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African Americans have a higher prevalence of obesity and obesity-related diseases than other racial/ethnic groups; among persons with serious mental illness (SMI), African Americans fare worse as well. This qualitative study focused on the perceptions of African Americans with SMI in regard to 1) their experiences with diet and exercise behaviors post trauma and 2) how diet and exercise programming can address trauma. A community-based participatory research (CBPR) team developed the interview guide, research protocols, and conducted three focus groups. The team used thematic analysis to analyze the data. Participant (N = 27) responses on the experience of trauma were coded into the following themes: 1) emotional eating, 2) appetite loss, 3) hesitancy to exercise due to community violence, 4) staying home due to mental health symptoms, and 5) substance use. Themes around how programming can address trauma included: 1) support, 2) communication, 3) strategies to avoid trauma, and 4) engagement in programming. Findings suggest the need for human service professionals to infuse trauma-informed communications and practices throughout programming, incorporate peer-led services and address concerns related to community violence.

The "why try" effect, a consequence of self-stigma, is a sense of behavioral futility that may worsen depression. This study examines the regressive model of self-stigma, the factor structure of a why try measure, and the pathway through which self-stigma leads to depression. Data from 291 people self-identifying with mental illness were collected through an online survey. Participants completed the Why Try Stigma Scale (WTSS) and measures of self-stigma and depression. Structural equation modeling was used to test the WTSS factor structure and path models. Reducing the WTSS from 12 to 6 items led to good fit. The regressive model of self-stigma was validated. A good fit was demonstrated for a model in which harm leads to unworthiness, then incapability, and then depression. The regressive model worsens sense of worthiness, which in turn affects personal capability, resulting in increased depression.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, technology became an essential tool to maintain connections to social support, health professionals, and services. However, many older adults do not have access to technology or do not feel comfortable using it. CATCH-ON Connect provides cellular-enabled tablets and individual, personalized technical assistance to older adults. Adults age 65+ in project partner primary care clinics who do not have an internet-ready device or who lack digital literacy are eligible to participate. Older adults learn how to access their electronic health record portal, use pre-installed apps (e.g., Lyft, Zoom), and receive education about COVID-19 and the 4Ms. Of the 40 participants enrolled to date, 46% have never accessed the internet with a tablet or smartphone. Initial qualitative outcomes indicate high satisfaction and increased electronic socialization. Quantitative results of participant technology challenges, loneliness, and utilization of telehealth services will be discussed.

Background: In their 2016 report, the National Academy of Sciences identified that the existing literature on the stigma of substance use disorder (SUD) is sparse compared to the stigma of mental i...

African Americans are burdened by high rates of obesity that contribute to chronic disease and early mortality. To tailor a weight loss intervention to meet the needs of African Americans with serious mental illness, a community-based participatory research (CBPR) team comprised primarily of African Americans with serious mental illness guided qualitative research to understand factors that affect weight and interventions that may diminish obesity. Data from five focus groups (n = 55) were analyzed to better understand this group's needs. Participants voiced individual, social, and structural barriers to maintaining and achieving a healthy weight and provided perspectives on potential solutions.

Social Work Evaluation: Enhancing What We Do by James R. Dudley is an introductory social work evaluation text designed for semester-long bachelor of social work and master of social work courses. ...