Qualitative systematic review and meta-aggregation of stakeholders’ perspectives on stepped care in facilitating return to community after hospitalization for anxiety and depression

The stepped care model aims to dynamically align the intensity of care with the patients’ needs, adjusting mental health interventions accordingly. While stepped up care for mental illness has been widely researched, there is limited evidence on how stepped down care supports recovery after acute mental illness. This JBI qualitative systematic review sought to understand stakeholders’ perspectives of stepped care in supporting patients’ transitions from acute mental healthcare to community settings. CINAHL, Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and Web of Science were searched, and data were synthesized using the JBI meta-aggregation method. Fourteen studies were included. Themes were patient preference, emotional support, information and education, coordination, access to care, family and friends, continuity and transition, physical comfort, service delivery, health sector, and community setting. Patients expressed the importance of autonomy, with many stakeholders making assumptions about their care. Challenges with existing stepped care programs, include a lack of resources, strained patient relationships with providers, a lack of standardized care, and limited communication. Enhancing the design and delivery of stepped care following acute mental illness could support mental health recovery.