Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/17110
Record ID: f41b331a-8d0c-44a2-aa1a-998f32c7aa7a
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0231260
Type: Journal Article
Title: The identification and treatment of mental health and substance misuse problems in sexual assault services: A systematic review
Authors: Lucock, Mike
Brooker, Charlie
Gilchrist, Gail
Kendal, Sarah
Maxted, Fay
Trevillion, Kylee
Shallcross, Rebekah
Perot, Concetta
Stefanidou, Theodora
Hughes, Elizabeth
Kester, Katherine
Edmondson, Amanda
Majeed-Ariss, Rabiya
Smith, Christine
Ariss, Steven
Categories: People with mental health and/or drug and alcohol issues
Year: 2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science
Citation: Volume 15, Issue 4
Abstract:  Background Specialist sexual assault services, which collect forensic evidence and offer holistic healthcare to people following sexual assault, have been established internationally. In England, these services are called sexual assault referral centres (SARCs). Mental health and substance misuse problems are common among SARC attendees, but little is known about how SARCs should address these needs. This review aims to seek and synthesise evidence regarding approaches to identification and support for mental health and substance misuse problems in SARCs and corresponding services internationally; empirical evidence regarding effective service models; and stakeholders’ views and policy recommendations about optimal SARC practice. Methods A systematic review was undertaken. PsycINFO, MEDLINE, IBSS and CINAHL were searched from 1975 to August 2018. A web-based search up to December 2018 was also conducted to identify government and expert guidelines on SARCs. Quality assessment and narrative synthesis were conducted. Results We included 107 papers. We found that identification based on clinical judgement, supportive counselling and referral to other services without active follow-up were the most common approaches. Evaluations of interventions for post-rape psychopathology in attendees of sexual assault services provided mixed evidence of moderate quality. Very little evidence was found regarding interventions or support for substance misuse. Stakeholders emphasised the importance of accessibility, flexibility, continuity of care, in-house psychological support, staff trained in mental health as well as specialist support for LGBT groups and people with learning difficulties. Guidelines suggested that SARCs should assess for mental health and substance misuse and provide in-house emotional support, but the extent and nature of support were not clarified. Both stakeholders and guidelines recommended close partnership between sexual assault services and local counselling services. Conclusions This review suggests that there is big variation in the mental health and substance misuse provision both across and within different sexual assault service models. We found no robust evidence about how sexual assault services can achieve good mental health and substance misuse outcomes for service users. Clearer guidance for service planners and commissioners, informed by robust evidence about optimal service organisations and pathways, is required. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42018119706
URI: https://anrows.intersearch.com.au/anrowsjspui/handle/1/17110
Appears in Collections:Journal Articles

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