bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An increase in somatization in pandemic time in association with lexical characterictic of statements about pandemic
Authors: Medvedeva T. , Enikolopov S. , Boyko O. , Vorontsova O. , Stankevich M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

One of the negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic may be an increase in somatization.

Objectives

identification of implicit characteristics of texts indicating the peculiarities of the opinion about the pandemic by people with high somatization level.

Methods

Survey (03/23/2020–01/29/2021, N=1188). Used: SCL-90-R, COPE, Constructive Thinking Inventory (CTI). It was offered to express an opinion on the pandemic. The statements were divided into the two text arrays - “high somatization” and “low somatization” (based on the parameter “somatization” SCL-90R). The frequency of words in these text arrays was estimated (LIWC).

Results

The analysis showed an increase in somatization as the pandemic developed (Std.J-T Statistic=4,327). The relationship between somatization and anxiety, sleep disturbances, and depression was revealed. Higher rates of somatization are associated with a decrease in emotional coping, «global constructive thinking» and «personal superstitious thinking», an increase in «categorical thinking». The connection between somatization and a number of non-constructive copings is shown. Texts associated with high somatization demonstrate higher number of pronouns of the first person (30.77%, 17.19%), a decrease in the tonality of words, a vocabulary (LIWC) of suffering, negative sthenic emotions (1,53%, 0,93%), a decrease in the vocabulary of motivation and resistance (0,93%, 1,49%), a decrease in vocabulary associated with the body (0,20%, 0,32%).

Conclusions

The connection between somatization and high emotional distress, which manifests itself in negative emotional vocabulary and is associated with a low level of emotional coping, is shown. The “representation” of the pandemic, presented in the text, is “divorced” from somatic manifestations, fear of illness and death.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Ms. Noemi Monika Szeifert
Authors: Szeifert N. , Szilágyi S. , Schmelowszky Á.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Working in COVID – 19 Health Care Units – Psychological impacts (PTSD, Depression, Anxiety Disorders) Working in the frontline during COVID-19 has put under extreme psychological and physical pressure the health care workers. The severe psychological symptomps can emerge on short, mid and long term as well. Our research is focusing on the psychological impacts of front line health care workers.

Objectives

In our lecture, we summarize our reserach made in the National Traumatology Center, Budapest, Hungary among health care workers who worked in the front and in the second line during the most severe period of the pandemic in Hungary, and discuss probable risk factors for PTSD and chronic psychological distress related to COVID-19. Furthermore we make an overview on the most frequently used coping skills for dealing with the psychological stress caused by the pandemic among the health care workers. The sample taking was processed in July 2021, after 3 month the 3rd COVID – 19 wave officially ended in Hungary.

Methods

123 health care workers completed the online survey anonimously, included Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger Anxiety State Inventory, PTSD Checklist, Lazarus Coping Scale.

Results

23% of HCW reported symptomps of depression, nearly 25% dealing with sleeping disorders and 38% with chronic fatigue, 42,50 % HCW suffering from anxiety disorders, 22% HCW experiencing symptomps of PTSD.

Conclusions

With our results we would like to raise awareness of the challenges and severe psychological consequences that these colleagues, our national heroes we can say, are facing after working in COVID-19 Health Care Units.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Baseline beliefs, depression, anxiety, and stress in humanities students in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ivanov D. , Aleksandrovich Y. , Gorkovaya I. , Averin V. , Titova V. , Rozhdestvenskiy V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic can be seen as mental trauma. The concept of baseline beliefs helps to explain the extent to which mental trauma affects individuals.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate baseline beliefs in humanities students in Russian universities and analyse the relationship between baseline beliefs and emotional reactions.

Methods

Data collection was carried out between May and July 2020 using a Google form that we developed. A total of 92 humanities students participated in the study. The WAS-37 was used to examine baseline beliefs, and the DASS-21 was used to determine depression, anxiety, and stress levels.

Results

We found that the mean values of the scales “Benevolence in the World” (M = 34.8±6.5), “Self-image” (M = 27.2±4.4), “Luck” (M = 32.7±5.7) and “Controlling beliefs” (M = 27.9±4.0) were above the normative mean values for the Russian population and only the values of the scale “Justice” (M = 20.8±3.8) were below these. All components of baseline beliefs had negative associations with depression, anxiety, and stress; only “Benevolence in the World” was associated exclusively with anxiety (rs = -0.223, p < 0.05), and “Justice” with depression (rs = -0.223, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In a pandemic, the world around them is perceived by humanities students as less fair. Trust in the world, beliefs about the fairness of the world and a positive self-image are correlated with a more favourable emotional state. By this, we support the view that individuals’ implicit beliefs (baseline beliefs) are related to the severity of the traumatic event.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Dynamics of emotional reactions among Russian students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gorkovaya I. , Ivanov D. , Aleksandrovich Y. , Titova V. , Rozhdestvenskiy V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The pandemic of a new coronavirus infection can be considered as a long-term traumatic event. It is known that chronic stress is characterized by dynamics of emotional state caused by processes of adaptation and maladaptation.

Objectives

Our study aimed to investigate the dynamics of depression, anxiety, and stress levels among Russian students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Data were collected from May to July 2020 (the first pandemic wave) and from October 2020 to April 2021 (the second wave). A total of 170 non-medical university students participated in the study. We used the DASS-21 to determine levels of depression, anxiety, and stress.

Results

We found that during the first wave of the pandemic, 57 % of students showed no symptoms of depression, 77 % had no symptoms of anxiety, and 76 % showed no signs of stress. In the second wave, 50 % of students showed no depression, 65 % no anxiety and 67 % no stress. Analysis of mean values showed that the second pandemic wave provoked higher levels of anxiety (M = 3.32±4.25 vs M = 4.71±4.71, p < 0.05) and stress (M = 6.50±4.50 vs M = 7.99±4.97, p < 0.05) .

Conclusions

The second wave of the new coronavirus pandemic provoked more severe emotional reactions among Russian students than the first. By these results we suggest that the duration of the pandemic harms the emotional state of the general population. Therefore, it is essential to develop and implement psychotherapeutic programs to restore the mental health of Russian citizens.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Meaningful orientations and asthenia in pregnant women and young mothers during the first COVID-19 pandemic wave
Authors: Titova V. , Ivanov D. , Aleksandrovich Y. , Gorkovaya I. , Rozhdestvenskiy V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Pregnancy and childcare are naturally stressful for women, often accompanied by the asthenic syndrome. In a pandemic situation, this type of stress may be potentiated by external conditions.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate the life-state orientations and asthenia levels of pregnant women and young mothers in the context of a pandemic. We also analyzed the correlations between the life-state orientations and the different types of asthenias.

Methods

Data collection was carried out in June 2020 using a Google form that we developed. Pregnant women and young mothers with children under seven years of age participated in the study with 47 respondents. We used the Purpose-in-Life Test to investigate the meaningful orientations and the MFI-20 to determine the level of asthenia. Both questionnaires were adapted for use in Russia.

Results

We found that the mean overall MFI-20 score (M = 58.0±5.9) exceeded the mean values in our sample, indicating the presence of the asthenic syndrome. Physical asthenia (M = 12.9±1.4) and decreased activity (M = 12.0±1.7) were the strongest, with the lowest score on the general asthenia scale (M = 10.6±1.8). Correlation analysis showed that all components of meaningful orientations had multiple positive correlations with different types of asthenias, and the overall asthenia score was 100 % related to life meaningfulness (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Pregnant women and young mothers are at risk for asthenia in the COVID-19 pandemic. This is obviously due to many responsibilities of mothers raising children.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Evaluation of stress and coping skills of nursing students during a COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: El Kefi H. , Kabtni W. , Krir W. , Baatout A. , Bouzouita I. , Torkhani O. , Gafsi I. , Bencheikh C. , Oumaya A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus epidemic started in Tunisia in March 2020. Health personnel have been in the front line in the fight against this virus since that date. The COVID units of the hospitals and the different hospital services have been reinforced by student nurses (trainees, volunteers…).

Objectives

To evaluate the degree of stress perceived during the COVID-19 pandemic by student nurses. To identify coping skills during a COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Descriptive, retrospective study conducted in March 2021 on the 60 senior nursing students enrolled in the military health school. We used the Cungi (1997) stress scale and developed a self-questionnaire on coping skills used by the students.

Results

Our population was 54.3% male and 45.7% female. The average age was 22.6 years. The majority of the senior students (54.3%) worked in units dedicated to the care of patients with COVID-19. On the Cungi Stress Rating Scale, students had very low (13%), low (27%), and high (60%) stress levels. The main coping methods used were watching movies and listening to music (81%), playing sports (80%), praying (75%), rigorously applying social distancing measures and wearing protective gear (73%), talking with friends or psychologists (62%), doing yoga or meditation (34%), drinking herbal tea, alcohol, or taking psychotropic drugs (23%).

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic is a time of major stress for nursing students. The coping methods used seem insufficient. Psychological support should be provided.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Changes in alcohol consumption in the Russian Federation during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Gil A. , Vyshinsky K. , Fadeeva E. , Khalfin R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Excessive alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for various mental health disorders and can exacerbate the already high burden of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health.On the other hand, the COVID-19 pandemic itself can adversely affect alcohol consumption and thus contribute to alcohol-related problems, including mental health problems.

Objectives

This study was aimed to assess changes in alcohol consumption that may have occurred as a result of the COVID-19pandemic and determine associated factors among population of Russian Federation.

Methods

By distributing a link to take part in an anonymous online survey,changes in volume and frequency of alcohol use,and frequency of heavy episodic drinking(6 or more servings of alcohol at a time)in the first months of COVID-19pandemic were assessed. 819respondents from Russia:321 men and 498women, submitted their responses during May-July,2020. Associations between changes in alcohol use were assessed in a univariate analysis with socio-demographic factors,alcohol use over the previous 12months,stress, individual perceptions of changes in daily and social life and other negative consequences of pandemic.The statistical significance of associations was assessed using the Pearson’sχ2 test.

Results

Individuals with initially higher alcohol consumption increased their alcohol use, while those who drank less, decreased alcohol use even more during pandemic (p<0.05). Severe restrictions of social/everyday life were associated with more frequent alcohol use and in larger volumes (p<0.001). Negative professional/financial consequences of pandemic and stress were associated with increase of typical drinking volume (p<0.001), more frequent alcohol use (p<0.001)and heavy episodic drinking (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic could have increased health inequalities in Russia through changes in alcohol consumption.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Emerging Catatonia and Psychosis in Resolving COVID-19 Infection in an Adolescent
Authors: Choudhury N. , Milo B. , Chen P. , Carr B.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 infection may lead to encephalopathy and various neurotrophic effects which can result in neuropsychiatric complications. Here, an asymptomatic adolescent female developed acute onset catatonia and psychosis manifesting during the resolution of Covid-19 infection.

Objectives

Discuss differential diagnosis, medical workup, and initial treatment optimization for acute stabilization.

Methods

This 15-year-old female with no previous psychiatric history nor prodromal symptomatology was hospitalized secondary to Covid -19. During the immediate three-month recovery phase following resolution of Covid-19, the patient exhibited gradually increasing anxiety, paranoia, delusions, disorganized behavior, and weight loss leading to re-hospitalization secondary to catatonia. Negative workup included rapid strep test, urinalysis, chest and abdominal x-ray, EEG, and brain MRI. Lumbar puncture revealed elevated WBC of 18 but was unremarkable for NDMA receptor antibodies, CSF HSV, and encephalitis panel. IV steroids, IVIG, and Anakinra were all given without benefit. Inadequate response to olanzapine, clonidine, and lorazepam led to an Index Series of bilateral electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Results

The provisional diagnosis of psychotic disorder secondary to COVID-19 infection responded robustly regarding sleep, behavior, and affect by session #6, yet positive symptoms of psychosis persist. Ongoing ECT, psychopharmacology, and narrowing of the differential diagnosis continue.

Conclusions

As more COVID-19 cases evolve during the pandemic, potential post-infectious neuropsychiatric complications should be considered as potentially contributory and kept in a thoughtful differential diagnosis. Regardless of ultimate causation, the acute symptom profile responded robustly to an initial Index Series of ECT.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Persistent emotional stress, fatigue and impaired neurocognitive function in recovered COVID-19 patients: a longitudinal prospective study
Authors: Rogiers A. , Launay S. , Duque G. , Soukias E. , Van Eycken S. , Besse-Hammer T. , Sanchez-Rodriguez D. , Chalon M. , Gazagne M.-D. , Maillart E. , Benoit F. , Surquin M. , Corrazza F. , Michel O. , Kornreich C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Several surveys report that post-COVID-19 patients (pts) could be at risk of persistent emotional distress, fatigue and impaired neurocognitive function (NCF).

Objectives

The aim was to assess emotional distress, fatigue and NCF in order to provide adequate care.

Methods

Patients with persistent physical or mental symptoms, at least 8 weeks post-COVID-19, were eligible for this ongoing prospective longitudinal single center trial. Data on depression, anxiety, cognition, post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and fatigue were collected using 4 validated questionnaires at study entry (T0) and at 6 months (T1).

Results

Ninety-three pts were recruited between November 2020-March 2021. Test results from 64 eligible pts (15 male pts) were analyzed at T0; 63 pts (98%) were treated in outpatient settings. Median age was 47 years [range 27-75]). Median time since COVID-19 was 29 weeks [range 8-53]. Twenty-two pts (34%) had a history of psychiatric disorders. According to the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS), 44 pts (73%) reported anxiety symptoms and 26 pts (41%) reported depressive symptoms; 48 pts (69%) reported cognitive complaints according to the Cognitive Failure Questionnaire and 29 pts (45%) suffered from PTSS, according to the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C). Fifty-five pts (86%) had an elevated score on the Fatigue Severity Scale, indicating severe fatigue. Twenty-seven pts (42%) were still on sick leaf. Diminished social support and psychiatric history were predictive factors for neurocognitive dysfunction and PTSS.

Conclusions

A majority of patients who recovered physically from COVID-19, are at risk for suffering from persistent anxiety, PTSS and neurocognitive dysfunction.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Viral topic about the COVID-19 vaccination: the attitudes towards it and the relationship with the well-being and religiosity in a group of Polish students
Authors: Karakula K. , Forma A. , Sitarz E. , Rog J. , Baj J. , Juchnowicz D. , Karakula-Juchnowicz H.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic currently remains the most significant stressor affecting the global population. Researchers continually report widespread mistrust and negative attitudes towards vaccination, but only a little focus on its association with the emotional well-being.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the attitudes towards vaccination against COVID-19, as well as its relationship with well-being and religiosity after one year of the pandemic duration amongst Polish students.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous online cross-sectional survey between 12th April – 1st June 2021 amongst Polish students (n=1202). To evaluate emotional distress, we used the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), for measuring spirituality/religiosity we used The Duke University Religion Index.

Results

The highest rate of vaccinated individuals was noted in a group of medical students (69.9%), the lowest - among responders studying science (1.9%). Students who wanted to be vaccinated had higher levels of depressive, anxiety, and stress symptoms compared to those who were already vaccinated (p=0.04); they also had higher depressive symptoms than unvaccinated and unwilling participants (p=0.028). Students who didn’t want to be vaccinated against COVID-19 showed the highest religiosity compared to those who would like to be vaccinated (p<0.001) or were vaccinated (p=0.003). There was a negative correlation between the level of religiosity and severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms (p=0.002).

Conclusions

1. The attitudes towards vaccination against COVID-19 depended on the fields of study. 2. Religiousness has been linked with the attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccination as well as level of depression and anxiety amongst Polish students.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Bidirectional Associations Between Covid-19 Infection And Mental Disorders
Authors: Turki M. , Blanji S. , Daoud A. , Ellouze S. , Abdellatif M. , Gargouri N. , Halouani N. , Aloulou J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unbearable psychological pressure to people worldwide, because of serious threats to one’s physical health and life. From early stages of this pandemic, concerns have been raised about its effect on mental health. However, we still know little whether pre-existing psychiatric disorder (PD) affects the susceptibility and evolution of this infection.

Objectives

We aimed to assess the interactions between COVID-19 infection and PD.

Methods

We conducted a litterature review through pubmed database, using the keywords :«COVID 19», «psychiatry», «mental disorders», « schizophrenia », « anxiety », « depression », «insomnia».

Results

On one hand, prior surveys suggested that the infection is associated with increased incidence of a first psychiatric symptom. Mental health disturbances mostly include anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment and post-traumatic stress disorder. On the other hand, recent studies showed that patients with pre-existing mental disorders were associated with high susceptibility to be infected, increased risk of intensive care unit admission and a high mortality. The susceptibility to contracting COVID-19 was associated with pre-existing mood disorders, anxiety, and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Infection severity was associated with pre-existing or subsequent mood disorders and sleep disturbances; or a pre-extisting schizophrenia. Mortality is increased in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Conclusions

The complicated interactions between COVID-19 infection and PD have several implications. Enhanced psychiatric follow-up should be considered for survivors of COVID-19. Besides, early detection and intervention for PD are needed to control morbidity and mortality induced by the COVID-19 infection.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Burnout among pharmacists in Tunisia during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Falfel D. , Cherif D. , Falfel H. , Tlili N. , Drira C. , Razgallah Khrouf M. , Hamdi G. , Ben Ammar H.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Both public and private sector pharmacists were instrumental in containing this health crisis in Tunisia. The high workload had a considerable impact on their mental health during the outbreak of the Corona Virus.

Objectives

This study aims to assess burnout and the psychological toll of the pandemic among pharmacists in Tunisia during covid-19.

Methods

258 Tunisian pharmacists working in the public and private sector participated in a questionnaire. Burnout was assessed by the Maslach burnout scale. Regression analysis was used to assess the impact of the pandemic on Tunisian pharmacists.

Results

80% of the respondents were women. Participants ranged in age from 22 to 62, 60% were married, 57% had at least one child, and 42% had been working for less than five years. The burnout scale revealed 76% burnout among them. Univariate linear regression showed that female gender (p = 0.014 <0.05) was associated with the development of burnout.

Conclusions

The considerable prevalence of burnout among pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic in Tunisia can be attributed to the enormous and overwhelming responsibilities that any health care worker endured.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Mandatory containment of COVID-19 patients in Monastir: Legislative framework and impact on freedoms
Authors: Betbout I. , Amemou B. , Ben Haouala A. , Iben Khedher S. , Benzarti M. , Zaafrane F. , Mhalla A. , Gaha L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Tunisia found itself in an exceptional situation during the covid 19 pandemic requiring a legal regime of exceptionality and sanitary necessity with a double challenge: the fight against the sanitary crisis, and the preservation of democratic gains

Objectives

To describe the legislative framework put in place concerning patients with COVID-19 who stayed at the compulsory containment and to discuss the legality of these emergency decisions

Methods

The authors conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study of patients with COVID-19 staying in the compulsory containment centre of Monastir, with a review of the literature The data were collected through telephone calls. A review of the literature as well as a consultation of the different legislative

Results

The average age was 41.39 ± 1.26 and the sex ratio was 1.17.Imported cases represented 45.3% of the sample and 23% of them expressed a desire to consult a specialist. The duration of mandatory confinement was on average 35.86±1.31 days with extremes ranging from 7 to 86 days. Concerning the legislative framework of the emergency decisions taken during the first wave, the President of the Republic and the Head of Government used Articles 80 and 70 of the Tunisian Constitution, respectively, to issue legislative texts announcing the state of emergency and accompanying. Thus, these legislative measures were restrictive of rights and freedoms and seriously threatened the fragile gains of our democracy

Conclusions

COVID-19 redefined not only the health system but also the economic conditions, as well as the normative and legislative system 2014

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Preexisting mild cognitive impairment as a risk factor for COVID-19 infection: A scoping review and case reports
Authors: Catapano P. , Messina M. , Russo A. , Tucci C. , Luciano M. , De Santis V. , Perris F. , Catapano F. , Coppola N. , Fabrazzo M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

SARS-Co-V2 neuroinvasive ability might be the basis for the onset of delirium and neuropsychiatric outcomes.

Objectives

We hypothesized that some infected patients with preexisting cognitive dysfunction may present delirium as unique manifestation of COVID-19 infection or as a prodrome of a new episode consistent with the psychiatric history.

Methods

We conducted a PubMed literature search to verify whether cognitive impairment might predispose to COVID-19. We included three patients with mild cognitive impairment and delirium at admission for SARS-Co-V2 suspected infection. Delirium was diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria‚ Cognitive Assessment Method and Coma Glasgow Scale.

Results

Literature analysis evidenced patients presenting delirium or delirium-like symptoms as clinical manifestation of COVID-19, plus a cognitive impairment‚ from mild to severe‚ which preexisted or was evidenced during the acute phase or after the infection. Most studies described delirium in patients with a past neurological/psychiatric history. Contrasting data emerged on the potential link between COVID-19 and delirium in patients with cognitive impairment and without a past neuropsychiatric history. Our patients had no history of other medical complications. Our first patient had no psychiatric history‚ the second reported only a depressive episode‚ and the third had story of bipolar disorder. Delirium resolved completely after 2 days in the first patient. The other patients required 4 and 14 days to resolve: delirium appeared as the prodrome of a new psychiatric episode in line with their past history.

Conclusions

Clinicians should acknowledge the possibility that COVID-19 infection may appear as delirium and acute psychiatric sequelae as unique manifestation.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Impact of Covid-19 on mental health of Portuguese health professionals – longitudinal study, phase I
Authors: Machado D. , Borges A. , Laureano C.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic brought enormous challenges for health professionals. As in past epidemics, the uncertainty, danger and fear of contamination and an excessive load of work under dramatic conditions may contribute to aggravate the mental health of health professionals.

Objectives

Explore how the Covid-19 crisis impacted the mental health of healthcare workers and how their mental status relates with perspectives on the recent past and near future.

Methods

A longitudinal study will be applied in two phases, Q1 and Q2, one year apart, to evaluate depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress among health professionals from a healthcare center in Portugal. Phase Q1 is concluded and comprised the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Impact of Event Scale – Revised (IES-R) and a questionnaire about the past and the future.

Results

The IES-R scale revealed that nurses are at a higher risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than other professionals. The levels of depression and anxiety in the DASS-21 show no significant differences. Interestingly, professionals who worked almost exclusively at inpatient wards show higher levels of depression, anxiety and stress than those who worked at several hospital units (emergency, inpatient and outpatient units). A positive correlation was found between depression and anxiety and negative perspectives about the past and the future.

Conclusions

Covid-19 posed a terrible challenge for health professionals. Its impact on the mental health of healthcare workers may be significant even after the pandemic is under control.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Anxiety among frontline healthcare professionals during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Maatouk O. , Kammoun R. , Kammoun I. , Askri F. , Karoui M. , Nefzi H. , Ellouz F.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anxiety has become a topical issue since the arrival of the coronavirus pandemic, especially for frontline healthcare professionals as they deal with patients affected by the Covid-19.

Objectives

Objectify anxiety in frontline medical and paramedical staff and study its associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a national descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study via a survey over a 2-month period from September to October 2020. We used “Beck Anxiety Inventory” to screen anxiety as well as “Brief Cope Scale” to detect probable correlations between anxiety and coping mechanisms.

Results

We collected 78 persons. The mean age was 29.86 years. 35.9% moved out of home. 39.7% worked in Covid units. 7.7% had personal psychiatric history. 76.9% provided direct care to patients with Coronavirus. The frontline staff reported that only 29.5% of patients were stables. Only 48.4% received adequate training of protection against Covid-19. 64.1% of professionals did PCR test and only 16.7% of them tested positive. We objectified an increase of 6.4% in the anxiolytics use. Stigma affected 57.7% of professionals. We highlighted a link between anxiety and social support strategy (p=0.048). 92.3 % of the staff suffered from anxiety according to Beck Anxiety Inventory.

Conclusions

Screening anxiety among frontline medical and paramedical staff might enhance their productivty and thus provide patients with the best care.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Perceived Stress among Iranians during COVID-19 Pandemic; Stressors and Coping Mechanisms: A Mixed-methods Approach
Authors: Nadoushan A.H. , Faghankhani M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

This study was a mixed-methods study. We distributed a web-based 1scale (PSS-10), to measure perceived stress scores, through social networks from March 12 to 23, 2020. Then, we interviewed 42 students, 31 homemakers, 27 healthcare providers, and 21 male participants to identify the sources of stress and coping mechanisms.

Objectives

We examined the correlates of stress among a large sample of Iranian citizens, the second country hit hard by the pandemic, and still a hot spot.

Methods

This anonymous survey had 19 items falling into two sections: sociodemographic data and Cohen’s 10-item perceived stress scale (PSS-10).

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed between the levels of perceived stress in individuals with different health statuses with a higher median of total PSS-10 scores reported for hospitalized individuals. The total PSS-10 scores were higher in those who were practicing self-isolation, had a relative affected with COVID-19 disease, and had experienced the death of a relative due to COVID-19 disease.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the most vulnerable groups overloaded with stress in society and the sources of their stress. Furthermore, we identified the groups that perceived lower levels of stress along with their coping mechanisms. The most frequent source of stress among the most stressful groups including homemakers, students, and health care workers has directly related to their job and their principal role in this period. Abstract thought about the COVID-19 pandemic and its complications were more prevalent among students while homemakers and health care providers showed concrete thinking about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Disclosure

I have no significant financial interest, consultancy, or other relationship with products, the manufacturer(s) of products, or providers of services related to this abstract?
Assessment of worries and attitudes towards the COVID-19 pandemic and the vaccine among Tunisian elderly
Authors: Moalla M. , Lansari R. , Saida R. , Zrelli M. , Larnaout A. , Melki W.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a threat particularly to the elderly. Although the current vaccination strategy is recognized as an adequate measure to reduce mortality, it still raises concerns about its efficacy and safety.

Objectives

Assessment of worries and attitudes among Tunisian elderly towards the pandemic.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study on a sample of 50 consultants in a geriatric service, aged between 65 years and over. A questionnaire was formulated based on the recommendations of WHO and INEAS.

Results

The average age of our population is 74.6 years. The participants were mainly female, retired (76%) and with low educational attainment. Most of the elderly reported that they respected the wearing of the mask in public (90%) and washing their hands regularly (92%). Social distancing was respected by only 44% of the participants. Concerning the vaccine registration, we noted that 48% of the subjects expressed their willingness to register on the Evax.tn platform. On the other hand, 15 people expressed their refusal to receive the anti-Covid vaccine. We noted that only 22% had a dose of the Covid-19 vaccine. Only 4% of the respondents did not have concerns about new variants of the virus. About half (52%) of the subjects expressed significant concern about an increased risk of virulence and mortality due to the new variant. Vaccination was considered ineffective by most of the participants (70%).

Conclusions

Addressing worries about vaccine would be an important step to accept it among Tunisian elderly. Adequate information strategy is essential to change attitudes during the pandemic.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare professionals: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Vouros M. , Koutoukoglou P. , Jelastopulu E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic was immediately realized to pose a considerable threat both to the physical, and the mental health of people. For healthcare professionals, it marks frantic work rhythms, anxiety for their patients and exposure to an invisible enemy. Those who hold administrative positions are called upon to make unprecedented decisions, facing a high degree of uncertainty. Hence, hospital staff is expected to experience severe psychological distress.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the psychological distress and possible associations with demographic characteristics, professional duties, hierarchy and predisposing factors to severe COVID-19 disease.

Methods

Online questionnaires were distributed to all employees of two hospitals in Thessaloniki, Greece, from March until May 2021. The questionnaires comprised two sections, one concerning the aforementioned purported risk factors, and another involving three psychometric scales, i.e. Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, Coronavirus Reassurance-Seeking Behaviors Scale and Obsession with COVID-19 Scale.

Results

The psychological pressure experienced by healthcare professionals was low, compared to the literature. A history of COVID-19 disease, existence of predisposing factors to severe COVID-19 illness and frequent contact with infected patients were shown to significantly increase the likelihood of psychological distress. Furthermore, an age of 30-34 years, a higher level of education, existence of infected family members and non-vaccination were identified as possible risk factors.

Conclusions

Contrary to previous research results, our sample did not experience severe COVID-19-related psychological distress. Nevertheless, emphasis should be placed on initiatives to support the mental health of this professional group, as many of them do struggle with psychological difficulties.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Emotional reactions and hardiness among Russian students during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rozhdestvenskiy V. , Ivanov D. , Aleksandrovich Y. , Gorkovaya I. , Titova V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic provoked emotional reactions in Russian student populations. Hardiness is seen as a personality predisposition that increases individuals’ resilience to stress.

Objectives

The study aimed to determine the severity of depression, anxiety, stress, and various components of hardiness in Russian students. In addition, the correlations between emotional reactions and hardiness components were also analysed.

Methods

Data collection was carried out between 29 May and 06 July 2020. A total of 129 medical and non-medical students participated in the study. The DASS-21 was used to measure depression, anxiety, and stress levels, while the Personal Views Survey-III examined hardiness. Both questionnaires were adapted for use in Russia.

Results

We found that medical students were less likely to be depressed than non-medical students (M = 4.03 and M = 6.01 respectively, p < 0.05). Medical students had higher levels of the component of hardiness such as commitment (M = 20.95 and M = 18.43 respectively, p < 0.05). In both groups, all hardiness components have negative relationships with depression, anxiety, and stress, but in the medical group control is associated only with depression (rx = -0.446, p < 0.01), whereas the other group also has associations with anxiety (rx = -0.356, p < 0.01) and stress (rx = -0.407, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Hardiness was negatively related to depression, anxiety, and stress in a pandemic setting. Medical students were more adaptable to the pandemic than non-medical students.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Impact of covid 19 outbreak on mental health of patients with cancer
Authors: Sbika W. , Belfekih H.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID19 outbreak was declared a public health emergency by The Word Health Organisation (WHO) on January 2020. By spring 2020, more than half of the world’s population had experienced a lockdown with strict pandemic prevention such as physical distancing measures. The COVID-19 pandemic have negatively affected many people’s mental health especially the ones who are at risk such as patients with cancer.

Objectives

This study aimed to screen mental health problems among patients with cancer during the fisrt wave of COVID 19.

Methods

To assess the impact of COVID-19 outbreak on mental health of patients with cancer, a Survey was conducted at the department of medical oncology in Nabeul (Tunisia) between March and May 2020. The patients were asked to answer a socio-demographic questionnaire. The COVID-19 infection-related mental Heath problems were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Medical conditions and clinical characteristics were extracted from patients healthcare records.

Results

The median age was 53 years (range, 34-70) with sex ratio 0.35. The majority of the patients had a social support (85%) and lived in urban areas (60%). Only 19 % of them had college degree. Almost quarter of patients had medical conditions. The most common cancer in our cohort was breast cancer (54%) followed by colorectal cancer (20%). Sixty four per cent of them were on adjuvant chemotherapy. Among the 80 person surveyed, 20% had depression and 39 % anxiety.

Conclusions

Further investigations are required to screen mental health status for all cancer patients in order to help them coping.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Tunisian mothers facing the covid-19 pandemic: what are the risks for their mental health?
Authors: Guermazi A. , Guermazi F. , Bouhamed M. , Ben Abdallah M. , Baati I. , Masmoudi J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Covid-19 pandemic put parents under great pressure, and the most vulnerable parents may have become too overwhelmed to find appropriate ways to be supportive caregivers and to address children’s fears and insecurities.

Objectives

Assess the level of parental stress experienced by mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic and compare it with that experienced by fathers.

Methods

This was a descriptive and comparative analytical study, shared on social networks during the period from 8 to 20 April 2021, targeting mothers of children aged 2 to 18 years. The mother answered the questionnaire for herself and her child. The level of stress experienced by the mother in the parent-child relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic was assessed by the brief version of the Parental Stress Index (PSI-SF).

Results

The total number of participants was 65 mothers. Parental stress level in mothers was high in 58.5%, the average PSI score was 94.25; the mean score of the parental distress subscale was 34.06; the mean score of the dysfunctional child-parent interaction subscale was 27.86; and the average score of the child difficulty subscale was 32.32. The mean scores of the parental distress subscale, the child difficulty subscale, as well as the mean PSI total score were significantly higher in mothers than in fathers, with p= 0.010; p= 0.022 and p=0.017 respectively.

Conclusions

Our results highlight a higher level of stress in mothers than in fathers. This can be explained the parental, marital and professional responsibilities imposed on women, underlining the urgent need to provide mothers with adequate support.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Validation of the Naimigen questionnaire among the healthy population of Russia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Koniukhovskaia J. , Pervichko E. , Mitina O. , Stepanova O. , Shishkova I. , Dorokhov E. , Petrenko V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The Naimigen questionnaire (Van Dixhoorn, Duivenvoordent, 1985) was developed in the 1980s to assess the severity of hyperventilation syndrome, which causes respiratory alkalosis and, as a result, polysystemic functional symptoms. Later, this questionnaire was recommended for use in the diagnosis of dysfunctional breathing. The COVID-19 pandemic provokes anxiety as a stressful event and objectifies the respiratory function, which becomes a favorable ground for the growth of the prevalence of dysfunctional breathing in society.

Objectives

To validate the Naimigen questionnaire in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic among the Russian-speaking population.

Methods

The author’s socio-demographic questionnaire and the Naimigen Questionnaire (NQ) were used (Van Dixhoorn, Duivenvoordent, 1985). The study was conducted online from April 27 to December 28, 2020. It was attended by 1,362 people from all regions of Russia, including 1,153 women and 209 men aged 15 to 88 years (38.3 ±11.4).

Results

The stable reliability of the Alpha-Kronbach coefficients (> 0.877) was revealed for all NQ points. To check the factor structure of the Naimigen questionnaire, we conducted an exploratory factor analysis using the direct Oblimin criterion, which, when explaining 57.3% of the total variance, allowed us to identify 4 factors: respiratory symptoms, paresthesia and gastrointestinal symptoms, tension, derealization.

Conclusions

Checking the reliability and factor structure of the Naimigen questionnaire allows us to reasonably use this questionnaire on a Russian-language sample in the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic. Disclosure: Research is supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.

Disclosure

Research is supported by the Russian Science Foundation, project No. 21-18-00624.
Paternal postpartum depression in an obsessive personality following the COVID-19 lockdown successfully treated with Vortioxetine
Authors: Orsolini L. , Pompili S. , Salvi V. , Volpe U.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

A growing amount of studies investigating the mental health impact of the current COVID-19 pandemic worldwide have been recently published, even though very few studies investigating the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak and lockdown on the mental health of fathers of newborns during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on paternal postpartum depression (PPD).

Objectives

A case report describing a 37-years-old man with an obsessive-compulsive personality who manifests the onset of a clinically relevant PPD following his wife’s delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of obsessive symptomatology.

Methods

At baseline and during a 12-months follow-up were administered the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19-S), Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) and Y-BOCS-II (Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale).

Results

Patient was successfully treated with vortioxetine up to 20 mg/die with a significant clinical remission of depressive and obsessive symptomatology at 6 months and a maintenance therapy with vortioxetine 10 mg daily.

Conclusions

PPD should be better investigated, particularly the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of fathers of newborns during the COVID-19-related situation.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Positive and negative affects in university students at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and a year after it was announced
Authors: Shaigerova L. , Almazova O. , Vakhantseva O. , Shilko R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The emotional state of university students is critical for their successful learning, efficient interacting with people around, and increasing the quality of life in general. The COVID-19 pandemic widely affected the mood and emotional state of student youth.

Objectives

The study focuses on tracing the dynamics of positive and negative affects among students in the first few weeks after the announcement of the COVID-19 pandemic and one year later.

Methods

Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS, Watson, Clark, Tellegen, 1988) was applied in the research. The study involved 210 university students aged 18 to 23. The study was conducted online shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in spring 2020 (N = 105) and a year later (winter-spring 2021) (N=105). Given that the sizes of subsamples are comparable ANOVA was used for the periods under consideration (Levene Statistic > 0.05).

Results

One-way analysis of variance ANOVA showed that evaluations of positive affect differ significantly (p <0.05) while estimations of negative affect do not differ (p> 0.05) during the periods of the COVID-19 pandemic (spring 2020 and winter-spring 2021 ). With Post Hoc Scheffe, it was also shown that the positive affect scores in spring 2020 were significantly higher than in winter-spring 2021 (p <0.05).

Conclusions

Thus, it has been shown that although the level of negative affect in students did not increase a year after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of positive emotions significantly decreased during this period. The reported study was funded by RFBR, project number 20-04-60174.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.