Scoping review of factors influencing the implementation of group psychoeducational initiatives for people experiencing mental health difficulties and their families

Abstract

Background

Despite evidence to support the effectiveness of psychoeducation for people experiencing mental health difficulties and their families, understanding issues around the implementation of such programmes is limited.

Aim

The aim of this scoping review was to synthesise the peer-reviewed literature on barriers and enablers influencing the implementation of group psychoeducation in adult mental health services.

Methods

Using a pre-defined search strategy and PRISMA guidelines, four databases were systematically searched. Two reviewers independently screened and applied exclusion/inclusion criteria. Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies were included if they provided empirical evidence on the barriers and enablers. Three reviewers independently extracted data. Following this, data were analysed using a five-level implementation framework.

Results

Eight articles met the inclusion criteria. Barriers to implementation were identified at all five levels of the framework: participant; practitioner; intervention; organisational; and structural level. Enablers to implementation were evident at four levels: participant; provider; intervention; and organisational level.

Conclusions

The findings of the review provide preliminary information on factors that impact implementation. However, large-scale studies informed by implementation theories are required. In addition, other studies are needed to address the potential impact of different models of intervention and explore strategies to minimize obstacles and support sustainability.

Keywords:

• Psychoeducation
• Group intervention
• barriers
• enablers
• mental health
• service users
• patients
• family
• adult mental health services
• scoping review

Disclosure statement

The authors have no other conflicts of interest to declare.

Additional information

Funding

The review was funded by a grant from the Health Research Board Ireland in partnership with the Health Service Executive through the Applied Partnership Award scheme. The review is part of a larger study into factors influencing implementation and sustainability of group psychoeducation interventions [Grant number APA-206-1858].