A novel web-based mental health intervention integrating peer support and clinical moderation to enhance recovery and prevent relapse in adults diagnosed with psychotic disorders: A pragmatic feasibility study of Horyzons-Canada

The COVID-19 pandemic is having devastating effects on the mental health and well-being of Canadians, particularly, for those living with chronic mental health conditions such as schizophrenia. Psychological interventions have been proven to be effective to support recovery in this population, however, access to these interventions has historically been limited (e.g., due to factors such as limited availability of trained professionals). The restricting measures due to COVID-19 (e.g., no non-essential health visits and guidelines for physical distancing), have made it even more difficult for these patients to access psychosocial therapies. This, in turn, increases the risk for hospitalizations and suicide, in a group where such risks are already high. To address this issue, our team will implement and evaluate an innovative, online psychological and social therapy intervention called "HoryzonsCa." HoryzonsCa consists of web-based resources to build strength and resilience, social connectedness, and access to peer support and mental health professionals. We will recruit 100 English and French-speaking adults diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders from: University of Montreal Hospital Centre and the Douglas Mental Health University Institute. We will study the issues that are important to consider when adapting and implementing HoryzonsCa, and its potential benefits. The results will provide health care professionals, hospital administrators, policymakers, patients, and families with important and timely information on the use of technology to improve access to psychosocial therapies for individuals living with chronic mental health conditions, during and after COVID-19. We will communicate results through our well- established and extensive local, national, and international networks within the field of psychosis; and, through online media to accelerate the impact of this study during an important time in Canadian history.