A single case series using visuospatial task interference to reduce the number of visual intrusive memories of trauma with refugees

The current worldwide so-called refugee crisis has led to an unprecedented increase in migration globally. Because of stigma and language barriers, mental health care for refugees is limited. There is a need for novel, scalable psychological interventions. We investigated whether a brief behavioural intervention involving a memory reminder cue and Tetris gameplay on a smartphone reduces intrusive memories in refugees using a single case (N= 4) ABAB withdrawal design. The baseline phase (A) included a no-intervention week; the intervention phase (B) included an in-person session with the researchers, comprised of the behavioural intervention followed by self-guided use in daily life the following week. All participants reported a decrease in intrusive memories after the intervention, as well as functional improvements (e.g., in concentration). Importantly, participants rated the intervention as feasible and acceptable. As one in-person session was effective in persistent intrusion reduction, ABAB proved not to be the optimal design as intrusions did not rebound in the withdrawal phase. Findings are promising and highlight the need for further evaluation of novel interventions for mental health problems in refugees.

Automated summary

The current refugee crisis worldwide has led to an unprecedented increase in global migration, highlighting the need for novel and scalable psychological interventions for refugees with limited mental health care due to stigma and language barriers. A study found that a brief behavioral intervention involving a memory reminder cue and Tetris gameplay on a smartphone effectively reduced intrusive memories in refugees, with positive outcomes and high acceptability among participants. These findings suggest the potential for further evaluation and development of novel interventions for mental health problems in refugees.