A systematic review and meta-analysis of psychological interventions to improve mental wellbeing

Joep Agteren (), Matthew Iasiello, Laura Lo, Jonathan Bartholomaeus, Zoe Kopsaftis, Marissa Carey and Michael Kyrios
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Joep Agteren: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
Matthew Iasiello: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
Laura Lo: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
Jonathan Bartholomaeus: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
Zoe Kopsaftis: University of South Australia
Marissa Carey: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute
Michael Kyrios: South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute

Nature Human Behaviour, 2021, vol. 5, issue 5, 631-652

Abstract: Abstract Our current understanding of the efficacy of psychological interventions in improving mental states of wellbeing is incomplete. This study aimed to overcome limitations of previous reviews by examining the efficacy of distinct types of psychological interventions, irrespective of their theoretical underpinning, and the impact of various moderators, in a unified systematic review and meta-analysis. Four-hundred-and-nineteen randomized controlled trials from clinical and non-clinical populations (n = 53,288) were identified for inclusion. Mindfulness-based and multi-component positive psychological interventions demonstrated the greatest efficacy in both clinical and non-clinical populations. Meta-analyses also found that singular positive psychological interventions, cognitive and behavioural therapy-based, acceptance and commitment therapy-based, and reminiscence interventions were impactful. Effect sizes were moderate at best, but differed according to target population and moderator, most notably intervention intensity. The evidence quality was generally low to moderate. While the evidence requires further advancement, the review provides insight into how psychological interventions can be designed to improve mental wellbeing.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41562-021-01093-w

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