Efficacy of a peer-led group program for unemployed people with mental health problems: Pilot randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: People with long-term unemployment and mental health problems often find it difficult to take active steps toward help-seeking and job search and to navigate the complex system of available services. Likewise, job center staff would welcome interventions to improve the reintegration of long-term unemployed individuals with mental health problems into the labor market. AIM: To examine the efficacy of a peer-led group program that supports unemployed people with mental health problems in terms of help-seeking, job search and recovery. METHODS: Based on participatory research, a four-session group program was designed and evaluated in a pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 42 participants, randomized to the program ( n = 23) or treatment as usual ( n = 19). Outcomes were assessed at baseline (T0), 3 weeks (T1), 6 weeks (T2) and 6 months later (T3). RESULTS: There were no significant intervention effects on primary outcomes (job search self-efficacy and help-seeking). But compared to the control group, intervention participants showed significant improvements in depressive symptoms ( p = .02) and recovery ( p = .04) at T2 with medium effect sizes. There were trend-level positive program effects on self-stigma, hopelessness and secrecy. CONCLUSION: This pilot RCT provides initial evidence for the efficacy of a peer-led group program to improve symptoms and recovery among unemployed participants with mental health problems.

[Implementation of the Internet-Based Self-Management Program "moodgym" in Patients with Depressive Disorders in Inpatient Clinical Settings - Patient and Expert Perspectives]. / Der komplementäre Einsatz des internetbasierten Selbstmanagementprogramms "moodgym" bei Menschen mit depressiven Erkrankungen in der stationären Versorgung ­ die Perspektive von Patienten und Behandlern.

OBJECTIVE: The study aims to assess the acceptance, chances and barriers of an online self-management program (moodgym) for depression from the perspective of experts and patients in inpatient psychiatric settings. METHODS: Paper-pencil interviews were conducted with n = 181 depressed inpatients (n = 181, pre-post-assessment after 8 weeks) and n = 31 medical experts. Two regression models were carried out to investigate factors associated with the uptake and the user acceptance of moodgym. Chances and barriers were analysed qualitatively. RESULTS: Experts and patients reported moderate to high user acceptance. 59 % (n = 107) of the patients logged in to moodgym. Factors associated with the uptake were the educational level and treatment preferences. The user acceptance was influenced by the patients' self-rated health and the frequency of using moodgym. Relevant barriers anticipated by experts were limited computer skills, difficulties in concentration and a severe course of depression. Patients highlighted the ease of use, the moodgym characters and the flexible availability. CONCLUSIONS: moodgym may represent a complementary treatment option for depressive disorders in an inpatient setting.