Composite narrative animations: A novel method for encouraging doctors to access support for psychological wellbeing

TY - JOUR

T1 - Composite narrative animations

T2 - ASME 2022 – Future proof medical education: Practical wisdom and adapting to change

AU - Laidlaw, Anita Helen

AU - Tooman, Tricia

AU - Wakeling, Judy

AU - Cunningham, Kathryn

AU - Cecil, Joanne E.

AU - Walker, Kim A.

PY - 2022/10

Y1 - 2022/10

N2 - Background The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated already high rates of psychological distress in doctors.1 Many doctors perceive a stigma associated with disclosing psychological concerns, which can result in a reluctance to seek support.2 This study aimed to develop and evaluate the acceptability of using composite narrative animations (CNAs) to encourage doctors to access support for psychological wellbeing. Methods A composite narrative was developed from interviews with 27 GP participants from across Scotland in May to July 2020. Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were identified to be embedded within the CNA.3 An animation script was developed from the composite narrative with an animation company. The final animation included the BCTs of information provision, prompts and cues, demonstration of behaviours and instruction on how to perform behaviours, and a credible source was produced. Study participants were originally asked for their views on feasibility and acceptability of a CNA and followed up at a subsequent interview after they have viewed it. Data from 83 Scottish doctors was collected for that purpose. Results Prior to viewing the animation, participants thought it was novel but may not appeal to all. After viewing, the majority considered it portrayed an authentic experience, could reduce the stigma around seeking support for psychological well-being and highlighted formal routes to access support for psychological well-being.

AB - Background The Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated already high rates of psychological distress in doctors.1 Many doctors perceive a stigma associated with disclosing psychological concerns, which can result in a reluctance to seek support.2 This study aimed to develop and evaluate the acceptability of using composite narrative animations (CNAs) to encourage doctors to access support for psychological wellbeing. Methods A composite narrative was developed from interviews with 27 GP participants from across Scotland in May to July 2020. Behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were identified to be embedded within the CNA.3 An animation script was developed from the composite narrative with an animation company. The final animation included the BCTs of information provision, prompts and cues, demonstration of behaviours and instruction on how to perform behaviours, and a credible source was produced. Study participants were originally asked for their views on feasibility and acceptability of a CNA and followed up at a subsequent interview after they have viewed it. Data from 83 Scottish doctors was collected for that purpose. Results Prior to viewing the animation, participants thought it was novel but may not appeal to all. After viewing, the majority considered it portrayed an authentic experience, could reduce the stigma around seeking support for psychological well-being and highlighted formal routes to access support for psychological well-being.

U2 - 10.1111/tct.13542

DO - 10.1111/tct.13542

M3 - Meeting abstract

SN - 1743-4971

VL - 19

SP - 74

JO - Clinical Teacher

JF - Clinical Teacher

IS - S2 Abstracts for ASME Annual Scholarship Meeting 2022

M1 - e13542

Y2 - 6 July 2022 through 8 July 2022

ER -