Food insecurity in adults with severe mental illness: A systematic review with meta-analysis

This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the prevalence of food insecurity among adults with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) in high- and upper-middle income countries, an area that remains underexplored. The study synthesizes evidence from sixteen publications, with thirteen included in the meta-analysis.

The findings indicate a prevalence estimate of food insecurity at 41% (95% CI: 29% to 53%, I2 = 99.9%, n = 13) among adults with SMI. Furthermore, individuals with SMI were found to be 3.31 times (95% CI: 2.03 to 5.41) more likely to experience food insecurity compared to their counterparts without SMI (z = 6.29, p < .001, I2 = 98.9%, n = 6). This suggests that food insecurity may also act as a risk factor for the development of SMI.

The review highlights the pressing need for mental health practitioners to recognize food insecurity as a significant issue affecting individuals with SMI, advocating for support mechanisms to ensure access to adequate nutrition. [NPID: food insecurity, mental illness]

Year: 2024

Reference: Smith, J., Stevens, H., Lake, A. A., Teasdale, S., & Giles, E. L. (2024). Food insecurity in adults with severe mental illness: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 31(2), 133-151. https://doi.org/10.1111/jpm.12969

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