Psychosocial interventions for persons affected by Leprosy: A systematic review

While multi-drug therapy revolutionised the treatment of physical symptoms for leprosy, a lack of psychosocial interventions, to combat the psychological burden of the disease, is noticeable. This is especially the case in a lower-middle-income country like India, where leprosy prevalence is highest, yet, it has one of the lowest rates of mental health services in place. This paper (i) conducts a systematic review to gather academic evidence on best practices of psychosocial care interventions of to leprosy patients from across the globe, and (ii) compiles good practices of mental wellbeing and quality of life to propose plausible actions for leprosy patients in India. Following the PRISMA protocol, keywords were searched in four databases, namely PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science and Infolep. After examining all 145 search results through inclusion and exclusion criteria, 17 peer reviewed research articles could qualify for final review exercise, whereby the data was systematically appraised. The systematic review reveals several successful psychosocial interventions implemented worldwide. These interventions were categorised into four sub-groups: educational, counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy, and technology-supported interventions. All the studies included in the analysis showcased effective psychosocial interventions that enhanced the quality of life and reduced depression, anxiety, and stress levels in individuals affected by leprosy. These findings highlighted several promising strategies that could be integrated into India's mental healthcare system. The studies underscored the significance of involving healthcare professionals, and adopting innovative approaches. Consequently, this research proposes a comprehensive blend of diverse psychosocial interventions to alleviate the burden faced by leprosy-affected individuals in India. It is crucial to take into account various confounding factors and local contexts to tailor these interventions to the specific population group. Additionally, enhancing awareness and updating policies related to leprosy care are essential steps in reducing stigmatization against individuals with leprosy in India and other endemic regions.