Informing the development of the coaching online and community health (COACH) program: A qualitative study of clubhouse members living with serious mental illness

Abstract

Health and wellness interventions addressing risk factors for early mortality among individuals with serious mental illness have demonstrated success and can be further augmented with digital technology. These programs may be suitable for delivery in psychosocial rehabilitation clubhouses, especially given many services have transitioned to digital platforms during the pandemic. This qualitative study aimed to: (a) explore clubhouse members' experiences engaging with the virtual clubhouse platform, and their preferences for accessing digital wellness and health promotion content; and, (b) gauge members' interest in an online peer-driven lifestyle intervention and their suggestions for program design. This study was guided by a community-based participatory action research framework. Ten focus groups were conducted with clubhouse members. Focus groups were coded and analyzed thematically by trained clubhouse members and the research team. Thirty-Three members participated in the focus groups. Participants expressed the importance of having technical support from staff; that one-on-one support and consistent communication are important to keep them engaged in health and wellness programming; and described mixed views about use of the virtual platform, but generally were open to engaging in lifestyle intervention programming virtually. Participants who joined the clubhouse during the pandemic expressed feeling overwhelmed by in-person gatherings, and were especially interested in opportunities for remote participation. This study can inform health and wellness programming for delivery on the virtual clubhouse platform for members. The taxonomy of codes, created to generate a framework with recommendations, will inform the design of a virtual health and wellness intervention.