Stakeholder perspectives on a patient-centred intervention (DIALOG+) for adolescents with common mental disorders in Colombia: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background Patient and stakeholders’ involvement in the development of mental health interventions is a central part of the research process as end-user’s input can improve the design of patient-centered interventions. This is particularly important when developing interventions directed towards improving the mental health of children and adolescents. The rising prevalence of mental health disorders in this population requires special attention and the development of interventions that include them as active participants is crucial. Objective Our aim is to explore the perspectives and opinions of adolescents, parents, educators/youth workers, and clinicians regarding the appeal and usability of an existing patient-centered digital intervention (DIALOG+), which aims to improve quality of life. Methods As part of a broader study aiming to adapt and test DIALOG+, we conducted Online Focus Groups (OFGs) with adults and adolescents in two cities in Colombia. The existing DIALOG+ intervention was introduced to participants, followed by a structured discussion regarding the opinions and views of stakeholders. A framework approach was used to identify the main themes followed by content analysis to aid adaptation. Results We conducted 10 OFGs with a total of 45 participants. A positive feature highlighted by all groups was the innovation of including a digital intervention in a traditional medical visit. Additionally, participants considered that the active role that adolescents have when using the intervention empowers them. Barriers identified included concerns from clinicians related to the time required during consultations and confusion with terminology. Furthermore, additional domains that are particularly relevant for the adolescent population were suggested. Conclusions Data obtained suggest that overall, the DIALOG+ intervention and supporting app are seen as innovative and appealing to adolescents as well as adult stakeholders. However, concerns raised about the availability of time to apply the intervention, the app interface and the language and terminology require modification.

Mobile applications in adolescent psychotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review

“…One app was specifically designed to support adolescents during the waiting period for psychotherapy ( 70 ). Three out of 27 apps were used as additional treatment to therapy, with two apps designed for specific manualized treatments ( 67 , 68 , 74 ). One app could be used in all standard treatments ( 52 ).…”

“…One app could be used in all standard treatments ( 52 ). Furthermore, four apps worked as interrelated apps that connected adolescents with their therapist and primary caregivers ( 58 , 67 , 68 , 74 ) or self-selected family members and friends ( 49 ). As previously mentioned, four apps were transdiagnostic programs, while 23 apps focused on specific disorders or symptoms.…”

“…In total, 63% of apps provided psychoeducational content, with 77% of these apps also providing specific exercises based on the presented psychoeducation. Almost half of the apps aimed to support adolescents in specific behavior changes, with three apps focusing on setting goals ( 51 , 61 , 65 ) and three apps focusing on problem-solving strategies ( 59 , 64 , 74 ). Another frequently used feature was a toolbox with useful skills for difficult situations ( n = 9).…”

“…Moreover, 63% of the studies included mental health professionals or primary caregivers in app evaluation, in addition to the adolescent sample. Overall, a study protocol was published for only one study ( 74 ).…”

Effectiveness of a Patient-Centered Assessment With a Solution-Focused Approach (DIALOG-A) in the Routine Care of Colombian Adolescents With Depression and Anxiety: Protocol for a Multicenter Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

“…This planned exploratory cluster RCT sits within the context of a larger research program called “Building resilience in adolescence - improving quality of life for adolescents with mental health problems in Colombia (BRiCs).” This is a collaborative project between Queen Mary University of London (London, the United Kingdom) and the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana of Bogota (Bogota, Colombia), which aims to improve health outcomes and quality of life for the adolescent population with depression and anxiety in Colombia. During the initial phase of the project, semistructured interviews and focus groups were conducted alongside a pilot study to adapt the existing intervention (DIALOG+) for use with adolescents [ 20 ]. The new intervention is called DIALOG-A.…”