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Telephone-Based Psychological Care During the 2020 Lockdown in Spain and Protocol for Data Collection
María Carpallo-González1,2, Ana M. Nuñez-Rubines3, Joaquím T Limonero4
1European University of Madrid (Spain).
Psicothema
|July 26, 2024
Summary
The Psychological Care Telephone Program (PCTP) provided vital mental health support during the COVID-19 lockdown, addressing widespread anxiety and depression. This study highlights the need for standardized telephone-based crisis interventions.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Telemedicine
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid mental health service adaptation.
- Spain's General Council of Psychology launched the Psychological Care Telephone Program (PCTP) in 2020.
- The PCTP aimed to provide accessible psychological support during lockdown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a descriptive analysis of the PCTP's initial phase and 12-month follow-up.
- To develop a standardized data collection protocol for telephone-based psychological services.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 10,119 calls from March-May 2020 and 337 follow-up calls.
- Descriptive statistical analysis of user demographics and presenting problems.
- Development of a data collection protocol.
Main Results:
- Anxiety (66.8%), depression (30.5%), and family problems (13.9%) were primary concerns.
- Follow-up revealed persistent anxiety (38%), depression (35%), and panic symptoms (34%).
- Over 50% of users reported psychopharmacological medication use.
Conclusions:
- Telephone-based mental health consultations are crucial during crises.
- Systematic data collection and intervention protocols are essential for future emergencies.
- A data collection protocol for emergency telephone psychological assistance programs is proposed.
