Delivery of evidence-based interventions for psychological distress in persons living with IBD: a roadmap for human-centred design and implementation

Background Inflammatory bowel disease-related psychological distress (IBD-PD) refers to the emotional impact of IBD and has been shown to be associated with increased disease severity, comorbid mental health disorders, and increased mortality. Aims This study aims to identify the facilitators for accessing evidence-based interventions for IBD-PD to inform the design and implementation of patient-centred models for IBD mental health support in the future. Methods This was a qualitative research study in which a semistructured interview script was developed by a multidisciplinary team guided by the domains of the COM-B Behaviour Change Wheel framework. Using thematic analysis, codes were generated to identify themes using an inductive approach. Results Fourteen participants were successfully recruited (n = 14). Thematic analyses identified the following major themes: (1) mental health should be treated as an integrated component of specialty IBD care; (2) use of self-help strategies alongside existing supports is feasible, acceptable, and accessible; (3) accessing support for IBD-PD through virtual care is often acceptable; and (4) flexible, multifaceted delivery models for IBD-PD are needed. All participants felt that mental health should be discussed at IBD clinic visits. Preferences for hybrid formats for IBD-PD care were clear. Most participants felt that it was important for psychological support persons to also have IBD knowledge. Participants felt strongly that a more qualified psychologist, even in the absence of IBD knowledge, was their top priority. Conclusions Some key facilitators identified from this study include healthcare professionals discussing IBD-PD directly with their patients, offering hybrid formats for IBD-PD, and integrating self-help strategies into care.