. Multivariate and logistic regression models identified predictors of acceptability and preference. Qualitative responses explaining preferences were analysed descriptively.
Results
Therapy was rated more acceptable (M = 2.3, SD = 0.9) than podcasts (M = 1.7, SD = 0.9), with 72% preferring therapy, 19% podcasts, and 9% reporting no preference. Therapy acceptability was higher among men with greater distress (Partial η² = .06) but lower among those with strong attitudinal barriers (Partial η² = .15). Podcasts were rated more acceptable by older men (Partial η² = .04), higher distress (Partial η² = .05), and regular podcast listeners (Partial η² = .08). Podcast preference was strongly associated with regular listening (OR = 30.99, 95% CI [4.40, 218.44]), high SES (OR = 25.70, 95% CI [1.98, 333.61]), and stronger attitudinal barriers (OR = 1.30, 95% CI [1.12, 1.52]). Qualitative feedback highlighted therapy’s personalisation, while podcasts were valued for flexibility.
Conclusion
While therapy was preferred, podcasts were acceptable among some cohorts of men, suggesting podcasts could be a useful alternative support tool.
{"title":"Exploring Australian men’s views on podcast-based mental health support","authors":"Elizabeth M Dascombe , Philip J Morgan , Ryan J Drew , Myles D Young","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200477","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200477","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Many Australian men face mental health challenges yet often avoid therapy, which has low uptake and high dropout rates. Podcasts offer a flexible, self-directed alternative that may enhance mental health literacy and engagement.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>cross-sectional survey of 150 Australian men (18–70 years) assessed acceptability and preference for two types of mental health support: psychotherapy versus podcast-based support. Multivariate and logistic regression models identified predictors of acceptability and preference. Qualitative responses explaining preferences were analysed descriptively.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Therapy was rated more acceptable (M = 2.3, SD = 0.9) than podcasts (M = 1.7, SD = 0.9), with 72% preferring therapy, 19% podcasts, and 9% reporting no preference. Therapy acceptability was higher among men with greater distress (Partial η² = .06) but lower among those with strong attitudinal barriers (Partial η² = .15). Podcasts were rated more acceptable by older men (Partial η² = .04), higher distress (Partial η² = .05), and regular podcast listeners (Partial η² = .08). Podcast preference was strongly associated with regular listening (OR = 30.99, 95% CI [4.40, 218.44]), high SES (OR = 25.70, 95% CI [1.98, 333.61]), and stronger attitudinal barriers (OR = 1.30, 95% CI [1.12, 1.52]). Qualitative feedback highlighted therapy’s personalisation, while podcasts were valued for flexibility.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>While therapy was preferred, podcasts were acceptable among some cohorts of men, suggesting podcasts could be a useful alternative support tool.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200477"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038137","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 : 2026-01-07DOI: 10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200478
Elnaz Moghimi , Soyeon Kim , Sarah Allen , Djigbonde Djaigbe , Arina Bogdan , Sarah Farr , Christopher Canning
Objective
The following study explored youth participants’ experiences in the Preventative Online Mental Health Program for Youth (POMHPY), a co-designed, six-week virtual wellness initiative aimed at improving mental, physical, and social wellbeing in youth.
Methods
Using a qualitative study design, participants from two pilot cohorts (n = 36) were recruited for post-program focus groups. Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using inductive content analysis. The study examined perceived program benefits, barriers to participation, areas for improvement, and the influence of social connection within an online environment.
Results
Four categories were identified: (1) program benefits and impact; (2) barriers to participation; (3) areas for improvement; and (4) importance of social connection. Participants noted the program’s flexibility, relatable peer facilitation, and safe community environment, while also identifying opportunities for refinement.
Conclusion
Youth participants reported positive experiences with POMHPY, highlighting the value of co-design and peer-led facilitation in creating inclusive, responsive, and youth-centered online mental health interventions. Findings demonstrate practical considerations for strengthening virtual youth wellness programs and advancing accessible models of preventative mental health support.
{"title":"Exploring youth experiences with the Preventative Online Mental Health Program for Youth (POMHPY): A qualitative study","authors":"Elnaz Moghimi , Soyeon Kim , Sarah Allen , Djigbonde Djaigbe , Arina Bogdan , Sarah Farr , Christopher Canning","doi":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200478","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200478","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The following study explored youth participants’ experiences in the Preventative Online Mental Health Program for Youth (POMHPY), a co-designed, six-week virtual wellness initiative aimed at improving mental, physical, and social wellbeing in youth.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using a qualitative study design, participants from two pilot cohorts (<em>n</em> = 36) were recruited for post-program focus groups. Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using inductive content analysis. The study examined perceived program benefits, barriers to participation, areas for improvement, and the influence of social connection within an online environment.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Four categories were identified: (1) program benefits and impact; (2) barriers to participation; (3) areas for improvement; and (4) importance of social connection. Participants noted the program’s flexibility, relatable peer facilitation, and safe community environment, while also identifying opportunities for refinement.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Youth participants reported positive experiences with POMHPY, highlighting the value of co-design and peer-led facilitation in creating inclusive, responsive, and youth-centered online mental health interventions. Findings demonstrate practical considerations for strengthening virtual youth wellness programs and advancing accessible models of preventative mental health support.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":55864,"journal":{"name":"Mental Health and Prevention","volume":"41 ","pages":"Article 200478"},"PeriodicalIF":2.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145927039","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}
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