A mixed methods exploration of a pilot photo-reflection intervention for enhancing coping and well-being during COVID-19

Restrictions enforced during the COVID-19 pandemic are associated with negative impacts on mental health and well-being. There is a need to support individuals to cope with these challenging circumstances. An embedded design mixed methods approach was employed to explore challenges experienced during the pandemic, the effectiveness of a photo-reflection intervention for enhancing coping, wellbeing, and resilience, and how this intervention functioned to impact on these outcomes. 108 participants were randomised to one of three photo-taking conditions; challenges experienced, coping strategies, or experiences and were assessed with measures of wellbeing, coping and resilience. In addition, open-ended survey questions were used to assess perceptions of experiences and of the effects of the intervention. There were no significant differences across the groups, however subjective psychological well-being, and emotional and functional well-being improved post-intervention regardless of intervention type. There was also an increase in planning and self-distraction coping for those whom the intervention elicited reflection. Qualitative data highlighted a range of challenges experienced and examples of both adaptive and maladaptive coping approaches. Photo-reflection intervention approaches may improve well-being and enhance coping during these challenging circumstances through providing opportunity to review and reflect on life experiences.