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Cruise CE, Celis S, Lashewicz BM. "I haven't really gone through things like this": Young long-term care workers' experiences of working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Work 2024:WOR230437. [PMID: 38189722 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long-term care (LTC) facilities were hard hit by the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. Using life course theory concepts, we looked for conditions that led to worker moral distress -i.e. pain or anguish over not being able to take right action - and how life stage may influence experiences. OBJECTIVE To illuminate the experiences of adults under the age of 30 who stepped into, and/or persevered in, working in LTC during the pandemic, recognizing that this emerging workforce represents the future of LTC in Canada. METHODS This secondary analysis uses interview data from a sub-sample of 16 young workers between 18 and 29 years of age who had been working in Canadian LTC facilities for between 8 months and 7 years. RESULTS Young workers expressed feeling guilt about mourning the loss of socially significant milestones as these milestones paled by comparison to the loss of life and consequences of resident isolation they witnessed at work. To manage feelings of moral distress, young workers attempted to maintain high standards of care for LTC residents and engaged in self-care activities. For some workers, this was insufficient and leaving the field of LTC was their strategy to respond to their mental health needs. CONCLUSION The life stage of young LTC workers influenced their experiences of working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interventions are needed to support young workers' wellbeing and job retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cera E Cruise
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sofia Celis
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Bonnie M Lashewicz
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Bertollo AG, Leite Galvan AC, Dama Mingoti ME, Dallagnol C, Ignácio ZM. Impact of COVID-19 on Anxiety and Depression - Biopsychosocial Factors. CNS & NEUROLOGICAL DISORDERS DRUG TARGETS 2024; 23:122-133. [PMID: 36809942 DOI: 10.2174/1871527322666230210100048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental disorders around the world. The etiology of both diseases is multifactorial, involving biological and psychological issues. The COVID-19 pandemic settled in 2020 and culminated in several changes in the routine of individuals around the world, affecting mental health. People infected with COVID-19 are at greater risk of developing anxiety and depression, and individuals previously affected by these disorders have worsened the condition. In addition, individuals diagnosed with anxiety or depression before being affected by COVID-19 developed the severe illness at higher rates than individuals without mental disorders. This harmful cycle involves several mechanisms, including systemic hyper-inflammation and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, the context of the pandemic and some previous psychosocial factors can aggravate or trigger anxiety and depression. Disorders are also risks for a more severe picture of COVID-19. This review discusses research on a scientific basis, which brings evidence on biopsychosocial factors from COVID-19 and the context of the pandemic involved in anxiety and depression disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Gollo Bertollo
- Laboratory of Physiology Pharmacology and Psychopathology, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Agatha Carina Leite Galvan
- Laboratory of Physiology Pharmacology and Psychopathology, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Maiqueli Eduarda Dama Mingoti
- Laboratory of Physiology Pharmacology and Psychopathology, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Claudia Dallagnol
- Laboratory of Physiology Pharmacology and Psychopathology, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Zuleide Maria Ignácio
- Laboratory of Physiology Pharmacology and Psychopathology, Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapecó, SC, Brazil
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Kalfas M, Ayling K, Jia R, Coupland C, Vedhara K, Chalder T. Fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic - prevalence and predictors: findings from a prospective cohort study. Stress 2024; 27:2352117. [PMID: 38757166 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2024.2352117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and consequent lockdowns had a substantial impact on mental health. Distress and fatigue are highly correlated. However, little is known about the determinants of fatigue in the general population during the pandemic. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and predictors of fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK population. Online surveys were completed by a UK community cohort in April 2020 (wave 1), July-September 2020 (wave 2) and November-December 2020 (wave 3). In total, 3097 participants completed the wave 1 survey, and 1385 and 1087 participants (85.4% women) completed wave 2 and 3 surveys respectively. Fatigue was assessed using the Chalder Fatigue Scale at waves 2 and 3. Hair samples were provided by 827 participants (90.6% women) at wave 1 and wave 2, which were analyzed to indicate HairE (stress hormone). The mean total fatigue score during wave 2 was 14.7 (SD = 4.7), significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels observed in the community (mean difference 0.50, p = .003). At wave 2, 614 (44.3%) participants met the case definition for fatigue, only 15.6% of whom indicated that fatigue lasted for more than 6 months (suggesting it had started prior to the pandemic). Predictors of fatigue at wave 3 included being in a risk group, depression and belief in having COVID-19, which explained 23.8% of the variability in fatigue scores. Depression at wave 1 was the only significant predictor of remaining a fatigue case at wave 3. Fatigue was highly prevalent in the UK community during the COVID-19 pandemic and limited people's daily function. Depression and sociodemographic variables were significant predictors of fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michail Kalfas
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kieran Ayling
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Ru Jia
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Medical Science Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Carol Coupland
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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4
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McOwat K, Pinto Pereira SM, Nugawela MD, Ladhani SN, Newlands F, Stephenson T, Simmons R, Semple MG, Segal T, Buszewicz M, Heyman I, Chalder T, Ford T, Dalrymple E, Shafran R. The CLoCk study: A retrospective exploration of loneliness in children and young people during the COVID-19 pandemic, in England. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0294165. [PMID: 37988366 PMCID: PMC10662715 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic children and young people (CYP) were socially restricted during a stage of life crucial to development, potentially putting an already vulnerable population at higher risk of loneliness, social isolation, and poorer wellbeing. The objectives of this study are to conduct an exploratory analysis into loneliness before and during the pandemic, and determine which self-reported factors are associated with loneliness. METHODS AND FINDINGS Participants from The Children with Long COVID (CLoCk) national study were invited to take part via an online survey, with a total of 31,017 participants taking part, 31,016 of which reported on their experience of loneliness. Participants retrospectively answered questions on demographics, lifestyle, physical health and mental health and loneliness before the pandemic and at the time of answering the survey. Before the pandemic 6.5% (2,006/31,016) of participants reported experiencing loneliness "Often/Always" and at the time of survey completion 17.4% (5,395/31,016) reported feeling lonelier. There was an association between meeting the research definition of long COVID and loneliness [3.49 OR, 95%CI 3.28-3.72]. CYP who reported feeling lonelier at the time of the survey than before the pandemic were assigned female at birth, older CYP, those from Black/African/Caribbean/Black British or other ethnicity groups, those that had 3-4 siblings and lived in more deprived areas. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate associations between multiple factors and experiences of loneliness during the pandemic. There is a need for a multi-faceted integrated approach when developing interventions targeted at loneliness. It is important to follow up the CYP involved at regular intervals to investigate the progression of their experience of loneliness over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey McOwat
- Immunisations and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - Snehal M. Pinto Pereira
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Manjula D. Nugawela
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shamez N. Ladhani
- Immunisations and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Newlands
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Terence Stephenson
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruth Simmons
- Immunisations and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, United Kingdom
| | - Malcolm G. Semple
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit for Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Respiratory Medicine, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Institute in The Park, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Terry Segal
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescence, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Marta Buszewicz
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Isobel Heyman
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Trudie Chalder
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tamsin Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Hershel Smith Building Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Dalrymple
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Roz Shafran
- University College London—Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
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Lanfredi M, Dagani J, Geviti A, Di Cosimo F, Bussolati M, Rillosi L, Albini D, Pizzi M, Ghidoni R, Fazzi E, Vita A, Rossi R. Risk and protective factors associated with mental health status in an Italian sample of students during the fourth wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:78. [PMID: 37365640 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00615-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well known that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global health crisis, especially for young people. However, most studies were conducted during the first waves of the pandemic. Few Italian studies specifically attempted to broadly assess young people's mental health status during the fourth wave of the pandemic. METHODS This study aimed at evaluating the mental health status among a group of Italian adolescents and young adults during the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. 11,839 high school students and 15,000 university students (age range 14-25) were asked to complete a multidimensional online survey, of which 7,146 (26,6%) agreed to participate. The survey also included standardized measures for depression, anxiety, anger, somatic symptoms, resilience, loneliness and post-traumatic growth. Two separate clusters were identified through cluster analysis. Random forest, classification tree and logistic regressions analyses were applied to identify factors associated to a good or a poor level of mental health and, thus, to define students' mental health profiles. RESULTS Overall, the students in our sample showed high levels of psychopathology. The clustering methods performed identified two separate clusters reflecting groups of students with different psychological features, that we further defined as "poor mental health" and "good mental health". The random forest and the logistic regressions found that the most discriminating variables among those two groups were: UCLA Loneliness Scale score, self-harm behaviors, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale-10 score, satisfaction with family relationships, Fear of COVID-19 Scale score, gender and binge eating behaviors. The classification tree analysis identified students' profiles, showing that, globally, poor mental health was defined by higher scores of loneliness and self-harm, followed by being of female gender, presenting binge eating behaviors and, finally, having unsatisfying family relationships. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study confirmed the major psychological distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in a large sample of Italian students, and provided further insights regarding those factors associated with a good or poor mental health status. Our findings suggest the importance of implementing programs targeting aspects that have been found to be associated to a good mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Lanfredi
- Unit of Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Via Pilastroni 4, 25125, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jessica Dagani
- SIPEC Foundation, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Section of Clinical and Dynamic Psychology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Geviti
- Service of Statistics, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Federica Di Cosimo
- USR Lombardia, Ufficio IV Ambito Territoriale di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Marina Pizzi
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Ghidoni
- Molecular Markers Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Fazzi
- Child Neurology and Psychiatry Unit, Spedali Civili Hospital, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Spedali Civili Hospital, Brescia, Italy
| | - Roberta Rossi
- Unit of Psychiatry, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Via Pilastroni 4, 25125, Brescia, Italy.
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Liminality and insecurity: A qualitative study of young adults’ vulnerabilities during the first 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. SSM. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN HEALTH 2023; 3:100260. [PMID: 37013150 PMCID: PMC10050194 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmqr.2023.100260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 has disrupted the normative social order, particularly for young adults. Their deteriorating mental health over 2020 has been associated with the economic and social conditions during the COVID-19 lockdowns. We conducted 19 semi-structured interviews with young adults aged 8 and 29 most of whom lived in Victoria, Australia. The interviews explored participants' experiences and responses to COVID-19, covering areas such disrupted everyday practices and future plans, impacts on their physical and mental health, and interactions community and services. Young adults were concerned about loss of social connectedness, their mental health and the complex interplay of issues such as employment, income, education and housing. They developed routines to protect their physical and mental health while in lockdown and some made the most of opportunities. However, the pandemic may have had a profound effect by disrupting some young adults’ plans for the future, thus contributing to a sense of ontological insecurity.
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7
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McGovern M, Burton E, Fanning L, Killeen G, O'Sullivan K, O'Mullane J, Fitzgerald AP, Byrne M, Kearney PM. A qualitative study exploring experiences, attitudes, and wellbeing of university students of a period of restricted movement and self-testing during COVID-19 “Incoming Student Wellbeing and Benefits of Serial COVID-19 testing (ISWAB)” study. HRB Open Res 2023. [DOI: 10.12688/hrbopenres.13648.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: As part of Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, travellers to Ireland were required to restrict movements on arrival. Worldwide compliance with measures such as quarantine and testing vary and are influenced by factors including an individual’s knowledge of trust in, and attitudes towards these measures. The aim of this study was to explore student experiences of restricted movements after entering Ireland from abroad and to assess the acceptability and feasibility of self-administered SARS-CoV-2 tests. Methods: The Incoming Student Wellbeing and the Acceptability and Benefits of serial COVID-19 testing (ISWAB) study recruited university students who travelled into Ireland and were required by national public health guidance to restrict their movements. As part of the study, students were provided with SARS-CoV-2 self-test kits. This qualitative study explored the students’ attitudes to self-testing and restricted movements using focus groups and interviews. Ethical approval was obtained. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed. Results: Of 41 ISWAB participants, 32 agreed to participate in a follow-up qualitative study providing written consent. One focus group, two group interviews and three individual interviews were conducted in August 2021, on Microsoft Teams. Among the 11 (seven male, four female) students interviewed, self-testing was considered feasible and acceptable. Facilitators of adherence to restrictions included: support with grocery shopping and study periods coinciding with quarantine. Barriers to well-being included: living alone, being an individual who leads a social lifestyle, and the number of days of quarantine completed. Conclusions: This qualitative study demonstrated high levels of compliance with restriction of movement guidelines and self-testing, with limited impact on general well-being. Self-testing for SARS-CoV-2 was found to be practical and achievable for at home use by participants in this study. The findings of this study may inform future self-testing initiatives.
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8
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Schluter PJ, Généreux M, Landaverde E, Chan EYY, Hung KKC, Law R, Mok CPY, Murray V, O'Sullivan T, Qadar Z, Roy M. An eight country cross-sectional study of the psychosocial effects of COVID-19 induced quarantine and/or isolation during the pandemic. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13175. [PMID: 35915133 PMCID: PMC9341149 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16254-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Forced quarantine and nationwide lockdowns have been a primary response by many jurisdictions in their attempt at COVID-19 elimination or containment, yet the associated mental health burden is not fully understood. Using an eight country cross-sectional design, this study investigates the association between COVID-19 induced quarantine and/or isolation on probable generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive episode (MDE) psychological outcomes approximately eight months after the pandemic was declared. Overall, 9027 adults participated, and 2937 (32.5%) were indicated with GAD and/or MDE. Reported quarantine and/or isolation was common, with 1199 (13.8%) confined for travel or health requirements, 566 (6.5%) for being close contact, 720 (8.3%) for having COVID-19 symptoms, and 457 (5.3%) for being COVID-19 positive. Compared to those not quarantining or isolating, the adjusted estimated relative risks of GAD and/or MDE associated with quarantine and/or isolation was significant (p < 0.001), ranging from 1.24 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07, 1.43) for travel/health to 1.37 (95% CI 1.19, 1.59) for COVID-19 symptom isolation reasons. While almost universally employed, quarantine and/or isolation is associated with a heavy mental health toll. Preventive strategies are needed, such as minimizing time-limits imposed and providing clear rationale and information, together with additional treatment and rehabilitation resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Schluter
- School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury-Te Whare Wananga O Waitaha, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand. .,School of Clinical Medicine - Primary Care Clinical Unit, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, 4072, Australia.
| | - Mélissa Généreux
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Elsa Landaverde
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Emily Y Y Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kevin K C Hung
- Accident and Emergency Medicine Academic Unit, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ronald Law
- Department of Health, 2932, Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Catherine P Y Mok
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Tracey O'Sullivan
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Zeeshan Qadar
- National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Mathieu Roy
- Department of Family Medicine & Emergency Medicine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
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Mejia CR, Liendo-Venegas D, García-Gamboa F, Mejía-Rodríguez MA, Valladares-Garrido MJ. Factors associated with the perception of inadequate sanitary control in 12 Latin American countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:934087. [PMID: 35958835 PMCID: PMC9358134 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.934087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sanitary control mechanisms differ greatly from country to country. Therefore, it is important to know citizens' perception of different realities. We aimed to determine the factors associated with the perception of inadequate sanitary control in 12 Latin American countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This is an analytical cross-sectional study. We asked about six perceptions in regard to different situations experienced by inhabitants of 12 Latin American countries during the pandemic. Frequencies according to country were described and associations vs. other important variables were obtained. Results Out of 8,489 participants, 68% stated that there were moments of collective hysteria. Honduras was the country that most perceived inadequate control mechanisms established by the government. Multivariate analysis showed that there were statistically significant differences among many of the countries according to the six evaluated items. The higher the level of education, the greater the perception of poor control in five of the aspects. Additionally, men had a lower perception of inadequate control. The older the age, the lower the perception of inadequate control regarding whether there was collective hysteria and shortages of basic essentials. Those with COVID-19 had a lower perception of medicine shortages. Conclusion The population of multiple realities in Latin America have perceived a bad management of the pandemic. Citizens' perception is an important indicator of the performance of each government during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study may provide valuable information on the relationship between the effectiveness of government sanitary control and people's mental health, which ultimately helps to create objective prevention programs against post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, fear of contagion, and collective hysteria. In addition, governments could use this information to design effective mitigation plans for future unavoidable pandemic events based on the six criteria discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian R. Mejia
- Secretaría de Doctorado y Posdoctorado de la Facultad de Ciencias Económicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Empresa, Universidad Continental, Huancayo, Peru
| | - Daniela Liendo-Venegas
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela de Medicina Humana de la Universidad Privada de Tacna, Tacna, Peru
| | - Fernanda García-Gamboa
- Facultad de Medicina Humana “Manuel Huamán Guerrero” de la Universidad Ricardo Palma, Lima, Peru
| | - Miguel A. Mejía-Rodríguez
- Facultad de Medicina y Cirugía, Universidad Católica de Honduras, Campus San Pedro y San Pablo, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
| | - Mario J. Valladares-Garrido
- Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Privada Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
- Oficina de Epidemiología, Hospital Regional Lambayeque, Lambayeque, Peru
- *Correspondence: Mario J. Valladares-Garrido
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10
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Luo H, Ren Y. Analysis of COVID-19 Collective Irrationalities Based on Epidemic Psychology. Front Psychol 2022; 13:825452. [PMID: 35386891 PMCID: PMC8977506 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.825452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As the SARS-CoV-2 virus swept the world in late 2019, it has brought widespread fear, some suspicion, and degrees of stigma. In the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemics, a series of collective irrationalities such as panic buying, protest marches against vaccines, and pandemic stigma occurred. This phenomenon is inseparable from the spread of rumors about the epidemic. The advent of social media has radically changed the way we consume information and form opinions and made a flood of digital misinformation becoming ubiquitous. The diffusion of false rumors affects the public’s perception of reality and disrupts the prevention of the epidemic. This paper analyzes the COVID-19 collective irrationalities from epidemic psychology to provide a new reference view for overcoming psychological problems related to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Luo
- Department of Orthopedics, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
| | - Yu Ren
- Department of Pharmacy, Taizhou Hospital of Zhejiang Province Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University, Taizhou, China
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11
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Etilé F, Geoffard PY. Associations between anxiety and the willingness to be exposed to COVID-19 risk among French young adults during the first pandemic wave. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262368. [PMID: 35073337 PMCID: PMC8786188 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has generated significant uncertainty about the future, especially for young adults. Health and economic threats, as well as more diffuse concerns about the consequences of COVID-19, can trigger feelings of anxiety, leading individuals to adopt uncertainty-reducing behaviours. We tested whether anxiety was associated with an increase in willingness to be exposed to the risk of COVID-19 infection (WiRE) using an online survey administered to 3,110 French individuals aged between 18 and 35 years old during the first pandemic wave and lockdown period (April 2020). Overall, 56.5% of the sample declared a positive WiRE. A one standard deviation increase in psychological state anxiety raised the WiRE by +3.9 pp (95% CI [+1.6, 6.2]). Unemployment was associated with a higher WiRE (+8.2 percentage points (pp); 95% CI [+0.9, 15.4]). One standard deviation increases in perceived hospitalisation risk and in income (+1160€) were associated with a -4.1 pp (95% CI [-6.2, 2.1]) decrease in the WiRE and +2.7 pp increase (95% CI [+1.1, 4.4]), respectively. Overall, our results suggest that both psychological anxiety and the prospect of economic losses can undermine young adults' adherence to physical distancing recommendations. Public policies targeting young adults must consider both their economic situation and their mental health, and they must use uncertainty-reducing communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Etilé
- Paris School of Economics, Paris, France
- UMR 1393 Paris-Jourdan Sciences Economiques, Institut national de recherche pour l’agriculture, l’alimentation et l’environnement, Paris, France
| | - Pierre-Yves Geoffard
- Paris School of Economics, Paris, France
- UMR Paris-Jourdan Sciences Economiques, Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Sciences Sociales, Paris, France
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The Mental Health and Social Media Use of Young Australians during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031077. [PMID: 35162101 PMCID: PMC8834625 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Young people may be particularly vulnerable to the mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and may also be more likely to use social media at this time. This study aimed to explore young people’s mental health and social media use during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined their use of social media to seek and provide support for suicidal thoughts and self-harm during this period. Young people aged 16–25 (n = 371, M = 21.1) from the general population in Australia completed an anonymous, cross-sectional online survey advertised on social media from June to October 2020. Participants reported high levels of psychological distress, with over 40% reporting severe levels of anxiety and depression, and those with a mental health diagnosis were more likely to perceive the pandemic to have had a negative impact on their mental health. Gender-diverse participants appeared the most negatively impacted. Social media use was high, with 96% reporting use at least once a day, and two-thirds reporting an increase in social media use since the start of the pandemic. One-third had used social media to seek support for suicidal thoughts or self-harm, and half had used it to support another person. This study adds to a growing literature suggesting social media can provide an opportunity to support young people experiencing psychological distress and suicide risk. Uniquely, this study points to the utility of using social media for this purpose during high-risk periods such as pandemics, where access to face-to-face support may be limited. To promote the quality and safety of support provided on social media, resources for help-seekers and help-givers should be developed and disseminated. Social media companies must consider the vulnerability of some users during pandemics and do what they can to promote wellbeing and safety.
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Porter C, Hittmeyer A, Favara M, Scott D, Sánchez A. The evolution of young people’s mental health during COVID-19 and the role of food insecurity: Evidence from a four low-and-middle-income-country cohort study. PUBLIC HEALTH IN PRACTICE 2022; 3:100232. [PMID: 35128496 PMCID: PMC8800419 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2022.100232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Provide evidence on how young people’s mental health has evolved in Low-and-Middle-Income-Countries (LMICs) during the progression of the COVID-19 pandemic. Identify particularly vulnerable groups who report high and/or continuously high rates of mental health issues. Study design Longitudinal, observational. Methods Two consecutive phone-surveys (August–October and November–December 2020) in Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam interviewed around 9000 participants of a 20-year cohort study who grew up in poverty, now aged 19 and 26. Rates of at least mild anxiety/depression measured by GAD-7/PHQ-8 were each compared across countries; between males/females, and food secure/food insecure households. Results Overall, rates of at least mild anxiety and mild depression significantly decreased between mid and end-2020 in all countries but Ethiopia as COVID-19 infection rates fell. Females report higher rates of anxiety and depression in all countries but Ethiopia, however the gender gap is closing. Young people in food insecure households have not shown consistent improvements in their rates of anxiety and depression. Food insecure households are poorer, and have significantly more children (p < 0.05) except in Ethiopia. Conclusion Food insecurity is negatively associated with young people’s mental health and urgent support targeted towards the most vulnerable should be a priority. Further research into increasing rates of mental health issues in Ethiopia is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Porter
- Oxford Department of International Development, University of Oxford, 3 Mansfield Rd, Oxford, OX1 3TB, United Kingdom
- Lancaster University Management School, Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4YX, United Kingdom
| | - Annina Hittmeyer
- Oxford Department of International Development, University of Oxford, 3 Mansfield Rd, Oxford, OX1 3TB, United Kingdom
| | - Marta Favara
- Oxford Department of International Development, University of Oxford, 3 Mansfield Rd, Oxford, OX1 3TB, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.
| | - Douglas Scott
- Oxford Department of International Development, University of Oxford, 3 Mansfield Rd, Oxford, OX1 3TB, United Kingdom
| | - Alan Sánchez
- Grupo de Análisis para el Desarrollo (GRADE), Av. Grau 915, Barranco, Lima, 15063, Peru
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Ranjit A, McCutchan G, Brain K, Poole R. "That's the whole thing about vaping, it's custom tasty goodness": a meta-ethnography of young adults' perceptions and experiences of e-cigarette use. SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PREVENTION AND POLICY 2021; 16:85. [PMID: 34772440 PMCID: PMC8586839 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-021-00416-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Background E-cigarettes are increasing in popularity, particularly among young adults. With public health organisations contesting the possible benefits of e-cigarettes, research is required to explore young adults’ use of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation and recreational tool. This study examined existing qualitative data to understand how transition into adulthood and issues of identity affect young adults’ perceptions and experiences of e-cigarette use. Methods A meta-ethnography was conducted to examine how young adults perceive and use e-cigarettes. Data were synthesised using Noblit and Hare’s (1988) meta-ethnographic approach. Bronfenbrenner’s socio-ecological model (1979) was used to conceptualise themes and map findings. Results A total of 34 studies were included in the review. Young adults viewed e-cigarettes as a safer alternative to traditional cigarette smoking and perceived e-cigarettes as an effective cessation tool. Users were able to personalise their e-cigarette use due to the variety of flavours and devices available. E-cigarettes were found to be a sociable tool as they allowed users to align themselves with their peers who used e-cigarettes and facilitated use within smoke-free environments. Young adults demonstrated high levels of self-efficacy with regards to obtaining e-cigarettes from various retailers and were active consumers of e-cigarette marketing. Conclusion This meta-ethnography provides an in-depth insight into social norms around e-cigarette use and beliefs that e-cigarettes could be a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes. As young adults increasingly engage with e-cigarettes, there is a need for informed policy decisions regarding appropriate use. Engagement with e-cigarettes is often reflected within social media, so this medium could be a key platform for creating tailored interventions which inform young adults about the appropriate use of these products. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13011-021-00416-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananth Ranjit
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Grace McCutchan
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Katherine Brain
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Neuadd Meirionnydd, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4YS, UK
| | - Ria Poole
- European Centre for Environment & Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, TR1 3DH, UK.
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15
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Abd ElHafeez S, Elbarazi I, Shaaban R, ElMakhzangy R, Ossama Aly M, Alnagar A, Yacoub M, El Saeh HM, Eltaweel N, Alqutub ST, Mohamed Ghazy R. Arabic validation and cross-cultural adaptation of the 5C scale for assessment of COVID-19 vaccines psychological antecedents. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254595. [PMID: 34437554 PMCID: PMC8389382 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the Arab countries, there has not been yet a specific validated Arabic questionnaire that can assess the psychological antecedents of COVID-19 vaccine among the general population. This study, therefore, aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the 5C scale into the Arabic language. METHODS The 5C scale was translated into Arabic by two independent bilingual co-authors, and then translated back into English. After reconciling translation disparities, the final Arabic questionnaire was disseminated into four randomly selected Arabic countries (Egypt, Libya, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Saudi Arabia). Data from 350 Arabic speaking adults (aged ≥18 years) were included in the final analysis. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was determined by concurrent, convergent, discriminant, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. RESULTS Age of participants ranged between 18 to 73 years; 57.14% were females, 37.43% from Egypt, 36.86%, from UAE, 30% were healthcare workers, and 42.8% had the intention to get COVID-19 vaccines. The 5 sub-scales of the questionnaire met the criterion of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha ≥0.7). The predictors of intention to get COVID-19 vaccines (concurrent validity) were young age and the 5C sub-scales. Convergent validity was identified by the significant inter-item and item-mean score of the sub-scale correlation (P<0.001). Discriminant validity was reported as inter-factor correlation matrix (<0.7). Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin sampling adequacy measure was 0.80 and Bartlett's sphericity test was highly significant (P<0.001). Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the 15 items of the questionnaire could be summarized into five factors. Confirmatory factor analysis confirmed that the hypothesized five-factor model of the 15-item questionnaire was satisfied with adequate psychometric properties and fit with observed data (RMSEA = 0.060, GFI = 0.924, CFI = 0.957, TLI = 0.937, SRMR = 0.076 & NFI = 906). CONCLUSION The Arabic version of the 5C scale is a valid and reliable tool to assess the psychological antecedents of COVID-19 vaccine among Arab population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Abd ElHafeez
- Epidemiology Department High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Iffat Elbarazi
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ramy Shaaban
- Department of Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences, Utah State University, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States of America
| | | | - Maged Ossama Aly
- High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Amr Alnagar
- General Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria university, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Yacoub
- Department of English, Florida International University, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Haider M. El Saeh
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tripoli, Tripoli, Libya
| | - Nashwa Eltaweel
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, University Hospitals of Birmingham, Birmingham, England, United Kingdom
| | - Sulafa T. Alqutub
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Ramy Mohamed Ghazy
- Tropical Health Department, High Institute of Public health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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16
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Généreux M, Schluter PJ, Landaverde E, Hung KKC, Wong CS, Mok CPY, Blouin-Genest G, O’Sullivan T, David MD, Carignan ME, Champagne-Poirier O, Pignard-Cheynel N, Salerno S, Lits G, d’Haenens L, Coninck DD, Matthys K, Champagne E, Burlone N, Qadar Z, Herbosa T, Ribeiro-Alves G, Law R, Murray V, Chan EYY, Roy M. The Evolution in Anxiety and Depression with the Progression of the Pandemic in Adult Populations from Eight Countries and Four Continents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4845. [PMID: 34062769 PMCID: PMC8125359 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18094845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Nearly a year after the classification of the COVID-19 outbreak as a global pandemic, it is clear that different factors have contributed to an increase in psychological disorders, including public health measures that infringe on personal freedoms, growing financial losses, and conflicting messages. This study examined the evolution of psychosocial impacts with the progression of the pandemic in adult populations from different countries and continents, and identified, among a wide range of individual and country-level factors, which ones are contributing to this evolving psychological response. An online survey was conducted in May/June 2020 and in November 2020, among a sample of 17,833 adults (Phase 1: 8806; Phase 2: 9027) from eight countries/regions (Canada, the United States, England, Switzerland, Belgium, Hong Kong, the Philippines, New Zealand). Probable generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive episode (MDE) were assessed. The independent role of potential factors was examined using multilevel logistic regression. Probable GAD or MDE was indicated by 30.1% and 32.5% of the respondents during phases 1 and 2, respectively (a 7.9% increase over time), with an important variation according to countries/regions (range from 22.3% in Switzerland to 38.8% in the Philippines). This proportion exceeded 50% among young adults (18-24 years old) in all countries except for Switzerland. Beyond young age, several factors negatively influenced mental health in times of pandemic; important factors were found, including weak sense of coherence (adjusted odds ratio aOR = 3.89), false beliefs (aOR = 2.33), and self-isolation/quarantine (aOR = 2.01). The world has entered a new era dominated by psychological suffering and rising demand for mental health interventions, along a continuum from health promotion to specialized healthcare. More than ever, we need to innovate and build interventions aimed at strengthening key protective factors, such as sense of coherence, in the fight against the adversity caused by the concurrent pandemic and infodemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélissa Généreux
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
| | - Philip J. Schluter
- School of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury-Te Whare Wananga o Waitaha, Christchurch 8140, New Zealand;
| | - Elsa Landaverde
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
| | - Kevin KC Hung
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ngan Shing Street 30-32, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.H.); (C.S.W.); (C.P.Y.M.); (E.Y.Y.C.)
| | - Chi Shing Wong
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ngan Shing Street 30-32, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.H.); (C.S.W.); (C.P.Y.M.); (E.Y.Y.C.)
| | - Catherine Pui Yin Mok
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ngan Shing Street 30-32, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.H.); (C.S.W.); (C.P.Y.M.); (E.Y.Y.C.)
| | - Gabriel Blouin-Genest
- School of Applied Politics, Faculté des Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada;
| | - Tracey O’Sullivan
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 7K4, Canada;
| | - Marc D. David
- Department of Communication, Faculté de Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (M.D.D.); (M.-E.C.); (O.C.-P.)
| | - Marie-Eve Carignan
- Department of Communication, Faculté de Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (M.D.D.); (M.-E.C.); (O.C.-P.)
| | - Olivier Champagne-Poirier
- Department of Communication, Faculté de Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1K 2R1, Canada; (M.D.D.); (M.-E.C.); (O.C.-P.)
| | | | - Sébastien Salerno
- Medi@Lab, Université de Genève, Boulevard du Pont-d’Arve 40, 1205 Genève, Switzerland;
| | - Grégoire Lits
- Institut Langage et Communication, Université catholique de Louvain, 1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium;
| | - Leen d’Haenens
- Institute for Media Studies, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
| | - David De Coninck
- Centre for Sociological Research, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.D.C.); (K.M.)
| | - Koenraad Matthys
- Centre for Sociological Research, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium; (D.D.C.); (K.M.)
| | - Eric Champagne
- School of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.C.); (N.B.)
| | - Nathalie Burlone
- School of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada; (E.C.); (N.B.)
| | - Zeeshan Qadar
- National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada;
| | - Teodoro Herbosa
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Philippines, Manille Grand, Manila 1000, Philippines;
| | | | - Ronald Law
- Department of Health, Manila, Manila 2932, Philippines;
| | | | - Emily Ying Yang Chan
- Collaborating Centre for Oxford University and CUHK for Disaster and Medical Humanitarian Response, JC School of Public Health and Primary Care, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Ngan Shing Street 30-32, Hong Kong, China; (K.K.H.); (C.S.W.); (C.P.Y.M.); (E.Y.Y.C.)
| | - Mathieu Roy
- Department of Family Medicine & Emergency Medicine, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5N4, Canada;
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Blake H, Knight H, Jia R, Corner J, Morling JR, Denning C, Ball JK, Bolton K, Figueredo G, Morris DE, Tighe P, Villalon AM, Ayling K, Vedhara K. Students' Views towards Sars-Cov-2 Mass Asymptomatic Testing, Social Distancing and Self-Isolation in a University Setting during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:4182. [PMID: 33920908 PMCID: PMC8071290 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to explore university students' perceptions and experiences of SARS-CoV-2 mass asymptomatic testing, social distancing and self-isolation, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study comprised of four rapid online focus groups conducted at a higher education institution in England, during high alert (tier 2) national COVID-19 restrictions. Participants were purposively sampled university students (n = 25) representing a range of gender, age, living circumstances (on/off campus), and SARS-CoV-2 testing/self-isolation experiences. Data were analysed using an inductive thematic approach. Six themes with 16 sub-themes emerged from the analysis of the qualitative data: 'Term-time Experiences', 'Risk Perception and Worry', 'Engagement in Protective Behaviours', 'Openness to Testing', 'Barriers to Testing' and 'General Wellbeing'. Students described feeling safe on campus, believed most of their peers are adherent to protective behaviours and were positive towards asymptomatic testing in university settings. University communications about COVID-19 testing and social behaviours need to be timely and presented in a more inclusive way to reach groups of students who currently feel marginalised. Barriers to engagement with SARS-CoV-2 testing, social distancing and self-isolation were primarily associated with fear of the mental health impacts of self-isolation, including worry about how they will cope, high anxiety, low mood, guilt relating to impact on others and loneliness. Loneliness in students could be mitigated through increased intra-university communications and a focus on establishment of low COVID-risk social activities to help students build and enhance their social support networks. These findings are particularly pertinent in the context of mass asymptomatic testing programmes being implemented in educational settings and high numbers of students being required to self-isolate. Universities need to determine the support needs of students during self-isolation and prepare for the long-term impacts of the pandemic on student mental health and welfare support services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Blake
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Holly Knight
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (H.K.); (R.J.); (K.A.); (K.V.)
| | - Ru Jia
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (H.K.); (R.J.); (K.A.); (K.V.)
| | - Jessica Corner
- University Executive Board, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Joanne R. Morling
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (H.K.); (R.J.); (K.A.); (K.V.)
| | - Chris Denning
- Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (C.D.); (J.K.B.)
| | - Jonathan K. Ball
- Biodiscovery Institute, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (C.D.); (J.K.B.)
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Kirsty Bolton
- School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Grazziela Figueredo
- School of Computer Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG8 1BB, UK;
| | - David E. Morris
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (D.E.M.); (A.M.V.)
| | - Patrick Tighe
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Armando Mendez Villalon
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK; (D.E.M.); (A.M.V.)
| | - Kieran Ayling
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (H.K.); (R.J.); (K.A.); (K.V.)
| | - Kavita Vedhara
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (H.K.); (R.J.); (K.A.); (K.V.)
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Shanmugavadivel D, Liu JF, Gilhooley C, Elsaadany L, Wood D. Changing patterns of emergency paediatric presentations during the first wave of COVID-19: learning for the second wave from a UK tertiary emergency department. BMJ Paediatr Open 2021; 5:e000967. [PMID: 34192192 PMCID: PMC7969761 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2020-000967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and initial public health response led to significant changes in health service delivery, access and utilisation. However, SARS-CoV-2 illness burden in children and young people (CYP) is low. To inform effective child public health interventions, we aimed to compare patterns of paediatric emergency department presentation during the initial pandemic response with a previous non-pandemic period. Methods Retrospective review of attendances (0-18 years) over the initial pandemic (2 March 2020-3 May 2020) compared with 2019. Outcome measures included number of attendances, referral source, presenting complaint, discharge diagnosis and disposal. Descriptive statistics with subgroup analysis by age/sex/ethnicity and pandemic time periods (pre-lockdown, lockdown weeks 1-3 and lockdown weeks 4-6) was performed. Results 4417 attendances (57% illness and 43% injuries) occurred, compared with 8813 (57% illness and 43% injuries), a reduction of 50%, maximal in lockdown week 2 (-73%). Ranking of top three illness presentations changed across the pandemic weeks. Breathing difficulty dropped from first (300, 25%) to second (117, 21%) to third (59, 11%) (p<0.001). Abdominal pain rose from the third pre-lockdown (87, 7%) and lockdown weeks 1-3 (37, 7%) to second in weeks 4-6 (62, 12%; p=0.004). Fever ranked second (235, 19%) in pre-lockdown and first in weeks 1-3 (134, 24%) and weeks 4-6 (94, 18%; p=0.035). Conclusions Despite a 50% reduction, there was no significant change in acuity of illness. Rank of illness presentations changed, with abdominal pain ranking second and fever first, an important change from previous, which should prompt further research into causes. CYP-specific public health messaging and guidance for primary care are required in this second wave to ensure access to appropriate emergency services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhurgshaarna Shanmugavadivel
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- DREEAM: Department of Research and Education in Emergency Medicine, Acute Medicine and Major Trauma, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jo-Fen Liu
- Children's Brain Tumour Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Colin Gilhooley
- DREEAM: Department of Research and Education in Emergency Medicine, Acute Medicine and Major Trauma, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
- Children's Emergency Department, Queen's Medical Centre Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Loai Elsaadany
- Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
| | - Damian Wood
- Nottingham Children's Hospital, Queen's Medical Centre Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
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