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Cao K, Zhong J, Wang S, Shi Y, Bai S, Zhao J, Yang L, Liang Q, Deng D, Zhang R. SiNiSan exerts antidepressant effects by modulating serotonergic/GABAergic neuron activity in the dorsal raphe nucleus region through NMDA receptor in the adolescent depression mouse model. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 328:118040. [PMID: 38479542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Kerun Cao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jialong Zhong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yafei Shi
- School of Fundamental Medical Science, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shasha Bai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinlan Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi Liang
- Shenzhen Bao'an Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Group, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
| | - Di Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Rong Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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Yárnoz-Goñi N, Goñi-Sarriés A, Díez-Suárez A, Pírez G, Morata-Sampaio L, Sánchez-Villegas A. COVID-19 Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Mental Health among Spanish Adolescents: SESSAMO Project. J Clin Med 2024; 13:3114. [PMID: 38892825 PMCID: PMC11172713 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13113114] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Child and adolescent mental health problems have increased after the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to establish the association of the presence and intensity of posttraumatic stress due to COVID-19 with the presence of (1) self-harm and suicide risk, (2) depressive and anxious symptoms, (3) eating disorders and (4) problematic Internet and video game use. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was performed on a sample of second-fourth grade secondary school students (14 to 16 years old) from Navarra and the Canary Islands recruited at the SESSAMO project. Validated questionnaires were used to assess the intensity of posttraumatic stress due to COVID-19, risk of suicide and presence of self-harm, symptoms of mental disorder and problematic use of the Internet and video games. Results: Out of 1423 participants analyzed, those with the highest level of posttraumatic stress showed a significant increase in the risk of suicide (OR = 5.18; 95% CI = 2.96-9.05) and in the presence of eating disorder symptoms (OR = 3.93; 95% CI = 2.21-7.00), and higher anxiety and depression scores (b coefficient for anxiety = 11.1; CI = 9.7-12.5; for depression = 13.0; CI = 11.5-14.5) as compared to those with the lowest level. Participants with a high level of posttraumatic stress were almost 10 times more likely to present problematic video game use (OR = 9.49; 95% CI = 3.13-28.82). Conclusions: Years after the pandemic, posttraumatic stress derived from it continues to impact the mental health of adolescents. Further long-term research is needed, as well as close follow-up and intervention in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Yárnoz-Goñi
- Hospital Nuestra Señora de Gracia, Unidad de Trastornos de la Conducta Alimentaria, Servicio Aragonés de Salud, 50004 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Adriana Goñi-Sarriés
- Red de Salud Mental de Navarra, Servicio Navarro de Salud-Osasunbidea, 31003 Pamplona, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
| | - Azucena Díez-Suárez
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Unidad de Psiquiatría Infantil y Adolescente, Departamento de Psiquiatría y Psicología Médica, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Guillermo Pírez
- Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Insular-Materno Infantil, Servicio Canario de la Salud, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
| | - Leticia Morata-Sampaio
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, 35017 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
| | - Almudena Sánchez-Villegas
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra, IdiSNA, 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Institute for Innovation & Sustainable Development in Food Chain, ISFOOD, Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), 31006 Pamplona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Center Network on Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Nehme A, Moussa S, Fekih-Romdhane F, Yakın E, Hallit S, Obeid S, Haddad G. Expressive suppression moderates the relationship between PTSD from COVID-19 and somatization and validation of the Arabic version of Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15). PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293081. [PMID: 38271356 PMCID: PMC10810523 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lebanese adults have been crippled for years by several crises, including the lately COVID-19 pandemic. These massive civilian traumas have increased the risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in this population. Extensive literature pointed to the association between PTSD and somatization; however, the nature of this relationship remains unknown. We sought to contribute further to work in this area by testing the moderating role of emotion regulation in the relationship between COVID-19- related PTSD and somatization. As a secondary objective, we aimed to examine the psychometric properties of an Arabic translation of the somatization measure Patient Health Questionnaire-15 (PHQ-15) in terms of factorial validity and internal consistency before its use in the present study. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted between September and October 2021. A total of 403 Lebanese adults residing in Lebanon were recruited. Eligible participants received an online link to the survey. The Patient Health Questionnaire-15 was used to assess somatization, PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version for PTSD and Emotion Regulation Questionnaire for emotion regulation. RESULTS The results of the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed a three-factor solution explaining 48.79% of the common variance. Confirmatory Factor Analysis results of the three-factor model obtained in the EFA indicated a good fit with a significant CFI of 0.98, TLI 0.98 and a GFI of .97, a RMSEA of .04 [90% CI .01, .06]. Higher PTSD symptoms were associated with somatization. In addition, we found that one specific ER component, i.e. expressive suppression, significantly moderated the relationship between PTSD from the COVID pandemic and somatization. In particular, the interaction PTSD from the COVID-19 pandemic by expressive suppression was significantly associated with somatization; at low, medium and high levels of expressive suppression, higher PTSD from the COVID-19 pandemic was significantly associated with higher somatization scores. As for our secondary objective, findings revealed that the Arabic version of the PHQ-15 exhibited good psychometric properties. In particular, the scale yielded a three-factor structure, and good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.87). CONCLUSION The moderating role of expressive suppression on the link between PTSD and somatization presents a novel finding in the field of trauma. Additionally, making a psychometrically sound Arabic version of the PHQ-15 available is a valuable addition to the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Nehme
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Sara Moussa
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Balamand, Koura, Lebanon
| | - Feten Fekih-Romdhane
- The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Department of Psychiatry “Ibn Omrane”, Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ecem Yakın
- Centre d’Études et de Recherches en Psychopathologie et Psychologie de la Santé, Université de Toulouse-Jean Jaurès, UT2J, Toulouse, France
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon
| | - Georges Haddad
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
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Xue H, Zeng L, Liu S. Susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 and risk of psychiatric disorders in European populations: a Mendelian randomization study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1253051. [PMID: 37867774 PMCID: PMC10585067 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1253051] [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: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Observational studies have suggested that COVID-19 increases the prevalence of psychiatric disorders, but the results of such studies are inconsistent. This study aims to investigate the association between COVID-19 and the risk of psychiatric disorders using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods We used summary statistics from COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative genome-wide association study (GWAS) of COVID-19 involving 2,586,691 participants from European ancestry. Genetic variations of five psychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (N = 46,351), bipolar disorder (BID) (N = 51,710), major depressive disorder (MDD) (N = 480,359), anxiety disorder (N = 83,566), and schizophrenia (SCZ) (N = 77,096) were extracted from several GWAS of European ancestry. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method as the main MR analysis conducted. We further performed sensitivity analyzes and heterogeneity analyzes as validation of primary MR results. Results The IVW analysis found that COVID-19 hospitalization phenotype was the risk factor for BID (OR = 1.320, 95% CI = 1.106-1.576, p = 0.002) and SCZ (OR = 1.096, 95% CI = 1.031-1.164, p = 0.002). Moreover, we detected a significant positive genetic correlation between COVID-19 severity and two psychiatric traits, BID (OR = 1.139, 95% CI = 1.033-1.256, p = 0.008) and SCZ (OR = 1.043, 95% CI = 1.005-1.082, p = 0.024). There was no evidence supporting the causal relationship between COVID-19 susceptibility and psychiatric disorders. Conclusion Our results found that the COVID-19 hospitalization phenotype and COVID-19 severity phenotype might be the potential risks of BID and SCZ in European populations. Therefore, patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 should have enhanced monitoring of their mental status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Xue
- Department of Neurology, Sichuan Taikang Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Zeng
- Department of Respiratory, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Shuangjuan Liu
- Department of Neurology, Qionglai People’s Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Valladares-Garrido MJ, León-Figueroa DA, Dawson FM, Burga-Cachay SC, Fernandez-Canani MA, Failoc-Rojas VE, Pereira-Victorio CJ, Valladares-Garrido D, Inga-Berrospi F. Association between childhood trauma and mental health disorders in adolescents during the second pandemic wave of COVID-19, Chiclayo-Peru. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1169247. [PMID: 37426089 PMCID: PMC10323439 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1169247] [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: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected mental health, with children and adolescents being particularly vulnerable. Evidence on the association between childhood trauma and mental health outcomes in schoolchildren during the pandemic is limited. This study aimed to evaluate this relationship in Chiclayo city, northern Peru, during the second wave of COVID-19. Methods A cross-sectional secondary data study was conducted, measuring childhood trauma using the Marshall's Trauma Scale, depressive symptomatology (PHQ-9), and anxiety symptomatology (GAD-7). Additional variables assessed were alcohol use (AUDIT), resilience (abbreviated CD-RISC), and socio-educational data. Prevalence ratios were estimated using generalized linear models. Results Among 456 participants, 88.2% were female, with a mean age of 14.5 years (SD: 1.33). Depressive symptomatology prevalence was 76.3% (95%CI: 72.14-80.15) and increased by 23% in schoolchildren with childhood trauma (PR: 1.23; 95%CI: 1.10-1.37). Factors positively associated with depressive symptomatology included increasing age, seeking mental health help during the pandemic, and severe family dysfunction. Anxiety symptomatology prevalence was 62.3% (95%CI: 57.65-66.75) and increased by 55% in schoolchildren with childhood trauma (PR: 1.55; 95%CI: 1.31-1.85). Anxiety symptomatology was positively associated with mild, moderate, and severe family dysfunction. Conclusion Schoolchildren exposed to childhood trauma are at increased risk for depressive and anxiety symptoms. Monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health is vital. These findings can assist schools in establishing effective measures to prevent mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Darwin A. León-Figueroa
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad de San Martín de Porres, Chiclayo, Peru
- Centro de Investigación en Atención Primaria de Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Virgilio E. Failoc-Rojas
- Research Unit for Generation and Synthesis Evidence in Health, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Danai Valladares-Garrido
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Cesar Vallejo, Piura, Peru
- Unidad de Epidemiología y Salud Ambiental, Hospital de Apoyo II Santa Rosa, Piura, Peru
| | - Fiorella Inga-Berrospi
- Grupo de Investigación en Gestión y Salud Pública, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
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Gómez-Restrepo C, Sarmiento-Suárez MJ, Alba-Saavedra M, Calvo-Valderrama MG, Rincón-Rodríguez CJ, González-Ballesteros LM, Bird V, Priebe S, van Loggerenberg F. Mental health problems and resilience in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic in a post-armed conflict area in Colombia. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9743. [PMID: 37328494 PMCID: PMC10276040 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35789-y] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of adolescents are emerging and require particular attention in settings where challenges like armed conflict, poverty and internal displacement have previously affected their mental wellbeing. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of anxiety symptoms, depressive symptomatology, probable post-traumatic stress disorder and resilience in school-attending adolescents in a post-conflict area of Tolima, Colombia during the COVID-19. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 657 adolescents from 12 to 18 years old, recruited by convenience sampling in 8 public schools in the south of Tolima, Colombia, who completed a self-administered questionnaire. Mental health information was obtained through screening scales for anxiety symptoms (GAD-7), depressive symptomatology (PHQ-8), probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PCL-5) and resilience (CD-RISC-25). The prevalence observed for moderate to severe anxiety symptoms was 18.9% (95% CI 16.0-22.1) and for moderate to severe depressive symptomatology was 30.0% (95% CI 26.5-33.7). A prevalence of probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) of 22.3% (95% CI 18.1-27.2) was found. The CD-RISC-25 results for resilience had a median score of 54 [IQR 30]. These results suggest that approximately two-thirds of school-attending adolescents in this post-conflict area experienced at least one mental health problem such as anxiety symptoms, depressive symptomatology or probable PTSD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Future studies are of interest to establish the causal relationship between these findings and the impact of the pandemic. These findings highlight the challenge that schools have after pandemic to address the mental health of their students in order to promoting adequate coping strategies and implement prompt multidisciplinary interventions to reduce the burden of mental health problems in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Victoria Bird
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Stefan Priebe
- Unit for Social and Community Psychiatry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Zainel AA, Daher-Nashif S, Al-Maadeed AN, Qotba HA, Al Mujalli H, Al-Kohji SM. Children and adolescents coping with home isolation and social distancing during Covid-19 in Qatar: a cross sectional study with qualitative items. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:150. [PMID: 37149640 PMCID: PMC10163849 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01183-6] [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: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Covid-19 related studies report psychological impacts during home isolation and social distancing. Despite that, children and adolescents were able to adopt coping strategies that assisted in lowering severe levels of psychological disorders. This study aims to report on the psychosocial implications of social distancing and isolation on children of different nationalities who reside in Qatar, and to reveal their coping ways. METHODS This is a cross sectional study with qualitative component at its end. The study is a part of a larger study that reported the results of a national screening for psychological disorders experienced by children and adolescents in Qatar. A bilingual online questionnaire included close-ended and one open-ended question to screen for psychological changes and identify coping strategies practiced by children and adolescents (7-18 years) during home-isolation and social distancing. The quantitative questionnaire had five main sections as follows: the sociodemographic characteristics, Spence Children's Anxiety Scale, Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale, and Clinical Anger Scale). The last section screened for eight different coping strategies. The summative content analysis was used to analyze the open-ended question "What practices do you do at home that make you happy?". First, open coding was used (for identification), followed by the axial coding (for comparison), and lasted by sorting of coping strategies inductively. RESULTS Six thousand six hundred and eight (6608) subjects participated between June 23 and July 18, 2020. The clinical outcomes of the study had varying prevalence and levels of severity, which ranged from mild to severe. Higher prevalence was noted for adjustment disorder 66.5% (n = 4396), and generalized anxiety 60% (n = 3858), in comparison to depression 40% (n = 2588). Additionally, participants reported using cognitive, spiritual, social, and physical coping strategies. Eight higher order themes were identified to reflect the coping strategies: playing with siblings or pets, gardening, cooking, practicing arts and crafts, and doing chores. Furthermore, Sociodemographic factors such as ethnicity, religion and family status played a considerable role in choosing the type of coping strategy. CONCLUSION The uniqueness of the study is bringing the psychosocial implications of social distancing through the voices of children and adolescents, and coping strategies from their perspective. These results are of importance for educational and healthcare systems that are recommended to collaborate even in "normal" times to prepare these age categories for any future crises. The importance of daily lifestyle and family is highlighted as protectors, and crucial factors in emotional management.
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Laksmita OD, Chung MH, Shieh YY, Chang PC. Psychometric Validation of the Indonesian Version of Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale 13. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:17069. [PMID: 36554952 PMCID: PMC9778705 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192417069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
A psychometric evaluation of the Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale 13 (CRIES-13), which measures the posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in children and adolescents caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, was conducted. We aimed to cross-culturally adapt and test the psychometric qualities of the CRIES-13 that was applied to Indonesian adolescents exposed to COVID-19 risk across gender groups. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a junior high school in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, in May 2022; 346 Indonesian adolescents aged 12 to 18 years completed the Indonesian version of the CRIES-13. The factorial validity results supported the scale's three-factor structure (intrusion, avoidance, and arousal), which satisfied all parameter index requirements and exhibited a favorable level of internal consistency reliability. Excellent results were obtained across genders for the four-level measurement of invariance (i.e., configural, metric, scalar, and full invariance), and they met the recommended criteria. Our Cronbach's alphas and composite reliability ratings were high (>0.7), indicating a strong correlation and reliability of the items for measuring each construct. We strongly support the use of the Indonesian CRIES-13, which was demonstrated to be valid and reliable for an adolescent population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okki Dhona Laksmita
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Min-Huey Chung
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Nursing, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
| | - Yann-Yann Shieh
- Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Service, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, DC 20202-2800, USA
| | - Pi-Chen Chang
- School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
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Gabriel IWDM, Lima DGS, Pires JP, Vieira NB, Brasil AAGDM, Pereira YTG, Oliveira EGD, Menezes HLD, Lima NNR, Reis AOA, Alves RNP, Silva UPD, Gonçalves Junior J, Rolim-Neto ML. Impacts of COVID-19 on children and adolescents: A systematic review analyzing its psychiatric effects. World J Psychiatry 2022; 12:1313-1322. [PMID: 36438679 PMCID: PMC9693832 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v12.i11.1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarize the most relevant data from a systematic review on the impact of COVID-19 on children and adolescents, particularly analyzing its psychiatric effects.
METHODS This review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and included experimental studies (randomized-individually or pooled-and non-randomized controlled trials), observational studies with a group for internal comparison (cohort studies-prospective and retrospective-and case-control) and qualitative studies in the period from 2021 to 2022.
RESULTS The search identified 325 articles; we removed 125 duplicates. We selected 200 manuscripts, chosen by title and selected abstracts. We excluded 50 records after screening titles and abstracts, as they did not meet the inclusion criteria. We retrieved 150 records selected for a full reading. We excluded 90 text articles and we selected 25 records for the (n) final. Limitations: Due to the short period of data collection, from 2021 to 2022, there is a possibility of lack of relevant studies related to the mental health care of children and adolescents. In addition, there is the possibility of publication bias, such as only significant findings being published.
CONCLUSION The impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of children and adolescents is of great concern to child and youth psychiatry. Situations such as fear, anxiety, panic, depression, sleep and appetite disorders, as well as impairment in social interactions caused by psychic stress, are punctual markers of pain and psychic suffering, which have increasing impacts on the mental health panorama of children and adolescents globally, particularly in vulnerable and socially at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeully Pereira Pires
- Mais Médicos Program, Federal Government of Brazil-Ministry of Health, Iguatu 63048-080, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Nélio Barreto Vieira
- School of Medicine, Federal University of Cariri, Barbalha 63048-080, Ceara, Brazil
| | | | - Yara Talita Gomes Pereira
- Julio Alves de Lira Hospital and Maternity Hospital, HALHM, Belo Jardim 55157-290, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Erika Galvao de Oliveira
- Nursing Department, Doctor Leão Sampaio University Center-UNILEAO, Juazeiro do Norte 63.041-140, Ceara, Brazil
| | | | - Nadia Nara Rolim Lima
- Graduate Program (Post-Doctoral) in Neuro-Psychiatry, UFPE, Recife 50670-901, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Alberto Olavo Advíncula Reis
- Postgraduate Program (Master’s and Doctorate) in Public Health, University of São Paulo-USP, São Paulo 01246-904, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jucier Gonçalves Junior
- Internal Medicine-Division of Rheumathology at Hospital das Clínicas, São Paulo University, São Paulo 01246-903, São Paulo, Brazil
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Marks RA, Norton RT, Mesite L, Fox AB, Christodoulou JA. Risk and resilience correlates of reading among adolescents with language-based learning disabilities during COVID-19. READING AND WRITING 2022; 36:401-428. [PMID: 36406629 PMCID: PMC9649401 DOI: 10.1007/s11145-022-10361-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Students with language-based learning disabilities (LBLD) can face elevated socio-emotional well-being challenges in addition to literacy challenges. We examined the prevalence of risk and resilience factors among adolescents with LBLD (N = 93), ages 16-18, and the association with reading performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected at the start and end of the first fully remote academic year of COVID-19 (2020-2021). Participants completed standardized word and text reading measures, as well as self-report surveys of executive functions (EF), and socio-emotional skills associated with resilience (grit, growth mindset, self-management, self-efficacy, and social awareness) or risk (anxiety, depression, COVID-19 related PTSD, and perceived COVID-19 impact). Survey data at the start of the school year (Time 1) captured three underlying factors associated with socioemotional risk, socioemotional resilience, and regulation (i.e., EF). Path analyses revealed that students' Time 2 oral reading scores were significantly and uniquely predicted by socioemotional resilience, even when controlling for word-level reading at Time 1. Socioemotional risk, EF, and perceived COVID-19 impact were not directly related to Time 2 oral reading scores; however, students' resilience mediated the associations between risk and reading outcomes. These results demonstrate that adolescents' mental health concerns, self-regulatory ability, and socioemotional resilience were all associated with their experiences of the COVID-19-related stress. However, despite the high-risk context of the pandemic, and socio-emotional challenges faced by students with LBLD, our findings indicate that resilience directly predicts end-of-year reading outcomes and mediates the impact of socioemotional risk on achievement. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11145-022-10361-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Marks
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 First Avenue, Boston, MA 02129 USA
| | - Rachel T. Norton
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 First Avenue, Boston, MA 02129 USA
| | - Laura Mesite
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 First Avenue, Boston, MA 02129 USA
| | - Annie B. Fox
- School of Healthcare Leadership, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 First Avenue, Boston, MA 02129 USA
| | - Joanna A. Christodoulou
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, MGH Institute of Health Professions, 36 First Avenue, Boston, MA 02129 USA
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Hegazi MA, Butt NS, Sayed MH, Zubairi NA, Alahmadi TS, El-Baz MS, Atwah AF, Altuwiriqi MA, Saeedi FA, Abdulhaq NM, Almurashi SH. Evaluation of the virtual learning environment by school students and their parents in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic after school closure. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275397. [PMID: 36322559 PMCID: PMC9629622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Very few previous studies have involved school students or their parents in the evaluation of virtual learning environment (VLE). Thus, this survey was performed to evaluate the satisfaction of both school students and their parents with the VLE in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was distributed online for VLE evaluation. The questionnaire was based on previous studies and expert opinions from validated instruments for assessing distance education, integrative and literature reviews of VLE environment. A median value >3 indicated participant satisfaction in each of the 5 domains of the questionnaire as well as overall VLE satisfaction. The used questionnaire was checked after its implementation by all possible statistical means and it was found to be of acceptable validity and reliability. RESULTS Six hundred and ninety-three participants including 571 Saudi citizens and 122 non-Saudi residents participated in this survey. The number of school students who agreed or strongly agreed were significantly lower than the number of students who disagreed or strongly disagreed with preferring the VLE over traditional education (p<0.001). The participants evaluated the VLE experience as unsatisfactory with a median value ≤3 for 4 out of 5 questionnaire domains with an overall satisfaction value of 2.8. Among the 117 participants who gave further written opinions/comments, 42(35.9%) participants supported the VLE as an alternative to traditional classrooms, if equipment and internet are made available and for the safety of their children. CONCLUSIONS This is one of few available adequate population-based studies for exploring the VLE satisfaction of both Saudi citizens and non-Saudi residents school students and their parents. This study showed the participants' unsatisfactory VLE experience. The VLE is accepted as an alternative to traditional classrooms to keep up with learning and to maintain the safety of children and it can be a supplementary learning method but many measures are still needed to develop the VLE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa Abdelaal Hegazi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pediatrics, Mansoura University Children’s Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nadeem Shafique Butt
- Departments of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | - Mohamed Hesham Sayed
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nadeem Alam Zubairi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Turki Saad Alahmadi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Saad El-Baz
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ali Fahd Atwah
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Ahmed Altuwiriqi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fajr Adel Saeedi
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada Mansour Abdulhaq
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Alshareef M. Effect of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Children's Behavior in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2022; 14:e31234. [PMID: 36505105 PMCID: PMC9730737 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31234] [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: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Children's mental health is one of the major concerns during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Multiple strategic policies are applied to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, including boundaries closure, social distancing, lockdown, and quarantine. These measures affect the mental health of adults as well as children. In Saudi Arabia, many studies investigated the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults' mental health, but few were done on children. Children's behavior can be assessed through parents' observation, which can be an important indication of children's mental health. Objective This study aimed to assess the psychological impact of the COVID-19 quarantine on children's mental health and to evaluate the effect of familial and social-demographic characteristics on children's psychology during the COVID-19 crisis in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methods and materials A web-based, cross-sectional voluntary response survey including parents of 576 children aged 15 years and younger. The survey included familial and socio-demographic information as well as a questionnaire examining the behavioral, mental, and emotional changes in children during the COVID-19 quarantine. Results Twenty-four point seven percent (24.7%) of children were found to have negative psychological effects due to the COVID-19-associated quarantine in the Makkah region. This prevalence was related to the marital status of the parents, the children's age, and the presence of outdoor space in the house. Conclusion This study highlights the importance of psychological support needed for children and their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies are required to explore whether this psychological impact will subside after the COVID-19 pandemic is over.
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Karbasi Z, Eslami P. Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic in children: a review and suggested solutions. MIDDLE EAST CURRENT PSYCHIATRY 2022. [PMCID: PMC9512982 DOI: 10.1186/s43045-022-00240-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The outbreak of coronavirus began in China in December 2019. It became a pandemic and a public health emergency. There have been numerous reports related to post-traumatic stress disorder outbreaks in the COVID-19 crisis. After a natural disaster, children are at a higher risk for post-traumatic stress disorder. The current study is a review of the scientific literature on the effect of COVID-19 on the prevalence of symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in children. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases until February 02, 2022. The search strategy was based on a combination of the following keywords “child,” “COVID-19,” and “post-traumatic stress disorder.” Results By searching the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases, 173 articles were retrieved. After reviewing the inclusion criteria and in terms of eligibility, 10 articles met the inclusion criteria out of the remaining 46 articles. Based on the findings, 80% of the articles were cross-sectional and 20% of them were longitudinal. The articles reviewed in this study reported an increase in the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in children during or after the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions In summary, the findings of this review showed that restrictions and fears of COVID-19 had negative psychological effects on children. As well, one of the most important issues that arose at the time of the tragedy was that children were suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. Given that post-traumatic stress disorder can be treated, it is essential to choose the appropriate therapeutic intervention approach in order to better deal with the negative effects in children.
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14
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Pfefferbaum B. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Children in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 61:957-959. [PMID: 35219806 PMCID: PMC8865911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2022.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
With its global spread and protracted threat, mounting morbidity and mortality, pervasive social and economic ramifications, vital public health measures, and often compromised risk communication, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased the risk to children's emotional health relative to more common biological, natural, and man-made events. Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and PTSD symptoms have been the primary focus of child disaster mental health research. The adult literature has questioned the appropriateness of focusing on PTSD in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, because most of the extensive adult research on PTSD has not appropriately assessed all diagnostic criteria for the disorder.1 The pandemic experiences of participants in most studies examined in a recent review did not meet the PTSD exposure criterion,1 which requires that exposure be "directly" experienced, witnessed in person, secondary to the involvement of a close family member or friend, or "repeated or extreme" contact with "aversive details" of the event.2 Instead, participants' experiences were primarily indirect (eg, media contact) and constituted fear related to contracting the disease.1 This concern extends to the relatively few empirical COVID-19 studies of PTSD in children and exemplifies a problem in many child disaster mental health studies, especially those assessing general population samples that primarily comprise children who do not meet the PTSD exposure criterion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Pfefferbaum
- College of Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City.
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15
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Zhi JC, Pei F, Zhang SW, Huang ML, Zhao MY, Wang Y. [Psychological and behavioral problems in children and adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 epidemic: a Scoping review]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2022; 24:728-735. [PMID: 35894185 PMCID: PMC9336617 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2204187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the psychological and behavioral problems and related influencing factors in children and adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic. METHODS China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched using the method of subject search for articles published up to March 31, 2022, and related data were extracted for Scoping review. RESULTS A total of 3 951 articles were retrieved, and 35 articles from 12 countries were finally included. Most of the articles were from the journals related to pediatrics, psychiatry, psychology, and epidemiology, and cross-sectional survey was the most commonly used research method. Psychological and behavioral problems in children and adolescents mainly included depression/anxiety/stress, sleep disorder, internet behavior problems, traumatic stress disorder, and self-injury/suicide. Influencing factors were analyzed from the three aspects of socio-demographic characteristics, changes in living habits, and ways of coping with COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS During the COVID-19 epidemic, the psychological and behavioral problems of children and adolescents in China and overseas are severe. In the future, further investigation and research can be carried out based on relevant influencing factors to improve the psychological and behavioral problems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fei Pei
- Rehabilitation Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, China
| | | | | | - Ming-Yue Zhao
- Rehabilitation Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Rehabilitation Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Heilongjiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150001, China
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Asemota OA, Napier-Raman S, Takeuchi H, Raman S, Asemota EA, Nonye E. Exploring children's knowledge of COVID-19 and stress levels associated with the pandemic in Nigeria: a mixed-method study. BMJ Paediatr Open 2022; 6:10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001444. [PMID: 36053587 PMCID: PMC9226462 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001444] [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: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children have been relatively spared from the direct effects of COVID-19 globally, but there are significant concerns about indirect effects on the most vulnerable children's well-being. Nigeria is the largest African nation, but little is known about children's experience of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aims were to determine children's knowledge of COVID-19 and their mental health responses to the pandemic. METHODS Children aged 6-17 years living in Calabar, Nigeria, were surveyed using a combination of online data collection assisted by parents and on-site data collection at schools. Parents filled out sociodemographic details, while children answered questions about COVID-19 knowledge and preventive measures. An adapted version of the 'Perceived Stress Scale for Children' was used to assess stress with additional free text space for expression of views and experiences of COVID-19. RESULTS A total of 265 children completed questionnaires, mean age was 12.5 years, 52.1% were girls. All children knew about the virus and over two-thirds (67.8%) had good knowledge of COVID-19 transmission. Children identified television (60.8%), parents (44.2%) and social media (32.8%), as main sources of COVID-19 information. The overall mean stress score among the children was 20.47. Children mentioned the following as stressors: fear of the COVID-19 disease, effect of pandemic restrictions on schooling and social interactions as well as home/family tensions. Parental love and support were overwhelmingly reported as strengths. CONCLUSIONS Nigerian children in this study had good knowledge and understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic and preventive measures to counter the virus. Children had high stress levels and expressed pandemic-related concerns but parental love and support were mitigating factors. Government and child health service providers need to tailor health and support services in response to children's needs and concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sharanya Napier-Raman
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Shanti Raman
- Community Paediatrics, Southwest Sydney Local Health District, sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Ezeh Nonye
- Department of Paediatrics, New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Wainwright MS. Editorial: The path to resilience and recovery: understanding the epidemiology, neuropathology and treatment of neurologic injury due to the SARS-CoV-2 virus in children. Curr Opin Pediatr 2021; 33:576-579. [PMID: 34654051 PMCID: PMC8577292 DOI: 10.1097/mop.0000000000001079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Wainwright
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Almugti HS, Alotaibi A, Almohammed A, Abuhadi R, Baeshen R, Alharthi Z, Alsharari A, Alotaibi S, Omar Y, Alturki N, Oberi I, Alrehaili A, Alzahrani A, Alghanim F, Ayoub R. Impact of COVID-19 on Saudi Children: Special Focus on Behavioral, Social, and Emotional Aspects, 2020-2021. Cureus 2021; 13:e19856. [PMID: 34963861 PMCID: PMC8704323 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.19856] [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] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has negatively affected many aspects of daily life. In Saudi Arabia, many studies, using a range of assessment approaches, have examined how the pandemic has affected the mental health of both the general public and healthcare workers. However, to develop effective public-health initiatives for such crisis events, it would also be relevant to determine the pandemic's impact on the behavioral, emotional, and social lives of Saudi children. Objective To assess, among Saudi children aged 3-15 years, the behavioral, emotional, and social changes that have occurred in their daily lives due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and methods This study featured a cross-sectional design. Potential participants were approached through the most popular social media in Saudi Arabia, and the final sample size was 651 parents. As, at the time of data collection, the members of the Saudi public were requested to avoid face-to-face meetings where possible, a well-designed electronic questionnaire featuring closed-ended questions was used. Results Descriptive statistics showed that the mean age of the parents was 29±7 years (range: 20-60 years); over half (58%) were female. During the COVID-19 outbreak, one-third of children had asked to sleep in their parents' beds. Furthermore, approximately 30% of children demonstrated increased irritability and mood swings when compared with the period before the pandemic. Concerning adaptive social behaviors, during the pandemic, 22% of children appeared calmer and 14% of children seemed more thoughtful. Our study reports more screen time, less physical activity, and reduced sleep time among children compared with the pre-pandemic period. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic has psychologically affected children. The present results highlight the need to reduce this psychological burden by enhancing children's emotional resilience and involving parents in health-promotion programs aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of such public-health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hani S Almugti
- Epidemiology and Public Health, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud bin Abdul-Aziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, SAU
| | | | - Ali Almohammed
- College of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, JOR
| | - Rana Abuhadi
- College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, SAU
| | | | | | | | | | - Yazan Omar
- College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, SAU
| | - Norah Alturki
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, SAU
| | | | | | | | - Fatimah Alghanim
- College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Khobar, SAU
| | - Raum Ayoub
- College of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan, SAU
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This paper reviews the literature on the psychological effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children and the reactions of vulnerable children. RECENT FINDINGS Research reveals increases in clinically significant depression, suicidal ideation and behavior, and some anxiety symptoms. Substance use studies suggest an inadvertent decrease in substance use in some youth though findings are inconsistent across substances and for males and females. Children with pre-existing emotional and behavioral problems are especially vulnerable though some children appear to improve in the context of public health measures which have decreased the stresses associated with school and socialization. In addition, children with pre-existing problems are likely to have established resources and relationships that may protect them relative to other children. COVID-19 has had a major effect on the mental health of children around the world, but findings should be considered preliminary until more rigorous research has been conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betty Pfefferbaum
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 920 Stanton L. Young Boulevard, WP3217, P.O. Box 26901, Oklahoma City, OK, 73126-0901, USA.
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