@article{ref1,
title="Optimizing Strategies for Improving Mental Health in Victoria, Australia during the COVID-19 Era: A System Dynamics Modelling Study",
journal="International journal of environmental research and public health",
year="2022",
author="Ho, Nicholas and Vacher, Catherine and Lee, Grace Yeeun and Hickie, Ian B. and Occhipinti, Jo-An and Song, Yun Ju C. and Prodan, Ante and Iorfino, Frank and Skinner, Adam and Freebairn, Louise and Robinson, Jo",
volume="19",
number="11",
pages="-",
abstract="The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of populations and highlighted the limitations of mental health care systems. As the trajectory of the pandemic and the economic recovery are still uncertain, decision tools are needed to help evaluate the best interventions to improve mental health outcomes. We developed a system dynamics model that captures causal relationships among population, demographics, post-secondary education, health services, COVID-19 impact, and mental health outcomes. The study was conducted in the Australian state of Victoria. The model was calibrated using historical data and was stratified by age group and by geographic remoteness. <br><br>FINDINGS demonstrate that the most effective intervention combination includes economic, social, and health sector initiatives. Assertive post-suicide attempt care is the most impactful health sector intervention, but delaying implementation reduces the potency of its impact. Some evidence-based interventions, such as population-wide community awareness campaigns, are projected to worsen mental health outcomes when implemented on their own. Systems modelling offers a powerful decision-support tool to test alternative strategies for improving mental health outcomes in the Victorian context.<p /><p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="1661-7827",
doi="10.3390/ijerph19116470",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116470"
}