Table 2.

Translation of key concepts through the studies

	Paper 1 IBD	Paper 2 SHADE	Paper 3 MENTIP	Paper 4 IBS
Prior information seeking	Yes – aligned to consultant	Minimal	Minimal	Yes -orientated to alternatives to medical perspective
Timing of information provision important to self-management	Yes – early in illness career	Yes – before depression too severe	No, but early in illness career might impact on quality of life	No, but need for episodic 'just in time' information
Role of professional important	Yes – to clarify and confirm existing relationship and decisions	Yes – as gateway to use of the information and legitimisation of condition and strategies	No, but gave medical permission to use the information	No, but ensured legitimisation and permission to use information to self-manage
Engagement with and use of self-help materials	Yes – identified with others' experiences. Used to monitor, make management changes and raise awareness of condition with others. Also to fill gaps in knowledge.	Yes – identified with collective experiences of others, but severity impaired engagement. Used to monitor, make management changes and raise awareness of condition with others. 'Pick and mix' use and support whilst waiting for traditional therapy.	Yes, but linked to legitimisation of condition -led to enhanced control and ownership of knowledge. Used to support future decision-making and fill gaps in knowledge.	Yes – identified with collective experiences of others. 'Pick and mix' use. Refresher for self care action.