Advancing and translating knowledge: a systematic inquiry into the 2010–2020 mental health and psychosocial support intervention research evidence base

Abstract

Background and study objectives MHPSS is increasingly seen as a critical component to effective and responsible humanitarian programming. This review examines the extent to which MHPSS research generated since 2010 has contributed to the public health evidence base and how this has influenced and impacted programming and policy in humanitarian settings. Methods This mixed-method study included a scoping literature review (n = 50) and a consultation process with qualitative key informant interviews (n = 19) and online survey responses (n = 52) to identify the facilitating and inhibiting factors for the two areas of inquiry and to understand the broader context in which knowledge is generated and taken up. The interviews were thematically analysed and the survey responses were descriptively analysed. Results The review identified a rapidly growing evidence base that has evaluated a range of MHPSS interventions. However, few studies examined long-term impacts of interventions, there was limited direct evidence on outcomes for children and adolescents and whole family approaches, and there were minimal replications of the same approach that could test efficacy across settings and population groups. A general shift was identified in the consultation process away from a focus on disorder towards the more positive aspects of wellbeing. However, there remained a mismatch in many studies included in the literature review, whereby the interventions were broad, community-based but the outcome measures used still focused on changes in symptoms of mental disorders. Conclusion The evidence base for MHPSS has grown significantly over the last 10 years. However, several knowledge gaps remain, as does the divide between research and practice. Moving forward, MHPSS intervention research needs to be more responsive to the needs on the ground.

Mental health and psychosocial support programmes for displaced populations in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs): A systematic review of process, perspectives and experiences

“…Similarly, including data drawn from outcome evaluations ensured that we captured important insights about the safety and feasibility of programmes. However, as noted by Nemiro et al ( 2022 ), it is important to acknowledge that in less controlled settings, the implementation of MHPSS interventions may differ considerably, potentially resulting in divergent participant experiences compared to those observed within a more tightly controlled environment required for evaluations, such as RCTS.…”

Implementing supportive supervision in acute humanitarian emergencies: Lessons learned from Afghanistan and Ukraine

“…Specifically, a greater prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and psychosis, among other severe forms of psychological distress, have been observed within humanitarian settings [ 2 ]. In a concerted effort to mitigate this observed risk, the integration of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) programming is increasingly recommended within humanitarian responses [ 3 ].…”