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Jankovic-Rankovic J, Panter-Brick C. Physiological and genomic signatures of war and displacement: A comprehensive literature review and future directions. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 166:107084. [PMID: 38788460 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
There are now 108.4 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, many of whom endure adversities that result in trauma, toxic stress, and potentially, altered epigenetic development. This paper provides a comprehensive review of current literature on the biological signatures of war and forced migration among refugee populations. To consolidate evidence and identify key concerns and avenues for future research, we reviewed 36 publications and one article under review, published since 2000, most of which focused on refugees relocated in Europe and the Middle East. This body of work - including cross-sectional, observational, and experimental studies - reveals heterogenous findings regarding human biological responses to war-related adversities and their associations with health outcomes. We conclude with four main observations, regarding why genomic and physiological biomarkers are valuable, what study designs advance understanding of causality and health-promoting interventions, how to prepare for ethical challenges, and why theoretical frameworks and research procedures need more detailed consideration in scientific publications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catherine Panter-Brick
- Department of Anthropology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Jackson School of Global Affairs, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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2
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Mei J, Xu Y, Gong X, Xu J, Chen G, Chen W, Wang Y, Kong Z, Wang Y, Yang Q. Polysomnography and Neuropsychological Analysis of Patients With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Two Years After the COVID-19 Pandemic in Wuhan. Psychiatry Investig 2024; 21:219-229. [PMID: 38569580 PMCID: PMC10990631 DOI: 10.30773/pi.2023.0095] [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: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We used polysomnography (PSG) monitoring and neuropsychological scales to explore the characteristics of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in Wuhan, two years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A total of 42 patients in the Sleep Medicine Center were diagnosed with insomnia between December 2021 and May 2022; they were divided into the PTSD group (patients with PTSD diagnosed with insomnia after COVID-19 infection) and the non-PTSD group (patients with insomnia without PTSD). A healthy control group was simultaneously included. RESULTS The PTSD group was more significant than the non-PTSD group in partial manifestations of sleep disorders, neuropsychological clinical symptoms, and partial PSG data. Patients with different COVID-19 subtypes showed significant differences in the course of disease, sleep disorders, neuropsychological clinical symptoms, relevant scale scores, and PSG data analysis. CONCLUSION The emotional anxiety and depression of COVID-19 patients diagnosed with PTSD two years after the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan are more significant, and will not be self-alleviated with the passage of time. It is necessary to continue to pay attention to the PTSD symptoms and sleep psychology of COVID-19 infected patients, and take appropriate measures. Patients with severe and critical COVID-19 have more severe sleep and mental disorders, and there is a significant correlation between the duration of the disease and the severity of mental and mental disorders and sleep disorders after recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhua Mei
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wuhan City, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanjie Xu
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Longfu Hospital, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Gong
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wuhan City, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinmei Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wuhan City, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Guohua Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wuhan City, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Weiqi Chen
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yicong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhaohong Kong
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yilong Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Wuhan City, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Hinchey LM, Khalil D, Javanbakht A. Practical approaches to conducting biopsychosocial research with refugee and internally displaced communities. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2023; 16:100217. [PMID: 38108032 PMCID: PMC10724820 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2023.100217] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Refugees and internally displaced people comprise one percent of the world population. Forced migration involves a multitude of ongoing stressful and traumatic experiences, often resulting in lasting psychological symptoms for people resettling as refugees. Despite these risks, the underrepresentation of refugee populations in research-particularly in biological sciences-has impeded the allocation of effective resources and the development of novel interventions for these groups. This paper identifies and addresses key methodological challenges to successfully and appropriately conducting research with refugee and internally displaced communities, many of which have served as barriers to improving research representation for these populations. Methodological challenges discussed include language and literacy barriers; political fears; differing cultural dynamics between participants and researchers; and others. We provide practical recommendations for overcoming each challenge, often sourced from our experience conducting multi-year studies and interventions in refugee mental health. Several key strategies include the recruitment of researchers and research assistants from similar cultural and linguistic backgrounds as participants; providing detailed, ongoing communication about informed consent; avoiding assumptions regarding participants' understanding of concepts that may vary based on culture or experience (e.g., "voluntary" research; confidentiality); and adopting flexible data collection procedures compatible with participants' needs and restrictions. Finally, we discuss the role of the researcher in regard to cultural competencies and partnering with the refugee community. Given the increasing global population of refugees, the strategies discussed in this paper are suggested in order to encourage future research in this underrepresented population and empower investigators to logistically carry out studies with refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza M.E. Hinchey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Dalia Khalil
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Arash Javanbakht
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Sankari S, Wrobel N, Leonard M, Grasser L, Sankari A, Javanbakht A. Relationship between Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Sleep Disturbances in Syrian Refugees in the United States. Avicenna J Med 2023; 13:82-88. [PMID: 37435556 PMCID: PMC10332942 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1768646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with disturbed sleep. However, the impact of sleep disturbances and PTSD symptomology in refugee populations is not well known. This study examined how PTSD-related sleep symptoms and overall sleep quality were impacted by previous and current traumatic and stressful experiences. Methods Adult Syrian refugees living in Southeast Michigan were assessed via scheduled in-home interviews. Overall sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. PTSD-related sleep disturbances were measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Addendum. The presence of PTSD symptomatology was assessed via self-report using the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist. The Life Events Checklist for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition-5 screened for prior traumatic events experienced and the Postmigration Living Difficulties Questionnaire was assessed for postmigration stressors. Correlational analysis was conducted between overall sleep quality, PTSD symptom severity, and previous trauma experienced. A stepwise linear regression analysis was conducted to examine the role of overall sleep quality, PTSD-specific sleep disturbances, current living difficulties, and the number of preimmigration traumatic events directly experienced or witnessed due to the presence of overall PTSD symptomology. Results A total of 53 adults completed the study. PTSD-disturbed sleep was found to be positively associated with overall poor sleep quality ( r = 0.42, p < 0.01), PTSD symptomology ( r = 0.65, p < 0.01), and current living difficulties ( r = 0.37, p < 0.05). The PTSD-related sleep disturbances (B = 0.66, p < 0.01) and postmigration living difficulties (B = 0.44, p < 0.01) were found to be the strongest predictors of PTSD symptoms. Conclusion Disturbed sleep is strongly associated with current stressful experiences and PTSD symptomology among Syrian refugees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safa Sankari
- College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters, Behavioral Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, United States
| | - Nancy Wrobel
- College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters, Behavioral Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, United States
| | - Michelle Leonard
- College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters, Behavioral Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan, United States
| | - Lana Grasser
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Abdulghani Sankari
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
| | - Arash Javanbakht
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States
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Mroue T, Heras B, Soriano JM, Morales-Suarez-Varela M. Prevalence of Malnutrition among Syrian Refugee Children from Lebanon. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020453. [PMID: 36836811 PMCID: PMC9961820 DOI: 10.3390/life13020453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Today, the situation of Syrian refugees is one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. To estimate the prevalence of malnutrition among pediatric populations of Syrian refugees, 176 Syrian refugee children, with stays of more than two years at three refugee camps (Zalhé, Deddeh, and Kfar Jouz) or from the town of Yohmor, Lebanon were authorized by their parents to participate in this study. The children were anthropometrically evaluated and height-for-age Z-score (HAZ), weight-for-age Z-score (WAZ), and weight-for-height (WHZ) Z-scores were obtained and compared with WHO standards. Furthermore, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) was analyzed for screening children 6-59 months old. According to the anthropometric measures, no child met the criteria for chronic, global, acute malnutrition (CGAM), severe acute malnutrition (SAM), or moderate acute malnutrition (MAM). In the total sample, 49.4% of participants were moderately thin, with girls presenting a higher prevalence of thinness than that of boys. Thus, the absence of high rates of malnutrition was verified despite the magnitude of the Syrian refugee's problem. The data provided by this study identify the need to carry out further research to assess anthropometric growth and nutritional status among long-staying refugee children in order to prevent any health issues that may arise in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Mroue
- Observatory of Nutrition and Food Safety for Developing Countries, Food & Health Lab, Institute of Materials Science, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Betlem Heras
- Observatory of Nutrition and Food Safety for Developing Countries, Food & Health Lab, Institute of Materials Science, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Spain
| | - Jose M. Soriano
- Observatory of Nutrition and Food Safety for Developing Countries, Food & Health Lab, Institute of Materials Science, University of Valencia, 46980 Paterna, Spain
- Joint Research Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, Health Research Institute La Fe-University of Valencia, 46026 Valencia, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-963543056
| | - María Morales-Suarez-Varela
- Unit of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Food Sciences, Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, University of Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
- CIBER in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Javanbakht A, Grasser LR. Biological Psychiatry in Displaced Populations: What We Know, and What We Need to Begin to Learn. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2022; 7:1242-1250. [PMID: 35580738 PMCID: PMC9678009 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Conflict and climate change continue to displace millions of people, who experience unique trauma and stressors as they resettle in host countries. Both children and adults who are forcibly displaced, or choose to migrate, experience posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions at higher rates than the general population. This may be attributed to severe, cumulative stress and trauma (largely interpersonal traumas); discrimination and harassment in host countries; and structural barriers to accessing and addressing mental health concerns, including clinician availability, language barriers, cultural differences, geographic accessibility, health care access, and stigma. Despite high exposure to and clinical impact of such experiences, and despite representing 1% of the world population, forcibly displaced people are underrepresented in neuroscientific research. The availability of such literature and research findings is significant in understanding the unique genetic and cultural aspects of trauma- and stress-related mental health, advocacy, reducing stigma, informing prevention, and treatment. The present work aimed to explore how the field of neuroscience can address mental health equity for individuals who have been uprooted in relation to land, with a focus on refugee populations. We offer practical suggestions on how to improve research in this area and narrow the gap in knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Javanbakht
- Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan.
| | - Lana Ruvolo Grasser
- Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan
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7
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Babaei M, Rezaei S, Saghafi Khadem S, Shirinbak I, Basir Shabestari S. The Role of Salivary C-Reactive Protein in Systemic and Oral Disorders: A Systematic Review. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2022; 36:138. [PMID: 36479533 PMCID: PMC9719583 DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.36.138] [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: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Blood sampling is expensive, time-consuming, invasive, and requires technical facilities, which can be replaced by more convenient samples such as saliva. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a widely used biomarker in the management of many disorders and plasma CRP (pCRP) is suggested to be replaced by salivary CRP (sCRP). This study aimed to systematically review all available literature on the sCRP levels in systemic and oral disorders and how sCRP and pCRP levels correlate among these patients and healthy individuals. Methods: In this systematic review, a PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar search was conducted on October-2021 to identify all research investigating sCRP levels in systemic and oral disorders. Results: A total of 130 publications were analyzed in the review. Most of the studies reported that sCRP and pCRP levels are correlated, and sCRP is a reliable alternative for pCRP level for the diagnosis and management of medical conditions. sCRP has been measured in many different medical and oral disorders and significantly correlated with disease activity in most cases. Conclusion: Salivary CRP is a good alternative for Plasma CRP levels in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Babaei
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Rezaei
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Saghafi Khadem
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Shirinbak
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Samira Basir Shabestari
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, Firoozgar Clinical Research Development Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Corresponding author:Samira Basir Shabestari,
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8
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Grasser LR. Addressing Mental Health Concerns in Refugees and Displaced Populations: Is Enough Being Done? Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:909-922. [PMID: 35573980 PMCID: PMC9094640 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s270233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
There are over 82.4 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, about a quarter of whom are resettling as refugees. In the wake of the global refugee crisis spurred by conflict, religious and political persecution, human rights violations, and climate disasters, a mental health has crisis followed. Not only does trauma experienced in home countries and as part of forced migration affect mental health, so too do post-migration traumatic events, discrimination, lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare and housing, and acculturation. To address mental health concerns in refugees and displaced populations, collective action is needed not only from health care providers but also from mental health researchers, funders, journals, resettlement agencies, government entities, and humanitarian organizations. The present review highlights the work of numerous scholars and organizations with the goal of understanding the mental health concerns of forcibly displaced persons within and across ecological systems. The present review seeks to bring attention to the experiences of forcibly displaced persons, summarize the growing body of research understanding the acute and chronic effects of forced displacement and possible interventions, and give a call to action for all members of the global community at every level to engage in joint efforts to improve mental health in refugees and displaced persons. Notably, there is a need for more interventions at the familial and community level that serve not only as treatment but also as prevention. Smartphone-based interventions, mind-body modalities, and interventions delivered by lay and non-clinician community members hold promise. Numerous strides could be made in refugee mental health and treatment when funding agencies include these goals in their research priorities. Despite the challenges they have faced, persons who resettle as refugees are incredibly resilient and deserve to be afforded every right, opportunity, dignity, and respect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lana Ruvolo Grasser
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
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Yamin JB, Sudan S, Lumley MA, Dhalimi A, Arnetz JE, Stemmer PM, Burghardt PR, Jamil H, Arnetz BB. The Development of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Depression Symptoms in Iraqi Refugees: Associations with Acculturation and C-reactive Protein. J Nerv Ment Dis 2021; 209:585-591. [PMID: 33958551 PMCID: PMC8544132 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Refugees experience distress from premigration trauma, often exacerbated by postmigration difficulties. To develop effective interventions, risk factors for mental health symptoms need to be determined. Male Iraqi refugees (N = 53) to the United States provided background information and reported predisplacement trauma and psychological health within 1 month of their arrival. An inflammatory biomarker-C-reactive protein (CRP) was assessed approximately 1.5 years after arrival, and a contextual factor-acculturation-and psychological health were assessed 2 years after arrival. We tested whether acculturation and CRP were associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression symptoms at the 2-year follow-up, controlling for baseline symptoms, age, body mass index, and predisplacement trauma. Acculturation was inversely related to depression, and CRP was positively related to both PTSD and depression at the 2-year follow-up. Interventions targeting acculturation could help reduce the development of depression symptoms in refugees. The role of CRP in the development of PTSD and depression symptoms warrants further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolin B. Yamin
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, US
| | - Sukhesh Sudan
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, US
| | - Mark A. Lumley
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, US
| | - Abir Dhalimi
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, US
| | - Judith E. Arnetz
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, US
| | - Paul M. Stemmer
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, US
| | - Paul R. Burghardt
- Department of Food and Nutrition Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, US
| | - Hikmet Jamil
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, US
| | - Bengt B. Arnetz
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, US
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10
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Grolli RE, Mingoti MED, Bertollo AG, Luzardo AR, Quevedo J, Réus GZ, Ignácio ZM. Impact of COVID-19 in the Mental Health in Elderly: Psychological and Biological Updates. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:1905-1916. [PMID: 33404981 PMCID: PMC7786865 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02249-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since December 2019, the world has been experiencing the challenge of facing coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), a severe infectious disease caused by the new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. The individuals with the most severe symptoms and the highest risk of death are the elderly and those with chronic illness. Among chronic conditions, those with a certain degree of chronic inflammation may predispose to a more severe evolution of COVID-19. Elderly with psychiatric disorders can present a persistent inflammatory state, a characteristic of the age’s immunological senescence, but the disorder can accentuate that. Social isolation is still the safest way to avoid contamination. However, isolated older people may have or worsen mental health conditions due to isolation and health concerns. In this scenario, a SARS-CoV-2 infection may progress to more severe disease. Conversely, COVID-19 can predispose or aggravate psychiatric disorders, as it induces a cytokine storm, causing systemic hyper inflammation. It may damage the blood-brain barrier, resulting in inflammation in the central nervous system. Besides, SARS-CoV-2 is likely to reach and trigger an inflammatory process directly in the nervous system. This review makes an update about research on the mental health of the elderly during the pandemic. Also, it discusses the vulnerability of these individuals in the face of stress and in the case of contracting COVID-19, considering mainly the stress’s hormonal and inflammatory mechanisms. Finally, the review points out possible care and attention strategies and entertainment and activities that can reduce the damage to mental and physical health and improve the elderly’s quality of life. Isolation and concerns about COVID-19 may harm elderly mental health. Immunosenescence and pandemic stress increase the risk of psychiatric disorders. Stress and disorders may potentiate the elderly’s inflammation and COVID-19 symptoms. SARS-CoV-2 hyperinflammation is a risk factor for elderly psychiatric disorders ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Eduarda Grolli
- Undergraduate Nursing Course, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil.,Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology, Psychopathology, Postgraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil
| | - Maiqueli Eduarda Dama Mingoti
- Undergraduate Nursing Course, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil.,Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology, Psychopathology, Postgraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil
| | - Amanda Gollo Bertollo
- Undergraduate Nursing Course, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil.,Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology, Psychopathology, Postgraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil
| | - Adriana Remião Luzardo
- Undergraduate Nursing Course, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil.,Laboratory of Innovation and Health Technologies, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil
| | - João Quevedo
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Criciuma, SC, Brazil.,Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA.,Translational Psychiatry Program, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gislaine Zilli Réus
- Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Criciuma, SC, Brazil
| | - Zuleide Maria Ignácio
- Undergraduate Nursing Course, Federal University of the Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil. .,Laboratory of Physiology, Pharmacology, Psychopathology, Postgraduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Southern Frontier, Chapeco, SC, Brazil. .,Laboratory of Translational Psychiatry, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of Southern Santa Catarina, Criciuma, SC, Brazil.
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