The Feasibility of Systemic Interventions for the Prevention and Treatment of Children and Adolescent Mental Health Difficulties in Latin American Countries: A Mixed Studies Systematic Review

Abstract

This systematic review aims to assess the feasibility of systemic interventions for the prevention and treatment of child and adolescent mental health problems in Latin American countries. A mixed studies systematic review was conducted, and 18 studies were included. Data was synthesized using the framework of Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group to build a Best Fit Framework. Stakeholders presented high levels of satisfaction and reported that systemic interventions met the young people’s mental health needs. Barriers to feasibility included lack of collaboration and delays in resource allocation. This review is a valuable resource to systemic intervention developers looking to expand the application of systemic interventions for the prevention and treatment of child and adolescent mental health problems in different cultural settings. Future research is needed to assess the applicability of the study’s innovative methodology to synthesize feasibility outcomes of systemic interventions.Practitioner Points Clinicians and families of young people with mental health problems from Latin American countries felt satisfied with systemic interventions which have a focus on relationships. More support in strengthening community networks was deemed necessary by families in order to consolidate interventions at a family level. Systemic interventions developed in Western countries require considered adaptations when delivered in Latin American Countries.