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Chou YH, Lin C, Lee SH, Lee YF, Cheng LC. User-Friendly Chatbot to Mitigate the Psychological Stress of Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Development and Usability Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e49462. [PMID: 38477965 DOI: 10.2196/49462] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To safeguard the most vulnerable individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, numerous governments enforced measures such as stay-at-home orders, social distancing, and self-isolation. These social restrictions had a particularly negative effect on older adults, as they are more vulnerable and experience increased loneliness, which has various adverse effects, including increasing the risk of mental health problems and mortality. Chatbots can potentially reduce loneliness and provide companionship during a pandemic. However, existing chatbots do not cater to the specific needs of older adult populations. OBJECTIVE We aimed to develop a user-friendly chatbot tailored to the specific needs of older adults with anxiety or depressive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic and to examine their perspectives on mental health chatbot use. The primary research objective was to investigate whether chatbots can mitigate the psychological stress of older adults during COVID-19. METHODS Participants were older adults belonging to two age groups (≥65 years and <65 years) from a psychiatric outpatient department who had been diagnosed with depressive or anxiety disorders by certified psychiatrists according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (Fifth Edition) (DSM-5) criteria. The participants were required to use mobile phones, have internet access, and possess literacy skills. The chatbot's content includes monitoring and tracking health data and providing health information. Participants had access to the chatbot for at least 4 weeks. Self-report questionnaires for loneliness, depression, and anxiety were administered before and after chatbot use. The participants also rated their attitudes toward the chatbot. RESULTS A total of 35 participants (mean age 65.21, SD 7.51 years) were enrolled in the trial, comprising 74% (n=26) female and 26% (n=9) male participants. The participants demonstrated a high utilization rate during the intervention, with over 82% engaging with the chatbot daily. Loneliness significantly improved in the older group ≥65 years. This group also responded positively to the chatbot, as evidenced by changes in University of California Los Angeles Loneliness Scale scores, suggesting that this demographic can derive benefits from chatbot interaction. Conversely, the younger group, <65 years, exhibited no significant changes in loneliness after the intervention. Both the older and younger age groups provided good scores in relation to chatbot design with respect to usability (mean scores of 6.33 and 6.05, respectively) and satisfaction (mean scores of 5.33 and 5.15, respectively), rated on a 7-point Likert scale. CONCLUSIONS The chatbot interface was found to be user-friendly and demonstrated promising results among participants 65 years and older who were receiving care at psychiatric outpatient clinics and experiencing relatively stable symptoms of depression and anxiety. The chatbot not only provided caring companionship but also showed the potential to alleviate loneliness during the challenging circumstances of a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Hsin Chou
- Department of Psychiatry, Taoyuan Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan County, Taiwan
| | - Chemin Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, Keelung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung City, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan County, Taiwan
- Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Shwu-Hua Lee
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan County, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan County, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Fen Lee
- Department of Information and Finance Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chen Cheng
- Department of Information and Finance Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan
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Strough J, Parker AM, Ayer L, Parks V, Finucane ML. Aging and Emotional Well-Being After Disasters: Vulnerability and Resilience. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2024; 64:gnad099. [PMID: 37470357 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad099] [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: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Climate change threatens well-being and has increased the prevalence of weather-related disasters. We investigated age differences in emotional well-being among adults who had experienced hurricane-related, unavoidable stressors. Socioemotional selectivity theory (SST) posits that age-related motivational shifts buffer older adults against psychological distress, whereas the strength and vulnerability integration model (SAVI) posits that unavoidable stressors are more detrimental to older adults' well-being compared to younger adults. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We used existing self-report data from a life-span sample of adults (N = 618, M age = 58.44 years, standard deviation = 16.03, 18-96 years) who resided in the U.S. Gulf Coast region. The sample was recruited in 2016 to examine the sequelae of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and contacted again after the 2017 and 2018 hurricane seasons. In 2016, participants reported their depression, anxiety, and trauma history. After the 2017-2018 hurricane seasons, participants reported their depression, post-traumatic stress, exposure to hurricane-related adversities, injuries and casualties, self-efficacy, and perceived health. RESULTS In line with SST, older age was associated with reporting significantly fewer depression and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, even after controlling for exposure to hurricane-related adversities, injuries and casualties, health, self-efficacy, pre-hurricane depression, anxiety, and trauma. The association between older age and fewer depression symptoms was stronger among those who experienced hurricane-related adversities compared to those who had not, in contrast to predictions based on SAVI. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS We discuss the implications of age-related strengths in emotional well-being for policy and practice in the context of the ongoing climate crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- JoNell Strough
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
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Schurr M, Junne F, Martus P, Paul G, Jürgensen JS, Allwang C, Binneböse M, Wallis H, Mikolajczyk R, Galante-Gottschalk A, Zipfel S, Ehehalt S, Giel KE. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with physical but not mental fatigue - Findings from a longitudinal controlled population-based study. J Psychosom Res 2024; 178:111598. [PMID: 38277895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2024.111598] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fatigue has been identified as the core symptom of long-Covid, however, putative pandemic-related influences remain largely unclear. We investigated trajectories of total, physical and mental fatigue and the factors associated with it in previously infected and non-infected individuals up to one year post- infection. METHODS We used data from a longitudinal cohort study of German adults with two samples: A representative probability sample and a sample of individuals with proven SARS-CoV-2 infection. Surveys were conducted in spring 2020(T1), autumn 2020(T2) and summer 2021(T3). Fatigue was assessed using the FAS, distinguishes between physical and mental fatigue. Depression, anxiety and stress were assessed using PHQ-4 and PSQ. RESULTS 1990 participants [mean age 47.2 (SD = 17.0), 30.5% previously infected] were included in the survey at T1 (n = 1118 at T2, n = 692 at T3). Total and physical fatigue, but not mental fatigue were significantly higher in the previously infected compared to the non-infected sample at T2, but this group difference disappeared at T3. We identified Covid-infection as a factor associated with transient total and physical fatigue at T2. Depression, anxiety and stress at T1 were associated with total, physical and mental fatigue at both follow-ups. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight the importance of considering physical and mental fatigue as separate entities, while suggesting a greater relevance of the physical signs of fatigue in understanding long-Covid. The results further showed that baseline mental health symptoms were the most strongly associated with fatigue trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa Schurr
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Florian Junne
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany; Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Peter Martus
- Institute for Clinical Epidemiology and applied Biostatistics, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Gregor Paul
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Pneumology and Infectious Diseases, Klinikum Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany; Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Christine Allwang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Marius Binneböse
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Hannah Wallis
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Rafael Mikolajczyk
- Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Interdisciplinary Center for Health Sciences; Institute of Medical Epidemiology, Biometrics and Informatics, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | | | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Germany
| | - Stefan Ehehalt
- Public Health Department, State Capital-City Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Katrin Elisabeth Giel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Germany
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Agyapong B, Shalaby R, Eboreime E, Hay K, Pattison R, Korthuis M, Wei Y, Agyapong VIO. Subscribers' Perspectives and Satisfaction with the MoreGoodDays Supportive Text Messaging Program and the Impact of the Program on Self-Rated Clinical Measures. J Clin Med 2024; 13:580. [PMID: 38276086 PMCID: PMC10816810 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020580] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Young adults (18 to 30 years of age) are confronted with numerous challenges, such as academic stressors and peer pressure. The MoreGoodDays program was co-designed with young adults to alleviate psychological issues, improve their mental well-being and provide support for young adults in Alberta during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Objective: The current study aimed to explore subscribers' perspectives and satisfaction with the MoreGoodDays supportive text messaging program and the impact of the program on self-rated clinical measures. Methods: Subscribers of the MoreGoodDays program were invited via a link delivered in a text message to complete online evaluation surveys at six weeks, three months and six months. Program perception and satisfaction questions were adapted from those used to evaluate related programs. Anxiety, depression and PTSD symptoms were respectively assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 scale and the PTSD Civilian Checklist 5, and resilience levels were assessed using the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Data were analyzed with SPSS version 26 for Windows utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: There was a total of 168 respondents across the three follow-up time points (six weeks, three months and six months). The overall mean satisfaction with the MoreGoodDays program was 8.74 (SD = 1.4). A total of 116 (69.1%) respondents agreed or strongly agreed that MoreGoodDays messages helped them cope with stress, and 118 (70.3) agreed the messages helped them cope with loneliness. Similarly, 130 (77.3%) respondents agreed that MoreGoodDays messages made them feel connected to a support system, and 135 (80.4) indicated the program helped to improve their overall mental well-being. In relation to clinical outcomes, the ANOVA test showed no significant differences in mean scores for the PHQ-9, GAD-7 and PCL-C scales and the BRS from baseline to the three follow-up time points. In addition, there was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of likely GAD, likely MDD, likely PTSD and low resilience at baseline and at six weeks. Conclusions: Notwithstanding the lack of statistically significant clinical improvement in subscribers of the MoreGoodDays program, the high program satisfaction suggests that subscribers accepted the technology-based intervention co-created with young adults, and this offers a vital tool to complement existing programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
| | | | | | - Mark Korthuis
- Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, Edmonton, AB T5G 0B7, Canada
| | - Yifeng Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Vincent Israel Opoku Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 2E2, Canada
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Yang L, Kandasamy K, Na L, Zhang W, Wang P. Perceived and Experienced Anti-Chinese Discrimination and Its Associated Psychological Impacts Among Chinese Canadians During the Wave 2 of the COVID-19 Pandemic. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2024; 29:108-125. [PMID: 36336783 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2142947] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the sociodemographic factors associated with perceived and experienced anti-Chinese discrimination and discrimination as a predictor of psychological distress and loneliness among Chinese Canadians. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in early 2021 with a sample of 899 Chinese Canadians (i.e., immigrants, citizens, visitors, and international students) during the Wave 2 of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, anti-Chinese discrimination was generally associated with younger age and poor financial or health status. Christianity/Catholicism believers were less likely to report perceived discrimination, whereas being married/partnered and living with family reduced the incidences of experienced discrimination. Most importantly, hierarchical linear regression models showed that both perceived and experienced discrimination predicted higher psychological distress (βs = 4.90-7.57, ps ≤ .001) and loneliness (βs = .89-1.73, ps ≤ .003), before and after controlling for all related sociodemographic covariates. Additionally, older age, higher education, better financial or health status could all buffer psychological distress, whereas living with family or in a house and better financial or health status could mitigate feeling of loneliness. The results suggested that discrimination has a robust detrimental impact on mental health conditions among Chinese Canadians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Yang
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kesaan Kandasamy
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ling Na
- Department of Population Health, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Weiguo Zhang
- Department of Sociology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - Peizhong Wang
- Division of Community Health and Humanities, Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Salabarria VP, Gould ON. Reminiscing and intergenerational advice giving during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:95-102. [PMID: 37431653 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2233432] [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: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Given that types of reminiscing consistently predict psychological well-being, the current study investigated how older adults' reminiscing related to their appraisal of the COVID-19 pandemic and to the advice letters they wrote for younger adults. METHODS The sample of 107 community-dwelling older adults (Mage = 74.55, SDage = 5.89) completed self-report questionnaires to report (a) level of life-disruption experienced due to the pandemic, (b) type and frequency of reminiscing during the pandemic, and (c) current positive and negative appraisals of the pandemic. Forty participants also produced essays providing advice to younger people about how to overcome a life challenge such as the pandemic. RESULTS Correlational analyses revealed that positive reminiscence functions positively correlated with both positive (mean r(105) = .42, p < .006) and negative pandemic appraisals (mean r(105) = .44, p < .006), whereas negative reminiscence functions correlated with negative pandemic appraisals (mean r(105) = .31, p < .006) but not with positive pandemic appraisals (mean r(105) = .15, p > .006). Individuals who reminisced more tended to produce advice that was more positively (r(38) =.36, p = .02) and negatively (r(38) = .34, p = .03) valanced; and those who reminisced more with the function of identity development also gave advice that focused on this issue (r(38) = .44, p = .004). CONCLUSION Overall, these results suggest that positive reminiscing is linked to older adults' capacity to view both positive and negative facets of challenging life situations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Odette N Gould
- Department of Psychology, Mount Allison University, Sackville, Canada
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Aronson KR, Morgan NR, Rudi JH, McCarthy KJ, Perkins DF. The differential impact of COVID-19 on the psychological stress of post-9/11 veterans: Gender, race, and ethnicity. Stress Health 2023. [PMID: 38141014 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3360] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic turndowns, social restrictions, and family life alterations. The stress induced by the public health crisis and its consequences are beginning to be explored. This study examined stress experiences since the pandemic'sonset in work, financial, social, and health domainsamong a large sample of post-9/11, United States military veterans. The sample, who separated from active-duty service or deactivated from active status in a reserve component in 2016, completed an online survey (n = 3180) in 2020. Participants were 70% White non-Hispanic, 81% male, and had an average age of 38 years. Frequencies and descriptive statistics were calculated. Female veterans and veterans of colour reported significantly higher levels of stress across most life domains. The results suggest White, male, post-9/11 veterans may be somewhat protected from COVID-19 stress, but that the pandemic is exacerbatinghealth and social disparities experienced by post-9/11 veterans of colour and female veterans. Supports and comprehensive care, particularly targeted towardsat-risk populations, are likely needed to provide sufficient resources for resiliency during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith R Aronson
- Social Science Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Nicole R Morgan
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jessie H Rudi
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kimberly J McCarthy
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel F Perkins
- Social Science Research Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
- Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness at Penn State, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology & Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, USA
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Jackson SE, Tattan-Birch H, Shahab L, Beard E, Brown J. Have there been sustained impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on trends in smoking prevalence, uptake, quitting, use of treatment, and relapse? A monthly population study in England, 2017-2022. BMC Med 2023; 21:474. [PMID: 38093317 PMCID: PMC10720231 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03157-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies conducted during the early stages of the pandemic documented mixed changes in smoking behaviour: more smokers quitting successfully but little change in prevalence. This study aimed to examine whether there have been sustained impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on smoking patterns in England. METHODS Data were from 101,960 adults (≥ 18 years) participating in the Smoking Toolkit Study, a monthly representative household survey, between June 2017 and August 2022. Interviews were conducted face-to-face until March 2020 and via telephone thereafter. Generalised additive models estimated associations of the pandemic onset (March 2020) with current smoking, uptake, cessation, quit attempts, and use of support. Models adjusted for seasonality, sociodemographic characteristics, and (where relevant) dependence and tobacco control mass-media expenditure. RESULTS Before the COVID-19 pandemic, smoking prevalence fell by 5.2% per year; this rate of decline slowed to 0.3% per year during the pandemic (RRΔtrend = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02, 1.09). This slowing was evident in more but not less advantaged social grades (RRΔtrend = 1.15, 1.08, 1.21; RRΔtrend = 1.00, 0.96, 1.05). There were sustained step-level changes in different age groups: a 34.9% (95% CI = 17.7, 54.7%) increase in smoking prevalence among 18-24-year-olds, indicating a potential rise in uptake, in contrast to a 13.6% (95% CI = 4.4, 21.9%) decrease among 45-65-year-olds. In both age groups, these step-level changes were followed by the pre-pandemic declines stopping, and prevalence remaining flat. There were sustained increases in quitting among past-year smokers, with a 120.4% (95% CI = 79.4, 170.9%) step-level increase in cessation and a 41.7% (95% CI = 29.7, 54.7%) increase in quit attempts. The main limitation was the change in modality of data collection when the pandemic started; while this may have contributed to the step-level changes we observed, it is unlikely to explain changes in the slope of trends. CONCLUSIONS In England, the rate of decline in adult smoking prevalence stagnated during the COVID-19 pandemic through to 2022. At the start of the pandemic, a potential reduction in smoking prevalence among middle-aged adults and increases in quitting among smokers may have been offset by an increase in smoking among young adults. The slowing in the rate of decline was pronounced in more advantaged social grades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Jackson
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
- SPECTRUM Consortium, London, UK.
| | - Harry Tattan-Birch
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- SPECTRUM Consortium, London, UK
| | - Lion Shahab
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- SPECTRUM Consortium, London, UK
| | - Emma Beard
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
| | - Jamie Brown
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK
- SPECTRUM Consortium, London, UK
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Cao T, Rishworth A, Wilson K, Ali F, Gallaway T. Lived Experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among the Vietnamese Population in the Region of Peel. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01804-1. [PMID: 37821791 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01804-1] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Racial discrimination towards Southeast Asian populations is a longstanding issue in Canada which has intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although extensive work demonstrates inequities among Southeast Asian communities during the pandemic, much work categorizes Asians as one homogenous population neglecting the unique experiences of different Asian subgroups along with the ways COVID-19 differentially affects Southeast Asians. To attend to population variations, this paper explores the lived experiences among Vietnamese individuals during the pandemic in the Peel Region of Ontario Canada. Specifically, this paper examines social and economic impacts of COVID-19, access to healthcare services and vaccines, sources of vaccine information, and impacts of COVID-19 related discrimination among young and older adults. Drawing on in-depth interviews with young and older adults (n=6:8) the results reveal important social and economic impacts created by COVID-19 that vary across generations and impact health and wellbeing. These impacts are challenged further by barriers to healthcare access which were compounded by intersecting inequities experienced among Vietnamese immigrants in the Peel Region. While vaccine hesitancy was not a main concern, the findings demonstrate important generational differences with respect to commonly used and trusted information related to historical events and social media use. Although racial discrimination was a dominant concern, younger participants did not feel unsafe but expressed concern for the safety of their older family members and friends. The study underscores the need to consider historical dynamics and the ways they shape government opinions and trust, experiences of racial discrimination and socio-economic realities among racialized, immigrant populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Cao
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrea Rishworth
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Kathi Wilson
- Department of Geography, Geomatics and Environment, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fatema Ali
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tracey Gallaway
- Department of Anthropology, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
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Bourion-Bédès S, Rousseau H, Batt M, Beltrand C, Machane R, Tarquinio P, Tarquinio C, Baumann C. Measuring COVID-19 related stress and its associated factors among the parents of school-aged children during the first lockdown in France. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1823. [PMID: 37726674 PMCID: PMC10510290 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16731-3] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic placed important challenges on parents, as they had to meet various demands during lockdown, including childcare, work and homeschooling. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate perceived stress levels among the parents of school-aged children and explore their association with sociodemographic, environmental and psychological factors during lockdown. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among the parents of school-aged children ages 8 to 18, who lived in the Grand Est region of France during the first wave of the pandemic. An online survey collected sociodemographic data, living and working conditions, and exposure to COVID-19 as well as parent's levels of perceived stress (PSS-10), self-perceived health status (SF-12), social support (MSPSS) and resilience (BRS). Multivariable logistic regression models were conducted to evaluate the association between moderate to severe perceived stress and various factors. RESULTS In total, 734 parents were included. The results indicated that 47% were experiencing moderate stress and 7.2% were experiencing severe stress. Factors most strongly associated with risk of moderate to severe levels of stress were lower levels of parental resilience (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 2.2-6.6) and poor self-perceived mental health status (OR = 7.3, 95% CI: 5.0-10.8). The following risk factors were also identified: female sex; being in the age range of 35-44; difficulties isolating and contracting COVID-19, which involved hospitalization and separation or isolation from family. The support of friends (OR = 0.8, 95% CI: 0.7-1.0) and family (OR = 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-0.8) were protective factors. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that supportive and preventive programs should focus on the improvement of resilience and mental health management to promote parents' wellbeing. Research has to focus both on individuals' inner potential for increasing resilience and the environmental resources to be activated. Building and boosting resilience among parents could serve as a protective factor against negative outcomes for them and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Bourion-Bédès
- Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de L'Enfant Et de L'Adolescent, 78000, Versailles-Le Chesnay, France.
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, Inserm U1018, CESP, 'DevPsy', 94807, Villejuif, France.
| | - Hélène Rousseau
- Methodology, Data Management and Statistics Unit, University Hospital of Nancy, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Martine Batt
- InterPsy, GRC Team, University of Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Carole Beltrand
- Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de L'Enfant Et de L'Adolescent, 78000, Versailles-Le Chesnay, France
| | - Rabah Machane
- Centre Hospitalier de Versailles, Service Universitaire de Psychiatrie de L'Enfant Et de L'Adolescent, 78000, Versailles-Le Chesnay, France
| | | | - Cyril Tarquinio
- UR 4360 APEMAC (Health Adjustment, Measurement and Assessment, Interdisciplinary Approaches), University of Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Cédric Baumann
- Methodology, Data Management and Statistics Unit, University Hospital of Nancy, 54000, Nancy, France
- UR 4360 APEMAC (Health Adjustment, Measurement and Assessment, Interdisciplinary Approaches), University of Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
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Agyapong B, Shalaby R, Hay K, Pattison R, Eboreime E, Korthuis M, Wei Y, Agyapong VIO. Exploring Sociodemographic Characteristics, Adverse Childhood Experience, and Mental Health History as Predictors of Anxiety and Depression among Adolescents and Young Adults: Findings from the MoreGoodDays Support Program in Alberta, Canada. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:749. [PMID: 37754027 PMCID: PMC10525571 DOI: 10.3390/bs13090749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has increased psychological disorders among adolescents and young adults. METHODS This study used a cross-sectional design. An online survey questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic and clinical information from subscribers of MoreGoodDays program, a daily supportive text message program co-designed with adolescents and young adults for their peers in Alberta. Validated instruments, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder GAD-7 scale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 PHQ-9 were used to collect information on likely GAD and likely major depressive disorder (MDD). Data was analyzed with SPSS version 25 using chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression analysis. RESULTS 343 subscribers of MoreGoodDays participated in the survey. Overall, 117 (56.0%) respondents had a likely MDD and 97 (46.6%) had a likely GAD. Participants who would like to receive mental health counselling were 27 times more likely to experience GAD (OR = 27; 95% CI: 3.09-250.00) and 40 times more likely to experience MDD (OR = 40.03; 95% CI: 4.43-361.51) than those who did not. Respondents who had received mental health counselling in the past were 18.5 times more likely to experience MDD compared with those who had not (OR = 18.52; 95% CI: 1.55-200.00). Demographic variables, including age, education, employment, and relationship status, and clinical variables, such as history of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, and adverse childhood experience, did not independently the predict presence of likely GAD or MDD in subscribers of MoreGoodDays. CONCLUSION The prevalence of anxiety and depression was relatively high among subscribers of MoreGoodDays, indicating the long-term effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding has significant implications in the broader contextof mental health research and emphasizes the need for more research into innovative mental health support for this cohort. The desire to receive counselling was predictive of both anxiety and depression and is a positive sign of the openness of this cohort to receive psychological intervention. Since this group is mostly adapted to mobile text technology, government agencies and policymakers should prioritize and implement readily accessible interventions such as supportive text messages to support their psychological well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | | | | | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Mark Korthuis
- Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation, Edmonton, AB T5G 0B7, Canada
| | - Yifeng Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Vincent Israel Opoku Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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12
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Tarchi L, Crescenzo P, Talamonti K. Prevalence and predictors of mental distress among Italian Red Cross auxiliary corps: A cross-sectional evaluation after deployment in anti-COVID-19 operations. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 35:394-407. [PMID: 37615558 PMCID: PMC10453978 DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2022.2069983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study is to describe the prevalence and individual predictors of mental distress (anxiety, depression, and burnout) in a sample of volunteers engaged in emergency services. A total of 823 volunteers enrolled in the Red Cross auxiliary corps were surveyed between 28 June 2021 and 28 August 2021 (299 men and 524 women). After deployment in anti-COVID-19 operations, participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire, Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire, Maslach Burnout Inventory, and Big Five Inventory through an online platform. A moderately severe risk of depression was found in 1.70% of the sample. A severe risk for anxiety disorders was found in 1.82%. A high risk for emotional exhaustion was found in 3.40%, depersonalization in 12.88%, and low personal accomplishment in 7.53%. Women showed a higher risk of both depression and anxiety in comparison to males. Personality factors were significant predictors for all dimensions. In contrast to the current literature, openness was found to be a predisposing personality factor in developing burnout dimensions. The relevance of the current findings for the development of effective screening tools before the deployment of reserve forces during medical crises is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Tarchi
- Psychological Activities Unit (NAP), Italian Red Cross Voluntary Military Corps, Ministry of Defense, Rome, Italy
- Psychiatry Unit, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Pietro Crescenzo
- Psychological Activities Unit (NAP), Italian Red Cross Voluntary Military Corps, Ministry of Defense, Rome, Italy
| | - Kristian Talamonti
- Psychological Activities Unit (NAP), Italian Red Cross Voluntary Military Corps, Ministry of Defense, Rome, Italy
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Ruotolo F, Ruggiero G, Cattaneo Z, Arioli M, Candini M, Frassinetti F, Pazzaglia F, Fornara F, Bosco A, Iachini T. Psychological Reactions during and after a Lockdown: Self-Efficacy as a Protective Factor of Mental Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6679. [PMID: 37681819 PMCID: PMC10488210 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176679] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of home confinement/social isolation (i.e., lockdown), imposed to reduce large-scale spread of a disease in the population, on the mental health of individuals. Through an online survey during the lockdown (DL) related to COVID-19 (1085 respondents, 627 females, agerange: 18-82) (Italy, 23 April-2 May 2020), we revealed that situational factors, i.e., the presence of children at home and female gender, and psychological factors, i.e., a greater sense of isolation, lower perception of safety outside the home and higher trait anxiety, predicted higher levels of state anxiety (R2 = 0.58). The same factors, but with young age instead of the presence of children, predicted higher levels of perceived stress (R2 = 0.63). Then, these data were compared with those collected after the lockdown (AL) (174 respondents, 128 females, agerange: 19-78) (Italy, 1 July-31 October 2021). The results showed that along with a reduced sense of isolation (DL = 2.90 vs. AL = 2.10) and an increased perception of safety outside the home (DL = 2.63 vs. AL = 3.05), a reduction in state anxiety (DL = 45.76 vs. AL= 40.88) and stress appeared (DL = 18.84 vs. AL = 17.63). However, the situation was better for men than for women. Perceived self-efficacy emerged as a protective factor for mental health (R2range: 0.03-0.27). The results are discussed in light of the evidence on the effects of lockdown on individuals worldwide. These results may be used to make more educated decisions on targeted help for individuals who may be most adversely affected by the adoption of lockdowns in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ruotolo
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (G.R.); (T.I.)
| | - Gennaro Ruggiero
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (G.R.); (T.I.)
| | - Zaira Cattaneo
- Department of Social and Human Sciences, University of Bergamo, 24129 Bergamo, Italy; (Z.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Maria Arioli
- Department of Social and Human Sciences, University of Bergamo, 24129 Bergamo, Italy; (Z.C.); (M.A.)
| | - Michela Candini
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (M.C.)
| | | | | | - Ferdinando Fornara
- Department of Pedagogy, Psychology, Philosophy, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Andrea Bosco
- Department of Educational Sciences, Psychology, Communication, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Tina Iachini
- Department of Psychology, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (G.R.); (T.I.)
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Coulaud PJ, Jesson J, Bolduc N, Ferlatte O, Bertrand K, Salway T, Jauffret-Roustide M, Knight R. Association between level of compliance with COVID-19 public health measures and depressive symptoms: A cross-sectional survey of young adults in Canada and France. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289547. [PMID: 37531389 PMCID: PMC10395933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While compliance with preventive measures remains central to limit the spread of COVID-19, these measures critically affected mental health of young adults. We therefore investigated the association between the level of compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures and depressive symptoms among young adults in Canada and France. METHODS From October to December 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional online survey of young adults ages 18-29 years in Canada (n = 3246) and France (n = 2680) to collect demographic data, experiences with COVID-19 preventive measures, and mental health. Depressive symptoms were assessed by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Compliance profiles were built using cluster analysis. Weighted multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate associations between compliance level and major depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 score≥15) in each country. RESULTS One third of respondents reported major depressive symptoms (Canada: 36.4%, France: 23.4%). Four compliance profiles were identified: high (42.5%), medium-high (21.7%), medium-low (18.1%), and low (17.7%), with high levels more frequently observed in Canada compared to France. In both countries, participants in low compliance profile (Canada: Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) [95% Confidence Interval] 0.75 [0.58, 0.98], France: AOR 0.60 [0.46, 0.75]), in the medium-low (Canada: AOR 0.58 [0.48, 0.72], France: AOR 0.81 [0.66, 1.01]), and medium-high compliance profiles (Canada: AOR 0.78 [0.65, 0.93], France: AOR 0.77 [0.63, 0.93]) were less likely to report major depressive symptoms compared to the high compliance profile. Ethno-racial minorities, sexual and gender minority, and unemployed young adults had higher odds of reporting such symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Major depressive symptoms were associated with high compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures among young adults. The implementation of socially-isolating measures should be coupled with mental health interventions to address mental health needs of young adults, with enhanced supports for sub-groups who are structurally disadvantaged (e.g., racialized, unemployed, sexual and gender minority).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Julien Coulaud
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julie Jesson
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Naseeb Bolduc
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Olivier Ferlatte
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Karine Bertrand
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Longueuil, Québec, Canada
| | - Travis Salway
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for Gender and Sexual Health Equity, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Marie Jauffret-Roustide
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre d'Étude des Mouvements Sociaux (EHESS/CNRS UMR8044/INSERM U1276), Paris, France
- Baldy Center on Law and Social Policy, Buffalo University, Buffalo, NY, United States of America
| | - Rod Knight
- British Columbia Centre on Substance Use, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Département de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, École de Santé Publique de l'Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique, Université de Montréal et CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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Ishimoto Y, Sotodate T, Namba Y, Uenishi T, Iwasaki K, Tomita H. Benefits of Working from Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic for Undiagnosed Workers with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:1607-1621. [PMID: 37484117 PMCID: PMC10356549 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s414862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Our previous study suggested that working conditions might impact work productivity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the association between working from home (WFH) and depressive symptoms, work productivity, and quality of life (QOL), in undiagnosed workers with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods During the pandemic, the survey was conducted among eligible workers with (N = 904) and without (N = 900) ADHD symptoms based on the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale [ASRS]. Each group was further stratified by working conditions (full working on-site [FWOS], hybrid, full WFH [FWFH]). Two-way ANOVA was performed to investigate the impact of WFH on depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9] score), work productivity (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment scale [WPAI] scores), and QOL (EuroQol 5-Dimensions 5-Levels [EQ-5D-5L] score). The Tukey-Kramer test was used to assess differences between the stratified subgroups. Poisson and multiple regression analyses were also performed to assess the factors associated with these outcomes. Results Other than PHQ-9 score between FWOS and hybrid work in workers with ADHD symptoms (p < 0.05), no significant differences were observed in outcomes among the working condition subgroups in both workers with and without ADHD symptoms. In workers with ADHD symptoms, hybrid work and FWFH were significantly associated with a lower PHQ-9 score (hybrid, p < 0.001; FWFH, p < 0.05) but neither were significantly associated with WPAI score nor EQ-5D-5L. Annual income and discretionary work were significantly associated with a lower PHQ-9 score and a higher EQ-5D-5L score in workers with ADHD symptoms. Job type (manufacture/construction) was significantly associated with a lower presenteeism score. Conclusion WFH (hybrid and FWFH) may be associated with lower depressive symptoms compared with FWOS in undiagnosed workers with ADHD symptoms. The findings may be useful when considering suitable working environments for workers especially with ADHD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Takuma Sotodate
- Japan Medical Office, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Namba
- Medical Affairs Department, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Hiroaki Tomita
- Department of Psychiatry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
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Cénat JM, Farahi SMMM, Dalexis RD. Prevalence and determinants of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among Black individuals in Canada in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115341. [PMID: 37482045 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected Black communities in Canada in terms of infection, hospitalizations, and mortality rates. It exacerbated social, economic, and health disparities that can impact their mental health. We investigated the prevalence and predictors of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in Black individuals in Canada. A community-representative weighted sample of 2002 Black individuals (51.66% women) aged 14 to 94 years old (Mean age 29.34; SD = 10.13). Overall, 40.94%, 44.50%, and 31.36% of participants were classified as having clinically meaningful anxiety, depression, and stress levels, respectively, based on DASS scores. Men (45.92%) reported a higher prevalence of anxiety than women (36.27%), χ2 (1) = 19.24, p<.001, but similar symptoms of depression and stress. The progression of the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms were consistent with the progression of the prevalence of everyday racial discrimination. After controlling for socio-demographic variables, regression models showed that everyday discrimination (B = 0.14, p=.001, B = 0.14, p= .006, B = 0.18, p< .001), major experiences of racial discrimination (B = 0.30, p=.046, B = 0.34, p= .033, B = 0.35, p=.024), and COVID-19 traumatic stressors (B = 0.43, p<.001, B = 0.43, p< .001, B = 0.44, p< .001) were positively associated with anxiety, while community resilience (B= -0.02, p= .039, B= -0.04, p= .001, B= -0.03, p= .014) was negatively associated with anxiety, depression, and stress, respectively. This study demonstrates the need to address racial discrimination in implementing prevention and intervention programs among Black individuals and to consider intersectional factors related to age, birthplace, language spoken, and province of residence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude Mary Cénat
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada; Interdisciplinary Centre for Black Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; University of Ottawa Research Chair on Black Health, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Rose Darly Dalexis
- Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Ain NU, Arif M, Dar MS, Habiba UE, Shah M, Naseeb U. Assessment of Anxiety among People with Various Physical Activity Levels during Lockdown in Karachi, Pakistan. Avicenna J Med 2023; 13:163-168. [PMID: 37799186 PMCID: PMC10550368 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770934] [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: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study is to make it easier to counsel the general public on how to promote their psychological health and better lifestyle by boosting their physical activity in the event of more devastating future waves of coronavirus disease 2019. Coronavirus disease is a viral infection first reported in Wuhan, China, which led to a worldwide pandemic and lockdown. In addition to physical health, the uncertainty of situation and fear of infection have further affected the mental health of the individuals. Lockdown has also halted the physical activity of people further adding into the stress and anxiety. Methods A sample size of 376 was required, but a convenient sampling technique collected 400 responses due to overwhelming Participation. A well-structured questionnaire was used for data collection, which contained sections such as a demographics section. We used the International Physical Activity Questionnaire scale to measure various physical activity levels and the generalized anxiety disorder scale to measure anxiety levels, because of their considerate validity and feasibility. Later both of our variables were compared to find out the correlation of anxiety levels with different physical activity levels. Results Mean Anxiety and its prevalence rates in the sample were 7.32 ± 5.767 and 33%. On performing Pearson correlation, increasing age was found to be a risk factor for Anxiety. One-way analysis of variance showed a significant difference between Physical Activity and Anxiety. In the post-hoc Tukey test, a considerable difference in anxiety level was found between people with no physical activity and vigorous physical activity. Conclusion During the lockdown period, the mean anxiety was found to be 7.0 ± 5.56 with prevalence rate of 33% among the people with no, low, moderate or vigorous physically active levels was found to be associated with better perceived mental health status which suggests the need to promote physically active style to cope with anxiety and awareness sessions to be conducted especially among those who could not maintain a physically active lifestyle. Also, among the general population e-Health programs could provide an appropriate way to promote a physically active lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor ul Ain
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muriam Arif
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Umm e Habiba
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Uzma Naseeb
- Department of Biochemistry, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Scelza G, Amato A, Rongo R, Nucci L, D'Ambrosio F, Martina S. Changes in COVID-19 Perception and in TMD Prevalence after 1 Year of Pandemic in Italy. Eur J Dent 2023; 17:771-776. [PMID: 36126959 PMCID: PMC10569821 DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1755192] [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: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aims to report the perception of dental practices and assess the individual's psychological stress level and related temporomandibular disorders (TMD) symptoms by evaluating the changes that occurred during the year following the first lockdown (May 2020). MATERIALS AND METHODS An online questionnaire was submitted to the Italian population between 20 March and 20 April 2021. It was sent via online platforms and included 14 questions. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS The data were analyzed using a chi-squared test and a comparison of the current data with the May 2020 survey data was performed using independent samples t-tests. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS Forty-three percent of subjects (872) considered the dental practice to be a place with a high risk of infection. Temporomandibular pain and joint sounds were reported by 35.7% (724) of the population; of these more frequently were women (71.8%, 520/724, p < 0.001). About 31% of the participants had moderate/severe psychological distress and, among them, it was found that 46.4% (294/634) reported TMD pain (p < 0.001) and 34.9% (221/634) complained of temporomandibular joint sounds (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Most participants did not consider dental practices as a place with a higher risk of coronavirus disease 2019 transmission and, in contrast to the data from a previous study, people were less afraid to go to dental practices. After the first year of the pandemic, the level of stress and depression increased and the prevalence of TMD pain and joint sounds increased, in association with gender, age, and level of distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Scelza
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana,” University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
| | - Alessandra Amato
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana,” University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
| | - Roberto Rongo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Oral Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ludovica Nucci
- Multidisciplinary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Ambrosio
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana,” University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
| | - Stefano Martina
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana,” University of Salerno, Baronissi (SA), Italy
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Nkire N, Shalaby R, Obuobi-Donkor G, Agyapong B, Eboreime E, Agyapong VIO. Assessing Resilience and Its Correlates among Residents of Fort McMurray during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6064. [PMID: 37372651 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20126064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a global health crisis that has affected the psychological well-being of individuals across the world. The persistence of the pandemic and measures to curtail it have tested people's ability to cope successfully and bounce back from the pandemic, otherwise referred to as resilience. The present study examined resilience levels among residents of Fort McMurray and identified the demographic, clinical and social factors associated with resilience. METHODS The study used a cross-sectional survey design and collected data from 186 participants using online questionnaires. The survey included questions assessing sociodemographic information, mental health history and COVID-19-related variables. The main study outcome was resilience measured using the six-item Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). The data from the survey were analyzed using chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression analyses in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25. RESULTS The results showed that seven independent variables (age, history of depression, history of anxiety, willingness to receive mental health counselling, support from the government of Alberta and support from employer) were statistically significant within the context of the logistic regression model. A history of an anxiety disorder was demonstrated to best predict low resilience. Participants who had a history of anxiety disorder were five times more likely to show low resilience compared to those without such a history. Participants with a history of depression showed a three-fold likelihood of having low resilience in comparison to those who did not have a history of depression. Individuals who expressed a desire to receive mental health counselling had a four-times likelihood of having low resilience than those who did not express a desire to receive mental health counselling. The results also showed that younger participants were more prone to low resilience compared to older participants. Receiving support from the government and one's employer is a protective factor. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of examining resilience and its associated factors during a pandemic such as COVID-19. The results demonstrated that a history of anxiety disorder, depression and being younger were important predictors of low resilience. Responders who reported the desire to receive mental health counselling also reported expressing low resilience. These findings could be used to design and implement interventions aimed at improving the resilience of individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nnamdi Nkire
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Gloria Obuobi-Donkor
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
| | - Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Vincent I O Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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URISTEMOVA ASSEM, MYSSAYEV AYAN, MEIRMANOV SERIK, MIGINA LYUDMILA, PAK LAURA, BAIBUSSINOVA ASSEL. Prevalence and associated factors of depression, anxiety, and stress among academic medicine faculty in Kazakhstan: a Cross-sectional Study. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2023; 64:E215-E225. [PMID: 37654854 PMCID: PMC10468191 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2023.64.2.2932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Psychological distress refers to a set of painful mental and physical symptoms of anxiety and depression, which often coexist and coincide with common somatic complaints and chronic conditions. In Kazakhstan, mental disorders are the second leading cause of years lived with disability. Currently, medical education in Kazakhstan is undergoing comprehensive reform, which creates an additional burden on faculty, fostering mental health concerns. Methods A quantitative observational cross-sectional study was conducted in 6 large medical universities in Kazakhstan. Data were obtained from 715 faculty academics by using an online self-reported DASS-21. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS version 20.0. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to evaluate the relationship between predictor and outcome variables. Results The total prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 40.6%, 41.3%, and 53.0%, respectively. Younger age (p = 0.002), female gender (p = 0.001), being single (p = 0.044) or in a relationship (p = 0.001), having chronic diseases (p < 0.001), holding Master (p = 0.036) or PhD degree (p = 0.040), employment status (p = 0.034), and being involved in additional activities (p = 0.049) were significantly associated with different dimensions of distress. Conclusions Nearly half of the study population reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Due to the higher prevalence of psychological distress amongst academic medicine faculty, determined risk factors must be taken into consideration in developing policies for mental issues prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- ASSEM URISTEMOVA
- Department of Public Health, Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - AYAN MYSSAYEV
- Department of Science and Human Resources, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Astana, Kazakhstan
| | - SERIK MEIRMANOV
- College of Asia Pacific Studies, Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University, Beppu, Japan
| | - LYUDMILA MIGINA
- Department of Public Health, Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - LAURA PAK
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan
| | - ASSEL BAIBUSSINOVA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Semey Medical University, Semey, Kazakhstan
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Shen X, Wang C, Chen C, Wang Y, Wang Z, Zheng Y, Liu H. Stress and Internet Addiction: Mediated by Anxiety and Moderated by Self-Control. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:1975-1986. [PMID: 37284553 PMCID: PMC10239643 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s411412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The link between stress and Internet addiction (IA) has been confirmed. However, the mechanism underlying the correlation is poorly understood. Thus, the current study proposed a moderated mediation model to test the mediating role of anxiety and the moderating role of self-control (SC) in the link between stress and IA. Methods Eight hundred and sixty-one Chinese college students (Mage = 20.62 years; SD = 1.58; male = 47.7%) were required to complete an online questionnaire package, including a depression-anxiety-stress scale, a self-control scale, and an Internet addiction test. The PROCESS macro developed based on SPSS was used to test the moderated mediation model. Results When controlling for gender and age, the results revealed that anxiety partially mediated the link between stress and IA. Specifically, the more stressed college students are, the higher their anxiety level is, and the more likely they are to become addicted to the Internet. Additionally, the direct and indirect links between stress and IA were all moderated by SC. SC buffered the effect of stress on anxiety and anxiety on IA but enhanced stress on IA. Conclusion These findings emphasized the predictor role of stress on IA and provided insights on intervening in college students' excessive Internet use behaviors for educators, such as reducing anxiety levels and improving self-control abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuwei Shen
- College of Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chenggong Wang
- College of Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, People’s Republic of China
| | - Caiyan Chen
- College of Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifan Wang
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zinuo Wang
- College of Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanpei Zheng
- College of Science and Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hanyue Liu
- School of Health Management, XiHua University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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What factors explain the changes in major depressive disorder symptoms by age group during the COVID-19 pandemic? A longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2023; 328:72-80. [PMID: 36806591 PMCID: PMC9933581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic suggest an increase in major depressive disorder (MDD) among younger adults. The current study aims to assess the association of age groups and MDD risk before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and quantify the effect of potential mediating variables such as loneliness, social support, resilience, and socioeconomic factors. METHODS A representative sample of Spanish adults was interviewed before (2019, N = 1880) and during (2020, N = 1103) the COVID-19 pandemic. MDD was assessed using the CIDI, loneliness through the UCLA scale, social support through the OSSS-3, resilience with the 6-BRS, and worsened economic circumstances and unemployment through a single question. Mixed-models were used to study changes in MDD by age group. Regression models were constructed to quantify the association between age and potential mediators, as well as their mediating effect on the association between age group and MDD. RESULTS Among the younger age cohorts (18-29 and 30-44 years) the probability of having MDD during the pandemic increased from 0.04 (95 % CI: 0.002-0.09) to 0.25 (0.12-0.39) and from 0.02 (-0.001-0.03) to 0.11 (0.04-0.17), respectively. Some 36.6 % of the association between age and risk of MDD during the pandemic was explained by loneliness (12.0 %), low resilience (10.7 %), and worsened economic situation (13.9 %). LIMITATIONS Reliance on self-report data and generalizability of the findings limited to the Spanish population. CONCLUSIONS Strategies to decrease the impact of a pandemic on depressive symptoms among young adults should address loneliness, provide tools to improve resilience, and enjoy improved financial support.
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Moustakopoulou L, Adamakidou T, Plakas S, Drakopoulou M, Apostolara P, Mantoudi A, Mastrogiannis D, Zartaloudi A, Parissopoulos S, Koreli A, Mantzorou M. Exploring Loneliness, Fear and Depression among Older Adults during the COVID-19 Era: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greek Provincial Towns. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11091234. [PMID: 37174782 PMCID: PMC10178736 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11091234] [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: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, life changed abruptly for older adults in Greece. Social isolation, lockdowns, the fear of serious illness and death, all contributed to an increased risk of developing depression. OBJECTIVE To explore the presence and severity of depression in older adults in Greek provincial towns during the pandemic and to explore any possible relationships with loneliness and fear. METHODS A convenience sample of 200 participants aged >65, completed a socio-demographic form, the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Geriatric Depression-15 Scale (GDS-15) and the COVID-19 Fear Scale (FCV-19S). Data were collected from April to May 2022. RESULTS The average age of participants was 76.6 years and 35.5% of the participants presented depressive symptoms (mean prevalenceof depression 5 ± 3.7). A moderate to low level of loneliness (mean value 39 ± 11.3) and a moderate level of COVID-19 fear (mean value 18.9 ± 6.5) were also experienced. Higher levels of loneliness were found among participants with lower perceived health status and among those participants registered in Primary Health and Social Care (PHSC) services. Loneliness was positively correlated with depression (r = 0.7, p < 0.001), and increased loneliness and depression were associated with an increase in fear of COVID-19 (r = 0.2, p = 0.01 for both). CONCLUSIONS During the pandemic, older adults experienced loneliness, fear of COVID-19 and depression which were positively associated with each other. It is imperative to develop PHSC policies that are aimed at addressing the mental health problems of the older population, which have been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, through developing their resilience, offering psychological support and promoting social connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamprini Moustakopoulou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoula Adamakidou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Plakas
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Drakopoulou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Apostolara
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Mantoudi
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimos Mastrogiannis
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Afroditi Zartaloudi
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Stelios Parissopoulos
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Koreli
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Mantzorou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
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Wang Y, Luo B, Wang J, Liao S. The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the elderly in southwest China: A longitudinal study based on generalized estimating equations. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION : IJDRR 2023; 88:103609. [PMID: 36843888 PMCID: PMC9942486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2023.103609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to assess the trends in anxiety and depression levels in older adults nearly 10 months after the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and explore its determinants. A longitudinal study was performed between October 2019 and December 2020. The Patient Health Questionnaire 9-Item Scale and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item Scale were used to assess depression and anxiety. Data were collected before (wave 1), during (wave 2), and 10 months after the COVID-19 outbreak (wave 3). The prevalence of depressive symptoms in the elderly was found to be 18.9%, 28.1%, and 35.9% at wave 1, wave 2, and wave 3 respectively. The prevalence of depressive symptoms at wave 1 was lower than that at wave 2 (χ 2 = 15.544, P < 0.001) and wave 3 (χ 2 = 44.878, P < 0.001). There was no significant change in the prevalence of anxious symptoms (wave 1, 28.5%, wave 2, 30.3%, and wave 3, 30.3%). Older adults who were single/divorced/widowed had higher levels of anxiety compared with those who were married (OR = 2.306 95%CI 1.358-3.914, P = 0.002). The pandemic appeared to be associated with increases in depressive symptoms in older persons. Targeted interventions could be carried out among those with higher risk of maladjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Nursing Department, West china Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of birth defects and related diseases of women and children, (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Biru Luo
- Nursing Department, West china Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of birth defects and related diseases of women and children, (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Ya' an Polytechnic College, Ya an, 625000, China
| | - Shujuan Liao
- Nursing Department, West china Second University Hospital, Sichuan University/Key Laboratory of birth defects and related diseases of women and children, (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Chengdu, 610041, China
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Ozamiz-Etxebarria N, Legorburu Fernnadez I, Lipnicki DM, Idoiaga Mondragon N, Santabárbara J. Prevalence of Burnout among Teachers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Meta-Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4866. [PMID: 36981775 PMCID: PMC10049404 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064866] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many studies have found that there has been a lot of teacher overload. One of the additional burdens has been that they have had to teach online. In addition, when they returned to face-to-face classes, they had to follow all the hygiene rules so that the COVID-19 virus would not spread. It is therefore not surprising that, during this pandemic period, high levels of psychological symptoms have been reported among teachers. Among this symptomatology, burnout has been very frequent among teachers. Therefore, the aim of this study is to conduct a meta-analysis to determine the overall prevalence of burnout among teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic. For this purpose, a search was conducted for cross-sectional studies listed in PubMed from 1 December 2019 to 14 February 2022 that reported on the prevalence of burnout among teachers. A total of nine studies from eight different countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North and South America, were included in this study. The pooled prevalence of burnout among teachers was 52% (95% CI 33-71%), which is higher than burnout rates reported for health professionals. There was significant heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 99%, p-value < 0.001), and the prevalence of burnout was higher in women and school teachers (compared to university educators), and lower in American studies. This meta-analysis concludes that teachers worldwide experienced a high rate of burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. This has implications not only for the teachers themselves, but also for the quality of the education they were able to provide. This education has an influence on the student population. The possible long-term effects are yet to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naiara Ozamiz-Etxebarria
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Idoia Legorburu Fernnadez
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Darren M. Lipnicki
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Nahia Idoiaga Mondragon
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Javier Santabárbara
- Department of Microbiology, Pediatrics, Radiology, and Public Health, University of Zaragoza, C/Domingo Miral s/n, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
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[Sociodemographic and social correlates of self-reported resilience in old age-results from the population-based LIFE-Adult-Study]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2023; 66:402-409. [PMID: 36877241 PMCID: PMC9987372 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-023-03675-7] [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: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Resilience describes good adaptation to adversity and is a significant factor for well-being in old age. Initial studies indicate a high relevance of social resources. So far, only few studies have investigated resilience patterns in the elderly population. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate sociodemographic and social correlates of resilience in a large population-based sample aged 65 years and older. METHODS Analyses were conducted on n = 2410 people aged 65 years and older from the follow-up survey of the LIFE-Adult-Study. The survey included the variables resilience (Resilience Scale - RS-11), social support (ENRICHD Social Support Inventory - ESSI), and social network (Lubben Social Network Scale - LSNS-6). The association of sociodemographic and social variables with resilience was analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS The age of 75 years and older was associated with lower resilience compared with the age of 65-74 years. Further, widowed marital status was related to higher resilience. Better social support and a larger social network were significantly associated with higher resilience. No association was found for gender and education. DISCUSSION The results reveal sociodemographic correlates of resilience in the elderly population that can help identify at-risk groups with lower resilience. Social resources are significant in older age for resilient adaptation and represent a starting point for deriving preventive measures. Social inclusion of older people should be promoted to strengthen resilience in this population and provide favorable conditions for successful aging.
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Agyapong B, Chishimba C, Wei Y, da Luz Dias R, Eboreime E, Msidi E, Abidi SSR, Mutaka-Loongo M, Mwansa J, Orji R, Zulu JM, Agyapong VIO. Improving Mental Health Literacy and Reducing Psychological Problems Among Teachers in Zambia: Protocol for Implementation and Evaluation of a Wellness4Teachers Email Messaging Program. JMIR Res Protoc 2023; 12:e44370. [PMID: 36877571 PMCID: PMC10028515 DOI: 10.2196/44370] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary, basic, secondary, and high school teachers are constantly faced with increased work stressors that can result in psychological health challenges such as burnout, anxiety, and depression, and in some cases, physical health problems. It is presently unknown what the mental health literacy levels are or the prevalence and correlates of psychological issues among teachers in Zambia. It is also unknown if an email mental messaging program (Wellness4Teachers) would effectively reduce burnout and associated psychological problems and improve mental health literacy among teachers. OBJECTIVE The primary objectives of this study are to determine if daily supportive email messages plus weekly mental health literacy information delivered via email can help improve mental health literacy and reduce the prevalence of moderate to high stress symptoms, burnout, moderate to high anxiety symptoms, moderate to high depression symptoms, and low resilience among school teachers in Zambia. The secondary objectives of this study are to evaluate the baseline prevalence and correlates of moderate to high stress, burnout, moderate to high anxiety, moderate to high depression, and low resilience among school teachers in Zambia. METHODS This is a quantitative longitudinal and cross-sessional study. Data will be collected at the baseline (the onset of the program), 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months (the program midpoint), and 12 months (the end point) using web-based surveys. Individual teachers will subscribe by accepting an invitation to do so from the Lusaka Apex Medical University organizational account on the ResilienceNHope web-based application. Data will be analyzed using SPSS version 25 with descriptive and inferential statistics. Outcome measures will be evaluated using standardized rating scales. RESULTS The Wellness4Teachers email program is expected to improve the participating teachers' mental health literacy and well-being. It is anticipated that the prevalence of stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, and low resilience among teachers in Zambia will be similar to those reported in other jurisdictions. In addition, it is expected that demographic, socioeconomic, and organizational factors, class size, and grade teaching will be associated with burnout and other psychological disorders among teachers, as indicated in the literature. Results are expected 2 years after the program's launch. CONCLUSIONS The Wellness4Teachers email program will provide essential insight into the prevalence and correlates of psychological problems among teachers in Zambia and the program's impact on subscribers' mental health literacy and well-being. The outcome of this study will help inform policy and decision-making regarding psychological interventions for teachers in Zambia. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/44370.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | - Yifeng Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Raquel da Luz Dias
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Rita Orji
- Faculty of Computer Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Text4Hope Effectiveness in Reducing Psychological Symptoms among Young Adults in Canada: Longitudinal and Naturalistic Controlled Program Evaluation. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051942. [PMID: 36902729 PMCID: PMC10004259 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are psychological problems that can hurt young adults, interfering with their everyday function, academic achievement, and interpersonal relationships. This study aimed to assess the impact of Text4Hope, an online mental health service, on the psychological well-being of young adults. METHODS This study adopted both longitudinal and naturalistic controlled trial designs. It examined clinical outcomes in young adult (≤26 years old) subscribers of Text4Hope who completed surveys at baseline and six weeks and compared clinical parameters in two groups of subscribers. The first group comprised the intervention group (IG) (young adult subscribers who received once-daily supportive text messages for six weeks and completed sixth-week evaluation measures between 26 April and 12 July 2020), and the second group was the control group (CG) (young adult subscribers who joined Text4Hope in the same time frame and completed a baseline survey and were yet to receive any text messages). The prevalence of moderate to high stress, anxiety, and depression was measured at baseline and six weeks in the longitudinal study and between the two groups for the naturalistic controlled study using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Inferential statistics, including the t-test, McNemar test, chi-square, and binary logistic regression analyses, were used to evaluate the differences in the prevalence and severity of the psychological symptoms. RESULTS In the longitudinal study, of the 9214 subscribers to Text4Hope who completed the baseline survey, 1047 (11.4%) were identified as youth. For the young adult subscribers who completed both the baseline and sixth-week surveys (n = 114), a significant reduction in the prevalence of moderate to high stress (8%) and likely GAD (20%) from baseline to six weeks was reported. Similarly, there was a significant reduction in the mean scores on the PSS-10, GAD-7, and Composite Mental Health score but not the PHQ-9 from baseline to six weeks. The largest reduction in mean scores was for the GAD-7 scale (18.4%), with a small effect size overall. For the naturalistic study, the IG included 173 young adult subscribers of Text4Hope who completed the sixth-week survey compared to 92 subscribers in the CG who completed the baseline survey during the designated period. There was a significantly lower prevalence for likely Moderate Depressive Disorder (MDD) (25.2%) and suicidal thoughts/thoughts of self-harm (48.4%), with a small effect size in the IG compared to the CG. Similarly, lower mean scores were reported for all outcome variables in the IG compared to the CG, with a small to medium effect size. The receipt of daily supportive text messages for six weeks resulted in significantly lower odds of both likely GAD and experiencing thoughts of self-harm or death wish while controlling for sociodemographic characteristics. CONCLUSIONS The Text4Hope service is an effective tool for mental health support for young adult subscribers. Young adults receiving the service exhibited a reduction in psychological symptoms, including thoughts of self-harm or death wish. This population-level intervention program can be used to effectively support young adult mental health and in suicide prevention programs.
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Simjanoski M, de Azevedo Cardoso T, Wollenhaupt-Aguiar B, Pfaffenseller B, De Boni RB, Balanzá-Martínez V, Frey BN, Minuzzi L, Kapczinski F. Lifestyle Behaviors, Depression, and Anxiety Among Individuals Living in Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Am J Lifestyle Med 2023; 17:181-193. [PMID: 36883127 PMCID: PMC9157275 DOI: 10.1177/15598276221102097] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of our study was to investigate the association between lifestyle behaviors and symptoms of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. A web survey was conducted between July 3-August 3, 2020, across Canada. The main outcomes considered were a positive screening for depression, as evaluated by the PHQ-2 and positive screening for anxiety, as evaluated by the GAD-7. Lifestyle behaviors were assessed using the Short Multidimensional Lifestyle Inventory Evaluation-Confinement (SMILE-C), an instrument adapted for lifestyle behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The total sample size included 404 participants, of which 24.3% had a positive screen for depression, 20.5% for anxiety, and 15.5% for both. We found significant differences in SMILE-C scores between individuals with a positive and individuals with a negative screen for depression (P < .001). Likewise, there were significant differences in SMILE-C scores between individuals with a positive and individuals with a negative screen for anxiety (P < .001). We found an association between unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and symptoms of depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 lockdown in Canada. The findings highlight the importance of lifestyle medicine (LM) education and targeted lifestyle interventions to promote healthy behaviors and help reduce the burden of mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Simjanoski
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | | | - Bianca Pfaffenseller
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Raquel B De Boni
- Institute of Scientific and Technological Communication and Information in Health (ICICT), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Vicent Balanzá-Martínez
- Teaching Unit of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Valencia, CIBERSAM, Valencia, Spain
| | - Benicio N Frey
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Women's Health Concerns Clinic and Mood Disorders Program, St. Joseph's Healthcare, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Luciano Minuzzi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Flavio Kapczinski
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia Translacional em Medicina (INCT-TM), Porto Alegre, Brazil
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30
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Shalaby R, Oluwasina F, Eboreime E, El Gindi H, Agyapong B, Hrabok M, Dhanoa S, Kim E, Nwachukwu I, Abba-Aji A, Li D, Agyapong VIO. Burnout among Residents: Prevalence and Predictors of Depersonalization, Emotional Exhaustion and Professional Unfulfillment among Resident Doctors in Canada. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3677. [PMID: 36834373 PMCID: PMC9963802 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043677] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burnout in the medical profession has garnered a lot of attention over recent years. It has been reported across all specialties and all stages of medical education; however, resident doctors in particular are at risk for burnout throughout their years of training. This study was aimed at evaluating the prevalence and correlates of burnout among resident doctors in Alberta. METHODS Through a descriptive cross-sectional study design, a self-administered questionnaire was used to gather data from resident doctors at two medical schools in Alberta, Canada. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was used as the assessment tool. Chi-squared and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were used. RESULTS Overall burnout prevalence among residents was 58.2%, and for professional fulfilment index, it was 56.7% for work exhaustion and interpersonal disengagement and 83.5% for lack of professional fulfillment. Working more than 80 h/week (OR = 16.437; 95% CI: 2.059-131.225), being dissatisfied (OR = 22.28; 95% CI: 1.75-283.278) or being neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with a career in medicine (OR = 23.81; 95% CI: 4.89-115.86) were significantly associated with high depersonalization. Dissatisfaction with efficiency and resources (OR = 10.83; CI: 1.66-70.32) or being neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with a career in medicine (OR = 5.14; CI: 1.33-19.94) were significantly associated with high emotional exhaustion. Working more than 80 h/week (OR = 5.36; CI: 1.08-26.42) and somewhat agreeing that the residency program has enough strategies aimed at resident well-being in place (OR = 3.70; CI: 1.10-12.46) were significantly associated factors with high work exhaustion and interpersonal disengagement. A young age of residents (≤30 years) (OR = 0.044; CI: 0.004-0.445) was significantly associated with low professional fulfillment. CONCLUSION Burnout is a serious occupational phenomenon that can degenerate into other conditions or disrupt one's professional performance. Significant correlates were associated with high rates of burnout. Leaders of medical schools and policymakers need to acknowledge, design, and implement various strategies capable of providing continuous effective mental health support to improve the psychological health of medical residents across Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Folajinmi Oluwasina
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Ejemai Eboreime
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Hany El Gindi
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, King Abdul-Aziz Hospital, Jeddah 22421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Marianne Hrabok
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Island, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Sumeet Dhanoa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Esther Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Izu Nwachukwu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Adam Abba-Aji
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4, Canada
| | - Daniel Li
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4, Canada
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Best R, Strough J, Bruine de Bruin W. Age differences in psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic: March 2020 - June 2021. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1101353. [PMID: 36814666 PMCID: PMC9939750 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1101353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In March 2020, COVID-19 brought illness, lockdowns, and economic turmoil worldwide. Studies from March-April 2020 reported increased psychological distress, especially among younger (vs. older) adults. Here, we examine whether age differences persisted in a 29-wave longitudinal survey conducted with an American national life-span sample over the first 16 months of the pandemic. Socio-emotional selectivity theory (SST) predicts that older age will be consistently associated with lower psychological distress due to life-span changes in motivation, while the strength and vulnerability integration model (SAVI) posits that age differences in psychological distress will diminish under prolonged stress. We find that younger adults consistently reported more psychological distress than older adults, though age differences did decrease over time. Prior diagnosis with anxiety or depression additionally predicted greater psychological distress throughout the study, but did not moderate age differences. We discuss implications for psychological theories of aging and interventions to reduce psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Best
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,*Correspondence: Ryan Best,
| | - JoNell Strough
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Wändi Bruine de Bruin
- Price School of Public Policy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States,Dornsife Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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Stewart SE, Best J, Selles R, Naqqash Z, Lin B, Lu C, Au A, Snell G, Westwell-Roper C, Vallani T, Ewing E, Dogra K, Doan Q, Samji H. Age-specific determinants of psychiatric outcomes after the first COVID-19 wave: baseline findings from a Canadian online cohort study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:20. [PMID: 36747252 PMCID: PMC9901839 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00560-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canadians endured unprecedented mental health (MH) and support access challenges during the first COVID-19 wave. Identifying groups of individuals who remain at risk beyond the acute pandemic phase is key to guiding systemic intervention efforts and policy. We hypothesized that determinants of three complementary, clinically actionable psychiatric outcomes would differ across Canadian age groups. METHODS The Personal Impacts of COVID-19 Survey (PICS) was iteratively developed with stakeholder feedback, incorporating validated, age-appropriate measures. Baseline, cross-sectional online data collected between November 2020-July 2021 was used in analyses. Age group-specific determinants were sought for three key baseline MH outcomes: (1) current probable depression, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and/or suicide attempt during COVID-19, (2) increased severity of any lifetime psychiatric diagnosis, and (3) inadequate MH support access during COVID-19. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed for children, youth (self- and parent-report), young adults (19-29 years) and adults over 29 years, using survey type as a covariate. Statistical significance was defined by 95% confidence interval excluding an odds ratio of one. RESULTS Data from 3140 baseline surveys were analyzed. Late adolescence and early adulthood were identified as life phases with the worst MH outcomes. Poverty, limited education, home maker/caregiver roles, female and non-binary gender, LGBTQ2S + status and special educational, psychiatric and medical conditions were differentially identified as determinants across age groups. INTERPRETATION Negative psychiatric impacts of COVID-19 on Canadians that include poor access to MH support clearly persisted beyond the first wave, widening pre-existing inequity gaps. This should guide policy makers and clinicians in current and future prioritization efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Evelyn Stewart
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - John Best
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Robert Selles
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Zainab Naqqash
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Boyee Lin
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Cynthia Lu
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Antony Au
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Gaelen Snell
- grid.61971.380000 0004 1936 7494Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Clara Westwell-Roper
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Tanisha Vallani
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Elise Ewing
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Kashish Dogra
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Quynh Doan
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Hasina Samji
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.418246.d0000 0001 0352 641XBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC Canada
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Brannen DE, Wynn S, Shuster J, Howell M. Pandemic Isolation and Mental Health Among Children. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e353. [PMID: 36628622 PMCID: PMC10019926 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.7] [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: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mental health issues increased during the COVID - 19 pandemic, especially among children. Our past research efforts found that surveillance data can address a variety of health concerns; that personal psychological awareness impacted ability to cope, and mental health outcomes were improved when survivors were triaged to mental health countermeasures. To build upon our public health efforts, we wanted to see if increased screen time due to remote learning caused by the pandemic influenced school aged children's mental health. METHODS With the hypothesis that excessive time spent isolated during remote learning increased the amount of mental health events in children, we conducted a public health surveillance project on actual diagnoses rather than just symptoms, controlling for historical mental health and emotional disorders. RESULTS The entire cohort of children aged 6 to 17 years were studied over time before and during the pandemic for their medically diagnosed mental health and emotional outcomes by the amount of pandemic induced social isolation. CONCLUSIONS After controlling for historical diagnoses and the rate of COVID - 19, the effect of pandemic - induced social isolation had a linear increase on the amount of anxiety, resulting in a 4-fold increase in pandemic social isolation - induced anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald E. Brannen
- Greene County Public Health, Xenia, Ohio
- Corresponding author: Donald Brannen,
| | | | - Jaime Shuster
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Foundation
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Oyetunji TP, Ogunmola OA, Oyelakin TT, Olorunsogbon OF, Ajayi FO. COVID-19-related risk perception, anxiety and protective behaviours among Nigerian adults: a cross-sectional study. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 31:479-487. [PMID: 33728257 PMCID: PMC7950426 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01502-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background Pandemics such as the current COVID-19 pandemic are often associated with heightened fear and significant adjustments in health behaviours. Aim This study aimed to assess perceived risk, anxiety and protective behaviours of the general public during the early phase of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in Nigeria. Methods An online cross-sectional study among 1197 respondents aged 18 years and above between 27 April to 16 May 2020. Result More than half (61.9%) of the respondents had high risk perception towards COVID-19, and high anxiety level was found in 37.2%. Male gender, being a Christian, having more than 12 years of formal education and high risk perception were positively associated with observance of more than one protective measure against COVID-19. The predictors of COVID-19-related anxiety were high risk perception and being a Muslim. Conclusions This study showed that risk perception has an influence on both anxiety and observance of protective behaviours. Being a novel experience, this research has implications to support current and future responses to a pandemic experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tosin Philip Oyetunji
- grid.9582.60000 0004 1794 5983Department of Human Nutrition, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olusegun Ayomikun Ogunmola
- grid.9582.60000 0004 1794 5983Centre for Child and Adolescent Mental health, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Timothy Tomiwa Oyelakin
- grid.9582.60000 0004 1794 5983Department of Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Olorunyomi Felix Olorunsogbon
- grid.9582.60000 0004 1794 5983Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Foluso O. Ajayi
- grid.9582.60000 0004 1794 5983Institute of Child Health, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Si TL, Chen P, Zhang L, Sha S, Lam MI, Lok KI, Chow IHI, Li JX, Wang YY, Su Z, Cheung T, Ungvari GS, Ng CH, Feng Y, Xiang YT. Depression and quality of life among Macau residents in the 2022 COVID-19 pandemic wave from the perspective of network analysis. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1164232. [PMID: 37168423 PMCID: PMC10165090 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1164232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In the summer of 2022, Macau experienced a surge of COVID-19 infections (the 618 COVID-19 wave), which had serious effects on mental health and quality of life (QoL). However, there is scant research on mental health problems and QoL among Macau residents during the 618 COVID-19 wave. This study examined the network structure of depressive symptoms (hereafter depression), and the interconnection between different depressive symptoms and QoL among Macau residents during this period. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted between 26th July and 9th September 2022. Depressive symptoms were measured with the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), while the global QoL was measured with the two items of the World Health Organization Quality of Life-brief version (WHOQOL-BREF). Correlates of depression were explored using univariate and multivariate analyses. The association between depression and QoL was investigated using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Network analysis was used to evaluate the structure of depression. The centrality index "Expected Influence" (EI) was used to identify the most central symptoms and the flow function was used to identify depressive symptoms that had a direct bearing on QoL. Results A total 1,008 participants were included in this study. The overall prevalence of depression was 62.5% (n = 630; 95% CI = 60.00-65.00%). Having depression was significantly associated with younger age (OR = 0.970; p < 0.001), anxiety (OR = 1.515; p < 0.001), fatigue (OR = 1.338; p < 0.001), and economic loss (OR = 1.933; p = 0.026). Participants with depression had lower QoL F (1, 1,008) =5.538, p = 0.019). The most central symptoms included PHQ2 ("Sad Mood") (EI: 1.044), PHQ4 ("Fatigue") (EI: 1.016), and PHQ6 ("Guilt") (EI: 0.975) in the depression network model, while PHQ4 ("Fatigue"), PHQ9 ("Suicide"), and PHQ6 ("Guilt") had strong negative associations with QoL. Conclusion Depression was common among Macao residents during the 618 COVID-19 wave. Given the negative impact of depression on QoL, interventions targeting central symptoms identified in the network model (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy) should be developed and implemented for Macau residents with depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Leong Si
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Pan Chen
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital and The Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Sha
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital and The Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Feng,
| | - Mei Ieng Lam
- Kiang Wu Nursing College of Macao, Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Ka-In Lok
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sports, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Ines Hang Iao Chow
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Jia-Xin Li
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yue-Ying Wang
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Zhaohui Su
- School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gabor S. Ungvari
- University of Notre Dame Australia, Fremantle, WA, Australia
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia/Graylands Hospital, Mount Claremont, WA, Australia
| | - Chee H. Ng
- Department of Psychiatry, The Melbourne Clinic and St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Richmond, VIC, Australia
- Chee H. Ng,
| | - Yuan Feng
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders and Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital and The Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yuan Feng,
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, and Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
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Mills-Finnerty C, Staggs H, Hogoboom N, Naparstek S, Harvey T, Beaudreau SA, O’Hara R. Association between mental health symptoms and behavioral performance in younger vs. older online workers. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:995445. [PMID: 37065893 PMCID: PMC10090330 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.995445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with increased rates of mental health problems, particularly in younger people. Objective We quantified mental health of online workers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and cognition during the early stages of the pandemic in 2020. A pre-registered data analysis plan was completed, testing the following three hypotheses: reward-related behaviors will remain intact as age increases; cognitive performance will decline with age; mood symptoms will worsen during the pandemic compared to before. We also conducted exploratory analyses including Bayesian computational modeling of latent cognitive parameters. Methods Self-report depression (Patient Health Questionnaire 8) and anxiety (General Anxiety Disorder 7) prevalence were compared from two samples of Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) workers ages 18-76: pre-COVID 2018 (N = 799) and peri-COVID 2020 (N = 233). The peri-COVID sample also completed a browser-based neurocognitive test battery. Results We found support for two out of three pre-registered hypotheses. Notably our hypothesis that mental health symptoms would increase in the peri-COVID sample compared to pre-COVID sample was not supported: both groups reported high mental health burden, especially younger online workers. Higher mental health symptoms were associated with negative impacts on cognitive performance (speed/accuracy tradeoffs) in the peri-COVID sample. We found support for two hypotheses: reaction time slows down with age in two of three attention tasks tested, whereas reward function and accuracy appear to be preserved with age. Conclusion This study identified high mental health burden, particularly in younger online workers, and associated negative impacts on cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Mills-Finnerty
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Colleen Mills-Finnerty,
| | - Halee Staggs
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Shiley-Marcos School of Engineering, University of San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Nichole Hogoboom
- Department of Psychology, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA, United States
| | - Sharon Naparstek
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Tiffany Harvey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, United States
| | - Sherry A. Beaudreau
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ruth O’Hara
- Sierra Pacific Mental Illness, Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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Renganathan L, Ramasubramaniam S, Arulappan J, Al Balushi SM, Al Ghassani A, Vijayalakshmi G, Al Balushi A, Dhanraj F. Efficacy of Virtual Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on COVID-19 Pandemic Related Anxiety in a Middle Eastern Country: An Interventional Study. SAGE Open Nurs 2023; 9:23779608231162060. [PMID: 36908329 PMCID: PMC9996730 DOI: 10.1177/23779608231162060] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Emotional stress and anxiety during COVID-19 pandemic has gained a lot of attention. The capacity to withstand from the manipulated thinking and COVID-19 related stress and anxiety depends on the resilience level of an individual. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has patronizing benefits for people affected with altered mental health. Relieving COVID-19 related anxiety using CBT has beneficial impact on health and improves quality of life of people. Objective Aimed to relieve the anxiety of Omani population during COVID-19 pandemic using CBT. Methods This research utilized a pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test design. A non-probability convenient sampling technique was used to select 96 Omani people who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The pre-anxiety level was assessed using CAS (Corona virus Anxiety Scale). The participants who scored above nine in the scale were given three sessions of CBT. Post-anxiety level was assessed using CAS after three CBT sessions. Results The study revealed that the level of anxiety reduced during post-test (6.35) after intervention when compared to pre-test (13.22). The CBT intervention was effective in reducing the anxiety in the post-test at p ≤ .000. Conclusion CBT is effective in reducing COVID-19 related anxiety among the Omani population. Therefore, this strategy is highly recommended in people having mental health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Renganathan
- Maternal and Child Health Nursing Department, Oman College of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Shanthi Ramasubramaniam
- Adult Health Nursing Department, School of Health and Social Sciences, The University of West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Judie Arulappan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, College of Nursing, Sultan Qaboos University, Al Khoudh, Muscat, Oman
| | - Siham Mahmood Al Balushi
- Community Mental Health Nursing Department, Oman College of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Amal Al Ghassani
- Community Mental Health Nursing Department, Oman College of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - G Vijayalakshmi
- Sardar Lal Singh Memorial Institute of Nursing, Desh Bhagat University, Punjab, India
| | - Amal Al Balushi
- Maternal and Child Health Nursing Department, Oman College of Health Sciences, Ministry of Health, Muscat, Oman
| | - Fabiola Dhanraj
- Arulmigu Meenakshi College of Nursing, Kancheepuram (Deemed University), Enathur, Tamil Nadu, India
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Khattar J, Anderson LN, De Rubeis V, de Groh M, Jiang Y, Jones A, Basta NE, Kirkland S, Wolfson C, Griffith LE, Raina P. Unmet health care needs during the COVID-19 pandemic among adults: a prospective cohort study in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. CMAJ Open 2023; 11:E140-E151. [PMID: 36787988 PMCID: PMC9933993 DOI: 10.9778/cmajo.20210320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic affected access to health care services in Canada; however, limited research examines the influence of the social determinants of health on unmet health care needs during the first year of the pandemic. The objectives of this study were to describe unmet health care needs during the first year of the pandemic and to investigate the association of unmet needs with the social determinants of health. METHODS We conducted a prospective cohort study of 23 972 adults participating in the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) COVID-19 Study (April-December 2020) to identify the social determinants of health associated with unmet health care needs during the pandemic. Using logistic regression, we assessed the association between several social determinants of health on the following 3 outcomes (separately): experiencing any challenges in accessing health care services, not going to a hospital or seeing a doctor when needed, and experiencing barriers to accessing testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection. RESULTS From September to December 2020, 25% of participants experienced challenges accessing health care services, 8% did not go to a hospital or see a doctor when needed and 4% faced barriers accessing testing for SARS-CoV-2 infection. The prevalence of all 3 unmet need outcomes was lower among older age groups. Differences were observed by sex, region, education, income and racial background. Immigrants (odds ratio [OR] 1.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09-1.27) or people with chronic conditions (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.27-1.43) had higher odds of experiencing challenges accessing health care services and had higher odds of not going to a hospital or seeing a doctor (immigrants OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.11-1.43; chronic conditions OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.31-1.61). Prepandemic unmet health care needs were strongly associated with all 3 outcomes. INTERPRETATION Substantial unmet health care needs were reported by Canadian adults during the first year of the pandemic. The results of this study have important implications for health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayati Khattar
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Laura N Anderson
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Vanessa De Rubeis
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Margaret de Groh
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Aaron Jones
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Nicole E Basta
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Susan Kirkland
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Christina Wolfson
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
| | - Lauren E Griffith
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (Khattar, Anderson, De Rubeis, Jones, Griffith, Raina), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.; Applied Research Division (de Groh, Jiang), Center for Surveillance and Applied Research, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ont.; Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health (Basta, Wolfson), School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, Montréal, Que.; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology and Division of Geriatric Medicine (Kirkland), Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS
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Aubin G, Phillips N, Jaiswal A, Johnson AP, Joubert S, Bachir V, Kehayia E, Wittich W. Visual and cognitive functioning among older adults with low vision before vision rehabilitation: A pilot study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1058951. [PMID: 37034930 PMCID: PMC10075203 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1058951] [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: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The occurrence of age-related vision changes is inevitable. However, some of these changes can become pathological. Research indicates that vision and hearing loss is correlated with age-related cognitive decline, and with a higher risk of developing dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. Low vision rehabilitation could possibly be a protective factor against cognitive decline, as it provides the clients with compensatory strategies to overcome their visual deficits. Objectives and hypothesis The aim of this pilot study was to assess correlations between visual and cognitive functions in older adults referred for low vision rehabilitation. We hypothesized that more severe impairment of visual acuity and contrast sensitivity would be correlated with more advanced levels of cognitive impairment. The second objective was to examine which of these correlations would remain significant once established variables that influence cognition are statistically removed (e.g., age, education). Methods Thirty-eight older adults (age range: 66-97 years old) with a visual impairment (acuity <20/70) were recruited before the onset of their low vision rehabilitation. They underwent vision (reading acuity, reading speed, contrast sensitivity), hearing (audiogram, speech-in-noise perception) and cognitive (global cognition, memory, executive functions) testing, and demographic information was obtained. Results and discussion Correlations among global cognition and visual aid use, memory and reading speed, memory and contrast sensitivity, memory, and visual aid use, and between executive functions and contrast sensitivity were significant. Correlations between contrast sensitivity and memory, as well as between global cognition and visual aid use remained significant after controlling for age and education. The present study is relevant to clinicians who are assessing the cognitive status of older adults, such as neuropsychologists, because it highlights the importance of considering low vision when administering neuropsychological tests, especially to persons who have not yet received rehabilitation for their visual impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Aubin
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Atul Jaiswal
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Sven Joubert
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Vanessa Bachir
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Eva Kehayia
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Walter Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Walter Wittich,
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Bautista-Rodriguez E, Cortés-Álvarez NY, Vuelvas-Olmos CR, Reyes-Meza V, González-López T, Flores-delosÁngeles C, Pérez-Silva NB, Aguirre-Alarcón HA, Cortez-Sanchez JL, Rocha-Rocha VM, Escobedo-Straffon J, Contreras-Mioni L, Reyes-Vergara ML. Stress, anxiety, depression and long COVID symptoms. FATIGUE: BIOMEDICINE, HEALTH & BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/21641846.2022.2154500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Bautista-Rodriguez
- Laboratory of Medical & Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Nadia Yanet Cortés-Álvarez
- Department of Nursing and Obstetrics, Division of Natural and Exact Sciences, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | | | - Verónica Reyes-Meza
- Centro Tlaxcala de Biología de la Conducta, Universidad Autonóma de Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala, Mexico
| | - Thelma González-López
- Center for Psychological, Educational, and Family Development, Comprehensive Health Clinic, UPAEP, Puebla, Mexico
| | | | | | - Héctor Alberto Aguirre-Alarcón
- Laboratory of Medical & Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
| | - Jose Luis Cortez-Sanchez
- Laboratory of Medical & Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
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Baruch J, Zahra C, Cardona T, Melillo T. National long COVID impact and risk factors. Public Health 2022; 213:177-180. [PMID: 36434908 PMCID: PMC9683693 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2022.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to estimate the prevalence and risk factors for long COVID symptoms among polymerase chain reaction-confirmed COVID-19 patients (hospitalised and community) in Malta. STUDY DESIGN This was a national cross-sectional survey among COVID-19 patients in Malta during 2020. METHODS Patients were sent a questionnaire 3-6 months after testing positive. Data were analysed descriptively to estimate symptom prevalence, and multivariable logistic regressions were used to determine the risk factors for long COVID symptoms. Age, sex, initial symptoms, hospitalisation, and healthcare worker status were used as risk factors and symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, anxiety, sadness, and memory loss) 2.5 months or more after COVID-19 onset were used as outcomes. RESULTS Of 8446 eligible participants, 2665 (31.55%) responded with a median age of 37 years. Initial symptoms were reported in 82% of responders, and 7.73% were hospitalised. Among the long COVID symptoms, fatigue persisted among most non-hospitalised responders, whereas anxiety, shortness of breath, and sadness were the most common symptoms. Female sex, hospitalisation, and initial symptoms were associated with higher odds of fatigue, shortness of breath, cough, anxiety, sadness, and memory loss as long COVID symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Our study is the first to highlight long COVID symptoms and risk factors in Malta, showing that long COVID is common among hospitalised and non-hospitalised patients. These data should increase awareness of long COVID and facilitate support to those affected nationally.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Baruch
- Infectious Disease Prevention & Control Unit, Ministry for Health, Pieta, Malta,European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training, European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Solna, Sweden,Corresponding author. Infectious Disease Prevention & Control Unit, Ministry for Health, Pieta, Malta
| | - C. Zahra
- Infectious Disease Prevention & Control Unit, Ministry for Health, Pieta, Malta
| | - T. Cardona
- Infectious Disease Prevention & Control Unit, Ministry for Health, Pieta, Malta
| | - T. Melillo
- Infectious Disease Prevention & Control Unit, Ministry for Health, Pieta, Malta
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Johansson-Pajala RM, Alam M, Gusdal A, Heideken Wågert PV, Löwenmark A, Boström AM, Hammar LM. Anxiety and loneliness among older people living in residential care facilities or receiving home care services in Sweden during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national cross-sectional study. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:927. [PMID: 36456904 PMCID: PMC9714409 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03544-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older people were subjected to significant restrictions on physical contacts with others during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing impacts older people's experiences of anxiety and loneliness. Despite a large body of research on the pandemic, there is little research on its effects on older people in residential care facilities (RCF) and in home care services (HCS), who are the frailest of the older population. We aimed to investigate the effect of the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in March-May 2020 on experiences of anxiety and loneliness among older people living in RCF or receiving HCS and the impact of the progression of the pandemic on these experiences. METHODS A retrospective cross-sectional design using data from the national user satisfaction survey (March - May 2020) by the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare. Survey responses were retrieved from 27,872 older people in RCF (mean age 87 years) and 82,834 older people receiving HCS (mean age 84 years). Proportional-odds (cumulative logit) model was used to estimate the degree of association between dependent and independent variables. RESULTS Loneliness and anxiety were more prevalent among the older persons living in RCF (loneliness: 69%, anxiety: 63%) than those receiving HCS (53% and 47%, respectively). Proportional odds models revealed that among the RCF and HCS respondents, the cumulative odds ratio of experiencing higher degree of anxiety increased by 1.06% and 1.04%, respectively, and loneliness by 1.13% and 1.16%, respectively, for 1% increase in the COVID-19 infection rate. Poor self-rated health was the most influential factor for anxiety in both RCF and HCS. Living alone (with HCS) was the most influential factor affecting loneliness. Experiences of disrespect from staff were more strongly associated with anxiety and loneliness in RCF than in HCS. CONCLUSION Older people in RCF or receiving HCS experienced increasing levels of anxiety and loneliness as the first wave of the pandemic progressed. Older people' mental and social wellbeing should be recognized to a greater extent, such as by providing opportunities for social activities. Better preparedness for future similar events is needed, where restrictions on social interaction are balanced against the public health directives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose-Marie Johansson-Pajala
- grid.411579.f0000 0000 9689 909XSchool of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, P.O 325, SE-63105 Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden
| | - Moudud Alam
- grid.411953.b0000 0001 0304 6002School of Information and Engineering/Statistics, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
| | - Annelie Gusdal
- grid.411579.f0000 0000 9689 909XSchool of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, P.O 325, SE-63105 Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden
| | - Petra von Heideken Wågert
- grid.411579.f0000 0000 9689 909XSchool of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, P.O 325, SE-63105 Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden
| | - Annica Löwenmark
- grid.411579.f0000 0000 9689 909XSchool of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, P.O 325, SE-63105 Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden
| | - Anne-Marie Boström
- grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Science and Society Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.24381.3c0000 0000 9241 5705Theme Inflammation and Aging, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626R&D unit, Stockholms Sjukhem, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lena Marmstål Hammar
- grid.411579.f0000 0000 9689 909XSchool of Health, Care and Social Welfare, Mälardalen University, P.O 325, SE-63105 Eskilstuna/Västerås, Sweden ,grid.4714.60000 0004 1937 0626Division of Nursing, Department of Neurobiology, Care Science and Society Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden ,grid.411953.b0000 0001 0304 6002School of Health and Welfare, Dalarna University, Falun, Sweden
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Dolsen EA, Nishimi K, LeWinn KZ, Byers AL, Tripp P, Woodward E, Khan AJ, Marx BP, Borsari B, Jiha A, Neylan TC, O'Donovan A. Identifying correlates of suicide ideation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional analysis of 148 sociodemographic and pandemic-specific factors. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 156:186-193. [PMID: 36252348 PMCID: PMC9553642 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created a global health crisis, with disproportionate effects on vulnerable sociodemographic groups. Although the pandemic is showing potential to increase suicide ideation (SI), we know little about which sociodemographic characteristics or COVID-19 experiences are associated with SI. Our United States-based sample (n = 837 adults [mean age = 37.1 years]) completed an online survey during August-September 2020. The study utilized an online convenience sample from a prior study, which was enriched for exposure to trauma and experiences of posttraumatic stress symptoms. We assessed SI using the Beck Depression Inventory-II. Traditional (i.e., logistic regression) and machine learning (i.e., LASSO, random forest) methods evaluated associations of 148 self-reported COVID-19 factors and sociodemographic characteristics with current SI. 234 participants (28.0%) reported SI. Twenty items were significantly associated with SI from logistic regression. Of these 20 items, LASSO identified seven sociodemographic characteristics (younger age, lower income, single relationship status, sexual orientation other than heterosexual as well as specifically identifying as bisexual, non-full-time employment, and living in a town) and six COVID-19 factors (not engaging in protective COVID-19 behaviors, receiving mental health treatment (medication and/or psychotherapy) due to the COVID-19 pandemic, socializing during the pandemic, losing one's job due to COVID-19, having a friend with COVID-19, and having an acquaintance with COVID-19) associated with SI. Random forest findings were largely consistent with LASSO. These findings may inform multidisciplinary research and intervention work focused on understanding and preventing adverse mental health outcomes such as SI during and in the aftermath of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A. Dolsen
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA,Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System. San Francisco, CA, USA,Corresponding author. 4150 Clement Street, Building 8, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kristen Nishimi
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA,Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Kaja Z. LeWinn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Amy L. Byers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA,Research Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paige Tripp
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Eleanor Woodward
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Amanda J. Khan
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Brian P. Marx
- National Center for PTSD, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA,Boston University School of Medicine, USA
| | - Brian Borsari
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Ahmad Jiha
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas C. Neylan
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA,Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Health Care System. San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aoife O'Donovan
- Mental Health Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco. San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Wu CF, Chou LW, Huang HC, Tu HM. Perceived COVID-19-related stress drives home gardening intentions and improves human health in Taiwan. URBAN FORESTRY & URBAN GREENING 2022; 78:127770. [PMID: 36311210 PMCID: PMC9597545 DOI: 10.1016/j.ufug.2022.127770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has added a layer of mental health problems and perceived stress. Home gardening is considered a good method to reduce perceived stress. The current research evidence is insufficient to understand the relationship and influencing factors between the intentions, behaviors, and benefits of home gardening during short-term COVID-19 events. Although the duration from the onset to stabilization of the outbreak lasted for only 1.5 months from May to June 2021 throughout Taiwan, the significant pandemic changes might have affected the perceived stress along with the intentions, behaviors, and benefits of home gardening. This study explored the relationship between pandemic stress and home gardening through online snowball sampling because of the strict social distancing regulations. A total of 1455 non-follow-up and internet questionnaires throughout Taiwan were collected during the wave onset, peak, easing, and stabilization stages. The questionnaire included questions on personal information, perceived pandemic stress, gardening intentions, gardening behaviors, and gardening benefits. This study showed that perceived stress increased from the pandemic onset to its peak, and decreased from the peak to stabilization stages. Home gardening intentions and behaviors also revealed similar trends. Higher pandemic-perceived stress directly increased home-gardening intentions and indirectly promoted home-gardening behaviors and benefits. Our findings indicated that home gardening is a positive element in reducing perceived stress. Lower gardening intentions and behaviors were observed when the high perceived stress was removed. This study suggests that home gardening was a valuable strategy for staying close to nature and obtaining multiple benefits during the peak pandemic period. Providing small-scale gardening activities and spaces is appropriate for obtaining gardening benefits and avoiding space abandonment after the pandemic. Providing seeds, seedlings, tools, knowledge, online home gardening programs, and small residential and food gardens is a valuable strategy for obtaining multiple benefits during the peak of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Fa Wu
- Department of Horticulture, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Innovation and Development Center of Sustainable Agriculture from the Featured Areas Research Center Program within the framework of the Higher Education Sprout Project by the Ministry of Education in Taiwan, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wei Chou
- Department of Physical Therapy and Graduate Institute of Rehabilitation Science, China Medical University, 406040 Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Asia University Hospital, Asia University, 413505 Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, China Medical University Hospital, 404332 Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsi-Chih Huang
- Department of Horticulture, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Ming Tu
- Department of Horticulture, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung City, Taiwan
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Mesa A, Grasdal M, Leong S, Dean NA, Marwaha A, Lee A, Berger MJ, Bundon A, Krassioukov AV. Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with spinal cord injury: Mental health and use of telehealth. PM R 2022; 14:1439-1445. [PMID: 36117384 DOI: 10.1002/pmrj.12900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Limited access to health care services and the self-isolation measures due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may have had additional unintended negative effects, affecting the health of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). OBJECTIVES To examine the perceived influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with SCI. First, this study looked to understand how the pandemic affected the use and perception of telehealth services for these individuals. Second, it investigated the effect of COVID-19 on mental health. DESIGN Cross-sectional online survey. SETTING Individuals with SCI living in the community in British Columbia, Canada. PATIENTS This survey was offered to individuals with SCI and had 71 respondents, with 34% living in a rural setting and 66% in an urban setting. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Telehealth utility, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD-7), Fear of COVID-19 scale (FCV-19S), and Perceived Vulnerability to Disease (PVD). RESULTS Telehealth use in the SCI population has increased from 9.9% to 25.4% over the pandemic, with rates of telehealth use in urban centers nearing those of rural participants. Thirty-one percent of respondents had probable depression and 7.0% had probable generalized anxiety disorder as measured by a score of ≥10 on the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, respectively. The mean scores on FCV-19S and PVD were 17.0 (6.6 SD) and 4.29 (1.02 SD), respectively. CONCLUSION Telehealth use during COVID-19 has more than doubled. It is generally well regarded by respondents, although only a fourth of the SCI population has reported its use. With this in mind, it is important to understand the barriers to further adoption. In addition, higher rates of probable depression were seen than those estimated by pre-pandemic studies in other countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Mesa
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,MD Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mark Grasdal
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,MD Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sarah Leong
- Neuromotion Physiotherapy + Rehabilitation, Kitsilano Physiotherapy Clinic, Treloar Physiotherapy Clinic, , Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nikolaus A Dean
- School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Arshdeep Marwaha
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,MD Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Amanda Lee
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,MD Undergraduate Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael J Berger
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea Bundon
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Education, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrei V Krassioukov
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Delpino FM, da Silva CN, Jerônimo JS, Mulling ES, da Cunha LL, Weymar MK, Alt R, Caputo EL, Feter N. Prevalence of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis of over 2 million people. J Affect Disord 2022; 318:272-282. [PMID: 36096370 PMCID: PMC9462928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Uncertainty, disruptions in daily routines, and concerns for the health and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic are likely associated with increases in generalized anxiety. The present study aimed to systematically review the literature in order to identify the update prevalence of anxiety in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis. It included studies that assessed the prevalence of anxiety among the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS In total, we included 194 studies. The general prevalence of anxiety was 35.1 %, affecting approximately 851,000 participants. The prevalence in low and middle-income countries (35.1 %; 95%CI: 29.5 % to 41.0 %) was similar compared to high-income countries (34.7 %; 95%CI: 29.6 % to 40.1 %). In studies that provided the proportion of cases in each level of anxiety disorder, mild-to-moderate anxiety affected one quarter of the participants. One in ten cases with anxiety during the COVID-19 may be living with severe or extremely anxiety disorder. Most instruments estimated similar prevalence of anxiety disorders with notable difference in the prevalence estimated by the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-item (GAD-2), Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). CONCLUSION One in three adults were living with anxiety disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Mendes Delpino
- Postgraduate Program in Nursing, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | | | - Jeferson Santos Jerônimo
- Postgraduate Program in Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Eliete Stark Mulling
- Postgraduate Program in Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Larissa Leal da Cunha
- Postgraduate Program in Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marina Krause Weymar
- Postgraduate Program in Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Alt
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Eduardo L. Caputo
- Postgraduate Program in Physical Education, Federal University of Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Natan Feter
- Postgraduate Program in Epidemiology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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47
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Albikawi ZF. Predictors of Anxiety, Depression, and Stress among Female University Nursing Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12111887. [PMID: 36579619 PMCID: PMC9693451 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12111887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Students at universities increasingly struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The present prevalence of these diseases may arise in the event of a crisis such as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Aim: To estimate the level of anxiety, depression, and stress in female university nursing students, and to identify predictors for students' anxiety, depression, and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: An online cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted using a convenient sample of 115 female university nursing students. The Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) questionnaire was used to assess symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Multivariate linear regression was used to identify predictors of anxiety, depression, and stress. Results: Stress, anxiety, and depression had prevalence rates of 23.7%, 18.5%, and 34.6%, respectively. Significant anxiety predictors included family support, family salary, being diagnosed with chronic illness, and being exposed to patients with COVID-19. Significant correlations were found between family support, family salary, family history of mental illness, and fear of being infected with COVID-19 and depression in female university nursing students. Students' levels of stress were predicted by family support. Conclusion: The level of anxiety, depression, and stress among female university nursing students was determined to be moderate. It is advised that university nursing students receive interventions that support their mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Fatehi Albikawi
- King Khalid University, Nursing College, Community and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Department, Khamis Mushait 39746, Saudi Arabia
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48
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Agyapong B, Shalaby R, Wei Y, Agyapong VIO. Can ResilienceNHope, an evidence-based text and email messaging innovative suite of programs help to close the psychological treatment and mental health literacy gaps in college students? Front Public Health 2022; 10:890131. [PMID: 36388394 PMCID: PMC9650226 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.890131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a high prevalence of stress, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders in college students globally. Financial stressors, course workload, peer pressure, and other personal, family, and societal stressors contribute to the high incidence of mental disorders among college students. Despite the high prevalence of mental disorders in college students, barriers such as lack of mental health literacy, stigma of mental health, inadequate numbers of mental health counselors and clinical psychologists supporting students in colleges in both low- and high-income countries, and financial and geographical barriers often hinder college students from accessing the needed mental supports. There is increasing evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of mobile technology in health promotion and closing psychological treatment gaps. College students are well adapted to the use of mobile technology, particularly text and email messaging daily, which presents a unique opportunity for an innovative way to offer support for their mental health. In this article, we provide a perspective on the ResilienceNHope program, an evidence-based text and email messaging innovation, to close the psychological treatment gap and improve the mental health literacy of college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,Global Psychological eHealth Foundation, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Reham Shalaby
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Yifeng Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Vincent I. O. Agyapong
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada,Global Psychological eHealth Foundation, Edmonton, AB, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada,*Correspondence: Vincent I. O. Agyapong
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49
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Stoyanova R, Mihaylova A, Kasnakova P, Bakova D, Harizanova S, Zheleva Z, Deneva T, Davcheva D, Toseva E. COVID-19 Peritraumatic Distress Index Instrument – Translation and Validation of Bulgarian Version. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.10896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: COVID-19 peritraumatic distress index (CPDI) self-report questionnaire was designed to measure peritraumatic psychological distress in a pandemic emergency.
AIM: The aim of the study was the validation of Bulgarian COVID-19 peritraumatic distress index (CPDI) questionnaire and its application to measure psychological distress level in Bulgarian population.
METHODS: The study was conducted among 42 adults from February 2022 to March 2022. The average age of respondents participating in the validation of COVID-19 peritraumatic distress index (CPDI) questionnaire is 40.88 ± 13.309, women being predominant - 71.4% (n = 30), as well as individuals with higher education- 69% (n = 29). Following the preliminary instruction, all participants filled out the online Bulgarian version of the questionnaire anonymously 2 times within a period of 2 weeks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistic, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Cronbach’s alpha, and Corrected Item-Total Correlation.
RESULTS: The CPDI instrument was linguistically validated according to a standard procedure (8) and cross-culturally adapted (9) into Bulgarian in several stages. The overall Cronbach’s alpha for the Peritraumatic Distress Index (CPDI) questionnaire is 0.940. Almost all corrected item-total correlations exceeded the accepted cut off of 0.30 indicating each item was related to the overall scale except for Q5 “I feel sympathetic to COVID-19 patients and their families.”
CONCLUSION: The Bulgarian version of the questionnaire reveals good reliability and cross-cultural validity and can be applied widely for measuring the prevalence of psychological suffering and distress in the pandemic emergency.
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He W, Xu D, Wang J, Shen Y, Lin Z, Ruan L, Chen Q. Gender differences in psychiatric outpatients: a before and during COVID-19 pandemic study in general hospitals from China. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2022; 21:35. [PMID: 36071451 PMCID: PMC9450837 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-022-00412-3] [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: 09/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the gender characteristics and the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) impact on psychiatric department outpatients in general hospitals in China. METHODS We retrospectively collected 225,947 outpatient clinic records before and during COVID-19 pandemic from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2020 in the psychiatric clinic of 3 general hospitals, gender composition of patients was analyzed in different five age groups and nine diagnostic categories at three levels: total patient visits, number of patients and number of first-visit patients. RESULTS The total male-to-female ratio of psychiatric outpatient records in 3 general hospitals from 2019 to 2020 was 1:1.69. Women were more common in all age groups. Overall, the proportion of women was further increased in 2020 compared to that in 2019, especially in age group below 34 years and anxiety disorders category. Most mental disorders showed higher demands for females than that for males except mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use with the male-to-female ratio was 1:0.05. CONCLUSIONS The demand for female psychiatric outpatient services is obviously higher than that for males. It is necessary to pay more attention to explore targeted mechanism or psychosocial service strategy for female patients with mental disorders. Trial registration ChiCTR2100044894, March 31, 2021 retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenli He
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danhong Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, the Second People's Hospital of Yuhuan, Taizhou, China
| | - Jiafeng Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuze Shen
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.,Department of Psychiatry, the First People's Hospital of Yuhang District, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zheng Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liemin Ruan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo Hospital of Zhejiang University, No. 59 Liuting Street, Ningbo, 315010, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Qiaozhen Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang, China.
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