Advancing mixed methods in mental health research

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Research
• Methodological Approaches
• Research Design

Background:

• Complexity in mental health research necessitates robust methodological approaches.
• Mixed methods are increasingly utilized but face ongoing challenges.
• Effective research requires addressing the intricate nature of mental health.

Purpose of the Study:

• Reassert the importance of mixed methods in mental health research.
• Examine current challenges and barriers in applying mixed methods.
• Propose pathways for advancing mixed methods research in this field.

Main Methods:

• Review of mixed methods approaches in mental health.
• Inclusion of worked examples from the authors' research.
• Personal reflections on navigated barriers.

Main Results:

• Mixed methods offer diverse designs and benefits for mental health research.
• Identified barriers include fragmentation and lack of integration.
• Need for improved publication routes and effective resourcing is evident.

Conclusions:

• Advocating for a shift from fragmentation to integration in mixed methods.
• Calls for commitment from researchers, institutions, and funders.
• Emphasizing the potential of integrated mixed methods for mental health advancement.