Development of a Digital Psychological Support Program for Families of Organ Donors

Overview

This study developed a digital psychological intervention program for families of organ donors using the Intervention Mapping framework. The program aims to address the significant psychological distress experienced by donor families, which is exacerbated by the sudden nature of bereavement and the decision-making process surrounding organ donation.

Background

Organ transplantation is a critical medical advancement, with a significant reliance on deceased donors. In China, the cessation of organ donation from executed prisoners has heightened the importance of voluntary donations, which necessitate family consent. However, donor families often experience severe psychological distress, highlighting the need for effective mental health support tailored to their unique circumstances.

Data Highlights

No numerical data was provided in the article.

Key Findings

• The prevalence of depression and anxiety among Chinese donor families is significantly higher than national averages.
• Mindfulness-based interventions can effectively mitigate psychological distress in affected populations.
• The Intervention Mapping framework provides a systematic approach to developing psychological interventions.
• Digital Mental Health Interventions (DMHIs) are increasingly recognized for their effectiveness in supporting mental health.
• Expert panel meetings were utilized to refine the digital intervention program for practical application.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider integrating digital psychological support programs into the organ donation process to better support donor families. Addressing the mental health needs of these families is crucial for improving their overall well-being and sustaining organ donation efforts.

Conclusion

The development of a digital psychological support program for organ donor families represents a significant step towards addressing their mental health needs. Implementing such interventions can enhance the support system surrounding organ donation in China.

Related Resources & Content

1. Bone Marrow Transplantation — 49th Annual Conference of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation: Psychiatry and Psychology Group – Poster Presentations (P709-P715)
2. Bone Marrow Transplantation — Psychiatry and Psychology Group Poster Presentations at the 51st Annual European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation Meeting (Posters 910–918)
3. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Evaluation of a Peer-Driven Mindful Self-Compassion Initiative for Adults Experiencing Eating Disorder Symptoms
4. Bone Marrow Transplantation — The 51st Annual Conference of the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation: Poster Presentations on Patient Advocacy (P970-P982)
5. Guide to the quality and safety of organs for transplantation - European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare
6. The effectiveness of web-based grief intervention for adults who lost a loved one: A systematic review and meta-analysis | BMC Palliative Care | Springer Nature Link
7. Impact of organ donation on grief symptoms in donor families | BMC Psychology | Springer Nature Link
8. Guide to the quality and safety of organs for transplantation - European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines & HealthCare
9. The effectiveness of web-based grief intervention for adults who lost a loved one: A systematic review and meta-analysis | BMC Palliative Care | Springer Nature Link
10. Impact of organ donation on grief symptoms in donor families | BMC Psychology | Springer Nature Link