Background: The ReCAPS trial is a multi-component intervention comprised of standardised person-centred goal setting and personalised electronic messaging tailored to individualised goals. We have undertaken a sub-study using data from this Phase III trial to examine the characteristics of individuals who address their mental health needs.
Objective: To describe the characteristics of participants from the ReCAPS trial who chose one or more mental health-related recovery goals after hospital discharge, compared with those who did not.
Methods: While in hospital or shortly after discharge, participants prioritised 2-5 recovery goals from 5 broad categories, to address over 12 weeks. Data on demographics, anxiety and depression, health-related quality of life, stroke self-efficacy, and unmet needs after stroke were collected shortly after discharge. Factors associated with the selection of mental-health-related recovery goals were determined using multivariable logistic regressions.
Results: Among 466 participants (33% female, median age 67 years), 50 (11%) selected a mental-health-related recovery goal. Selection of mental-health-related recovery goals was associated with younger age (OR:1.19/5 years, p=0.03); history of anxiety (OR:3.29, p=0.003); previous treatment with a psychologist/psychiatrist (OR:4.41, p=0.03); current depression symptoms (OR:3.47, p=0.003) or anxiety (OR:5.95, p<0.001); or reporting mental health unmet needs (OR:5.77, p<0.001). Among those who had symptoms of depression or anxiety after stroke, self-reporting problems with anxiety/depression (OR:6.14, p=0.03) and better overall health (OR:1.03/unit, p=0.03) were associated with selecting mental-health-related recovery goals.
Conclusion: We highlighted important characteristics associated with setting mental health-related goals. Older individuals and those newly diagnosed with anxiety/depression should be assisted in setting mental-health-related recovery goals.