Lessons learned in adapting an online intervention program for posttraumatic stress for use in Egypt

Area of Science:

• Global Mental Health
• Psychological Interventions
• Cultural Psychiatry

Background:

• Cultural adaptation of evidence-based treatments is crucial for global health equity.
• Previous research provides guidance for treatment translation and adaptation.
• Ongoing research necessitates sharing lessons learned to refine adaptation models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate and culturally adapt the PTSD Coach Online intervention for Egyptian young adults.
• To address symptoms of posttraumatic stress in a new cultural context.
• To identify challenges and insights for future online intervention adaptation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Bernal and colleagues' cultural adaptation framework (1995).
• Conducted focus groups and interviews with the target population, mental health professionals, and service users.
• Employed a case study approach to document the adaptation process.

Main Results:

• Identified challenges in the translation and adaptation of the PTSD Coach Online.
• Highlighted the importance of diverse translation teams.
• Emphasized the critical role of iterative feedback throughout the adaptation process.

Conclusions:

• Successful cultural adaptation requires diverse teams and continuous feedback.
• A long time horizon is essential for optimal intervention adaptation.
• Lessons learned from this case study can inform future global mental health interventions.