Long-term evaluation of anterior thalamic deep brain stimulation for epilepsy in the European MORE registry.

OBJECTIVE: Short-term outcomes of deep brain stimulation of the anterior nucleus of the thalamus (ANT-DBS) were reported for people with drug-resistant focal epilepsy (PwE). Because long-term data are still scarce, the Medtronic Registry for Epilepsy (MORE) evaluated clinical routine application of ANT-DBS. METHODS: In this multicenter registry, PwE with ANT-DBS were followed up for safety, efficacy, and battery longevity. Follow-up ended after 5 years or upon study closure. Clinical characteristics and stimulation settings were compared between PwE with no benefit, improvers, and responders, that is, PwE with average monthly seizure frequency reduction rates of ≥50%. RESULTS: Of 170 eligible PwE, 104, 62, and 49 completed the 3-, 4-, and 5-year follow-up, respectively. Most discontinuations (68%) were due to planned study closure as follow-up beyond 2 years was optional. The 5-year follow-up cohort had a median seizure frequency reduction from 16 per month at baseline to 7.9 per month at 5-year follow-up (p < .001), with most-pronounced effects on focal-to-bilateral tonic-clonic seizures (n = 15, 77% reduction, p = .008). At last follow-up (median 3.5 years), 41% (69/170) of PwE were responders. Unifocal epilepsy (p = .035) and a negative history of epilepsy surgery (p = .002) were associated with larger average monthly seizure frequency reductions. Stimulation settings did not differ between response groups. In 179 implanted PwE, DBS-related adverse events (AEs, n = 225) and serious AEs (n = 75) included deterioration in epilepsy or seizure frequency/severity/type (33; 14 serious), memory/cognitive impairment (29; 3 serious), and depression (13; 4 serious). Five deaths occurred (none were ANT-DBS related). Most AEs (76.3%) manifested within the first 2 years after implantation. Activa PC depletion (n = 37) occurred on average after 45 months. SIGNIFICANCE: MORE provides further evidence for the long-term application of ANT-DBS in clinical routine practice. Although clinical benefits increased over time, side effects occurred mainly during the first 2 years. Identified outcome modifiers can help inform PwE selection and management.

A Retrospective Cohort Analysis of Mental Health-Related Emergency Department Visits Among Veterans and Non-Veterans Residing in Ontario, Canada: Une analyse de cohorte rétrospective des visites au service d'urgence liées à la santé mentale parmi les vétérans et non-vétérans résidant en Ontario, Canada.

OBJECTIVES: Emergency departments (EDs) are a vital part of healthcare systems, at times acting as a gateway to community-based mental health (MH) services. This may be particularly true for veterans of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police who were released prior to 2013 and the Canadian Armed Forces, as these individuals transition from federal to provincial healthcare coverage on release and may use EDs because of delays in obtaining a primary care provider. We aimed to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) of MH-related ED visits between veterans and non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada: (1) overall; and by (2) sex; and (3) length of service. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study used administrative healthcare data from 18,837 veterans and 75,348 age-, sex-, geography-, and income-matched non-veterans residing in Ontario, Canada between April 1, 2002, and March 31, 2020. Anderson-Gill regression models were used to estimate the HR of recurrent MH-related ED visits during the period of follow-up. Sex and length of service were used as stratification variables in the models. RESULTS: Veterans had a higher adjusted HR (aHR) of MH-related ED visits than non-veterans (aHR, 1.97, 95% CI, 1.70 to 2.29). A stronger effect was observed among females (aHR, 3.29; 95% CI, 1.96 to 5.53) than males (aHR, 1.78; 95% CI, 1.57 to 2.01). Veterans who served for 5-9 years had a higher rate of use than non-veterans (aHR, 3.76; 95% CI, 2.34 to 6.02) while veterans who served for 30+ years had a lower rate compared to non-veterans (aHR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.42 à 0.84). CONCLUSIONS: Rates of MH-related ED visits are higher among veterans overall compared to members of the Ontario general population, but usage is influenced by sex and length of service. These findings indicate that certain subpopulations of veterans, including females and those with fewer years of service, may have greater acute mental healthcare needs and/or reduced access to primary mental healthcare.

Mental Illness in the 2 Years Prior to Pregnancy in a Population With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Cross-Sectional Study: La maladie mentale dans les deux ans précédant une grossesse dans une population souffrant de lésion cérébrale traumatique : une étude transversale.

OBJECTIVE: Existing studies, in mostly male samples such as veterans and athletes, show a strong association between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and mental illness. Yet, while an understanding of mental health before pregnancy is critical for informing preconception and perinatal supports, there are no data on the prevalence of active mental illness before pregnancy in females with TBI. We examined the prevalence of active mental illness ≤2 years before pregnancy (1) in a population with TBI, and (2) in subgroups defined by sociodemographic, health, and injury-related characteristics, all compared to those without TBI. METHOD: This population-based cross-sectional study was completed in Ontario, Canada, from 2012 to 2020. Modified Poisson regression generated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) of active mental illness ≤2 years before pregnancy in 15,585 females with TBI versus 846,686 without TBI. We then used latent class analysis to identify subgroups with TBI according to sociodemographic, health, and injury-related characteristics and subsequently compared them to females without TBI on their outcome prevalence. RESULTS: Females with TBI had a higher prevalence of active mental illness ≤2 years before pregnancy than those without TBI (44.1% vs. 25.9%; aPR 1.46, 95% confidence interval, 1.43 to 1.49). There were 3 TBI subgroups, with Class 1 (low-income, past assault, recent TBI described as intentional and due to being struck by/against) having the highest outcome prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: Females with TBI, and especially those with a recent intentional TBI, have a high prevalence of mental illness before pregnancy. They may benefit from mental health screening and support in the post-injury, preconception, and perinatal periods. PLAIN LANGUAGE TITLE: Mental illness in the 2 years before pregnancy in a population with traumatic brain injury.

Research has shown a strong association between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and mental illness. Most previous studies have been conducted in primarily male samples, like veterans and professional athletes. Understanding mental health before pregnancy is important for deciding what supports people need before and during pregnancy. However, there are no studies on the frequency of mental illness in females with TBI before a pregnancy. We examined the frequency of mental illness 2 years before pregnancy in a population with TBI, and in subgroups defined by different social, health, and injury-related characteristics, compared to those without TBI. We undertook a population-wide study of all females with and without TBI in Ontario, Canada, with a birth in 2012­2020. We used statistical models to compare these groups on the presence of mental illness in the 2 years before pregnancy, before and after accounting for social and health characteristics. We also identified subgroups with TBI according to their social (e.g., poverty), health (e.g., chronic conditions), and injury-related characteristics (e.g., cause of injury) and subsequently compared them to females without TBI on their frequency of mental illness in the 2 years before pregnancy. Forty-four percent of females with TBI had mental illness in the 2 years before pregnancy compared to 25% of those without TBI. There were 3 TBI subgroups. Females with low-income, past assault, and injuries that were described as being intentional had the highest frequency of mental illness in the 2 years before pregnancy. Females with TBI may benefit from mental health screening and support post-injury and around the time of pregnancy.

A Randomized Evaluation of MoodFX, a Patient-Centred e-Health Tool to Support Outcome Measurement for Depression: Une évaluation randomisée de MoodFX, un outil de santé en ligne centré sur le patient pour soutenir la mesure du résultat dans la dépression.

BACKGROUND: e-Health tools using validated questionnaires to assess outcomes may facilitate measurement-based care for psychiatric disorders. MoodFX was created as a free online symptom tracker to support patients for outcome measurement in their depression treatment. We conducted a pilot randomized evaluation to examine its usability, and clinical utility. METHODS: Patients presenting with a major depressive episode (within a major depressive or bipolar disorder) were randomly assigned to receive either MoodFX or a health information website as the intervention and control condition, respectively, with follow-up assessment surveys conducted online at baseline, 8 weeks and 6 months. The primary usability outcomes included the percentage of patients with self-reported use of MoodFX 3 or more times during follow up (indicating minimally adequate usage) and usability measures based on the System Usability Scale (SUS). Secondary clinical outcomes included the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, Self-Rated (QIDS-SR) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). RESULTS: Forty-nine participants were randomized (24 to MoodFX and 25 to the control condition). Of the 23 participants randomized to MoodFX who completed the user survey, 18 (78%) used MoodFX 3 or more times over the 6 months of the study. The mean SUS score of 72.7 (65th-69th percentile) represents good usability. Compared to the control group, the MoodFX group had significantly better improvement on QIDS-SR and PHQ-9 scores, with large effect sizes and higher response rates at 6 months. There were no differences between conditions on other secondary outcomes such as functioning and quality of life. CONCLUSION: MoodFX demonstrated good usability and was associated with reduction in depressive symptoms. This pilot study supports the use of digital tools in depression treatment.

E-health tools may be useful for measuring and tracking symptoms and other outcomes during treatment for depression. This study is a randomized evaluation of MoodFX, a free web-based app that helps patients track their symptoms using validated questionnaires, and also offers depression information and self-management tips. A total of 49 participants with clinical depression were randomized to using MoodFX or a health information website, for 6 months. In a survey, the participants that used MoodFX found it easy and useful to use. In addition, the participants that used MoodFX had greater improvement in depressive symptoms after 6 months, compared to those who used the health information website. These results suggest that MoodFX may be a useful tool to monitor outcomes and support depression treatment.

Comparing the Efficacy of Electronically Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (e-CBT) to Weekly Online Mental Health Check-Ins for Generalized Anxiety Disorder-A Randomized Controlled Trial: Comparaison de l'efficacité de la thérapie cognitivo-comportementale délivrée par voie électronique (e-TCC) aux contrôles hebdomadaires en ligne de santé mentale pour le trouble d'anxiété généralisée - un essai randomisé contrôlé.

BACKGROUND: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a prevalent anxiety disorder characterized by uncontrollable worry, trouble sleeping, muscle tension, and irritability. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the first-line treatments that has demonstrated high efficacy in reducing symptoms of anxiety. Electronically delivered CBT (e-CBT) has been a promising adaptation of in-person treatment, showing comparable efficacy with increased accessibility and scalability. Finding further scalable interventions that can offer benefits to patients requiring less intensive interventions can allow for better resource allocation. Some studies have indicated that weekly check-ins can also lead to improvements in GAD symptoms. However, there is a lack of research exploring the potential benefits of online check-ins for patients with GAD. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the effects of weekly online asynchronous check-ins on patients diagnosed with GAD and compare it with a group receiving e-CBT. METHODS: Participants (n e-CBT = 45; n check-in = 51) with GAD were randomized into either an e-CBT or a mental health check-in program for 12 weeks. Participants in the e-CBT program completed pre-designed modules and homework assignments through a secure online delivery platform where they received personalized feedback from a trained care provider. Participants in the mental health check-in condition had weekly asynchronous messaging communication with a care provider where they were asked structured questions with a different weekly theme to encourage conversation. RESULTS: Both treatments demonstrated statistically significant reductions in GAD-7-item questionnaire (GAD-7) scores over time, but when comparing the groups there was no significant difference between the treatments. The number of participants who dropped out and baseline scores on all questionnaires were comparable for both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings support the effectiveness of e-CBT and mental health check-ins for the treatment of GAD. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY TITLE: Comparing the Effectiveness of Electronically Delivered Therapy (e-CBT) to Weekly Online Mental Health Check-ins for Generalized Anxiety Disorder-A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a prevalent psychiatric condition that leads to symptoms like uncontrollable worry, trouble sleeping, muscle tension, and irritability. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common psychotherapy used for GAD since it has been shown to reduce symptoms. However, traditional CBT that is in person can have barriers such as being inaccessible and costly, and therefore electronically delivered CBT (e-CBT) is a viable alternative since previous studies have shown its efficacy in reducing symptoms and being similar compared to face-to-face CBT. Previous studies have also shown reductions in GAD symptomology through the use of checking in on people and their mental health. Therefore, this study aimed to compare e-CBT to a check-in condition and had a total of 45 individuals in e-CBT and 51 participants in the check-in condition. Participants in the e-CBT condition completed 12 weeks of predesigned e-CBT modules, homework and received personalized feedback from a care provider. In contrast, individuals in the check-in condition completed 12 weeks of unstructured asynchronous messaging with a care provider. Results from the study showed that both the e-CBT and check-in condition demonstrated statistically significant improvements in GAD-7 across time, but when comparing the groups there was no significant difference. The results show the efficacy of e-CBT and checking in on people's mental health to reduce GAD and future research should examine the 2 conditions combined.

Prevalence and Incidence Trends of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Youth Aged 1-24 Years in Ontario, Canada: A Validation Study of Health Administrative Data Algorithms: Tendances de la prévalence et de l'incidence du trouble de déficit de l'attention/hyperactivité chez les enfants et les jeunes âgés de 1 à 24 ans, en Ontario, Canada: une étude de validation des algorithmes de données administratives de santé.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate prevalence and incidence rates over time in children and youth with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder from the validation of population-based administrative data algorithms using family physicians' electronic medical records as a reference standard. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in Ontario, Canada to identify attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children and youth aged 1-24 years in health administrative data derived from case-finding algorithms using family physicians' electronic medical records. Multiple administrative data algorithms identifying attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder cases were developed and tested from physician-diagnosis of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in the electronic medical record to determine their diagnostic accuracy. We calculated algorithm performance using sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. The most optimal algorithm was used to estimate prevalence and incidence rates of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder from 2014 to 2021 in Ontario. RESULTS: The optimal performing algorithm was "2 physician visits for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in 1 year or 1 attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder-specific prescription" with sensitivity: 83.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 81.8% to 84.5%), specificity: 98.6% (95% CI, 98.5% to 98.7%), positive predictive value: 78.6% (95% CI, 77.1% to 80.0%) and negative predictive value: 98.9% (95% CI, 98.8% to 99.0%). From 2014, prevalence rates for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder increased from 5.29 to 7.48 per 100 population in 2021 (N = 281,785). Males had higher prevalence rates (7.49 to 9.59 per 100 population, 1.3-fold increase) than females (2.96-5.26 per 100 population, 1.8-fold increase) from 2014 to 2021. Incidence rates increased from 2014 (0.53 per 100 population) until 2018, decreased in 2020 then rose steeply in 2021 (0.89 per 100 population, N = 34,013). Males also had higher incidence rates than females from 2014 to 2020 with females surpassing males in 2021 (0.70-0.81 per 100 male population,1.2-fold increase versus 0.36-0.97 per 100 female population, 2.7-fold increase). CONCLUSIONS: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is increasing in prevalence. We developed an administrative data algorithm that can reliably identify children and youth with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder with good diagnostic accuracy.

Computer-Based Training for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Substance Use Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial Including Quantitative and Qualitative Health and Economic Outcomes: Formation informatisée pour la thérapie cognitivo-comportementale pour les troubles liés à l'usage de substances : un essai randomisé contrôlé y compris les résultats quantitatifs et qualitatifs en matière de santé et d'économie.

OBJECTIVES: Heavy alcohol and drug use is reported by a substantial number of Canadians; yet, only a minority of those experiencing substance use difficulties access specialized services. Computer-Based Training for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT4CBT) offers a low-cost method to deliver accessible and high-quality CBT for substance use difficulties. To date, CBT4CBT has primarily been evaluated in terms of quantitative outcomes within substance use disorder (SUD) samples in the United States. A comparison between CBT4CBT versus standard care for SUDs in a Canadian sample is critical to evaluate its potential for health services in Canada. We conducted a randomized controlled trial of CBT4CBT versus standard care for SUD. METHODS: Adults seeking outpatient treatment for SUD (N = 50) were randomly assigned to receive either CBT4CBT or treatment-as-usual (TAU) for 8 weeks. Measures of substance use and associated harms and quality of life were completed before and after treatment and at 6-month follow-up. Qualitative interviews were administered after treatment and at follow-up, and healthcare utilization and costs were extracted for the entire study period. RESULTS: Participants exhibited improvements on the primary outcome as well as several secondary outcomes; however, there were no differences between groups. A cost-effectiveness analysis found lower healthcare costs in CBT4CBT versus TAU in a subsample analysis, but more days of substance use in CBT4CBT. Qualitative analyses highlighted the benefits and challenges of CBT4CBT. DISCUSSION: Findings supported an overall improvement in clinical outcomes. Further investigation is warranted to identify opportunities for implementation of CBT4CBT in tertiary care settings.Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03767907.

Evaluating a digital intervention targeting substance use difficultiesPlain Language SummaryWhy was the study done?Heavy alcohol and drug use is frequent in the Canadian population, although very few people have access to treatment. The digital intervention, Computer-Based Training for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT4CBT), may provide a low-cost, high-quality, and easily accessible method of treatment for substance use difficulties. Limited research on this digital intervention has been conducted in Canadian populations, and few studies thus far have evaluated participants' subjective experience using the intervention, along with the cost on the Canadian healthcare system.What did the researchers do?The research team recruited participants and provided access to either CBT4CBT or to standard care at a mental health hospital for 8 weeks. Participants were asked questions about their substance use and related consequences, quality of life, and thoughts on the treatment they received. Information regarding healthcare use and the cost to the healthcare system was also gathered.What did the researchers find?Participants in both groups improved with regards to their substance use, some related consequences, and psychological quality of life. Participants provided insight on the benefits and challenges of both types of treatment. It was also found that the CBT4CBT intervention was less costly.What do these findings mean?These findings support that adults receiving CBT4CBT and standard care both improved to a similar degree in this sample. Participant feedback may inform future studies of how best to implement this intervention in clinical studies. Future studies with larger samples are needed to further examine whether CBT4CBT can increase access to supports and be beneficial in the Canadian healthcare system.

Indigenous Identity and Household Food Insecurity are Associated with Poor Health Outcomes in Canada.

Purpose: To examine whether Indigenous identity and food insecurity combined were associated with self-reported poor health.Methods: Data from the 2015-2016 Canadian Community Health Survey and multiple logistic regression were employed to evaluate the association between Indigenous identity, household food insecurity, and health outcomes, adjusted for individual and household covariates. The Alexander Research Committee in Alexander First Nation (Treaty 6) reviewed the manuscript and commented on the interpretation of study findings.Results: Data were from 59082 adults (3756 Indigenous). The prevalence of household food insecurity was 26.3% for Indigenous adults and 9.8% for non-Indigenous adults (weighted to the Canadian population). Food-secure Indigenous adults, food-insecure non-Indigenous adults, and food-insecure Indigenous adults had significantly (p < 0.001) greater odds of poor health outcomes than food-secure non-Indigenous adults (referent group). Food-insecure Indigenous adults had 1.96 [95% CI:1.53,2.52], 3.73 [95% CI: 2.95,4.72], 3.00 [95% CI:2.37,3.79], and 3.94 [95% CI:3.02,5.14] greater odds of a chronic health condition, a chronic mental health disorder, poor general health, and poor mental health, respectively, compared to food-secure non-Indigenous adults.Conclusions: Health policy decisions and programs should focus on food security initiatives for all Canadians, including addressing the unique challenges of Indigenous communities, irrespective of their food security status.

Changing Roles and Responsibilities of Dietitians from Diverse Settings During the First Three Waves of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Nova Scotia.

Purpose: To explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Nova Scotian dietitian's roles, responsibilities, and professional development needs.Methods: We conducted a province-wide, online, exploratory survey with registered dietitians during the initial waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. Differences were explored with descriptive statistics by work sector (hospital/acute care; primary health/community or public health (PH); long-term care [LTC]; other [e.g., private practice, retail]).Results: Dietitians (n = 122) reported being most frequently challenged by stress and anxiety, changing work expectations, and rapidly evolving safety protocols during the pandemic. Those working in PH, primary health, and LTC reported experiencing more work responsibilities, more change, and perceived less employer support than dietitians in other sectors. Despite the identified challenges, most participants (70.7%) felt their education and training were sufficient to take on these new work roles. Primary and PH dietitians, however, more frequently perceived their skill sets to be under-utilized than other sectors. Key learnings from practice identified as being important for dietetic education included qualities such as resilience, problem-solving, flexibility, and self-care.Conclusion: These findings will be of interest to health administrators, professional bodies, and academic institutions to inform strategies for strengthening dietetic practice, building resilience, and preparing for future emergencies.

Exploring Food Security and Mental Health Among Street-Involved Canadian 2S/LGBTQI+ Youth: A Review of the Literature.

The purpose of this literature review is to evaluate the extant research addressing food insecurity and mental health among street-involved 2S/LGBTQI+ youth in Canada. Searches were undertaken in academic databases, Google, and Google Scholar for relevant research articles, reports, and grey literature. Our team found nil research specifically addressing food insecurity and the mental health of street-involved 2S/LGBTQI+ youth in Canada. Given that, contextual and contributory factors affecting the mental health and food security of this population are discussed. The available research demonstrates a significant misalignment between the existing support mechanisms and the requirements of this specific population. This underscores the urgent necessity for the establishment of structurally competent, safe, and easily accessible resources. Moreover, there is a clear imperative for additional research endeavors aimed at addressing knowledge deficiencies. These efforts are crucial in empowering dietitians to facilitate enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, thereby fostering the creation of sustainable, accessible, and appropriate food systems tailored to the needs of this vulnerable demographic.

Evaluation of the Olo Prenatal Nutrition Follow-up Care for Vulnerable Pregnant Women.

Olo nutritional follow-up care offers vulnerable pregnant women food vouchers, multivitamin supplements, tools, and nutritional counselling to support healthy pregnancy outcomes.Purpose: To evaluate the contribution of Olo follow-up care to nutritional intakes and eating practices, as well as to assess the programme-related experience of participants.Methods: Participants (n = 30) responded to questionnaires and web-based 24-hour dietary recalls and participated in a semi-structured interview (n = 10).Results: Olo follow-up care reduced the proportion of participants below the recommended intake for groups for many micronutrients, with the greatest reduction for folate (by 96.7%), vitamin D (by 93.3%), iron (by 70.0%), calcium (by 50.0%), and zinc (by 30.0%), mainly due to the prenatal multivitamin supplements. Most participants (96.7%) did not follow Olo's typical recommendations but, if they had, hypothetically they would have consumed an average of 746 additional calories per day and be above the recommendations for excessive intakes of folic acid and iron (100% and 33.3%, respectively). More than half of the participants were moderately to severely food insecure. Olo contributed to reducing the impact of isolation and increased food accessibility and budget flexibility among participants.Conclusion: Olo follow-up care helped reduce the proportion of women below the recommended intake for micronutrients, but revising the food offered and strategies to address food insecurity may be necessary.

Evaluating Patient Experience with Food in a Hospital-Wide Survey.

Purpose: Patient dissatisfaction with hospital food is an important driver of poor food intake in hospitals. The objective of this study was to examine patient satisfaction with current menu offerings and explore patient preferences and values, in order to inform a patient-centred menu redesign.Methods: Between July and September 2021, a cross-sectional survey was distributed to inpatients receiving a lunch tray at Vancouver General Hospital, a large tertiary care centre in Vancouver, Canada. The survey was based on the Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire, with additional questions on food experience, factors impacting preferences for hospital meals, interest in plant-rich diets, and demographics.Results: The response rate was 5.5%, with 271 patients completing at least part of the survey. On a 5-point Likert scale, (5 - highest score; 1 - lowest score) satisfaction with food quality (mean = 3.09, p < 0.001) and the overall experience (mean = 3.54, p < 0.001) was lower than industry benchmark of 4, and qualitative feedback was generally negative. Open-ended responses indicated patients were interested in expanded cultural diversity in food provision, more fresh produce and better flavours, and were generally open to trying plant-rich foods.Conclusions: A number of opportunities for improvement were identified in this survey, which will inform an upcoming menu redesign in this institution.

Monitoring Food Affordability: Reliability and Validity of an Online Nutritious Food Basket.

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of an online approach to monitoring food affordability in Ontario using the updated Ontario Nutritious Food Basket (ONFB).Methods: The ONFB was priced online in 12 large multi-chain grocery stores to test intra-/inter-rater reliability using percent agreement and intra-class correlations (ICCs). Then, the ONFB was priced in-store and online in 28 stores to estimate food price differences using paired t-tests and Pearson's correlation for all (n =1708) and matched items (same product/brand and purchase unit) (n = 1134).Results: Intra-/inter-rater agreement was high (95.4%/81.6%; ICC = 0.972, F = 69.9, p < 0.001). On average, in-store prices were less than $0.02 lower than online prices. There were no significant differences between mean in-store and online prices for all items (t = 0.504 p = 0.614). The mean price was almost perfectly correlated between in-store and online (fully matched: R = 0.993 p < 0.001; all items: R = 0.967 p < 0.001). Online monthly ONFB estimates for a family of four were strongly correlated (R = 0.937 p < 0.001) with estimates calculated using in-store data.Conclusions: Online pricing is a reliable and valid approach to food costing in Ontario that contributes to modernizing the monitoring of food affordability in Canada and abroad.

How do maternal and child health nurses incorporate infant mental health promotion into their clinical practice? Experiences of an Australian municipality.

The field of infant mental health (IMH) has offered valuable insights into the critical importance of social-emotional development, including the enduring influence of early experiences throughout life. Maternal and Child Health (MCH) nurses are ideally placed to facilitate knowledge sharing with parents. This Australian-based qualitative exploratory descriptive study explored how MCH nurses incorporate IMH in their clinical practice, and how they share this information with caregivers. Ten community-based MCH nurses participated in voluntary, semi-structured interviews which were transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. Findings identified five themes that characterized how MCH nurses incorporated IMH concepts into their practice. These themes were: prioritizing physical health promotion activities, highlighting infant communications, variations in knowledge and application of IMH concepts, workplace time schedules, and the relational nature of the work. Recommendations include encouraging IMH as a health promotion activity, facilitating IMH assessment, further education, reflective supervision, and extension of predetermined appointment times to enable knowledge and skill sharing. Further research is also recommended to provide additional insights into how nurses with IMH training promote and share IMH concepts with caregivers. Adoption of these recommendations would further enhance the care given to families and the role of the MCH nurses.

El campo de la salud mental infantil (IMH) ha ofrecido perspectivas valiosas sobre la suma importancia del desarrollo socioemocional en los primeros años para el desarrollo social y emocional posterior. Las enfermeras de la salud materno-infantil (MCH) se encuentran en posición ideal para facilitar el proceso de compartir conocimiento con los progenitores. Este estudio cualitativo, exploratorio y descriptivo, llevado a cabo en Australia, exploró cómo las enfermeras MCH incorporan IMH en sus prácticas clínicas y cómo ellas comparten esta información con los cuidadores. Un grupo de enfermeras MCH de base comunitaria participó en entrevistas voluntarias semiestructuradas. Las entrevistas se transcribieron palabra por palabra y se analizaron temáticamente. Los resultados identificaron cinco temas que caracterizaban cómo incorporaron los conceptos de IMH en su práctica. Estos temas fueron: actividades para promover el darle prioridad a la salud física, enfatizar las comunicaciones del infante, variaciones en el conocimiento y la aplicación de conceptos de IMH, tablas de horarios del lugar de trabajo y la naturaleza relacional del trabajo. Entre las recomendaciones se incluyen el fomentar IMH como una actividad de promoción de la salud, facilitar la evaluación de IMH, más educación, supervisión con reflexión, así como extensión del horario de citas predeterminado para permitir el proceso de compartir conocimiento y habilidades. También se recomienda más investigación para ofrecer perspectivas adicionales de cómo las enfermeras con entrenamiento de IMH promueven y comparten los conceptos de IMH con los cuidadores. La adopción de estas recomendaciones mejoraría más el cuidado que se ofrece a familias y el papel de las enfermeras MCH.

Le domaine de la santé mentale du nourrisson (IMH en anglais) a permis de mieux comprendre l'importance critique du développement socio-émotionnel dans les premières années pour le développement social et émotionnel ultérieur. Les infirmiers et infirmières de la Santé Maternelle et de l'Enfant (MCH en anglais) sont idéalement situées pour faciliter le partage des connaissances avec les parents. Cette étude Qualitative Exploratoire Descriptive, en Australie, a exploré comment les infirmier/infirmières MCH incorporent l'IMH dans leur pratique clinique et comment ils/elles partagent cette information avec les personnes prenant soin des enfants. Une cohorte de 10 infirmiers/infirmières MCH basées dans leur communauté ont participé à des entretiens volontaires semi-structurés. Les entretiens ont été transcrits verbatim et analysé de manière thématique. Les résultats ont identifié cinq thèmes qui ont caractérisé les concepts IMH dans leur pratique. Ces thèmes étaient: donner la priorité à la promotion d'activités de santé physique, la mise en évidence des communications du nourrisson, les variations dans les connaissances et l'application des concepts IMH, les emplois du temps du lieu de travail et la nature relationnelle du travail. Les recommandations incluent la nécessité d'encourager l'IMH en tant qu'activité de promotion de la santé, la facilitation de l'évaluation IMH, une formation supplémentaire, une supervision de réflexion et l'extension de rendez-vous pour développer les connaissances et partager les compétences. De plus amples recherches sont recommandées afin d'éclairer la manière dont les infirmiers/infirmières formées en IMH promeuvent et partagent les concepts IMH avec les personnes prenant soin des enfants. L'adoption de ces recommandations pour améliorer davantage le soin offert aux familles et les rôles des infirmiers/infirmières MCH.

Two babies, two bonds: Frequency and correlates of differential maternal-infant bonding in mothers of twins.

We assessed prevalence and correlates of differential maternal-infant bonding (i.e., experiencing a stronger bond with one baby vs. the other) in mothers of twins, focusing on aspects of maternal mental health, well-being, and pregnancy/birth that have been previously linked with maternal-infant bonding. Participants (N = 108 American women, 88.89% White, 82.41% non-Hispanic, aged 18-45, who gave birth to twins in the past 6-24 weeks) were recruited from postpartum support websites. Participants completed a Qualtrics survey assessing pregnancy/birth history, symptoms of depression and anxiety, sleep, stress, romantic relationship satisfaction, and postpartum bonding. Twenty-six participants (24.07%) reported a bonding discrepancy. These participants endorsed higher symptoms of depression and anxiety, lower relationship satisfaction, lower average postpartum bonding, higher general and parenting stress, and longer pregnancy (all ps > .05). Greater degree of bonding discrepancy correlated with more depression, higher parenting stress, longer pregnancy, and lower relationship satisfaction (all ps > .05). Mothers of twins may benefit from postpartum mental health support, stress management strategies, and interventions to improve bonding. Future work should assess the role of breastfeeding difficulties, delivery method, birth-related trauma, infant regulatory capacity, and temperament. Longitudinal studies will help test cause and effect and potential long-term repercussions of maternal-infant bonding discrepancies.

Evaluamos la prevalencia y factores correlacionados del apego afectivo diferencial materno­infantil (v.g. experimentar un apego más fuerte con un bebé vs. el otro) en madres de gemelos, enfocándonos en aspectos de salud mental materna, bienestar, así como el embarazo/parto que previamente han sido relacionadas con la afectividad materno­infantil. A las participantes (N = 108 mujeres estadounidenses, 88.89% blancas, 82.41% no hispanas, de 18­45 años, que dieron a luz gemelos en las pasadas 6­24 semanas) se les reclutó de los sitios de apoyo posterior al parto en la red. Las participantes completaron una encuesta Qualtrics para evaluar el historial de embarazo/parto, los síntomas de depresión y ansiedad, el sueño, el estrés, la satisfacción con la relación romántica, así como la afectividad posterior al parto. Veintiséis participantes (24.07%) reportaron discrepancia en el apego afectivo. Estas participantes confirmaron síntomas más altos de depresión y ansiedad, más baja satisfacción en la relación, más bajo promedio de apego afectivo posterior al parto, más alto estrés general y de crianza, así como un más largo embarazo (todos los ps > .05). Un mayor grado de discrepancia en el apego afectivo se relacionó con más depresión, un más alto estrés de crianza, un más largo embarazo, así como una más baja satisfacción en la relación (todos los ps > .05). Las madres de gemelos pudieran beneficiarse de un apoyo de salud mental posterior al parto, estrategias de cómo arreglárselas con el estrés e intervenciones para mejorar el apego afectivo. El trabajo futuro debe evaluar el papel de las dificultades de amamantar, el método usado para dar a luz, el trauma relacionado con el nacimiento, la capacidad regulatoria del infante y el temperamento. Estudios longitudinales ayudarán a poner a prueba la causa y el efecto las potenciales repercusiones a largo plazo de las discrepancias en el apego afectivo materno­infantil.

Nous avons évalué la prévalence et les corrélats du lien maternel­bébé différentiel (c'est­à­dire qui font l'expérience d'un lien plus fort avec un bébé par rapport à l'autre) chez les mères de jumeaux ou jumelles, en mettant l'accent sur les aspects de la santé mentale maternelle, le bien­être et la grossesse/naissance ayant précédemment été liés au lien maternel­bébé. Les participantes (N = 108 femmes américaines, 88,89% blanches, 82,41% non­latinas, âgées de 18­45 ans, ayant donné naissance à des jumeaux ou jumelles dans les 6­24 semaines précédentes) ont été recrutées à partir de sites internet de soutien postpartum. Les participantes ont rempli un questionnaire Qualtrics évaluant la grossesse/l'histoire de la naissance, les symptômes de dépression et d'anxiété, le sommeil, le stress, la satisfaction de la relation amoureuse et le lien postpartum. Vingt­six participantes (24,07%) ont fait état d'un écart du lien. Ces participantes ont fait état de plus de symptômes de dépression et d'anxiété, d'une satisfaction avec la relation plus basse, d'un lien postpartum plus bas en moyenne, d'un stress général et parental plus élevé, et d'une grossesse plus longue (tout ps >,05). Un degré plus élevé d'écart du lien a correspondu à plus de dépression, un stress de parentage plus élevé, une grossesse plus longue et une satisfaction de la relation plus basse tous ps > ,05). Les mères de jumeaux ou jumelles peut tirer profit d'un soutien en santé mentale postpartum, de stratégies de gestion du stress, et d'interventions pour améliorer le lien. Dans le futur des recherches devraient évaluer le rôle de difficultés de l'allaitement, la méthode d'accouchement, le trauma lié à la naissance, la capacité régulatoire du bébé et son tempérament. Des études longitudinales permettront de tester la cause et l'effet et les répercussions à long terme potentielle pour les écarts dans le lien maternel­bébé.

Associations between maternal smartphone use and mother-infant responsiveness: A cluster analysis of potential risk and protective factors.

Contradictory results in the extant literature suggests that additional risk factors should be considered when exploring the impacts of maternal smartphone use on mother-infant relationships. This study used cluster analysis to explore whether certain risk factors were implicated in mother-infant dyads with high smartphone use and low mother-infant responsiveness. A cross-sectional survey of 450 participants in the UK measured infant social-emotional development, maternal depressive, anxiety and stress symptoms, wellbeing, social support, smartphone use, and mother-infant responsiveness. Participants were predominantly White (95.3%) and living with a partner (95.2%), with infants who were born full-term (88.9%). Cluster analysis identified three clusters characterized as; cluster (1) "infant at risk" showing high infant development concerns, high maternal smartphone use, and low mother-infant responsiveness; cluster (2) "mother at risk" showing high maternal depressive, anxiety, and stress scores, low social support, high maternal smartphone use, and low mother-infant responsiveness, and cluster (3) "low risk" showing low maternal smartphone use and high mother-infant responsiveness. Significant differences were found between all risk factors, except for maternal smartphone use and mother-infant responsiveness between clusters 1 and 2 suggesting that both clusters require early intervention, although interventions should be tailored towards the different risk factors they are presenting with.

Resultados contradictorios en la literatura existente sugieren que se deben considerar factores de riesgo adicionales cuando se explora el impacto del uso que la madre hace del teléfono inteligente en las relaciones madre­infante. Este estudio usó un análisis de grupo para explorar si ciertos factores de riesgo estaban implicados en las díadas madre­infante con uso elevado del teléfono inteligente y la baja sensibilidad madre­infante. Una encuesta transversal de 450 participantes en el Reino Unido midió el desarrollo socioemocional del infante, los síntomas maternos depresivos, de ansiedad y estrés, el bienestar, el apoyo social, el uso del teléfono inteligente, así como la sensibilidad madre­infante. Las participantes eran predominantemente blancas (95.3%) y convivían con una pareja (95.2%), con infantes nacidos en un período de gestación completo (88.9%). Los análisis de grupo identificaron tres grupos caracterizados como: grupo 1) "infante bajo riesgo," mostrando altas preocupaciones sobre el desarrollo del infante, uso elevado del teléfono inteligente por parte de la madre, así como baja sensibilidad madre­infante; grupo 2) "madre bajo riesgo," mostrando altos puntajes de depresión, ansiedad y estrés maternos, bajo apoyo social, uso elevado del teléfono inteligente por parte de la madre, así como baja sensibilidad madre­infante; y grupo 3) "bajo riesgo," mostrando bajo uso del teléfono inteligente por parte de la madre, y alta sensibilidad madre­infante. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en todos los factores de riesgo, excepto en el caso del uso del teléfono inteligente por parte de la madre y la sensibilidad madre­infante entre los grupos 1 y 2, lo cual indica que ambos grupos requieren de una temprana intervención, aunque las intervenciones se deben moldear en términos de los diferentes factores de riesgo que se le presenta a cada grupo.

Les résultats contradictoires dans les recherches existantes suggèrent que des facteurs de risque supplémentaires devraient être pris en considération en explorant les impacts de l'utilisation maternelle du smartphone sur les relations mère­bébé. Cette étude a utilisé une analyse typologique afin d'explorer si certains facteurs de risque étaient impliqués chez les dyades mère­nourrisson avec une utilisation élevée du smartphone et une réaction mère­nourrisson faible. Une étude transversale de 450 participantes au Royaume Uni a mesuré le développement socio­émotionnel du bébé, les symptômes dépressives, d'anxiété et de stress maternel, le bien­être maternel, le soutien social, l'utilisation du smartphone et la réaction mère­nourrisson. Les participantes étaient essentiellement Blanches (95,3%), vivant avec un partenaire (95,2%), avec des bébés étant nés à terme (88,9%). Une analyse typologique a identifié trois clusters (types) avec ces caractéristiques: type 1) "nourrisson à risque" avec des problèmes de développement infantile élevés, une utilisation maternelle du smartphone élevée, et une réaction mère­bébé faible; type 2) "mère à risque" faisant état de scores maternels élevés de dépression, d'anxiété et de stress, d'un soutien social faible, avec une utilisation maternelle du smartphone élevée, et une réaction mère­bébé faible, et type 3) "risque faible" montrant peu d'utilisation maternelle du smartphone et une réaction élevée mère­bébé. Des différences importantes ont été trouvées entre tous les facteurs de risque, saut pour l'utilisation maternelle du smartphone et la réaction maternelle entre les types 1 et 2, ce qui suggère que les deux types exigent une intervention précoce, bien que les interventions devraient être adaptées aux différents facteurs de risque avec lesquelles elles se présentent.

Infant and early childhood teleconsultation and training: Program description and feasibility outcomes from a statewide implementation.

To address high rates of mental health and developmental concerns facing young children ages 0-6 in the United States and internationally, providers across professional sectors need Infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH) training and support. The training and teleconsultation program (TTP) is a state-funded program developed in one Mountain West state in the United States to provide free IECMH training and teleconsultation to any provider working with young children. The TTP included access to webinars and individual or group consultation with licensed mental health providers. Webinars focused on increasing awareness and knowledge related to attachment and child development, supporting parents and caregivers, trauma-informed practice, supporting emotional health of staff and providers, and culturally responsive practices with infants, young children, and caregivers. Teleconsultation included case consultation, reflective individual and group supervision, and collaboration supports/referrals. During the 18-month evaluation period, 1568 unique providers engaged in either training or teleconsultation services, an average of 9% growth in new providers each month, with representation from all professional sectors and all state counties. This program demonstrates the feasibility and need for statewide training and teleconsultation programs to help meet the needs of providers who interact with and support young children and caregivers.

Para lidiar con las altas tasas de salud mental y preocupaciones sobre el desarrollo a las que se enfrentan los pequeños niños de edad 0-6 en los Estados Unidos e internacionalmente, quienes proveen el servicio dentro de la gama de todos los sectores profesionales necesitan entrenamiento y apoyo en el campo de la salud mental infantil y la temprana niñez (IECMH). El programa de entrenamiento y teleconsulta (TTP) es un programa con fondos estatales desarrollado en un estado del oeste montañoso en los Estados Unidos para ofrecer entrenamiento y teleconsulta gratis en IECMH a cualquier profesional que trabaja con niños pequeños. El TTP incluye acceso a seminarios web y consulta individual o en grupo con profesionales licenciados de la salud mental. Los seminarios web se enfocaron en incrementar la conciencia y el conocimiento relacionado con la afectividad y el desarrollo del niño, apoyar a progenitores y cuidadores, la práctica con atención informada sobre trauma, apoyar la salud emocional del personal y los proveedores, así como las prácticas culturalmente sensibles con los infantes, niños pequeños y quienes les cuidan. La teleconsulta incluyó consulta de casos, supervisión con reflexión tanto individual como de grupo, así como los apoyos/referencias colaborativas. Durante el período de evaluación de 18 meses, 1,568 proveedores con características particulares recibieron los servicios del entrenamiento o de la teleconsulta, un promedio de 9% de aumento de nuevos proveedores cada mes, con representación de todos los sectores profesionales y todos los condados del estado. Este programa demuestra la posibilidad y necesidad de programas de entrenamiento y teleconsulta a través de todo el estado para ayudar a satisfacer las necesidades de los proveedores que interactúan con y apoyan a los niños pequeños y quienes les cuidan.

Pour faire face aux taux élevés d'inquiétudes en matière de santé mentale et de comportement dont sont témoins les jeunes enfants âgés de 0-6 ans aux Etats-Unis et internationalement, les prestataires au travers des secteurs professionnels ont besoin de formation et de soutien en santé mentale du nourrisson et de la petite enfance (IECMH). Le programme de téléconsultation et de formation (TTP en anglais) est un programme financé au niveau de l'état développé dans un état des montagnes rocheuses aux Etats-Unis afin d'offrir une formation et une téléconsultation IECMH gratuite à tout prestataire travaillant avec de jeunes enfants. Le TTP a incorporé un accès à des webinaires et à une consultation individuelle ou de groupe avec des prestataires de santé mentale agréés. Les webinaires ont porté sur l'accroissement de la sensibilisation et des connaissances liées à l'attachement et au développement de l'enfant, au soutien des parents et des personnes prenant soin des enfants, à une pratique consciente des traumas, et au soutien de la santé émotionnelle des employés et des prestataires, et à des pratiques culturellement adaptées avec les nourrissons, les jeunes enfants et les personnes prenant soin d'eux. La téléconsultation a inclus une consultation de cas, une supervision de réflexion individuelle et de groupe, et des soutiens/références de collaboration. Durant la période d'évaluation de 18 mois, 1568 prestataires uniques se sont engagés soit dans une formation ou des services de téléconsultation, avec une moyenne de 9% de croissance chez les nouveaux prestataires chaque mois, avec une représentation de tous les secteurs professionnels et les comtés de l'état. Ce programme démontre la fiabilité et le besoin de programmes de formation et de téléconsultations au niveau de l'état afin d'aider à remplir les besoins des prestataires qui travaillent et soutiennent les jeunes enfants et les personnes prenant soin d'eux.

Child-focused infant and early childhood mental health consultation: Shifting adult attributions to reduce the risk for preschool expulsion.

Infant and early childhood mental health consultation (IECMHC) in early care and education (ECE) settings is a promising approach to support young children. Although research on the effects of IECMHC is encouraging, it is limited by the complexities of the systems in which IECMHC is implemented and the variability in IECMHC models. The current study aims to clearly articulate a statewide, child-focused, short-term IECMHC model, assess consultee satisfaction, examine the effects of consultation on children's functioning in the school and home settings, and evaluate changes in teacher perceptions associated with expulsion risk following consultation. In total, 268 children ages 1-5 (69% White, 75% male) and their family and school caregivers participated in consultation in a New England state, and 95 children and caregivers were included in an evaluation subsample. Of this subsample, teachers and ECE administrators, but not families, indicated significant improvement in children's functioning from referral to end of consultation. There was also a significant decrease in children's risk of expulsion, as measured by teachers' perceptions associated with expulsion decisions. This study contributes to the IECMHC literature by providing results specific to a child-focused model of consultation and highlighting the possible role of adult attributions for children in ECE.

La consulta de salud mental infantil y la temprana niñez (IECMHC) en los entornos de cuidados y educación tempranos (ECE) es un acercamiento prometedor para apoyar a los niños pequeños. A pesar de que la investigación sobre los efectos de IECMHC es alentadora, está limitada por las complejidades de los sistemas dentro de los cuales se implementa IECMHC y la variabilidad en los modelos de IECMHC. El presente estudio se propone articular claramente un modelo de IECMHC para todo el estado, con enfoque en el niño y a corto plazo, evaluar la satisfacción que quienes participan de la consulta, examinar los efectos de la consulta sobre el funcionamiento de los niños en la escuela y en el entorno del hogar, así como evaluar los cambios en las percepciones de los maestros asociadas con los riesgos de expulsión después de la consulta. En total, 268 niños de edad 1­5 (69% blancos, 75% varones) y sus familias y quienes les cuidaba en la escuela participaron en la consulta en un estado de Nueva Inglaterra, y se incluyó a 95 niños y sus cuidadores en una evaluación de un subgrupo muestra. De este subgrupo muestra, los maestros y los administradores de ECE, pero no las familias, indicaron significativas mejorías en el funcionamiento de los niños desde la referencia hasta el final de la consulta. Se dio también una significativa disminución en el riesgo de expulsión de los niños, tal como se midió por medio de las percepciones de los maestros asociadas con las decisiones de expulsión. Este estudio contribuye a la literatura informativa sobre IECMHC por medio de ofrecer resultados específicos al modelo de consulta enfocado en el niño y subrayar el posible papel de las atribuciones del adulto para los niños en ECE.

La consultation de santé mentale du nourrisson et de la petite enfance (Infant and early childhood mental health consultation abrégé en anglais IECMHC) dans des contextes éducatifs et de crèches (abrégé ici CEC selon le français) est une approche prometteuse pour le soutien aux jeunes enfants. Bien que les recherches sur les effets de l'IECMHC sont encourageantes, elles sont limitées par les complexités des systèmes dans lesquels l'IECMHC est mise en oeuvre et la variabilité des modèles de l'IECMHC. Cette étude s'est donné pour but de clairement articuler un modèle IECMHC au niveau de l'état, focalisé sur l'enfant et à court terme, d'évaluer la satisfaction de la personne consultée, d'examiner les effets de la consultation sur le fonctionnement des enfants à l'école et à la maison, et d'évaluer les changements dans les perceptions de l'enseignant liée au risque d'expulsion après la consultation. En tout 268 enfants âgés de 1­5 ans (69% blancs, 75% garçons) et leur famille et les personnes prenant soin d'eux à l'école ont participé à une consultation dans un état de nous Nouvelle Angleterre (aux Etats­Unis), et 95 enfants et personnes prenant soin d'eux ont été inclus dans un sous­échantillon d'évaluation. Dans ce sous­échantillon les enseignants et administrateurs CEC, mais pas les familles, ont fait état d'une amélioration important dans le fonctionnement des enfants du moment de la référence à la fin de la consultation. Il n'a pas de baisse importante du risque d'expulsion des enfants, mesurée par les perceptions des enseignants liées aux décisions d'expulsion. Cette étude contribue aux recherches sur l'IECMHC en offrant des résultats spécifiques à un modèle de consultation focalisé sur l'enfant et en mettant en lumière le rôle possible des attributions adultes pour les enfants dans les CEC.

Peer workers to address discrimination against women in psychiatry and mental health.

Compared to the general population and to males with mental health disorders, women with these disorders face more obstacles in psychiatric and mental health care settings. This strongly encourages mental health policies and psychiatric care to consider specific strategies that prevent gender bias in treatment among women with mental health issues. A growing body of research demonstrates the benefits of having peer workers-professionals with a lived experience of mental health issues who use their own experiences of mental distress to support others with comparable experiences-in mental health services. We postulate that peer support can become an important and integrated aspect of preventing and addressing discrimination against women in psychiatry and mental health care. First, women peer workers may combine their lived experiences as service users and as women to provide unique, experience- and gender-based support to women users who experience discrimination. Non-women or women peer workers who did not experience gender discrimination in psychiatric settings may nevertheless benefit from the integration of gender education in their curriculum and, in turn, bring a feminist lens to their work to achieve this mission. Second, using their experience as service users, peer workers have the credible ability to communicate and translate women patients' needs to the medical staff, and thus facilitate concrete, need-based adjustments of services. Third, peer workers' involvement as instructors in medical schools could provide early awareness of injustices experienced by women in psychiatry and mental health care. Further research is required to test the effectiveness of peer workers in addressing discrimination against women in real-world clinical settings. More broadly, from a diversity perspective, we believe that peer workers are one of the critical elements in the fight against discrimination in psychiatry and mental health.