Effectiveness of befriending interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Befriending is an emotional supportive relationship in which one-to-one companionship is provided on a regular basis by a volunteer. It is commonly and increasingly offered by the voluntary sector for individuals with distressing physical and mental conditions. However, the effectiveness of this intervention on health outcomes is largely unknown. We aim to conduct a systematic review of the benefits of befriending.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted to identify randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental trials of befriending for a range of physical and mental health indications including depression, anxiety, mental illness, cancer, physical illness and dementia. Main outcomes included patient-

SUBMITTER: Siette J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5594212 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature