Non-pharmacological interventions for mental health among partners of military members and Veterans: A systematic review

Abstract: Introduction: Partners of military members and Veterans face the common challenges that typical families encounter while also dealing with unique difficulties arising from their partners’ risky deployments and frequent relocations. This study’s objective was to summarize the contents and effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions in enhancing mental health among partners of military members and Veterans. Methods: The authors searched four electronic databases — PubMed, PsycINFO, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Register of Clinical Trials — covering studies published between 2012 and 2022. Results: This study incorporated 13 articles, comprising six randomized controlled trials (RCT) and seven non-RCT studies. Psycho-education demonstrated significant positive effects on depression, anxiety, stress, and problem-solving/communication. Cognitive behavioural therapy was employed in two studies, with only one indicating a noteworthy reduction in stress and anxiety levels. Mind-body integrated programs were employed in two studies, both revealing significant effects on depression, anxiety, stress, and PTSD symptoms. Lastly, one study implemented a social support intervention, yielding positive enhancements in family relationships. Discussion: Overall, non-pharmacological interventions exhibited positive improvements in the mental health of military partners. In particular, psychoeducation, encompassing a sufficient number of sessions with skills training, demonstrated benefits in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Future research endeavors require a sufficient number of studies with standardized formats and high methodological quality, enabling meta-analyses to quantify the impact of non-pharmacological interventions.

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