@article{pmid42178538,

title = {Exploring experts' views on "Not Parent Expected" discoveries via direct-to-consumer DNA ancestry testing},

author = {Juliette Careau and Roel Feys and Maarten H D Larmuseau and Rebekah Drumsta and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1186/s12910-026-01494-4},

issn = {1472-6939},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-05-01},

journal = {BMC Med Ethics},

volume = {27},

number = {1},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Millions of people have taken Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) DNA ancestry tests to learn more about their ethnic ancestry and family history. A small but growing body of research has noted that these DTC DNA ancestry tests raise challenging ethical, psychosocial, and resource-related issues that have not been adequately considered nor discussed. One key issue concerns a "Not Parent Expected" (NPE) discovery, in which a user suddenly and unexpectedly learns from these tests that an assumed parent (typically the father) is not a biological parent. Such news can negatively affect mental health, self-identity, and family relationships. Given the limited research on this topic, we aimed to explore experts' views on the ethical, psychosocial and support-related aspects of DTC DNA ancestry testing, particularly for individuals who receive NPE news.nnMETHODS: We conducted a qualitative study. This involved semi-structured interviews with ten experts on DTC DNA ancestry testing, who had written about or actively researched these issues. The interviews were analysed using codebook thematic analysis.nnRESULTS: The analysis resulted in three overlapping themes. The first concerned insufficient support for the NPE population, despite the emergence of some relevant resources. The supports discussed included formal resources, such as genetic counselling and therapy, as well as informal resources, including online peer support. Both formal and informal resources were seen as having advantages and disadvantages. The second theme concerned the need for better consideration of informed consent before taking these tests. Many experts reported that standard consent procedures do not fully prepare consumers for the possibility of making an unexpected discovery such as an NPE event. They suggested that this information could be communicated more effectively, including using creative measures before consent is obtained. The third theme related to the testing companies' role and responsibility in relation to support for individuals learning NPE news. A few experts suggested that these companies bear some moral responsibility, even in the absence of a legal obligation, to provide or direct individuals to supportive resources.nnCONCLUSIONS: Together, these findings contribute to ongoing debates regarding DTC DNA ancestry testing by highlighting the need for greater support for those affected by NPE discoveries and clearer consideration of the responsibilities of testing companies.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid41536096,

title = {Harnessing civil society to promote social inclusion of people with severe mental illness},

author = {Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1002/wps.70004},

issn = {1723-8617},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-02-01},

journal = {World Psychiatry},

volume = {25},

number = {1},

pages = {83--84},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid41679225,

title = {Capturing the added value of nurse practitioners: Development of a conceptual framework to guide policy, practice, education, and research},

author = {Isabelle Savard and Rob Whitley and Kelley Kilpatrick},

doi = {10.1016/j.outlook.2026.102704},

issn = {1528-3968},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

journal = {Nurs Outlook},

volume = {74},

number = {2},

pages = {102704},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The role of nurse practitioners (NPs) is expanding globally, yet their added value remains poorly defined, limiting evidence-based implementation and sustainability.nnPURPOSE: To propose a conceptual framework of the added value of NPs.nnMETHODS: A five-step process was used: (a) initial concept analysis (n = 16 articles); (b) developing an initial framework; (c) testing the initial framework in a descriptive multiple case study, using both deductive and inductive approaches with thematic analysis; (d) concept analysis of primary health care NPs (n = 37 systematic reviews); and (e) updating and revising the framework.nnDISCUSSION: The proposed framework identifies how NP activities, professional development, and team dynamics, grounded in a holistic person-centered approach, constitute the essence of their added value. Structures and outcomes are described at different levels.nnCONCLUSION: This framework, supported by empirical evidence, offers a foundation for evaluating NP roles and guiding practice, research, policy, and education.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid41811784,

title = {'Sometimes sheep need a vet': A qualitative study of Pentecostal clergy knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours regarding mental health},

author = {Justin Muthaih and Adam Caplin and G Eric Jarvis and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0342407},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2026},

date = {2026-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {21},

number = {3},

pages = {e0342407},

abstract = {Clergy are often the first point of contact for religious Canadians when in mental distress, and clergy can impact help-seeking behaviours. As such, this study explores the mental health perspectives of clergy in a diverse and growing Christian denomination, the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC). 29 PAOC ministers with at least 2 years of experience offering pastoral care participated in semi-structured qualitative interviews, aiming to explore their mental health related beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis techniques, Results indicated that participants generally held a multifactorial understanding of mental illness, including biomedical attributions and beliefs in spiritual causes and divine healing. To address mental distress, they typically offered some level of spiritual care themselves, including recommending church-based curricula. They also often urged formal service use, making referrals to mental health professionals. Notably, the sample largely reported a lack of formal mental health training and inconsistent support from the wider church. In sum, this study suggests that PAOC ministers hold nuanced views on mental health, and that clergy may require additional training and support to help them better address mental health issues in congregants.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid39763223,

title = {A Time-Series Analysis of News Media Coverage of Suicide in Canada from 2019 to 2023: Une analyse de séries chronologiques de la couverture responsable du suicide par les médias au Canada de 2019 à 2023},

author = {Juliette Careau and Justin Bélair and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1177/07067437241309677},

issn = {1497-0015},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-02-01},

journal = {Can J Psychiatry},

volume = {70},

number = {2},

pages = {98--108},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Evidence suggests that the media can play a role in preventing suicide, as well as contributing to suicide contagion. As such, the primary objective is to assess adherence to responsible reporting of suicide recommendations in news articles about suicide over time. A secondary objective is to assess whether reporting changed significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The tertiary objective is to assess overall patterns regarding types of suicide reported.nnMETHODS: We collected news articles with the keyword "suicide" from 47 Canadian news sources between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2023. Articles were coded for adherence to key responsible reporting of suicide guidelines. Frequency counts and percentages of adherence were calculated for all key variables. Time series analyses using a Generalized Linear Autoregressive Moving Average model assessed for adherence trends over time, including measuring for any changes during the COVID-19 years.nnRESULTS: Study procedures resulted in 3,232 coded news articles. Overall, the results indicate that adherence to the guidelines has moderately improved over the course of the 4-year period. This is especially true for recommendations regarding avoiding putatively harmful content, such as detailed descriptions of the suicide method. Similar improvements were seen in adherence to guidelines related to the inclusion of putatively helpful content, with significantly more articles providing help-seeking information. However, in the final year of the study, less than a third of articles included educational content about suicide, help-seeking information, or quotes from suicide experts. Reporting of suicide during the COVID-19 period showed some positive improvements; however, these were not sustained after the pandemic ended.nnCONCLUSIONS: On the plus side, adherence to responsible suicide reporting guidelines improved over the 4-year period, especially for recommendations concerning putatively helpful content. However, there remains room for improvement regarding the inclusion of putatively protective content such as including help-seeking information, educating about suicide, and quoting experts.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid39757164,

title = {"I'm trying to figure out who the hell I am": Examining the psychosocial and mental health experience of individuals learning "Not Parent Expected" news from a direct-to-consumer DNA ancestry test},

author = {Juliette Careau and Maarten H D Larmuseau and Rebekah Drumsta and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-024-06380-0},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2025},

date = {2025-01-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {25},

number = {1},

pages = {9},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: According to recent estimates, around 30 million people have taken Direct-to-Consumer DNA ancestry tests, typically marketed as a fun, harmless and exciting process of discovery. These tests estimate a user's ethnic ancestry, also matching users with biological relations on their database. This matching can produce a surprising 'not parent expected' discovery, where a user learns that an assumed parent (typically the father) is not a biological parent. Such news may negatively affect mental health, self-identity and familial relationships, while prompting the utilization of putatively helpful resources by affected individuals. However, there is a lack of research on this topic. Thus, this study aimed to document the psychosocial experience of adults who have learnt that an assumed parent is not a biological parent via a Direct-to-Consumer DNA ancestry test. Specific objectives include investigating and understanding impact on mental health, familial relationships and subsequent resources mobilized.nnMETHODS: To meet these objectives, we conducted an inductive qualitative study, allowing for the documentation of common experiences and perspectives. This involved 52 semi-structured interviews with affected individuals, analyzed using thematic analysis.nnRESULTS: This resulted in five overlapping themes, namely (i) participants typically described their experience as an extraordinary shock that had a negative impact on their mental health, with some exceptions; (ii) the experience typically led to a severe and troubling disruption of their self-identity, with some exceptions; (iii) the news often ruptured extant familial relationships, especially with the mother, and any experiences with the new biological family were mixed; (iv) participants sought support from a variety of resources including spouses, siblings, and online peer support groups, which were generally considered helpful, with some exceptions; and (v) many participants consulted mental health professionals, who were sometimes considered supportive, but some participants noted that they were ill-equipped to help. Common across these themes were issues of grief, loss and trauma.nnCONCLUSIONS: This study reveals an expanding, vulnerable, and under-researched population facing unique stressors, that may be at high risk of developing a psychiatric disorder. There is a need for new services and supports for this population including tailored clinical interventions and specific self-care resources.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid38956511,

title = {Examining recovery and mental health service satisfaction among young immigrant Muslim women with mental distress in Quebec},

author = {Malka Reich and G Eric Jarvis and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-024-05940-8},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-07-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {24},

number = {1},

pages = {483},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The overall aim of this study was to understand the experiences and perspectives of immigrant Muslim women in Quebec living with mental illness, who have recently used formal mental health services such as an accredited therapist, psychologist, or clinician. Specific objectives included (i) eliciting and examining their self-identified barriers and facilitators to recovery; (ii) exploring links between religion and mental health; and (iii) self-reported satisfaction with mental health services received.nnMETHODS: We adopted a qualitative approach, facilitating the prioritization of participant perspectives. This involved semi-structured interviews with 20 women who (i) identified as Muslim; (ii) had used mental health services in the last three years; and (iii) were 18 + years of age. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis techniques.nnRESULTS: Three prominent themes emerged from the analysis. These themes were (i) stigma and misunderstandings in families (especially parents) and sometimes in the ethno-religious community, both acting as barriers to health service utilization and recovery; (ii) frustrating clinical experiences within formal mental health care settings, in particular a perceived lack of cultural and religious competence, which negatively affected service utilization and the development of a therapeutic alliance; and (iii) deeply-held religious beliefs, practices and trust in God imparting a rhythm, purpose and meaning, which were strong facilitators to recovery.nnCONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: These findings suggest that recovery from mental illness can be advanced by a three-pronged approach in this population. First, anti-stigma mental health literacy interventions could be held in collaboration with Muslim community groups. Second, there is a need for further religious and cultural competence interventions, resources and trainings for mental health professionals working with Muslims. Third, self-care resources should be developed that harness aspects of religious practices that can give structure, meaning, purpose and hope. All this could ultimately foster recovery in this population.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid39052410,

title = {"Sheltered and secure": Facilitators and barriers toward recovery for Haredi Jewish women with mental illness},

author = {Eliana Rohr and Lara Antebi and G Eric Jarvis and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1037/prj0000625},

issn = {1559-3126},

year  = {2024},

date = {2024-07-01},

journal = {Psychiatr Rehabil J},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The overall aim of this study was to elicit and document the recovery-related perspectives and experiences of Haredi Jews with lived experience of mental illness living in Canada. A more focused objective was to specifically explore self-identified facilitators and barriers toward recovery from mental illness in this group.nnMETHODS: We conducted a qualitative study involving semistructured interviews with 20 women who (a) identified as Haredi Jews, (b) had used mental health services in recent years, and (c) were 18+ years of age. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis techniques.nnRESULTS: Four prominent themes emerged from the analysis. The first two themes were predominantly facilitators, and the last two themes were predominantly barriers. These themes were (i) a close-knit, supportive, and lively community with considerable social capital; (ii) Judaic beliefs and practices regarding Gd, daily life, and health care giving structure, meaning, and purpose; (iii) community stigma and self-stigma, often related to marriageability of self or offspring, as well as notions of perfection; and (iv) a lack of wider mental health literacy, despite participants speaking positively about mental health services such as medication and therapy.nnCONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: This study indicates several individual-level and community-level factors that are reported to facilitate recovery in Haredi Jews. However, problems of stigma and mental health literacy remain an issue. Targeted antistigma programs, such as co-constructed contact-based educational interventions, may be helpful in contributing to a community climate that further facilitates recovery. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid37563600,

title = {Spanish media coverage of youth mental health issues during the COVID-19 pandemic},

author = {Juan Pablo Carrasco and Anne-Marie Saucier and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-023-05054-7},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-08-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {23},

number = {1},

pages = {579},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The media portrayal of mental health is relevant in shaping the population's attitudes towards mental disorders. However, there is little information about the representation of young mental health issues in the Spanish-language press, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The general objective of this study was to analyse the tone and content of Spanish newspaper articles about mental disorders in youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.nnMETHODS: We collected media articles from the 10 most read news sources over a 6 month period (January-June 2021). These articles were coded for content using a standardised codebook, followed by an inductive thematic analysis. A total of 205 news items were evaluated.nnRESULTS: Results showed that the majority of the news items had an overall positive tone (68.3%), only 5.4% were stigmatising and only 7.3% were related to violence. However, few articles offered help seeking information (6%), adolescents were rarely quoted (14%) and children were never quoted. Substantial differences are described in terms of age, gender and disorder. The thematic analysis led to three emergent themes: (i) violence and victimisation; (ii) the COVID-19 pandemic; and (iii) technology and social media.nnCONCLUSIONS: The percentage of news in the Spanish media that refer to young people's mental health in a stigmatising way or in a way associated with violence is very low. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic may have promoted more positive discussion about youth mental health. However, major challenges remain to be addressed, as patients are seldom quoted, very few articles offer help-seeking information, and a narrative of victimisation without appropriate discussion of resilience regularly occurs.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid36695916,

title = {Canadian news media coverage of suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic},

author = {Rob Whitley and Lara Antebi},

doi = {10.1007/s00127-023-02430-2},

issn = {1433-9285},

year  = {2023},

date = {2023-07-01},

journal = {Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol},

volume = {58},

number = {7},

pages = {1087--1098},

abstract = {PURPOSE: The COVID-19 pandemic led to concerns about increases in suicidal behaviour. Research indicates that certain types of media coverage of suicide may help reduce suicidality (the Papageno effect), while other types may increase suicidality (the Werther effect). This study aimed to examine the tone and content of Canadian news articles about suicide during the first year of the pandemic.nnMETHODS: Articles about suicide from Canadian news sources were collected and coded for adherence to responsible reporting of suicide guidelines. Articles which directly discussed suicidal behaviour in the COVID-19 context were identified and compared to other suicide articles in the same period. Lastly, a thematic analysis was conducted on the sub-sample of articles discussing suicide in the COVID-19 context.nnRESULTS: The sub-set of articles about suicide in the COVID-19 context (n = 103) contained significantly more putatively helpful content compared to non-COVID-19 articles (n = 457), such as including help information (56.3% Vs 23.6%), quoting an expert (68.0% Vs 16.8%) and educating about suicide (73.8% Vs 24.9%). This lower adherence among non-COVID-19 articles is concerning as they comprised over 80% of the sample. On the plus side, fewer than 10% of all articles provided monocausal, glamourized or sensational accounts of suicide. Qualitative analysis revealed the following three themes: (i) describing the epidemiology of suicidal behaviour; (ii) discussing self and communal care; and (iii) bringing attention to gaps in mental health care.nnCONCLUSION: Media articles about suicide during the first year of the pandemic showed partial adherence to responsible reporting of suicide guidelines, with room for improvement.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid34254543,

title = {Mental disorders in the media: A retrospective study of newspaper coverage in the Chilean Press},

author = {Pamela Grandón and Dany Fernández Vega and Alejandro Antonio Sánchez Oñate and Alexis Vladimir Vielma Aguilera and Loreto Villagrán Valenzuela and Daisy Vidal Gutiérrez and Carolina Inostroza Rovengno and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1177/00207640211023086},

issn = {1741-2854},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-11-01},

journal = {Int J Soc Psychiatry},

volume = {68},

number = {7},

pages = {1351--1362},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: The mass media are relevant in shaping the population's attitudes towards mental disorders. In low- and middle-income countries there is little information about the portrayal of people with mental disorders in the mass media.nnAIM: The general objective of the study was to assess the tone and content of Chilean newspaper articles about mental disorder from 2000 to 2019.nnMETHOD: The digital editions of four national circulation Chilean newspapers were intentionally selected. The search engine Google News was used to identify and retrieve the news. To evaluate the news, a standardised codebook was administered. A total of 385 news were evaluated.nnRESULTS: The results show that a large proportion of the news items has an overall positive/optimistic tone 43.5% and 57.5% does not stigmatise; however, only 18.4% emphasises recovery as part of the content. The highest percentages of news stigmatising in tone and content are observed for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Furthermore, the experts are quoted much more frequently than people diagnosed with mental disorders or their families and/or friends. When comparing by years there is a trend towards general decrease in stigmatisation, moving towards a more positive or optimistic view of mental health.nnCONCLUSIONS: In general, low stigmatisation towards mental disorders was found in the news and this was reduced steadily over time. Although there are aspects to improve in some particular areas, suggesting that manifest stigma has diminished, but more subtle forms still remain.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid36153488,

title = {Recovery Colleges Characterisation and Testing in England (RECOLLECT): rationale and protocol},

author = {Daniel Hayes and Claire Henderson and Ioannis Bakolis and Vanessa Lawrence and Rachel A Elliott and Amy Ronaldson and Gabrielle Richards and Julie Repper and Peter Bates and John Brewin and Sara Meddings and Gary Winship and Simon Bishop and Richard Emsley and Daniel Elton and Rebecca McNaughton and Rob Whitley and David Smelson and Katy Stepanian and Merly McPhilbin and Danielle Dunnett and Holly Hunter-Brown and Caroline Yeo and Tesnime Jebara and Mike Slade},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-022-04253-y},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-09-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {22},

number = {1},

pages = {627},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recovery Colleges are a relatively recent initiative within mental health services. The first opened in 2009 in London and since then numbers have grown. They are based on principles of personal recovery in mental health, co-production between people with lived experience of mental health problems and professionals, and adult learning. Student eligibility criteria vary, but all serve people who use mental health services, with empirical evidence of benefit. Previously we developed a Recovery College fidelity measure and a preliminary change model identifying the mechanisms of action and outcomes for this group, which we refer to as service user students. The Recovery Colleges Characterisation and Testing (RECOLLECT) study is a five-year (2020-2025) programme of research in England. The aim of RECOLLECT is to determine Recovery Colleges' effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, and identify organisational influences on fidelity and improvements in mental health outcomes.  METHODS: RECOLLECT comprises i) a national survey of Recovery Colleges, ii) a prospective cohort study to establish the relationship between fidelity, mechanisms of action and psychosocial outcomes, iii) a prospective cohort study to investigate effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, iv) a retrospective cohort study to determine the relationship between Recovery College use and outcomes and mental health service use, and v) organisational case studies to establish the contextual and organisational factors influencing fidelity and outcomes. The programme has been developed with input from individuals who have lived experience of mental health problems. A Lived Experience Advisory Panel will provide input into all stages of the research.nnDISCUSSION: RECOLLECT will provide the first rigorous evidence on the effectiveness and cost effectiveness of Recovery Colleges in England, to inform their prioritising, commissioning, and running. The validated RECOLLECT multilevel change model will confirm the active components of Recovery Colleges. The fidelity measure and evidence about the fidelity-outcome relationship will provide an empirically-based approach to develop Recovery Colleges, to maximise benefits for students. Findings will be disseminated through the study website (researchintorecovery.com/recollect) and via national and international Recovery College networks to maximise impact, and will shape policy on how Recovery Colleges can help those with mental health problems lead empowered, meaningful and fulfilling lives.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid35578212,

title = {Media coverage of Canadian Veterans, with a focus on post traumatic stress disorder and suicide},

author = {Rob Whitley and Anne-Marie Saucier},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-022-03954-8},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2022},

date = {2022-05-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {22},

number = {1},

pages = {339},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: A large corpus of research indicates that the media plays a key role in shaping public beliefs, opinions and attitudes towards social groups. Some research from the United States indicates that military Veterans are sometimes framed in a stereotypical and stigmatizing manner, however there is a lack of research on Canadian media coverage of Veterans. As such, the overarching aim of this study is to assess the tone and content of Canadian media coverage of military Veterans, with a focus on PTSD and suicide. The first objective is to document and analyze common themes, content and temporal patterns in Canadian media coverage of Veterans per se. The second objective is to examine common themes and content in the sub-set of articles having PTSD as a theme. The third objective is to assess adherence to responsible reporting of suicide guidelines in the sub-set of articles having suicide as a theme.nnMETHODS: We used validated and systematic methods including use of key words, retrieval software and inter-rater reliability tests to collect and code news articles (N = 915) about Veterans from over 50 media sources during a 12-month period, with specific coding of articles about PTSD (N = 93) and suicide (N = 61).nnRESULTS: Analysis revealed that the most common theme is 'honour or commemoration of Veterans' which occurred in over half of the articles. In contrast 14% of articles focused on danger, violence or criminality. In the sub-set of articles with PTSD as a theme, over 60% focused on danger, violence or criminality, while only around 1 in 3 focused on recovery, rehabilitation, or health/social service intervention. In the sub-set of articles about suicide, there was generally strong adherence to responsible reporting guidelines, though less than 5% gave help-seeking information. Moreover, most reporting on PTSD and suicide focused on a single anomalous murder-suicide incident, with few articles about suicide prevention, helpful resources and modifiable risk factors.nnCONCLUSIONS: The results reveal some encouraging findings as well as a need to diversify media coverage of Canadian Veterans. This could be achieved through targeted educational outreach to help Canadian journalists responsibly report on Veterans and their mental health issues.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid33743027,

title = {Patterns of suicide mortality in England and Wales before and after the suicide of the actor Robin Williams},

author = {Alexandra Pitman and David S Fink and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1007/s00127-021-02059-z},

issn = {1433-9285},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-10-01},

journal = {Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol},

volume = {56},

number = {10},

pages = {1801--1808},

abstract = {PURPOSE: There is international evidence supporting an association between sensational reporting of suicide and a subsequent increase in local suicide rates, particularly where reporting the death of a celebrity. We aimed to explore whether the observed increase in suicides in the United States, Canada and Australia in the 5 months following the 2014 suicide of the popular actor Robin Williams was also observed in England and Wales.nnMETHOD: We used interrupted time-series analysis and a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving averages (SARIMA) model to estimate the expected number of suicides during the 5 months following Williams' death using monthly suicide count data for England and Wales from the UK Office for National Statistics (ONS) 2013-2014.nnRESULTS: Compared with the observed 2051 suicide deaths in all age groups from August to December 2014, we estimated that we would have expected 1949 suicides over the same period, representing no statistically significant excess.nnCONCLUSIONS: This finding is an outlier among previous studies and contrasts with the approximately 10% increase in suicides found in similar analyses conducted in other high-income English-speaking countries with established media reporting guidelines.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid33886653,

title = {Insights from homeless men about PRISM, an innovative shelter-based mental health service},

author = {Brigitte Voisard and Rob Whitley and Eric Latimer and Karl Looper and Vincent Laliberté},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0250341},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2021},

date = {2021-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {16},

number = {4},

pages = {e0250341},

abstract = {PRISM (Projet Réaffiliation Itinérance Santé Mentale-mental health and homelessness reaffiliation project), is a new shelter-based mental health service in Montreal, Canada. It offers short-term residential services in a shelter with the aim of housing and connecting the person to the appropriate services in the community. This qualitative research project was designed to gain a rich understanding of service-user experience within this program, and to apply these impressions to a broader reflection concerning how to best serve the needs of homeless people living with severe mental illness. We conducted in-depth interviews with 20 clients from the all-male PRISM-Welcome Hall Mission at program intake and departure between May 2018 and March 2019. We used methods stemming from grounded theory to analyze themes emerging from the interviews. Analysis revealed three core aspects endorsed by PRISM clients as helpful to their recovery: first, the community-based and flexible PRISM structure allows for continuity in daily routine through the preservation and expansion of the client's existing informal resource network; second, the secure environment is conducive to improving one's physical and mental health; and third, the multimodal mental health and social service approach used at PRISM is appreciated and stands in contrast to what most have experienced during other inpatient experiences. This led us to reflect more broadly on the benefits of a shelter-based intervention, as a catalyst to the achievement of longer-term goals such as housing, as well as flexible care adapted to the specific needs of these individuals. Even though this study took place in a specific program in Quebec, it sheds light more broadly on how to best meet the needs of individuals with mental illness living in homeless situations and contributes to the growing literature on men's mental health.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid32588647,

title = {Assessing Adherence to Responsible Reporting of Suicide Guidelines in the Canadian News Media: A 1-year Examination of Day-to-day Suicide Coverage: Évaluer la conformité au journalisme responsable en matière de directives sur le suicide dans les médias canadiens d'information: Un examen d'une année de la couverture quotidienne du suicide},

author = {Lara Antebi and Victoria Carmichael and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1177/0706743720936462},

issn = {1497-0015},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-09-01},

journal = {Can J Psychiatry},

volume = {65},

number = {9},

pages = {621--629},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aims to examine routine day-to-day suicide reporting in the Canadian media, giving a descriptive overview of the tone and content of news articles. The primary objective is to assess adherence to responsible reporting of suicide recommendations in news articles about suicide. A secondary objective is to categorize these articles according to their focus. A tertiary objective is to compare guideline adherence across the different categories of articles.nnMETHODS: We collected news articles containing the keyword "suicide" from 47 Canadian news sources between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2020. Articles were read and coded for their adherence to responsible reporting of suicide recommendations. Articles were also allotted into categories according to their focus and primary suicide discussed. Frequency counts and percentages of adherence were calculated for all key variables-both overall and by category of article. Chi-square tests were also conducted to assess for variations in adherence by category of article.nnRESULTS: The procedures resulted in 1,330 coded articles. On the one hand, there was high overall adherence to several recommendations. For example, over 80% of articles did not give a monocausal explanation, glamourize the death, appear on the front page, include sensational language, or use discouraged words. On the other hand, there was low adherence to other recommendations, especially those related to putatively protective content. For example, less than 25% included help-seeking information, quoted an expert, or included educational content. Cross-category analysis indicated that articles about events/policies/research and Indigenous people had the highest proportions of adherence, while articles about murder-suicide and high-profile suicides had the lowest adherence.nnCONCLUSIONS: While a substantial proportion of articles generally adhere to suicide reporting recommendations, several guidelines are frequently underapplied, especially those concerning putatively helpful content. This indicates room for improvement in the responsible reporting of suicide.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid30945915,

title = {Implementation of supported employment in the context of a national Canadian program: Facilitators, barriers and strategies},

author = {Eric Latimer and François Bordeleau and Christian Méthot and Tania Barrie and Andrea Ferkranus and Steve Lurie and Rob Whitley},

doi = {10.1037/prj0000355},

issn = {1559-3126},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-03-01},

journal = {Psychiatr Rehabil J},

volume = {43},

number = {1},

pages = {2--8},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To describe facilitators, barriers, and strategies to implementation of the Canadian national At Work/Au travail program. This program funded supported employment services, following some of the principles of the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, in 12 sites across Canada.nnMETHOD: We conducted on-site individual interviews (12) and focus groups (15) with 35 employment support workers, 12 team supervisors or managers, and 10 directors or CEOs. Interview summaries were created and coded using thematic analysis techniques. Codes were then distilled into themes grouping prominent barriers and facilitators to implementation.nnRESULTS: Four themes emerged: (i) national program structure: Flexible eligibility criteria and flexibility in use of subsidy funds were perceived as generally helpful, although there were difficulties associated with communication around noneligibility decisions and outcome targets; (ii) training and reinforcement: The support provided to sites was generally thought to be an important facilitator, especially when more intensive. Several participants viewed the online IPS training as a facilitator; (iii) external factors: Rules concerning impacts of employment earnings on benefits could be viewed as a barrier; and (iv) internal factors: Facilitators included strong leadership, positive staff attitudes, and larger program size. Several participants reported staff resistance as a barrier.nnCONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Several features of the national program structure and leadership emerged that could be maintained if the program were extended elsewhere. The flexibility allowed for spending of wage subsidy funds, as well as the provision of more intensive training, were both perceived as potential enhancements to an eventual expansion of the program. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid31918689,

title = {Can participatory video reduce mental illness stigma? Results from a Canadian action-research study of feasibility and impact},

author = {Rob Whitley and Kathleen C Sitter and Gavin Adamson and Victoria Carmichael},

doi = {10.1186/s12888-020-2429-4},

issn = {1471-244X},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {BMC Psychiatry},

volume = {20},

number = {1},

pages = {16},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that stigma against people with mental illness remains high. This demands innovative approaches to reduce stigma. One innovative stigma reduction method is participatory video (PV), whereby marginalized people come together to script, film and produce bottom-up educational videos about shared issues. These videos are then shown to target groups. This paper has two objectives (i) to examine the feasibility of using participatory video with people with severe mental illness (SMI); and (ii) to assess viewer impressions of the resultant videos and subsequent subjective impact.nnMETHODS: We conducted a participatory action research study with three workgroups of people with severe mental illness situated in different Canadian cities, who set out to create and disseminate locally-grounded mental-health themed videos. This involved process and outcome evaluation to assess feasibility and impact. Specifically, we (i) observed fidelity to a co-designed action-plan in all three workgroups; (ii) distributed brief purpose-built questionnaires to viewers at organized screenings to assess preliminary impact; and (iii) conducted focus groups with viewers to elicit further impressions of the videos and subsequent subjective impact.nnRESULTS: The three workgroups achieved high-fidelity to the action-plan. They successfully produced a total of 26 videos, over double the targeted number, during an 18-month period. Likewise, the workgroups organized 49 screenings at a range of venues attended by 1542 people, again exceeding the action-plan targets. Results from the viewer questionnaires (N = 1104, response rate 72%) indicated that viewers reported that their understandings had improved after watching the videos. Four themes emerged from six viewer focus groups (N = 30), with participants frequently noting that videos were (i) educational and informative; (ii) real and relatable; (iii) attention-grabbing; and (iv) change-inducing.nnCONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this study is the first large-scale multi-site project examining the feasibility and impact of a participatory video program for people with severe mental illness. The results indicate that participatory video is a feasible method in this population and gives preliminary evidence that resultant videos can reduce viewer stigma. Thus, participatory video should be considered a promising practice in the ongoing effort to reduce mental illness stigma.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{pmid32101571,

title = {Clueless: An ethnographic study of young men who participate in the seduction community with a focus on their psychosocial well-being and mental health},

author = {Rob Whitley and JunWei Zhou},

doi = {10.1371/journal.pone.0229719},

issn = {1932-6203},

year  = {2020},

date = {2020-01-01},

journal = {PLoS One},

volume = {15},

number = {2},

pages = {e0229719},

abstract = {In the last decade, a cross-national community of like-minded young men has emerged, commonly known as 'the seduction community'. This community is led by professional 'pick-up artists' who teach these young men a variety of techniques and mindsets with the stated aim of improving their success with women, or 'game'. There has been little research on the men who participate in this community, and none from a mental health angle. As such, this study is propelled by two specific objectives, namely documenting and understanding (i) the reasons why young men join the seduction community; and (ii) the impacts of community involvement on participants' lives. To meet these aims, we used an inductive qualitative methodology giving ample scope for bottom-up understandings to emerge. Specifically, we recruited young men participating in the seduction community for an in-depth qualitative interview (N = 34) to explore self-reported motives and impacts. Interviews were augmented by lengthy participant observation, and data was analyzed by content analysis techniques. The results reveal that men often join the community to address a range of psychosocial deficits, and that community involvement successfully equips participants with numerous valued social and communication skills. The community appears to fill a void in providing a place of hope, fellowship and learning for young (often immigrant) men. The findings are summarized in five themes (i) loneliness and social inclusion; (ii) lack of male role models and need for guidance; (iii) mental health and well-being issues; (iv) skill acquisition and personal development; and (v) the dark side of pick-up. Interestingly, some of the practices commonly taught and utilized within the community resemble aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mental health peer support. This may explain its evident appeal. We conclude by reflecting on the implications of the findings for official mental health service provision for young men.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}