The Medical journal of Australia
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To identify and describe current internet-based prevention and treatment programs for anxiety and depression in children and adolescents. ⋯ Our findings provide early support for the effectiveness of internet-based programs for child and adolescent anxiety and depression. More extensive and rigorous research is needed to further establish the conditions through which effectiveness is enhanced, as well as to develop additional programs to address gaps in the field.
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Evidence is accruing of associations between male reproductive health disorders and chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The links between reproductive health and general health are under-recognised by medical practitioners and the general public. Windows of opportunity exist for a more holistic approach to men's health when men present with reproductive health symptoms (such as erectile dysfunction) or the reproductive implications of chronic disease are recognised. Further men's health research is needed in Australia to guide policy, innovative health promotion, and clinical practice.
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To assess women's compliance with different Australian guidelines on alcohol intake during pregnancy and examine factors that might influence compliance. ⋯ The October 2001 change in alcohol guidelines does not appear to have changed behaviour. Risks associated with different levels of alcohol intake during pregnancy need to be clearly established and communicated.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Stepped care for depression in primary care: what should be offered and how?
Stepped-care approaches may offer a solution to delivering accessible, effective and efficient services for individuals with depression. In stepped care, all patients commence with a low-intensity, low-cost treatment. Treatment results are monitored systematically, and patients move to a higher-intensity treatment only if necessary. ⋯ The different treatments within the stepped-care model are evidence-based. Data on cost-effectiveness of the full model are still scarce, but we recently demonstrated that the incidence of new cases of depression and anxiety could be halved by introducing stepped care. Effects of web-based guided self-help could be enhanced by incorporating them in a stepped-care model.
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To explore patterns of internet use by young people in Australia and assess the usefulness of online resources for mental health problems, exploring functionality that may be relevant in the development of online mental health services. ⋯ Our findings suggest that technology is important in the everyday lives of young people, and online mental health services that encompass promotion and prevention activities should include a variety of resources that appeal to all ages and both sexes, such as "question and answer" forums and email.