The engagement and treatment effectiveness of personalised interventions in youth mental health: A mixed method systematic review in a European Context

Background: Given the diversity that exists within youth mental health there is an ongoing concern that standardised evidence-based responses are not effectively addressing the levels of psychological distress experienced by some youth. It is becoming more evident in the use of crisis mental health services that alternative clinical pathways that consider the impact of developmental trajectories, subjective, social, and cultural beliefs on psychological distress are imperative.

Aim: This mixed method review sought to find effective Personalised Interventions (PIs) within Europe and the UK that could highlight an alternative pathway for youth accessing a mental health service.

Methods: Empirically supported psychological interventions tailored to a youth or youth subgroup, modified modular psychological interventions, psychological interventions to target youth environments, and qualitative research that can inform or equate to a PI were searched in two large databases and then cross synthesised.

Results: 21 studies met inclusion criteria. Nine quantitative studies had attendance rates of 82-89% and significant treatment outcomes. All 12 qualitative studies showed evidence of engagement and treatment outcome themes.

Conclusion: PIs in this review evidence engagement and treatment effectiveness but may be underutilised for hard to reach and culturally diverse youth in Europe and the UK.