Key Points

Question: Does a lay health worker–delivered psychological intervention improve symptoms of depression and anxiety in Zimbabwe?

Findings: In a cluster randomized clinical trial of 573 randomized patients with common mental disorders and symptoms of depression, the group who received the intervention had significantly lower symptom scores after 6 months compared with a control group who received enhanced usual care.

Meaning: The use of lay health workers in resource-poor countries like Zimbabwe may be effective primary care–based management of common mental disorders.

Abstract

I...

It is well documented that people with severe mental health issues are more likely to smoke compared to the general population. Smoking reduces physical wellbeing and is a key modifiable risk factor for health inequality. Despite this, support to stop smoking as part of mental health recovery is limited.  

To support health care services provide appropriate guidance and advice, a group of researchers from universities across the UK have designed a Smoking Cessation Intervention specifically for people with Severe Mental Illnesses (SCIMITAR).

The intervention involves a practitioner who is...