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Ruprecht MM, Floresca Y, Narla S, Felt D, Phillips G, Macapagal K, Philbin MM. "Being Queer, It Was Really Isolating": Stigma and Mental Health Among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Young People During COVID-19. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2024; 51:521-532. [PMID: 38757956 DOI: 10.1177/10901981241249973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and other sexual and gender minority (LGBTQ+) youth and young adults (YYAs) have poorer mental health outcomes than their cisgender, heterosexual peers in large part due to multilevel stigmatization and minority stress. This was exacerbated by psychological stressors stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic; these experiences intersected with YYA unique developmental stage. Here we explored LGBTQ+ YYA's pandemic-related experiences, focusing on intersections between stigma and belonging, developmental processes, and their relationship to mental health. We conducted qualitative interviews from August to November 2021 with 34 LGBTQ+ YYA ages 14 to 24; interviews were nested within a quantitative study on YYA experiences during COVID-19. Interviews were transcribed and coded using thematic analysis. YYA described how pandemic impacts like quarantine and isolation directly impacted their mental health; these coalesced around four types of thematic shifts: shifts in (1) time, (2) living situations, (3) community supports, and (4) social and political climate. Multilevel stigmatization also created new mechanisms of norm enforcement for LGBTQ+ YYA. Interviews demonstrated how the pandemic also impacted key developmental processes including identity formation and autonomy seeking. The potential consequences of these pandemic-related shifts largely depended on YYA's experiences of stigma and/or belonging throughout the pandemic. Findings suggested that isolation from the COVID-19 pandemic intersected with existing socio-ecological structures in LGBTQ+ young people's lives. Efforts to investigate longitudinal impacts of the pandemic, as well as to intervene to reduce the stigmatization experienced by LGBTQ+ YYA, remain urgent.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dylan Felt
- Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Schwandt ML, Cullins E, Ramchandani VA. The role of resilience in the relationship between stress and alcohol. Neurobiol Stress 2024; 31:100644. [PMID: 38827175 PMCID: PMC11140813 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2024.100644] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Stress plays a well-documented role in alcohol consumption and the risk for developing alcohol use disorder. The concept of resilience - coping with and successfully adapting to stressful life experiences - has received increasing attention in the field of addiction research in recent decades, and there has been an accumulation of evidence for resilience as a protective factor against problematic alcohol consumption, risk for alcohol use disorder, disorder severity, and relapse. The conceptual and methodological approaches used in the generation of this evidence vary considerably across investigations, however. In light of this, we carried out this review in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the meaning and scope of resilience, what factors contribute to resilience, how it is measured, and how it relates to alcohol-associated phenotypes. Implications for treatment through the use of resilience-building interventions are likewise discussed, as well as implications for future research on the role of resilience in the etiology and clinical outcomes of alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie L. Schwandt
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Eva Cullins
- Human Psychopharmacology Laboratory, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Vijay A. Ramchandani
- Human Psychopharmacology Laboratory, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Johnson SM, Penner J, Issitt R, Kmentt L, Grant K, Pandey A, Champsas D, Abdel-Mannan O, Maillard S, McKenzie K, Golding E, Kucera F, Hacohen Y, Moshal K. One- and Two-Year Multidisciplinary Follow-Up of MIS-C at a Tertiary Hospital: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2024:00006454-990000000-00905. [PMID: 38900060 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000004430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although 6-month follow-up of patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) was reassuring, there is scant data on long-term sequelae, including whether changing variants affect clinical severity and outcomes. METHODS Children (<18 years of age) admitted to Great Ormond Street Hospital between April 4, 2020, and January 2023, meeting diagnostic criteria for MIS-C were included. Admission and follow-up data were categorized by the predominant SARS-CoV-2 circulating variant in the United Kingdom. RESULTS One hundred and sixty children [median age, 10.1 (interquartile range, 7.9-12.6) years] were included. There was no difference in the time of symptom onset to diagnosis between waves (P=0.23) or hospitalization days across all waves (P=0.32). Inflammatory markers were normal for up to 2 years in all patients except one. Eleven patients (6.9%) remain in follow-up: cardiology (n=5), gastroenterology (n=5) and nephrology (n=1). The main self-reported symptoms at 2 years were abdominal pain (n=5) and myalgia (n=2). Fatigue was present in approximately a quarter of patients at admission; this reduced to 14 (9%), (2%) and 1 (2%) at 6-month, 1-year and 2-year follow-ups, respectively. Chronic fatigue or long-COVID symptomatology was rare (n=1) even with high rates of concurrent Epstein-Barr virus positivity (49/134). All patients had sustained neurological recovery with no new neurological pathology observed. CONCLUSIONS Patients with MIS-C have a sustained recovery, which is reassuring for positive long-term outcomes. Across waves, time from symptom onset to diagnosis and treatment, symptomatology and length of stay were similar. Sustained recovery is reassuring for clinicians and parents alike. Differentiating long-COVID symptomatology from that of MIS-C is important in formulating an individualized treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah May Johnson
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Justin Penner
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Issitt
- Great Ormond Street Hospital and Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health and NIHR GOSH Biomedical Research Centre, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Kmentt
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karlie Grant
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ashwin Pandey
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitrios Champsas
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Abdel-Mannan
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
- Queen Square MS Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sue Maillard
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Services, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kim McKenzie
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Services, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily Golding
- Psychology and Mental Health Services at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Filip Kucera
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
| | - Yael Hacohen
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
- Queen Square MS Centre, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karyn Moshal
- From theDepartment of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, United Kingdom
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Price AMH, Measey MA, Hoq M, Rhodes A, Goldfeld S. Caregiver and Child Mental Health During 3 Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023064658. [PMID: 38695088 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-064658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdowns (stay-at-home orders) had significant mental health consequences in 2020 to 2021 for caregivers and children. Little is known about "postlockdown" periods in 2022 to 2023. We investigated the mental health experiences of Australian families throughout the 3 years of the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023), by demographic characteristics and lockdown length. METHODS A total N = 12 408 caregivers (N = 20 339 children, aged 0-17 years) completed Australia's only representative, repeated, cross-sectional, National Child Health Poll across 6 waves (June 2020-April 2023). Caregivers reported mental health for themselves (Kessler-6, poor versus not) and each child (self-rated mental health, poor/fair versus good/very good/excellent), and perceived impacts of the pandemic on own/child mental health (negative versus none/positive). Binary logistic models were fitted to predict marginal probabilities of each mental health measure by state/territory group (proxy for lockdown length), over time, adjusted for potential demographic confounders. RESULTS Poor caregiver Kessler-6 was similar between genders but more common for sole caregivers, and those with a home language other than English and lower education. Poor/fair child self-rated mental health was similar between genders and increased with child age. Perceived negative impacts were more common for females and socially advantaged caregivers. Overall, negative mental health experiences increased with lockdown length, peaking with the height of lockdown in July 2021, before declining. CONCLUSIONS Negative mental health experiences of Australian caregivers and children decreased during postlockdown periods of 2022-2023; however, social gradients persisted. These data can inform more precise mental health policies that enable better use of limited mental health infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M H Price
- Centre for Community Child Health
- Population Health
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Monsurul Hoq
- Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics Unit, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthea Rhodes
- Department of General Medicine, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Population Health
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Goldfeld
- Centre for Community Child Health
- Population Health
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Gkintoni E, Kourkoutas E, Yotsidi V, Stavrou PD, Prinianaki D. Clinical Efficacy of Psychotherapeutic Interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Analysis. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:579. [PMID: 38790574 PMCID: PMC11119036 DOI: 10.3390/children11050579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Background: This systematic review aggregates research on psychotherapeutic interventions for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children and adolescents. PTSD in this demographic presents differently from adults, necessitating tailored therapeutic approaches. In children and adolescents, PTSD arises from exposure to severe danger, interpersonal violence, or abuse, leading to significant behavioral and emotional disturbances that jeopardize long-term development. The review focuses on describing PTSD within two age groups, children (6 to 12 years) and adolescents (12 to 18 years), while evaluating the effectiveness of various clinical interventions aimed at this condition. Methods: Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines, this review systematically examines studies that assess clinical interventions for PTSD in the younger population. Results: Key symptoms of PTSD in children and adolescents include avoidance, overstimulation, flashbacks, depression, and anxiety. The review identifies several effective treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Systemic Therapy, Play Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Relaxation Techniques, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy. Particularly, TF-CBT is highlighted as the most effective and commonly used method in treating childhood and adolescent PTSD, as supported by most of the studies reviewed. Conclusions: A significant outcome of this study is the short-term effectiveness of CBT in reducing PTSD symptoms in children and adolescents. The findings underline the importance of psychotherapeutic interventions and mark a substantial advancement in understanding PTSD in young populations. It is crucial for practitioners to integrate various psychotherapeutic strategies into their practice to improve patient outcomes and treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Gkintoni
- Department of Psychiatry, University General Hospital of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Elias Kourkoutas
- Department of Primary Education, Research Center for the Humanities, Social and Education Sciences, University of Crete, 74100 Rethymno, Greece;
| | - Vasiliki Yotsidi
- Department of Psychology, Panteion University, 17671 Athens, Greece;
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Marcotullio C, Attanasi M, Porreca A, Di Filippo P, Matricardi S, Venanzi A, Schiavo M, Paone A, Rossi N, Chiarelli F, Prezioso G. Neuropsychological Symptoms and Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Children: A Survey in a Pediatric Population in the Abruzzo Region, Italy. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:532. [PMID: 38790527 PMCID: PMC11119843 DOI: 10.3390/children11050532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has significantly affected the pediatric population. Long-term sequelae (Long COVID-19) may particularly involve the central nervous system, with possible effects on psychological well-being and quality of life (QoL), aspects that were already influenced by the restrictive measures and general social impact of the pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional survey that aims at investigating the neuropsychological effects and the QoL impairment of SARS-CoV-2 on a cohort of children and adolescents in the Abruzzo region (Italy). A questionnaire was submitted to caregivers with the help of the PEDIATOTEM platform. A control group of healthy subjects was also included to distinguish between the effects of infection from the general influence of the pandemic. RESULTS A total of 569 subjects responded: 396 COVID-19 patients (99 of whom had Long COVID-19) and 111 controls. After the pandemic, when compared with the COVID-19 group, the controls reported significantly increased appetite, sleeping habits, and time spent remotely with friends and a reduction in physical activity and time spent in person with friends. A significant higher rate of controls asked for psychological/medical support for emotional problems. On the other hand, the Long COVID-19 group showed more fatigue and emotional instability with respect to non-Long-COVID-19 subjects. No differences in QoL results (EuroQOL) were found between the COVID-19 patients and controls, while the Long-COVID-19 subgroup showed significantly higher rates of pain/discomfort and mood instability, as confirmed by the analysis of variation of responses from the pre-COVID-19 to the post-COVID-19 period. CONCLUSIONS Among COVID-19 patients, neuropsychological and QoL impairment was more evident in the Long COVID-19 subgroup, although emotional and relational issues were also reported by uninfected patients, with a growing request for specialist support as a possible consequence of social restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Marcotullio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Marina Attanasi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Annamaria Porreca
- Laboratory of Biostatistics, Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Paola Di Filippo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Sara Matricardi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Annamaria Venanzi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Marco Schiavo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Antonio Paone
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy;
| | - Nadia Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Francesco Chiarelli
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
| | - Giovanni Prezioso
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy; (C.M.); (M.A.); (P.D.F.); (S.M.); (A.V.); (M.S.); (N.R.); (F.C.)
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Hughes ML, White L, O'Brien MJ, Aubin J, Bradford C. Listening to School Nurses' Voices: A Mixed Methods Study on the Continued Impact of COVID-19 on School Nursing Practice. J Sch Nurs 2024:10598405241237726. [PMID: 38632959 DOI: 10.1177/10598405241237726] [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: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
School closures in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic precipitated losses of critical student resources as physical, mental, emotional, and social needs escalated. Identifying the challenges, strategies, and changes in school nurse (SN) practice in Massachusetts during this pandemic is fundamental to understanding how to manage future anticipated pandemics while protecting children, communities, and SNs. The purpose of this mixed-methods descriptive study in the second year of the global pandemic was to (a) listen to SN voices through a novel online survey including the prompts of challenges, strategies, and practice changes and (b) describe the SN experience of COVID-19 response in Massachusetts schools, including identification of intent to leave school nursing. Responses were analyzed using descriptive qualitative analysis (n = 73). The prompts each elicited subthemes that coalesced to a cohesive theme: Finding one's way required the support of others to pave untraversed roads.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Laurette Hughes
- Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medical-Rehabilitation Research, Franciscan Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Laura White
- Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network, Boston, MA, USA
- William F. Connell School of Nursing, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Mary Jane O'Brien
- Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Student & Community Impact, Boston Public Schools, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Judy Aubin
- Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Carol Bradford
- Massachusetts School Nurse Research Network, Boston, MA, USA
- Sudbury School District, Sudbury, MA, USA
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Green R, Linga-Easwaran J, Goodman C, Taylor M, Fabiano GF, Miller SP, Williams TS. Positive parenting practices support children at neurological risk during COVID-19: a call for accessible parenting interventions. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1328476. [PMID: 38650902 PMCID: PMC11033430 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1328476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Children and youth with neurological and/or neurodevelopmental conditions were at high risk for behavioral and mental health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Positive and responsive parenting practices may be one way to prevent and manage potential difficulties in families. We aimed to identify whether positive parenting practices were associated with reduced behavioral concerns in children at neurological risk during the late stages and aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, we examined whether ongoing parental stress, anxiety, and depression impacted parenting practices during this time period. Families (N = 179) with children 4 to 15 years old (M = 7.11y, SD = 2.02) diagnosed with neurological (84.3%), neurodevelopmental (54.8%) or comorbid neurological and/or neurodevelopmental conditions (21.2%) were contacted to complete online questionnaires regarding demographics, parent stress, child behavior, COVID-19 conditions, and parenting practices. Multivariable linear regression (MLR) analyses examined the association between positive parenting practices and parenting competency measures with child behavioral outcomes, controlling for relevant covariates, including COVID-19 related stress. MLR were also run to determine whether parental mental health impacted parenting practices. More positive parenting practices predicted fewer child problem behaviors and lower intensity of problem behaviors. Similarly, a higher sense of satisfaction with parenting competence also predicted fewer child problem behaviors and lower intensity of problem behaviors. In addition, higher reported parental depression, anxiety, and stress significantly predicted fewer reported positive parenting practices. Findings points to the promising application of positive parenting interventions to support vulnerable families, as well as the need for parental mental health intervention to support parenting practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rivka Green
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Janaksha Linga-Easwaran
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Carly Goodman
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Marin Taylor
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Giulia F. Fabiano
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Steven P. Miller
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Tricia S. Williams
- Department of Psychology, Division of Neurology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Garcia-Cerde R, Wagner GA, Valente JY, Sanchez ZM. Substance use and adolescent mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: a longitudinal approach. J Pediatr (Rio J) 2024:S0021-7557(24)00030-5. [PMID: 38580211 DOI: 10.1016/j.jped.2024.01.005] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the changes in alcohol and drug use by Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic (April-August 2021), and to analyze the relationship between alcohol use changes and psychiatric symptomatology. METHODS A secondary analysis with a longitudinal approach was performed with data from a cluster-randomized controlled trial, conducted in 73 public middle schools in three Brazilian cities, to evaluate the effectiveness of a drug use prevention program. The sample included 535 students (61% girls; Mage = 15.2 years). Data were collected pre-intervention (February-March 2019), after 9 months (November-December 2019), and after 26 months (April-August 2021), when the students were in their first year of high school. The authors analyzed drug use prevalence (alcohol, binge drinking, tobacco, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, and crack) in a lifetime, past year, and past month periods, and the association between alcohol use change subsamples with psychiatric symptoms. Logistic regressions were adjusted by sex, age, socioeconomic status, city, and group (control and intervention). RESULTS The present findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a decrease in past-year substance use and in past-month substance use frequency, despite the gradually increased (but decelerating) prevalence of lifetime use. However, some adolescents initiated, maintained, or increased the frequency of their alcohol use. Mainly, they were more likely to present behavioral problems, as well as symptoms of inattentive hyperactivity, and peer and emotional problems. CONCLUSIONS Despite the extensive decline in substance use during the pandemic period, these results suggest an association between previous mental health conditions and behavioral risk factors, leading to increased alcohol consumption and behavioral disorders manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Garcia-Cerde
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriela A Wagner
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Y Valente
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Zila M Sanchez
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Lopez JD, Daniels W, Joshi SV. Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Clinical Considerations and When to Worry. Pediatr Rev 2024; 45:132-142. [PMID: 38425161 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2022-005922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan David Lopez
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, Children, Youth and Families, San Francisco, CA
| | - Whitney Daniels
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Development, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Shashank V Joshi
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Child Development, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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11
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Vasudev K, Vasudev E, Lee C, Neumann AA, Regner A, Simpson PM, Dasgupta M, Fletcher KE. Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health-Care Career Interests Among High School Students. J Adolesc Health 2024; 74:621-624. [PMID: 38069934 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2023.10.022] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on high school students' interest in health-care careers. METHODS A voluntary web-based survey, approved by the Medical College of Wisconsin's Institutional Review Board, was administered across eight high schools in Milwaukee and its suburbs in Wisconsin. The survey collected students' demographic details, opinions on the health-care system's pandemic response, and their interest in health-care careers before and after the pandemic. RESULTS Out of 2,949 respondents, 29.9% were already contemplating a health-care career before the pandemic, with 27.7% indicating increased interest thereafter. Students not previously interested in health-care careers registered an 11.5% increase in interest due to the pandemic. Notably, the pandemic significantly boosted health-care career interest among females and freshmen. DISCUSSION The COVID-19 pandemic has distinctly influenced high school students' interest in health-care careers, notably among females and freshmen. This finding has implications for addressing projected health-care professional shortages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krish Vasudev
- Upper School Division, University School of Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
| | - Eshaan Vasudev
- Upper School Division, University School of Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Chloe Lee
- Brookfield Central High School, Brookfield, Wisconsin
| | | | | | - Pippa M Simpson
- Division of Quantitative Health Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Translational & Biomedical Research Center, Children's Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Mahua Dasgupta
- Division of Quantitative Health Sciences, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Translational & Biomedical Research Center, Children's Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Kathlyn E Fletcher
- Department of Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Goddard JA, Pagnotta VF, Duncan MJ, Sudiyono M, Pickett W, Leatherdale ST, Patte KA. A prospective study of financial worry, mental health changes and the moderating effect of social support among Canadian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Promot Chronic Dis Prev Can 2024; 44:101-111. [PMID: 38501681 DOI: 10.24095/hpcdp.44.3.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic intensified the impact of risk factors for adolescent mental health, including financial worry. Social support has shown to protect from negative mental health during times of stress. We examined the effect of financial worry on changes in anxiety and depression symptoms among Canadian adolescents prior to and during the pandemic, and assessed whether social support from family and friends moderated any changes. METHODS We analyzed 2-year linked data from the 2018/19 (pre-pandemic) and 2020/21 (during-pandemic) waves of the COMPASS study, with reports from 12 995 Canadian secondary school students. A series of multilevel linear regressions were conducted to examine the main hypotheses under study. RESULTS Students scored an average (SD) of 7.2 (5.8) on the anxiety (GAD-7) and 10.0 (6.5) on the depression (CESD-10) scales; 16.1% reported they experienced financial worry during the pandemic. Financial worry was a strong and significant predictor of increased anxiety scores (+1.7 score between those reporting "true/mostly true" versus "false/mostly false") during the pandemic, but not for depression scores. Low family and friend support were associated with anxiety, and low family support was associated with depression. No significant interactions were detected between social support and financial worry. CONCLUSIONS Pandemic-related financial worry was significantly associated with anxiety in our large sample of Canadian adolescents. Clinical and public health initiatives should be aware of adolescents' financial worry and its associations with anxiety during times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Goddard
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Valerie F Pagnotta
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Markus J Duncan
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Sudiyono
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
| | - William Pickett
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Scott T Leatherdale
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen A Patte
- Department of Health Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
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Robles B, Kwak H, Kuo T. Associations Between Patient Comfort with a Primary Care Provider and Three Measures of Behavioral Health Services Utilization. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10259-5. [PMID: 38388741 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10259-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral health services (BHS) can help improve and treat mental and emotional health problems. Yet, attitudinal and/or structural barriers often prevent individuals from accessing and benefiting from these services. Positive provider-patient interactions in healthcare, encompassing patient comfort with a primary care provider (PCP), which is often enhanced by shared decision-making, may mitigate the stigma associated with seeing a mental health professional; this may improve BHS utilization among patients who need these services. However, few studies have examined how patient comfort with a PCP, often through shared decision-making, may influence patients' BHS utilization in the real world. This study sought to address this gap in practice. METHOD Multivariable regression analyses, using weighted data from an internet panel survey of Los Angeles County adults (n = 749), were carried out to examine the associations between patient comfort with a PCP and three measures of BHS utilization. Subsequent analyses were conducted to explore the extent to which shared decision-making moderated these associations. RESULTS Participants who reported an intermediate or high comfort level with a provider had higher odds of reporting that they were likely to see (aOR = 2.10 and 3.84, respectively) and get advice (aOR = 2.75 and 4.76, respectively) from a mental health professional compared to participants who reported a low comfort level. Although shared decision-making influenced participants' likelihood of seeing and getting advice from a mental health professional, it was not a statistically significant moderator in these associations. CONCLUSION Building stronger relationships with patients may improve BHS utilization, a provider practice that is likely underutilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Robles
- Research Group On Statistics, Econometrics, and Health (GRECS), University of Girona, Carrer de la Universitat de Girona 10, Campus de Montilivi, Girona, 17003, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Hannah Kwak
- Department of Internal Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 911 Broxton Ave., Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
| | - Tony Kuo
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Box 951722, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, 10880 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1800, Los Angeles, CA, 90024, USA
- Population Health Program, UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute, 10833 Le Conte Ave., BE-144 CHS, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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Bashatah L, Aseri S, Al-Rawi MBA. Assessment of the Mental, Social, and Educational Impact of the COVID-19 Quarantine and Predictors: A Survey-Based- Study from Saudi Parents. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2024; 17:317-328. [PMID: 38333628 PMCID: PMC10849916 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s448194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Quarantine has had a powerful effect on parents and children in Saudi Arabia in different aspects, namely, educational, mental, and social. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the mental, social, and educational impact of the COVID-19 Quarantine and its predictors among Saudi parents. Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out over 6 months in 2020 using structured questionnaires with 42 items, detailing pre-quarantine assistance with childcare, followed by mental, educational, and social challenges answered using a 5-point Likert scale and the factors affecting their children's learning at home during the COVID-19 quarantine. The data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Results A response rate of 79.5% (n=831) was obtained. Mental challenges were experienced the most, and 68.1% of the parents worried about their children being infected with COVID-19. This was followed by the educational challenges related to their children's online learning, with 61.2% of the parents attributing it to their children's low motivation towards online learning. The mean score for the education domain was 31.14(±7.02). Similarly, the mean score for the mental impact and social impact was 33.13(±7.82) and 12.81(±2.98). The results of the multiple linear regression analysis revealed participants' gender was found significantly associated with the mean score of the educational domain (p = 0.010). Conclusion Social challenges were experienced the least, and parents confirmed that quarantine had helped them strengthen their family relations. Most participants agreed that they had fun spending time with both their partners and children. It is recommended to implement online remote activities and services that assist students and professionals in addressing pandemic concerns, such as virtual group exercise, virtual movie nights, and virtual office hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Bashatah
- Early Childhood Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Safana Aseri
- Early Childhood Department, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmood Basil A Al-Rawi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Chatzidaki E, Chioti V, Mourtou L, Papavasileiou G, Kitani RA, Kalafatis E, Mitsis K, Athanasiou M, Zarkogianni K, Nikita K, Kanaka-Gantenbein C, Pervanidou P. Parenting Styles and Psychosocial Factors of Mother-Child Dyads Participating in the ENDORSE Digital Weight Management Program for Children and Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:107. [PMID: 38255420 PMCID: PMC10814028 DOI: 10.3390/children11010107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Childhood obesity is a complex disease with multiple biological and psychosocial risk factors. Recently, novel digital programs were developed with growing evidence for their effectiveness in pediatric weight management studies. The ENDORSE platform consists of mobile applications, wearables, and serious games for the remote management of childhood obesity. The pilot studies included 50 mothers and their children aged 6-14 years and resulted in a clinically significant BMI z-score reduction over 4 to 5 months. This secondary analysis of the ENDORSE study focuses on parenting styles and psychosocial factors. METHODOLOGY Semi-structured clinical interviews were conducted with all participating mothers pre-and post-intervention. The Parenting Styles and Dimensions Questionnaire (PSDQ) evaluated the mothers' parenting styles. The psychosocial functioning of the participating children was assessed with the parental version of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The relationship between parenting styles, psychosocial parameters, and weight outcomes was investigated using a linear regression analysis. RESULTS Weight-related stigma at school (56%), body image concerns (66%), and difficulties in family relationships (48%) were the main concerns documented during the initial psychological interviews. According to the SDQ, there was a significant decrease in children's conduct problems during the study's initial phase (pre-pilot group). A decrease in maternal demandingness (i.e., strict parenting style) was associated with a decrease in BMI z-score (beta coefficient = 0.314, p-value = 0.003). CONCLUSION Decreasing parental demandingness was associated with better weight outcomes, highlighting the importance of assessing parenting factors in pediatric weight management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evi Chatzidaki
- First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.C.); (V.C.); (C.K.-G.)
| | - Vassiliki Chioti
- First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.C.); (V.C.); (C.K.-G.)
| | - Lidia Mourtou
- Postgraduate Course on “The Science of Stress and Health Promotion”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.M.); (G.P.); (R.-A.K.)
| | - Georgia Papavasileiou
- Postgraduate Course on “The Science of Stress and Health Promotion”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.M.); (G.P.); (R.-A.K.)
| | - Rosa-Anna Kitani
- Postgraduate Course on “The Science of Stress and Health Promotion”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.M.); (G.P.); (R.-A.K.)
| | - Eleftherios Kalafatis
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (K.M.); (M.A.); (K.Z.); (K.N.)
| | - Kostas Mitsis
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (K.M.); (M.A.); (K.Z.); (K.N.)
| | - Maria Athanasiou
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (K.M.); (M.A.); (K.Z.); (K.N.)
| | - Konstantia Zarkogianni
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (K.M.); (M.A.); (K.Z.); (K.N.)
- Department of Advanced Computing Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Engineering, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Konstantina Nikita
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, 15780 Athens, Greece; (E.K.); (K.M.); (M.A.); (K.Z.); (K.N.)
| | - Christina Kanaka-Gantenbein
- First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.C.); (V.C.); (C.K.-G.)
- Postgraduate Course on “The Science of Stress and Health Promotion”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.M.); (G.P.); (R.-A.K.)
| | - Panagiota Pervanidou
- First Department of Pediatrics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aghia Sophia Children’s Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece; (E.C.); (V.C.); (C.K.-G.)
- Postgraduate Course on “The Science of Stress and Health Promotion”, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (L.M.); (G.P.); (R.-A.K.)
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von Rezori RE, Baumeister H, Holl RW, Minden K, Müller-Stierlin AS, Reinauer C, Temming S, Warschburger P. Testing a model of benefit-finding and growth in youths with chronic health conditions. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:19. [PMID: 38183031 PMCID: PMC10768283 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04467-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The experience of benefit-finding and growth (BFG), defined as perceiving positive life changes resulting from adversity, is increasingly studied among youths with chronic health conditions (CCs). However, empirical evidence is scarce for explaining individual differences in BFG. The study aimed to test a model of BFG, including an interplay of personal and environmental factors and coping processes. METHODS A sample of N = 498 youths (12-21 years) recruited from three German patient registries for CCs (type 1 diabetes: n = 388, juvenile idiopathic arthritis: n = 82, cystic fibrosis: n = 28) completed a questionnaire including self-reported optimism, social support from parents and peers, coping strategies, and BFG. The model was created to reflect the theoretical assumptions of the Life Crisis and Personal Growth model and current empirical evidence. Structural equation modeling was conducted to evaluate the incremental explanatory power of optimism, peer group integration, parental support, acceptance, cognitive reappraisal, and seeking social support over and above sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics. RESULTS The model (CFI = 0.93; RMSEA = 0.04; SRMR = 0.05) explained 32% of the variance in BFG. Controlling for sociodemographic and disease-related characteristics, acceptance, cognitive reappraisal, and seeking social support were directly and positively linked to BFG. All tested coping strategies significantly mediated the association between optimism and BFG, whereas seeking social support significantly mediated the relation between peer group integration and BFG. DISCUSSION The study stresses the prominent role of emotion-focused coping strategies and peer group integration in enhancing BFG in youths with CCs. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), no. DRKS00025125. Registered on May 17, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman E von Rezori
- Department of Psychology, Counseling Psychology, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Harald Baumeister
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Reinhard W Holl
- Institute for Epidemiology and Medical Biometry, ZIBMT, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Kirsten Minden
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Christina Reinauer
- Department of General, Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Svenja Temming
- Department of Pediatric Respiratory Medicine, Immunology and Critical Care Medicine, Charité University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Petra Warschburger
- Department of Psychology, Counseling Psychology, University of Potsdam, Karl-Liebknecht-Str. 24-25, 14476, Potsdam, Germany.
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Freda MF, Scandurra C, Auriemma E, Guarino A, Lemmo D, Martino ML, Nunziata F, Maldonato NM, Continisio GI. Long-COVID in children: An exploratory case-control study from a bio-psycho-social perspective. J Psychosom Res 2024; 176:111564. [PMID: 38100898 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2023.111564] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine psychosocial differences between children with Long-COVID Syndrome (LCS) and two control groups (i.e., children who did not have COVID-19 and children who had previously had COVID-19 but did not develop LCS) from a bio-psycho-social and psychosomatic perspective. To classify children in these three groups, we examined the percentage of children meeting criteria for LCS, the type, frequency, perceived severity of symptoms, and their prevalence compared with children who never had SARS-CoV-2 infection. METHODS Data were collected from 198 Italian mothers of children aged 4 to 13 years using a cross-sectional web-based case-control survey. Of these, 105 were mothers of children who had contracted SARS-CoV-2 and 94 were mothers of children who had previously had COVID-19. Information was collected on the type and frequency of symptoms commonly referred to as "Long-COVID symptoms" and psychosocial dimensions (i.e., maternal and child health anxiety, COVID-19 anxiety, adjustment, and child deprivation). Descriptive analyses, chi-square tests, Student's T-Test, and analyses of variance were performed. RESULTS 29 children (15% of the total sample) developed LCS, mostly in the neurological/neuropsychiatric domain (59%), and of mild intensity. Regarding psychosocial and psychological dimensions, maternal health anxiety, child deprivation, and fear of SARS-CoV-2 infection differed between groups, with the first two dimensions higher in children with LCS than in controls and the latter lower in children with LCS than in controls. CONCLUSION This study sheds light on the need of integrating a psychosocial approach into the medical care of children with LCS and their caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Francesca Freda
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II - Via Porta di Massa 1, Napoli 80133, Italy.
| | - Cristiano Scandurra
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II - Via Porta di Massa 1, Napoli 80133, Italy.
| | - Ersilia Auriemma
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II - Via Porta di Massa 1, Napoli 80133, Italy
| | - Alfredo Guarino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II - Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80131, Italy.
| | - Daniela Lemmo
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II - Via Porta di Massa 1, Napoli 80133, Italy.
| | - Maria Luisa Martino
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II - Via Porta di Massa 1, Napoli 80133, Italy.
| | - Francesco Nunziata
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II - Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80131, Italy
| | - Nelson Mauro Maldonato
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Dentistry, University of Naples Federico II - Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80131, Italy.
| | - Grazia Isabella Continisio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II - Via Sergio Pansini 5, Napoli 80131, Italy.
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Pollak I, Stiehl KAM, Birchwood J, Schrank B, Zechner KA, Wiesner C, Woodcock KA. Promoting Peer Connectedness Through Social-Emotional Learning: Evaluating the Intervention Effect Mechanisms and Implementation Factors of a Social-Emotional Learning Programme for 9 to 12-Year-Olds. J Youth Adolesc 2024; 53:89-116. [PMID: 37796373 PMCID: PMC10761397 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-023-01871-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
There is little evidence regarding the effect mechanisms of social-emotional learning programs on children's peer relationships. The current study evaluated a novel school-based social-emotional learning program for the first year of secondary school assessing effects on social-emotional skills, peer connectedness, happiness, student and teacher classroom climate. The sample included 19 intervention classrooms (n = 399) and 16 waitlist-control classrooms (n = 281), with a mean age of 10.34 (SD = 0.76) and 48.8% girls. The main intervention effect analysis followed a per-protocol approach and was thus conducted with eight classes that finished all sessions (n = 195) and the control group classes (n = 281). It was further hypothesized that increases in social-emotional skills would predict peer connectedness and class climate increases, which would predict happiness. Results indicated significant intervention effects for social skills, peer connectedness and happiness. Classroom climate declined for both groups, seemingly affected by the school transition. Hypothesized relationships between target variables were partly supported with significant effects of social-emotional skills on connectedness and significant effects of peer connectedness on happiness for children reporting connectedness decreases. Additional analyses were conducted including all classrooms to compare the intervention's effectiveness across different implementation progress groups. Significant group differences were found, indicating that implementation aspects impact intervention outcomes. The findings indicate that universal, school-based social-emotional leaning programs are effective approaches to support peer relationships in the context of the school transition. However, more implementation support seems to be needed to ensure best-practice delivery and achieve maximal intervention effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Pollak
- D.O.T. Research Group for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Ludwig Boltzmann Society at Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria.
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Scientific Working Group, D.O.T.-Die offene Tür (The open door), Krems, Austria.
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Department of Health and Clinical Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Katharina A M Stiehl
- D.O.T. Research Group for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Ludwig Boltzmann Society at Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Scientific Working Group, D.O.T.-Die offene Tür (The open door), Krems, Austria
- Department of Health and Clinical Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Research Centre Transitional Psychiatry at the Tulln University Hospital, Krems, Austria
| | - James Birchwood
- School of Education, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Beate Schrank
- D.O.T. Research Group for Mental Health of Children and Adolescents, Ludwig Boltzmann Society at Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Scientific Working Group, D.O.T.-Die offene Tür (The open door), Krems, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Research Centre Transitional Psychiatry at the Tulln University Hospital, Krems, Austria
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Tulln, Tulln an der Donau, Austria
| | - Kerstin Angelika Zechner
- Department of Diversity, University College of Teacher Education in Lower Austria, Baden, Austria
| | - Christian Wiesner
- Department of Diversity, University College of Teacher Education in Lower Austria, Baden, Austria
| | - Kate Anne Woodcock
- Centre for Applied Psychology, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute for Mental Health, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Pace CS, Muzi S, Frigerio A, Morganti W, Bianchi V, Rogier G. Twenty years of emotional-behavioral problems of community adolescents living in Italy measured through the Achenbach system of empirically based assessment (ASEBA): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1161917. [PMID: 38146284 PMCID: PMC10749347 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1161917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of emotional and behavioral problems among Italian community adolescents in the last 20 years, as assessed through the ASEBA questionnaires CBCL 6-18, YSR 11-18 and TRF 6-18. Research questions address: (1) pooled means of problems' scores in questionnaires scales; (2-3) variations in scores according to sociodemographic and time-related factors, and studies' quality; (4) trends in research with ASEBA instruments along with other outcomes, e.g., psychopathological symptoms. Methods A systematic literature review of Scopus, EBSCO, PubMed, Web of Science, and ProQuest databases using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines was conducted on November, 2021, and of grey literature on December, 2021. The quality of studies was assessed through the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results Forty-four studies were eligible for the systematic review, of which 34 were included for meta-analysis. Results showed that: (1) emotional-behavioral problems were higher when assessed by the CBCL and lower when assessed by the YSR compared to normative data; (2) there were no gender and age differences, except for higher scores of Anxious/Depression symptoms, in girls. (3) internalizing and attention problems increased over the last two decades. (4) major trends of Italian research investigate adolescents' emotional behavioral problems concerning attachment, comorbid symptoms, especially internet addictions, and eating disorders. Discussion Despite some limitations (e.g., low-medium quality of most studies, no data on the TRF, under-representation of some geographical areas, some search-related choices), these data provides Italian practitioners and international researchers of some parameter to evaluate Italian adolescents emotional-behavioral problems. Registered on PROSPERO N. CRD42022299999.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Serena Pace
- Department of Education Sciences, School of Social Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Stefania Muzi
- Department of Education Sciences, School of Social Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Alessandra Frigerio
- Scientific Institute, IRCCS E. Medea, Child Psychopathology Unit, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy
| | - Wanda Morganti
- Department of Education Sciences, School of Social Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Victoria Bianchi
- Department of Education Sciences, School of Social Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
| | - Guyonne Rogier
- Department of Education Sciences, School of Social Sciences, University of Genoa, Genova, Italy
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Rimpelä A, Kesanto-Jokipolvi H, Myöhänen A, Heikonen L, Oinas S, Ahtiainen R. School and class closures and adolescent mental health during the second and later waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Finland: a repeated cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:2434. [PMID: 38057763 PMCID: PMC10702082 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies have shown deterioration of adolescents' mental health when comparing periods before and after the start of the pandemic when there were national school closures. Less is known of the following waves with more variation in school closures and their duration. We study here, if variation in school or class closures was related to adolescents' mental health, if the duration mattered, and if the relationships were gender sensitive. METHODS All comprehensive schools in Finland were invited to participate. Students (grades 7-9, age 13-16 years) answered digitally in November-December 2020 (n = 41,041) and April-May 2021 (n = 28,501). The responses were given anonymously. Mental health was measured by daily health complaints and moderate/severe anxiety (GAD-7, only in 2021). School and class closures were combined to a variable (yes/no). The duration of a closure was analysed in weeks. Logistic regression analysis was used. RESULTS In 2020, 14% of pupils reported a school closure and 33% in 2021. The gender-adjusted odds for daily health complaints were higher among those with the school or class closure compared to those without (OR = 1.2 (1.1-1.3) in 2020; OR = 1.3 (1.2-1.3) in 2021). For anxiety, the corresponding OR was 1.3 (1.2-1.4). Girls had higher odds for both measures than boys and the non-binary gender had the highest. A one-week increase in the duration of closure had a small effect on daily health complaints OR = 1.05 (1.02-1.09) in 2020; OR = 1.05 (1.02-1.08) in 2021) and anxiety OR = 1.05 (1.01-1.08). Gender differences in the associations of the school or class closure with mental health were negligible. CONCLUSIONS A specific negative influence of school or class closures on adolescents' mental health was seen when comparing those who had school/class closure and those who did not during the further waves of the pandemic. The duration of closure had a small effect, too. The non-binary gender had lowest mental health, but the influence of school closure on mental health was mainly similar between the genders. School closures are one of the factors in adolescents' mental health, but not the only one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arja Rimpelä
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Heidi Kesanto-Jokipolvi
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Anna Myöhänen
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Health Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Lauri Heikonen
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Department of Education, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sanna Oinas
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Department of Education, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Department of Teacher Education, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Raisa Ahtiainen
- Faculty of Educational Sciences, Department of Education, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Moreira H, Góis AC, Pereira AM, Pereira B, Caiado B, Nepomuceno MI, Pereira AI. Parents' acceptability of blended psychological interventions for children with emotional disorders. Internet Interv 2023; 34:100687. [PMID: 38023966 PMCID: PMC10654020 DOI: 10.1016/j.invent.2023.100687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aims to (1) describe parents' knowledge and use of online resources to address children's mental health issues and the family's general internet and technology usage patterns; (2) examine parents' acceptance of blended interventions for children with emotional disorders (ED); and (3) analyse the predictors of parents' intention to use a blended intervention if their children experienced an ED. Method The sample included 164 Portuguese parents (95.7 % mothers) of children between the ages of 6 and 13 years who completed an online survey. The study was disseminated through social networks, personal contacts of the researchers, and among parents participating in a randomized controlled trial investigating the efficacy of a psychological intervention for children with ED. Results Only 4.3 % of parents knew about online psychological interventions for children, and only 1.2 % had used them before. Most parents (73.2 %) reported that they would choose face-to-face individual therapy as their first option if their child had any ED, followed by blended therapy (14.8 %). Regression analyses showed that higher levels of parents' intention to use a blended intervention were predicted by their perceptions of the utility or efficacy of this type of delivery format. Discussion/conclusion These results suggest that although most parents show unfamiliarity with blended psychological interventions for children, they consider it a treatment modality to which they would resort if their children had emotional difficulties. Their intention to use such an intervention seems to be more likely if they perceive it as useful and effective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Moreira
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
| | - Ana Carolina Góis
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
| | - Ana Maria Pereira
- University of Coimbra, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
| | - Bárbara Pereira
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
| | - Brígida Caiado
- University of Coimbra, Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Portugal
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Blanta M, Karathanasi A, Tzonichaki I. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's occupations. Hong Kong J Occup Ther 2023; 36:69-83. [PMID: 38027048 PMCID: PMC10680856 DOI: 10.1177/15691861231204905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic changed the daily lives and limited everyday activities of children worldwide. Objectives To document the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's occupations, the associated factors, and the impact on children's health, wellbeing, and development. Methods A narrative review was conducted by searching four databases (Scopus, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews). Results A total of 35 articles met the inclusion criteria. Out of the 34 articles, 23 were relevant to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on occupations related to leisure (n = 17), productivity (n = 11), and self-care (n = 9). Ten articles highlighted specific factors that had been linked to changes in occupational engagement and child behavior. Ten articles focused on the impact of occupational disruption during COVID-19 on health, wellbeing, and general development. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic seems to have had a negative impact on children's occupations, while the restrictions were still in effect. Further research is needed to establish reliable conclusions.
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23
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Childs GD, DeSocio J, Sloand E, Gary F, Burke PJ, Outlaw FH, Snethen JA, Lewandowski LA, Bowen FR. Application of the Toxic Stress Schema: An Exemplar for School Nurses. J Sch Nurs 2023; 39:524-535. [PMID: 36377287 DOI: 10.1177/10598405221135186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
For many children of color, the cumulative impact of pre-existing stressors, disparities, and pandemic-related losses has contributed to a toxic level of stress. Toxic stress can disrupt healthy brain development making children vulnerable to physical and mental health problems. School nurses are the primary health professionals who interact with children daily during the academic year, which positions them to identify risk factors within the social determinants of health that contribute to the development of toxic stress. The Toxic Stress Schema (TSS) provides a framework for assessment and care planning related to social determinants of health and potential sources of stress and/or buffering support for the physical and mental well-being of children. A case study approach is used to demonstrate the application of the TSS to school nursing and provide the basis for conceptualizing a plan of care and identifying resources to support the child's physical and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwendolyn D Childs
- Associate Professor and Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Prelicensure Education, University of Alabama at Birmingham, School of Nursing, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Janiece DeSocio
- Professor of Nursing, Seattle University College of Nursing, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Faye Gary
- Medical Mutual of Ohio & Kent W. Clapp Chair and Professor of Nursing, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Pamela J Burke
- LEAH Program Faculty/Senior Advisor for Nursing, Division of Adolescent & Young Adult Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Freida H Outlaw
- Executive Academic Consultant, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Minority Fellowship Program, American Nurses Association, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Julie A Snethen
- Professor and PhD Program Director, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Linda A Lewandowski
- Dean, College of Nursing, and Vice-Provost for Health Affairs, University of Toledo College of Nursing, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Felesia R Bowen
- Professor and Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Nursing, Birmingham, AL, USA
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24
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Folch C, Ganem F, Colom-Cadena A, Martínez I, Cabezas C, Casabona J. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological well-being of adolescents by gender identity. GACETA SANITARIA 2023; 37:102346. [PMID: 38007956 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaceta.2023.102346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological well-being of adolescents in Catalan schools by gender identity, and to compare coping strategies adopted to manage the health crisis and their relationship with the self-perceived impact of COVID-19 on mental health. METHOD Cross-sectional study in educational centres that includes 1171 adolescents over 15 years old from October to November 2021. Multivariate logistic regression models were built to evaluate the association between coping strategies with self-perceived impact of the pandemic on mental health. RESULTS A greater proportion of girls perceived a worsening in mental health than boys due to COVID-19 (36.9% and 17.8%, respectively). The main emotions reported for both girls and boys were worry and boredom. The study found an association between positive coping strategies with less adverse mental health among girls, whereas unhealthy habits were associated with a higher probability of declaring worsening of mental health for both girls and boys. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychological well-being in adolescents and a clearly worse impact on girls. It is important to keep monitoring the medium- and long-term secondary impacts of the pandemic on mental health outcomes of adolescents and to gather information that can improve services for the development of healthy coping strategies during health crises like COVID-19, which include gender perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinta Folch
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Sexually Transmitted Disease and AIDS in Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain.
| | - Fabiana Ganem
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Sexually Transmitted Disease and AIDS in Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Pediatria, d'Obstetrícia i Ginecologia i de Medicina Preventiva i de Salut Publica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andreu Colom-Cadena
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Sexually Transmitted Disease and AIDS in Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isabel Martínez
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Sexually Transmitted Disease and AIDS in Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Cabezas
- Public Health Secretary, Health Department of the Government of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Casabona
- Centre for Epidemiological Studies of Sexually Transmitted Disease and AIDS in Catalonia (CEEISCAT), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute (IGTP), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain; Departament de Pediatria, d'Obstetrícia i Ginecologia i de Medicina Preventiva i de Salut Publica, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
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25
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Gruszka P, Ganahl K, Stasch N, Burger C, Haberlandt E, Bauer SM. Parental anxiety and depression are associated with adverse mental health in children with special needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1254277. [PMID: 38074710 PMCID: PMC10699309 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1254277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to restrictions in various areas of life, including social life, work, leisure, health, and education. Vulnerable groups, such as children with special needs and their parents, may be at increased risk of experiencing exacerbated mental health problems during stressful periods such as the COVID-19 lockdowns. Materials and methods Telephone interviews were conducted with 954 parents of children with special needs. We assessed parental levels of generalized anxiety and depression using the validated GAD-7 and PHQ-8 scales. Parents were asked to rate family burden and their worry about the COVID-19 crisis, as well as their children's adverse mental health symptoms and health behaviors. Parents also reported their children's worries about the COVID-19 crisis. We conducted regressions to examine the relationship between parents' mental health problems and their children's adverse mental health symptoms and health behaviors. Qualitative data from open-ended questions were coded thematically and major themes of parental worry about the COVID-19 crisis were identified. Results Parental anxiety and depression symptoms predicted adverse mental health symptoms and behaviors in children with special needs. Criteria for current depression were met by 7.9% of parents of children with special needs, whereas 4.7% of the general population in Vorarlberg met the criteria for current depression according to data from the Austrian Health Interview Survey in 2019. Parental self-ratings of both depression and anxiety were highly correlated. The majority of parents reported being burdened (79.1%) or worried (67.8%) about the COVID-19 crisis. The main themes of parental worry about the COVID-19 crisis included COVID-19 infection (40.6%), economic situation (13.1%), uncertainty (8.4%), lack of social contact with family and friends (8.1%), family health status (7.5%), and school life (7.5%). Discussion Mental health symptoms in parents of children with special needs were strongly associated with increased adverse mental health symptoms and health behaviors in their children. Parents of children with special needs were more likely to be depressed during the COVID-19 pandemic than adults in 2019. We call for additional mental health support to reduce the mental health burden in families with children with special needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Gruszka
- Agency for Preventive and Social Medicine, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Kristin Ganahl
- Agency for Preventive and Social Medicine, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Nicole Stasch
- Agency for Preventive and Social Medicine, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Christoph Burger
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Psychology and Psychodynamics, Karl Landsteiner University for Health Sciences, Krems, Austria
| | - Edda Haberlandt
- Agency for Preventive and Social Medicine, Bregenz, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Dornbirn, Dornbirn, Austria
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Schneider V, Norris T, Nugawela M, Dalrymple E, Hargreaves D, Käll A, McOwat K, Shafran R, Stephenson T, Xu L, Pinto Pereira SM. Loneliness Trajectories, Associated Factors and Subsequent Health in Children and Young People During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A National Matched Cohort Study. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:4461-4477. [PMID: 37936971 PMCID: PMC10626032 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s421165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Loneliness is common amongst children and young people (CYP) and is an independent risk factor for poor health. This study aimed to i) determine whether subgroups of CYP with different loneliness trajectories (during the second year of the pandemic) exist; ii) examine associations with socio-demographic characteristics and subsequent health; and iii) understand whether associations between loneliness and subsequent health were modified by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Methods A total of 5851 CYP (N=3260 SARS-CoV-2 positive and 2591 SARS-CoV-2 negative) provided data on loneliness (via the validated 3-item version of the UCLA Loneliness Scale for Children) at least twice in a 12-month period post PCR index-testing (conducted October 2020-March 2021). Latent class growth analyses were used to identify distinct classes of loneliness trajectories. Multinomial logistic regression was used to identify socio-demographic characteristics associated with class membership. Logistic regression models assessed the odds of reporting impairing symptoms 12-months post index-test. Results Four distinct loneliness trajectories were identified: three mostly stable (low, medium, high) and one low-increasing trajectory. Being older, female, living in more deprived areas and testing negative were associated with greater odds of being in the highest vs lowest loneliness trajectory; eg OR for female vs male: 5.6 (95% CI:4.1,7.8); OR for 15-17 vs 11-14 years: 4.5 (95% CI:3.4,6.0). Following higher loneliness trajectories was associated with higher odds of experiencing impairing symptoms 12-months post index-test: ORadjusted (compared to lowest loneliness trajectory) were 15.9 (95% CI:11.9,21.3) (high loneliness), 6.5 (5.3,7.9) (medium loneliness) and 2.3 (1.9,2.8) (low-increasing loneliness). There was no evidence that this association was modified by PCR index-test result. Conclusion About 5.3% of CYP were classified into a group experiencing (chronically) high loneliness. Being female, older and from more deprived areas were risk factors of belonging to this group. Results suggest that even small increases from low loneliness levels may be associated with worse health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Schneider
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tom Norris
- Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK
| | - Manjula Nugawela
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Emma Dalrymple
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dougal Hargreaves
- Mohn Centre for Children’s Health & Wellbeing, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Anton Käll
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kelsey McOwat
- Immunisation Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
| | - Roz Shafran
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Terence Stephenson
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laila Xu
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - On behalf of CLoCk Consortium members
- Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
- Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
- Mohn Centre for Children’s Health & Wellbeing, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Learning, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Immunisation Department, UK Health Security Agency, London, UK
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Sabah A, Aljaberi MA, Hajji J, Fang CY, Lai YC, Lin CY. Family Communication as a Mediator between Family Resilience and Family Functioning under the Quarantine and COVID-19 Pandemic in Arabic Countries. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1742. [PMID: 38002833 PMCID: PMC10670761 DOI: 10.3390/children10111742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus pandemic has become an unprecedented world crisis in which we have struggled against the most potent threat of the twenty-first century. This pandemic has had a profound impact on individuals and families. Therefore, the study aimed to examine family communication as a mediator of the relationship between family resilience and family functioning under the quarantine and coronavirus pandemic in Algeria and Iraq. This study was conducted among individuals in Iraq and Algeria (N = 361). The respondents completed the Family Communication Scale (FCS), Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire (WFRQ), and Family Functioning Scale (FFS). Structural equation modeling (SEM) with the bootstrapping method was used to conduct the mediated effects of family communication. Using the bootstrapping method in SEM, family resilience and communication significantly affected family functioning (coefficient = 0.808). Moreover, the direct effect and indirect effect (via family functioning) of family resilience on family functioning were both significant, with coefficients of 0.682 and 0.126. In addition, numerous groups from Iraq and Algeria have been analyzed as a sample and have shown no differences in the relationships between family resilience, family communication, and family functioning. In conclusion, the results showed that family communication mediated the relationship between family resilience and family functioning. Moreover, the type of this mediation seemed to be partial because of the significant direct relationship between family resilience and family functioning. According to the findings, healthcare providers should consider improving family resilience and communication to achieve good family functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiche Sabah
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Hassiba Benbouali University of Chlef, Chlef 02076, Algeria
| | - Musheer A. Aljaberi
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Taiz University, Taiz 6803, Yemen;
- Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43300, Malaysia
- Faculty of Nursing and Applied Sciences, Lincoln University College, Petaling Jaya 47301, Malaysia
| | - Jamel Hajji
- Higher Institute of Sport and Physical Education of Gafsa, Gafsa University, Gafsa 2100, Tunisia;
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences of Tunis, University of Tunis, Tunis 1007, Tunisia
| | - Chuan-Yin Fang
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 621, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Chen Lai
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi 621, Taiwan;
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan;
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Media and Communication, University of Religions and Denominations, Qom 37491-13357, Iran
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Raffagnato A, Miscioscia M, Bruni G, Del Col L, Traverso A, Ferrarese M, Ancora C, Zanato S, Gatta M. The impact of the two-year COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admission and readmissions of children and adolescents because of mental health problems. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1152876. [PMID: 38026409 PMCID: PMC10643213 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1152876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to investigate the specific risk factors and psycho-social and clinical features of hospitalized neuropsychiatric patients during the COVID pandemic and to analyze the hospital readmission phenomenon, which, according to recent studies, increased in frequency during the first pandemic period. Patients and methods This observational retrospective cohort study examined 375 patients aged between 0 and 17 years who were hospitalized between 1 February 2018 and 31 March 2022 due to neuropsychiatric issues. The majority of the patients were girls: there were 265 girls compared to 110 boys (M = 13.9 years; SD 2.30 years). The total sample was divided into two groups: the pre-COVID-19 group (160 inpatients hospitalized between February 2018 and February 2020) and the COVID-19 group (215 inpatients hospitalized between March 2020 and March 2022). To explore the readmission phenomenon (second aim), we selected from the two groups of patients with at least one hospital readmission within 365 days after the first discharge. Multiple variables (sociodemographic, clinical, psychological, and related to hospitalization) were collected for each patient by reviewing their medical records. Results The risk factors for mental health disorders were similar between the two groups, except for the significantly increased use of electronic devices in the COVID-19 group, increasing from 8.8% in the pre-COVID-19 group to 29.2% in the COVID-19 group. Patients suffering from eating disorders increased from 11.3% in the pre-COVID-19 group to 23.8% in the COVID-19 group. Hospital readmissions nearly increased from 16.7% in the 2-year pre-COVID-19 period to 26.2% in the 2-year COVID-19 period. A total of 75% of patients hospitalized three or more times in the last 2 years and 85.7% of the so-called "revolving door" patients (with relapse within 3 months after discharge) were identified in the COVID-19 group. However, the comparison between the two groups of patients readmitted before and during the COVID-19 pandemic did not show any differences in terms of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. Conclusion In conclusion, there was a significant increase in hospital readmissions, but these results suggest the need for better coordination between hospital and territorial services in managing the complexity of mental health problems related to situations arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and the necessity to implement prevention strategies and services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Raffagnato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Marina Miscioscia
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Gaia Bruni
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Lara Del Col
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Annalisa Traverso
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Martina Ferrarese
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Ancora
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Silvia Zanato
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Michela Gatta
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University Hospital of Padua, Padova, Italy
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Pajek J, Mancini K, Murray M. COVID-19 and children's behavioral health: An overview. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2023; 53:101491. [PMID: 38040607 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2023.101491] [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] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
The paper reviews the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's and adolescents' well-being. A trauma-informed framework is employed to discuss the emerging evidence of notable changes in youth's psychological, developmental, academic, and social well-being since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Children and adolescents have been uniquely affected based on their age at the start of the pandemic. Despite multiple resiliency factors, COVID-19 and its ramifications have had an adverse effect on youth in general and have exacerbated preexisting racial and socioeconomic disparities. This review concludes with recommendations for child health clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Pajek
- MetroHealth Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA.
| | - Kathryn Mancini
- MetroHealth Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
| | - Marsheena Murray
- MetroHealth Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109, USA
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Bogaert L, Van der Gucht K, Kuppens P, Kock M, Schreuder MJ, Kuyken W, Raes F. The effect of universal school-based mindfulness on anhedonia and emotional distress and its underlying mechanisms: A cluster randomised controlled trial via experience sampling in secondary schools. Behav Res Ther 2023; 169:104405. [PMID: 37797436 PMCID: PMC10938062 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2023.104405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
This cluster randomised controlled trial examined the effectiveness of universal school-based mindfulness training (MT; vs. passive control) to lower anhedonia and emotional distress among mid-adolescents (15-18 years). It further examined three potential mechanisms: dampening of positive emotions, non-acceptance/suppression of negative emotions, and perceived social pressure not to experience/express negative emotions. Adolescents (ncontrol = 136, nintervention = 95) participated in three assessment points (before, after and two/three months after the in-class MT), consisting of Experience Sampling (ES) assessments and self-report questionnaires (SRQs) to corroborate the ES assessments. Analyses were based on general linear modelling and multilevel modelling. Overall, no evidence was found for a significant beneficial and long-lasting impact of the MT on adolescents' mental health. Importantly, some barriers inherently linked to universal MT approaches (low engagement in and mixed attitudes towards the MT) may have tempered the effectiveness of the MT in the current trial. Further research should prioritise overcoming these barriers to optimise programme implementation. Additionally, given the potential complex interplay of moderators at micro- (home practice), meso- (school climate), and macro-level (broader context), research should simultaneously focus on alternative ways of delivering MT at schools to strengthen adolescents' mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesbeth Bogaert
- Research Unit Behaviour, Health and Psychopathology, KU Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Katleen Van der Gucht
- Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Belgium; Research Unit Methods, Individual and Cultural Differences, Affect and Social Behavior, KU Leuven, Belgium; Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, the Netherlands
| | - Peter Kuppens
- Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium; Research Unit Methods, Individual and Cultural Differences, Affect and Social Behavior, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Merle Kock
- Research Unit Behaviour, Health and Psychopathology, KU Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marieke J Schreuder
- Research Unit Methods, Individual and Cultural Differences, Affect and Social Behavior, KU Leuven, Belgium
| | - Willem Kuyken
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Mindfulness Research Centre, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Filip Raes
- Research Unit Behaviour, Health and Psychopathology, KU Leuven, Belgium; Leuven Mindfulness Centre, KU Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven Child and Youth Institute, KU Leuven, Belgium.
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Ali-Saleh O, Khatib M, Hadid S, Dahamsheh K, Basis F. Factors Related to the Compliance of Arab Parents in Israel to the Vaccination of Children and Adolescents against COVID-19. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1540. [PMID: 37896945 PMCID: PMC10610611 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11101540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Arab minority consists of 20% of the Israeli population. Most of the Arab minority live in rural villages, mostly in closed communities, with specific psycho-social and sociodemographic characteristics. Previous studies showed different attitudes to COVID-19 vaccination among Arab adults. OBJECTIVES To examine the influence of factors on the willingness of parents to vaccinate their young and adolescent children and if there is a difference between parents' attitudes to both groups. METHODS AND MATERIALS The survey examined correlations between variables and attitudes toward the vaccine and the pandemic and was disseminated anonymously to parents of children between the ages of 5 and 18 in the Arab population of Israel through social media networks, using the snowball method. Statistical analyses included the Pearson correlation, MANCOVA, and logistic regression tests. RESULTS In total, 361 Arab Israeli parents participated. As mentioned above, 130 parents had both children and adolescents. Overall, 48 parents (36.9%) chose not to vaccinate both their children and adolescents, 52 parents (40.0%) chose to vaccinate only their adolescents, only 1 parent (0.8%) chose to vaccinate only the child, and 29 parents (22.3%) vaccinated both their children and adolescents. Significant correlations were found among a higher age of parents and socioeconomic status, attitudes toward COVID vaccination, subjective norms, perceived severity of the disease, perceived benefits of vaccination, and trust in formal sources. DISCUSSION There is a difference between parents' decision to be vaccinated and their willingness to vaccinate their children. There is a difference between their decision to vaccinate their adolescents and their young children. Different factors positively or negatively influenced parents' decisions. Addressing these factors by authorities may increase compliance of Arab minorities with instructions in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola Ali-Saleh
- The Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Emek Yezrael 1930600, Israel;
| | - Mohammad Khatib
- The Galilee Society, Zefat Academic College, University of Haifa, Zefat 13206, Israel;
- Zefat Academic College, Safed 1320611, Israel
| | - Salam Hadid
- Nazareth Academic School of Nursing, Nazareth 16100, Israel; (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Kamal Dahamsheh
- Nazareth Academic School of Nursing, Nazareth 16100, Israel; (S.H.); (K.D.)
| | - Fuad Basis
- Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa 3109601, Israel
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Vasile CM, Padovani P, Rujinski SD, Nicolosu D, Toma C, Turcu AA, Cioboata R. The Increase in Childhood Obesity and Its Association with Hypertension during Pandemics. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5909. [PMID: 37762850 PMCID: PMC10531996 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12185909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
There has been a major ongoing health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's lives, including lifestyle and overall health. Enforcement of prevention measures, such as school closures and social distancing, has significantly affected children's daily routines and activities. This perspective manuscript aims to explore the rise in childhood obesity and its association with hypertension during pandemics. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant disruptions in children's routines, including reduced physical activity, increased sedentary behavior, and changes in dietary patterns. These factors, coupled with the psychological impact of the pandemic, have contributed to an alarming increase in childhood obesity rates. This paper has highlighted the concerning increase in childhood obesity and hypertension during pandemics. The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced physical activity, increased sedentary behaviors, and changes in dietary patterns, have contributed to the rise in these health conditions. It is crucial to recognize the long-term consequences of childhood obesity and hypertension and the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Maria Vasile
- Department of Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiology, University Hospital of Bordeaux, F-33600 Bordeaux, France;
| | - Paul Padovani
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, FHU PreciCare, F-44000 Nantes, France;
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, INSERM, CIC FEA 1413, F-44000 Nantes, France
| | | | - Dragos Nicolosu
- Pneumology Department, Victor Babes University Hospital Craiova, 200515 Craiova, Romania; (D.N.); (R.C.)
| | - Claudia Toma
- Pneumology Department, University of Medicine Carol Davila, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Adina Andreea Turcu
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Pharmacy and Medicine Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ramona Cioboata
- Pneumology Department, Victor Babes University Hospital Craiova, 200515 Craiova, Romania; (D.N.); (R.C.)
- Pneumology Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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Quinlan-Davidson M, Shan D, Courtney D, Barbic S, Cleverley K, Hawke LD, Ma C, Prebeg M, Relihan J, Szatmari P, Henderson JL. Associations over the COVID-19 pandemic period and the mental health and substance use of youth not in employment, education or training in Ontario, Canada: a longitudinal, cohort study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:105. [PMID: 37679811 PMCID: PMC10486040 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00653-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic shutdown and school closures associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively influenced many young people's educational and training opportunities, leading to an increase in youth not in education, employment, or training (NEET) globally and in Canada. NEET youth have a greater vulnerability to mental health and substance use problems, compared to their counterparts who are in school and/or employed. There is limited evidence on the association between COVID-19 and NEET youth. The objectives of this exploratory study included investigating: longitudinal associations between the COVID-19 pandemic and the mental health and substance use (MHSU) of NEET youth; and MHSU among subgroups of NEET and non-NEET youth. METHODS 618 youth (14-28 years old) participated in this longitudinal, cohort study. Youth were recruited from four pre-existing studies at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Data on MHSU were collected across 11 time points during the COVID-19 pandemic (April 2020-August 2022). MHSU were measured using the CoRonavIruS Health Impact Survey Youth Self-Report, the Global Appraisal of Individual Needs Short Screener, and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5. Linear Mixed Models and Generalized Estimating Equations were used to analyze associations of NEET status and time on mental health and substance use. Exploratory analyses were conducted to investigate interactions between sociodemographic characteristics and NEET status and time. RESULTS At baseline, NEET youth were significantly more likely to screen positive for an internalizing disorder compared to non-NEET youth (OR = 1.92; 95%CI=[1.26-2.91] p = 0.002). No significant differences were found between youth with, and without, NEET in MHSU symptoms across the study time frame. Youth who had significantly higher odds of screening positive for an internalizing disorder included younger youth (OR = 1.06, 95%CI=[1.00-1.11]); youth who identify as Trans, non-binary or gender diverse (OR = 8.33, 95%CI=[4.17-16.17]); and those living in urban areas (OR = 1.35, 95%CI=[1.03-1.76]), compared to their counterparts. Youth who identify as White had significantly higher odds of screening positive for substance use problems (OR = 2.38, 95%CI=[1.72-3.23]) compared to racialized youth. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that sociodemographic factors such as age, gender identity, ethnicity and area of residence impacted youth MHSU symptoms over the course of the study and during the pandemic. Overall, NEET status was not consistently associated with MHSU symptoms over and above these factors. The study contributes to evidence on MHSU symptoms of NEET youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Di Shan
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Darren Courtney
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Skye Barbic
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Foundry British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Kristin Cleverley
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Lawrence S Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lisa D Hawke
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Clement Ma
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Division of Biostatistics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Matthew Prebeg
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Peter Szatmari
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - J L Henderson
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Chapman AR, Brunelli L, Forman L, Kaempf J. Promoting children's rights to health and well-being in the United States. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2023; 25:100577. [PMID: 37650073 PMCID: PMC10462822 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2023.100577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The United States has a highly sophisticated pediatric healthcare system and spends more than any other country per capita on children's healthcare. However, not all children have access to needed and affordable health care and the life expectancy and health outcomes of children in the country are worse than in any other industrialized nation. These nations typically offer universal healthcare for children as part of a robust recognition of a children's rights framework. In 1989 the United Nations adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child that recognizes the right of the child to the highest attainable standard of health and to facilities for the treatment of illness and rehabilitation of health. Currently the United States is the only United Nations member country that has not ratified the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This paper outlines the potential benefits of adopting a child rights approach based on the principles and provisions of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The fact that countries who invest much less in healthcare compared to the United States can achieve better health outcomes provides the certainty that a solution is possible and within reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey R. Chapman
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Luca Brunelli
- Department of Pediatrics/Neonatology, University of Utah Health/Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Lisa Forman
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Joseph Kaempf
- Providence Health System, Women and Children’s Services, Portland, OR, USA
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Freeman SJ, Rasiah S, Cohen-Silver J, Xu K, Lebovic G, Maguire J. Mental Health Trajectories of Children and Caregivers Using School-Based Health Centers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Pediatr Health Care 2023; 37:511-518. [PMID: 37245129 PMCID: PMC10123352 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedhc.2023.04.002] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This was a prospective study of children registered at school-based health centers (SBHCs) in Canada. The objectives were to compare mental health trajectories of children and parents/caregivers who accessed SBHCs during the pandemic relative to those who did not. METHOD Parents/caregivers of children who attended SBHCs completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) at three time points during the pandemic. The primary analysis used linear mixed models to examine the relationship between SBHC visits during the pandemic and children's SDQ score trajectories. The secondary analysis was the same for parents'/caregivers' GAD-7 scores. RESULTS There were 435 children included. SDQ and GAD-7 scores worsened over time for children and parents/caregivers who attended SBHCs during the pandemic compared to those who did not. DISCUSSION Children and parents/caregivers with worsening mental health symptoms may have sought care at SBHCs since they were accessible during the pandemic.
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Branquinho C, Moraes B, Noronha C, Ferreira T, Neto Rodrigues N, Gaspar de Matos M. Perceived Quality of Life and Life Satisfaction: Does the Role of Gender, Age, Skills, and Psychological Factors Remain Relevant after the COVID-19 Pandemic? CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:1460. [PMID: 37761421 PMCID: PMC10528662 DOI: 10.3390/children10091460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND After two years of psychological, physical, social, economic, environmental, and societal challenges, this paper examines the psychological health and well-being of Portuguese students based on their socioemotional skills (SSES), positive youth development (PYD), depression, anxiety, and stress (DASS), as well as the relationship between these variables and their influence on perceived quality of life and life satisfaction. METHODS This study examined 3235 students from lower to upper secondary, half of whom were female (M = 14.46 ± 1.883 years old). Using SPSS software, descriptive statistics were determined for all variables; mean differences between age and gender were found using ANOVA and the post hoc Scheffe test. Linear regressions with the Enter method were used to study how to predict perceived quality of life and satisfaction with life. RESULTS Males had scores indicating more SSES|optimism, emotional control, resilience, confidence, sociability, creativity, energy, a sense of belonging to school, and PYD. Girls had better skills for cooperating and relating to teachers but more test anxiety and DASS. Younger adolescents had better psychological health, greater skills, and a better perception of quality of life and life satisfaction when compared to older adolescents. Age, gender, SSES, PYD, and the DASS variables can explain 69% of the variance in life satisfaction, while these variables can explain 60.5% of the variance in perceived quality of life. CONCLUSIONS These results point to the relevance of SSES for psychological health and well-being, suggesting that interventions should focus on promoting these variables, paying special attention to female gender and age-related challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Branquinho
- Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.B.); (B.M.); (C.N.)
- Institute of Environmental Health, Medicine Faculty, University of Lisbon, 1649-026 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dream Teens/Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Bárbara Moraes
- Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.B.); (B.M.); (C.N.)
- Institute of Environmental Health, Medicine Faculty, University of Lisbon, 1649-026 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dream Teens/Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Catarina Noronha
- Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.B.); (B.M.); (C.N.)
- Institute of Environmental Health, Medicine Faculty, University of Lisbon, 1649-026 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dream Teens/Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Tomás Ferreira
- Dream Teens/Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Nuno Neto Rodrigues
- Directorate-General for Education and Science Statistics, 1399-054 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Margarida Gaspar de Matos
- Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal; (C.B.); (B.M.); (C.N.)
- Institute of Environmental Health, Medicine Faculty, University of Lisbon, 1649-026 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dream Teens/Aventura Social Project, 1400-415 Lisbon, Portugal;
- Faculty of Human Sciences, Portuguese Catholic University, 4169-005 Porto, Portugal
- Applied Psychology Research Center Capabilities & Inclusion, ISPA—University Institute, 1149-041 Lisbon, Portugal
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Fehkührer S, Humer E, Kaltschik S, Pieh C, Probst T, Diestler G, Jesser A. Young People and the Future: School Students' Concerns and Hopes for the Future after One Year of COVID-19 in Austria-Findings of a Mixed-Methods Pilot Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2242. [PMID: 37628439 PMCID: PMC10454506 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in enormous changes in everyday life and numerous burdens for adolescents. This pilot study focused on how young people look to the future in the face of these burdens. Responses to two open-ended questions on concerns and hopes for the future that were part of a larger online survey on the mental health of school students in Austria were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Subsequently, differences in the experiences of boys and girls, young people with and without a migration background and psychologically stressed and non-stressed young people were examined by applying a mixed-methods approach. Data collection took place from 3 February to 28 February 2021. From a total survey sample of 3052 adolescents aged 14-20, a representative sample according to gender and migration background (N = 500) was drawn. Qualitative content analysis revealed several areas of concern about the future, including school-related concerns, concerns about the further development of the pandemic and the associated restrictions, concerns related to a lack of locus of control, health-related concerns and concerns about social relationships. The analysis also indicated young people's greatest hopes for the future, such as hopes related to further pandemic development, hopes regarding major life goals, school, social relationships and health. Young people's experiences differ according to gender, migration background and the extent of psychological distress. This study contributes to research on the psychological well-being of adolescents during the pandemic and provides important insights into the subjective experience of young people. It aims to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the concerns and hopes for the future of young people in a time marked by various challenges. The results of the study should be used to develop ideas for measures, such as the expansion of school psychological services and low-threshold support services for students, such as school social work and counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Fehkührer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Kaltschik
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Thomas Probst
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Gertraud Diestler
- Österreichischer Arbeitskreis für Gruppentherapie und Gruppendynamik, Fachsektion Integrative Gestalt Therapy Vienna, 1080 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Andrea Jesser
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (S.F.); (E.H.); (S.K.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
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Hoyt LT, Dotson MP, Suleiman AB, Burke NL, Johnson JB, Cohen AK. Internalizing the COVID-19 pandemic: Gendered differences in youth mental health. Curr Opin Psychol 2023; 52:101636. [PMID: 37454638 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
We review research on gendered patterns of internalizing behaviors in adolescents and emerging adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. We find that young women reported worse mental health than young men. Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youth are underrepresented in mental health research but often report the highest internalizing disorders of any gender group. Finally, we use intersectionality as a lens to acknowledge how gender and other social identities (e.g., race, socioeconomic position) impact mental health. Overall, this review points to gender as a meaningful social construct that is relevant for understanding young people's internalizing symptoms during the pandemic. We call attention to the structural factors underlying gender disparities and the need for intersectionality-informed approaches to work towards mental health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Miranda P Dotson
- Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Northeastern University, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Alison K Cohen
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, USA
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Barbieri V, Piccoliori G, Mahlknecht A, Plagg B, Ausserhofer D, Engl A, Wiedermann CJ. Adolescent Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Interplay of Age, Gender, and Mental Health Outcomes in Two Consecutive Cross-Sectional Surveys in Northern Italy. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:643. [PMID: 37622783 PMCID: PMC10451173 DOI: 10.3390/bs13080643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health and well-being of adolescents. This study aimed to investigate the development of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental health among adolescents in Northern Italy by comparing cross-sectional surveys conducted in 2021 and 2022, with a particular focus on the influence of age and gender. The sample included adolescents aged 11-19 years from public schools in South Tyrol. Validated psychometric instruments were used to assess HRQoL, anxiety and depression symptoms, and psychosomatic complaints. Sociodemographic variables, COVID-19 burden, and pandemic-related factors were measured. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests, correlation coefficients, and logistic regression analyses. The results indicated that while the self-reported burden of adolescents decreased significantly in 2022 (n = 1885) compared to 2021 (n = 1760), there were no significant differences in symptoms of anxiety, depressive symptoms, low HRQoL, and increased psychosomatic complaints between the two surveys for both early and late adolescents. Females consistently had higher percentages for all outcome variables, and symptoms of anxiety increased with age in females, but not in males. Both genders experienced an increase in depressive symptoms and low HRQoL with age. The co-occurrence of mental health outcomes was observed, suggesting overlapping patterns among anxiety, depression, low HRQoL, and psychosomatic complaints. These findings underscore the intricate relationship between age, gender, and mental health outcomes among adolescents during the pandemic. It is important to recognize that late adolescents may exhibit distinct vulnerabilities and may require tailored support approaches to address their specific mental health challenges, differing from those needed for early adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Barbieri
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
| | - Giuliano Piccoliori
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
| | - Angelika Mahlknecht
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
| | - Barbara Plagg
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Dietmar Ausserhofer
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
| | - Adolf Engl
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
| | - Christian J. Wiedermann
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy (A.E.)
- Department of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, University of Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology—Tyrol, 6060 Hall, Austria
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McDougal L, Majnoonian A, Stone G, Fielding-Miller R. Determinants of parent-reported child mental health status in San Diego public schools during the height of the COVID-19 omicron outbreak: A serial cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0288628. [PMID: 37494385 PMCID: PMC10370770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive debate on the effects of COVID-19 mitigation measures in school settings, little evidence exists on trends in school children's mental health over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this paper was to identify factors affecting parent reports of school children's mental health during COVID-19 Omicron variant outbreak in a cohort of high-risk, socially vulnerable children attending public elementary schools. We analyzed four waves of cross-sectional, online-administered surveys completed by parents of children attending public elementary schools in San Diego between November 2021 and March of 2022. Children (n = 684) ranged in age from 2-17 years. We used multilevel linear mixed effects models to assess determinants of parent-reported child mental health status. The outcome was child mental health, as reported by the parent. Parents consistently rated their children's mental health as very good, though parents who experienced recent COVID-related challenges and who had older children reported lower levels of mental health in their children. Children's mental health was generally considered to be very good, as judged by their parents during a period of constant in-school masking and the Omicron variant outbreak. Structural support mechanisms aimed at mitigating COVID-related challenges for adults may offer benefit to children's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotus McDougal
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Araz Majnoonian
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Gabriela Stone
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Fielding-Miller
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Global Public Health, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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Attridge MM, Heffernan ME, Bendelow A, Menker CG, Davis MM, Sheehan K. Adverse childhood experiences, child behavioral health needs, and family characteristics associated with the presence of a firearm in the home: a survey of parents in Chicago. Inj Epidemiol 2023; 10:35. [PMID: 37488578 PMCID: PMC10364347 DOI: 10.1186/s40621-023-00444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Firearm violence is the leading cause of pediatric mortality in the USA. The presence of a firearm in the home poses an immense risk to children with increased rates of suicide and unintentional injury by firearm. Recent literature has not explored child ACEs and child behavioral health needs with the presence of a firearm in the home. The objective of this study was to explore an association between these factors, parent health, family experience with firearm violence, and demographics, and the presence of a firearm in the home. RESULTS Overall, 382 of 1,436 (weighted to 22.0%) responding parents reported the presence of a firearm in the home. In an adjusted model, the odds ratio of firearm presence increased incrementally with a child's increasing exposure to ACEs. Compared to a child in the household exposed to no ACEs, a child in the household exposed to two or more ACEs was associated with a 5.16 times higher odds of firearm presence in the home (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.92-9.10). Similarly, a child in the household who had used behavioral health services was associated with a 2.10 times higher odds of firearm presence in the home (95% CI 1.35-3.26), compared to a child in the household who had not. Presence of firearm in the home was also associated with higher household income, younger parent age (under 35 years), and male parent gender. CONCLUSIONS Chicago parents have higher odds of reporting the presence of a firearm in the home when living in a household with a child exposed to ACEs and with behavioral health needs. These findings could inform future public health interventions and targeted safe storage messaging to prevent pediatric firearm injury in the home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan M. Attridge
- Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 62, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Marie E. Heffernan
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Smith Child Health Outcomes, Research, and Evaluation Center and Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 157, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Anne Bendelow
- Department of Data Analytics and Reporting, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 680 North Lake Shore Drive 13-002D;307, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Carly G. Menker
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 157, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Matthew M. Davis
- Division of Advanced General Pediatrics and Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 1, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
| | - Karen Sheehan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, 225 East Chicago Avenue, Box 62, Chicago, IL 60611 USA
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Zimmerman KO, Benjamin DK. Lessons Learned From the COVID-19 Pandemic in K-12 Education. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2023060352O. [PMID: 37394505 PMCID: PMC10312278 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-060352o] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kanecia O. Zimmerman
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- The ABC Science Collaborative, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Daniel K. Benjamin
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- The ABC Science Collaborative, Durham, North Carolina
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43
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Howe de la Torre S, Parlatini V, Cortese S. Long-term central nervous system (CNS) consequences of COVID-19 in children. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:703-720. [PMID: 37545414 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2239500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurological/neuropsychiatric symptoms are commonly reported by children/young people with long COVID, especially headache, fatigue, cognitive deficits, anosmia and ageusia, dizziness, mood symptoms, and sleep problems. However, reported prevalence estimates are highly variable due to study heterogeneity and often small sample size; most studies only considered short-term follow-ups; and, apart from mood and sleep problems, neuropsychiatric conditions have received less attention. Considering the potential debilitating effects of neurological/neuropsychiatric conditions, a comprehensive review of the topic is timely, and needed to support clinical recognition as well as to set the direction for future research. AREAS COVERED The authors discuss neurological/neuropsychiatric manifestations of long COVID in pediatric populations, with a focus on prevalence, associated demographic characteristics, and potential pathogenetic mechanisms. EXPERT OPINION Children/young people may develop persistent neurological/neuropsychiatric symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, which may affect daily functioning and well-being. Studies in larger samples with longer follow-ups are needed to clarify prevalence and symptom duration; as well as less investigated risk factors, including genetic predisposition, ethnicity, and comorbidities. Controlled studies may help separate infection-related direct effects from pandemic-related psychosocial stressors. Clarifying pathogenetic mechanisms is paramount to develop more targeted and effective treatments; whilst screening programs and psychoeducation may enhance early recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Valeria Parlatini
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Samuele Cortese
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Horizon Centre, CAMHS West, William Macleod Way, Solent NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied Psychology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone, New York University Child Study Center, New York City, New York, USA
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Erazo CV, Cifuentes AC, Navas AM, Carrión FG, Caicedo-Gallardo JD, Andrade M, Moncayo AL. Psychosocial dysfunction of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 lockdown in Ecuador: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068761. [PMID: 37349098 PMCID: PMC10314482 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068761] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although the risk of morbidity and mortality of children and adolescents was lower during the COVID-19 pandemic, it appears that their mental health was strongly impacted. The goal of this study is to document psychological dysfunction among children and adolescents who underwent confinement due to COVID-19 in Ecuador. DESIGN A cross-sectional, internet-based questionnaire. SETTING Ecuador. PARTICIPANTS A total of 1077 caregivers of children and adolescents (4-16 years old). OUTCOME MEASURES Caregivers responded to Pediatric Symptom Checklist-35 to assess psychosocial dysfunction. RESULTS The prevalence of psychosocial dysfunction was 20.8%, with internalising symptoms being the most common (30.7%). The prevalence of psychosocial dysfunction was higher in children who had a poor family relationship during confinement (prevalence ratio (PR) 2.23; 95% CI 1.22 to 4.07), children who never helped with housework (PR 2.63; 95% CI 1.13 to 6.14) and those whose caregivers were worried about children's need for emotional therapy (PR 2.86; 95% CI 1.97 to 4.15). Never playing video games (PR 0.34; 95% CI 0.17 to 0.69) or playing video games infrequently (PR 0.39; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.79) was a protective factor for the psychosocial problems of children and adolescents. CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates that children and adolescents have experienced a deterioration of mental health due to the pandemic. Family factors played an important role in the mental health of children during the lockdown. When a public crisis occurs, supportive mental health policies should be developed and implemented to promote children's psychological welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos V Erazo
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Amelia C Cifuentes
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Adriana M Navas
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Freddy G Carrión
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Mateo Andrade
- Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Ana L Moncayo
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
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45
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Zhi K, Xia LX, Bueno D, Chen Y, Li Z, Laranjeira C. Editorial: Social cognition and mental health among children and youth. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1228526. [PMID: 37408977 PMCID: PMC10319391 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1228526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kuiyun Zhi
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- China Public Service Evaluation and Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ling-Xiang Xia
- Faculty of Psychology, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality of Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - David Bueno
- Biomedical, Evolutionary, and Developmental Genetics Section, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yongjin Chen
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- China Public Service Evaluation and Research Center, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zuoshan Li
- Key Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
- School of Education, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Centre for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre, University of Évora, Évora, Portugal
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Shokrkon A, Nicoladis E. Mental health in Canadian children and adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic: the role of personality and, coping and stress responses. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1190375. [PMID: 37404585 PMCID: PMC10315680 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1190375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2019, the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic first emerged in China and quickly spread to other countries. Previous studies have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic and the consequences have negatively impacted the mental health of adults. Individual differences such as personality could contribute to mental health. Furthermore, coping and responses to stress may affect an individual's response to the pandemic. In the past, studies have only investigated this relationship in adults. In the current study, we examine how personality traits (using the Five-Factor Model as our framework) and Coping and Response to COVID-19 stress are related to the mental health of Canadian children and adolescents during the pandemic. Using parent reports of 100 preschoolers and 607 6-18-year-old children, we performed multiple regression analysis to explore how personality traits predict the effects of COVID-19 on mental health. The results showed that personality traits are associated with the mental health of Canadian youth during the COVID-19 pandemic. In preschoolers, Neuroticism and Agreeableness predicted the most mental health problems, and in 6-18-year-old children, Extraversion negatively predicted the most mental health problems. Also, Openness to Experience was the weakest predictor of mental health status in Canadian youth. These findings could be useful in understanding children's responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and could assist public health services delivering mental health services specifically tailored to children's personalities during and after this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anahita Shokrkon
- Department of Psychology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Elena Nicoladis
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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47
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Guzman Holst C, Bowes L, Waite P, Skripkauskaite S, Shum A, Pearcey S, Raw J, Patalay P, Creswell C. Examining Children and adolescent mental health trajectories during the COVID-19 pandemic: Findings from a year of the Co-SPACE study. JCPP ADVANCES 2023; 3:e12153. [PMID: 37753152 PMCID: PMC10519733 DOI: 10.1002/jcv2.12153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A major concern throughout the COVID-19 pandemic has been on young people's experiences with mental health. In this study we mapped children and adolescents' mental health trajectories over 13 months of the pandemic and examine whether family, peer, and individual-level factors were associated with trajectory membership. Methods This study focuses on a sub-sample from the Co-SPACE study of 3322 children and adolescents (aged 4-16 years) for whom parents completed a survey at Time 0 and at least one follow-up survey between March 2020 and May 2021. We used growth mixture models to examine trajectories in emotional, conduct, and hyperactivity/inattention difficulties using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and multinomial logistic regression models to estimate factors associated with individual trajectory membership. Results The average trend in young people's mental health appeared to follow changes in national guidelines regarding the pandemic. Distinct trends in GMM models highlighting individual differences showed that a 5-trajectory model best explained the changes in emotional problems whilst 4-trajectory models best explained variation in hyperactivity/inattention and conduct problems. While most young people followed low stable (62%-85%) or moderate stable (28%) symptom trajectories, 14%-31% experienced very high, high stable or increasing mental health difficulties. Young people following high stable trajectories were more likely to have special educational needs and/or neurodevelopmental disorders, parents reporting higher levels of distress and parent-child conflict, and were less likely to have at least one close friend. Conclusions Most young people adapted well and experienced low stable symptoms, but nearly one third experienced high stable or increasing mental health difficulties. Young people with complex needs and parents with higher psychological distress were particularly vulnerable to high stable problems while those with positive peer relationships were less vulnerable. This study offers insight into potential factors that can be addressed using targeted interventions to improve the wellbeing of parents and young people in the event of future lockdowns and school closures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucy Bowes
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Polly Waite
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Simona Skripkauskaite
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Adrienne Shum
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Samantha Pearcey
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Jasmine Raw
- School of Psychology and Clinical Language SciencesUniversity of ReadingReadingUK
| | - Praveetha Patalay
- Centre for Longitudinal Studies and MRC Unit for Lifelong Health and AgeingUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Cathy Creswell
- Department of Experimental PsychologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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48
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Barbieri V, Wiedermann CJ, Piccoliori G, Mahlknecht A, Plagg B, Ausserhofer D, Ravens-Sieberer U, Engl A. Evolution of Youth's Mental Health and Quality of Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Tyrol, Italy: Comparison of Two Representative Surveys. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10050895. [PMID: 37238443 DOI: 10.3390/children10050895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has led to an increase in youth mental health problems worldwide. Studies have revealed substantial variation in the incidence of these problems across different regions. Longitudinal studies of children and adolescents in Italy are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the development of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental health in Northern Italy by comparing surveys conducted in June 2021 and in March 2022. METHODS A representative, large cross-sectional, online survey investigated HRQoL, psychosomatic complaints, and symptoms of anxiety and depression among 5159 and 6675 children and adolescents in 2021 and 2022, respectively, using the KIDSCREEN-10 index, HBSC symptom checklist, SCARED, CES-DC, and PHQ-2 instruments. Statistical analyses included a multivariate linear regression analysis. RESULTS Baseline characteristics showed significant differences in demographic variables between the two surveys. Girls and their parents reported a significantly lower HRQoL in 2021 than in 2022. Psychosomatic complaints differed significantly between sexes, and the results showed no decrease in psychosomatic complaints, anxiety, or depression between 2021 and 2022. Predictors of HRQoL, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and psychosomatic complaints in 2022 differed from those in 2021. CONCLUSIONS The characteristics of the 2021 pandemic, including lockdowns and home schooling, may have contributed to the differences between the two surveys. As most pandemic restrictions ended in 2022, the results confirm the need for measures to improve the mental and physical health of children and adolescents after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verena Barbieri
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Christian J Wiedermann
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
- Department of Public Health, Medical Decision Making and Health Technology Assessment, University of Health Sciences, Medical Informatics and Technology, 6060 Hall, Austria
| | - Giuliano Piccoliori
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Angelika Mahlknecht
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Barbara Plagg
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
- Faculty of Education, Free University of Bolzano, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Dietmar Ausserhofer
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Ulrike Ravens-Sieberer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Adolf Engl
- Institute of General Practice and Public Health, Claudiana College of Health Professions, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
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49
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Ingoglia C. Healing Broken Bones and Fixing Fractured Connections. J Behav Health Serv Res 2023; 50:283-285. [PMID: 37160845 PMCID: PMC10169127 DOI: 10.1007/s11414-023-09842-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chuck Ingoglia
- National Council for Mental Wellbeing, DC, Washington, USA.
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50
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Holmes C, Iwanaga K. Parental Burnout, Quality of Life,
and Pregnancy During COVID-19. FAMILY JOURNAL (ALEXANDRIA, VA.) 2023:10664807231173693. [PMCID: PMC10170250 DOI: 10.1177/10664807231173693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Background: Parents may be at greater risk to experience parental burnout after experiencing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the unique experiences of parents with young children during the first two years of the pandemic, this study explored the relationship between parental burnout, quality of life (QOL), and perceived threat of COVID-19 among a sample of adults who parented at least one child under the age of five. Method: A brief survey was conducted through convenience sampling (N = 48) and included the Brief Parental Burnout Scale, The QOL Scale, and a perceived COVID threat scale. Results: Logistic regression analysis found that pregnancy was a significant predictor of burnout risk even after controlling other effects on burnout risk. Conclusion: Findings suggest that the pandemic negatively impacted parental burnout and pregnancy during the first 2 years of the pandemic increased risk for burnout. Awareness is important for appropriate assessment and intervention by clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney Holmes
- Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Kanako Iwanaga
- Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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