Mental Health Professionals’ Perspectives on Essential Elements of Telehealth Family Psychoeducation for Major Depressive Disorder: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Family-inclusive interventions, such as family psychoeducation (FPE), improve outcomes in major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly when tailored to the needs of individuals with MDD, their families, and carers. This study explored mental health professionals' (MHPs) perspectives on the essential elements of telehealth FPE for MDD, including patients' and their families' informational and support needs. An exploratory cross-sectional study was conducted as part of the Supportive Program for Advancing Recovery, Knowledge, and Empowerment in Depression (SPARKED) research project, using an online questionnaire targeting MHPs within a regional area of Australia. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and quantitative and qualitative content analysis, with categories and subcategories derived from data-identified codes. Thirty-two completed questionnaires were analysed, revealing five categories of essential elements of telehealth FPE for MDD: topics for FPE regarding MDD; professional competence and person-centred care; adaptive and interactive telehealth FPE delivery; accessible telehealth FPE for MDD; and safety planning and risk management. Additionally, four categories of informational and support needs of patients with MDD and their families were identified: understanding MDD; MDD treatment modalities; safety measures and coping with MDD; and family and community-based support. Despite a few concerns about telehealth, 27 participants (84%) reported that telehealth FPE would positively impact MDD outcomes. These findings can inform the intervention development. Further research should survey a broader group, include other stakeholders, and use qualitative methods to enhance understanding.