Expanding Access to Mental Health: Evaluating the Potential of a Serious Mental Health Game for Adolescents.

IF 4.2 2区心理学 Q1 PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking Pub Date : 2024-09-30 DOI:10.1089/cyber.2023.0688

Solfrid Raknes, Dana Townsend, Charbel Ghostine, Mahmoud Hammoud

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Digital technologies are important for expanding access to mental health support in low-resource settings. The current study tests the feasibility of a blended learning mental health intervention that was implemented for adolescents in Lebanon (N = 1,234), most of whom were Syrian refugees. The intervention features a digital game called The Helping Hand, which teaches adolescents how to respond to psychosocial challenges healthily and develop effective coping strategies. The blended learning intervention was tested using a single-arm, non-blinded, mixed-methods approach, through the analysis of pre-post questionnaires and key informant interviews. Results showed that the intervention was well accepted and popular among participating adolescents and the team that implemented it. After completing the intervention, adolescents showed a significant decrease in anxiety and depression symptoms and a significant increase in overall well-being. The feasibility and potential impact observed in this study demonstrate the benefits of continuing to refine and expand digital interventions that improve access to mental health support for vulnerable populations.

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扩大获得心理健康的机会：评估青少年严肃心理健康游戏的潜力。

数字技术对于在资源匮乏的环境中扩大心理健康支持的可及性非常重要。本研究测试了混合式学习心理健康干预措施的可行性，该干预措施针对黎巴嫩的青少年（N = 1,234）实施，其中大部分是叙利亚难民。该干预措施以一款名为 "援助之手 "的数字游戏为特色，教授青少年如何健康地应对社会心理挑战并制定有效的应对策略。通过分析事后问卷和关键信息提供者访谈，采用单臂、非盲法、混合方法对混合学习干预措施进行了测试。结果表明，该干预措施深受参与青少年和实施团队的认可和欢迎。完成干预后，青少年的焦虑和抑郁症状明显减少，整体幸福感显著提高。本研究中观察到的可行性和潜在影响表明，继续完善和扩大数字干预措施，改善弱势群体获得心理健康支持的机会，是大有裨益的。

本文章由计算机程序翻译，如有差异，请以英文原文为准。

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来源期刊

Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL-

CiteScore

9.60

自引率

3.00%

发文量

123

期刊介绍： Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking is a leading peer-reviewed journal that is recognized for its authoritative research on the social, behavioral, and psychological impacts of contemporary social networking practices. The journal covers a wide range of platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, internet gaming, and e-commerce, and examines how these digital environments shape human interaction and societal norms. For over two decades, this journal has been a pioneering voice in the exploration of social networking and virtual reality, establishing itself as an indispensable resource for professionals and academics in the field. It is particularly celebrated for its swift dissemination of findings through rapid communication articles, alongside comprehensive, in-depth studies that delve into the multifaceted effects of interactive technologies on both individual behavior and broader societal trends. The journal's scope encompasses the full spectrum of impacts—highlighting not only the potential benefits but also the challenges that arise as a result of these technologies. By providing a platform for rigorous research and critical discussions, it fosters a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between technology and human behavior.