bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study for revision of Hwa-Byung Scale: The Delphi Method
Authors: Lee S. , Kim J. , Park S.-A. , Kwan Y. , Choi S.-W.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Hwa-Byung is a mental syndrome classified as a “cultural-related syndrome” which reflects the cultural characteristics of Korea in DSM-IV. Hwa-Byung is caused by anger, which is characterized by feelings of anger or resent about unreasonable social violence and trauma. Kwon et al (2008) had developed self-report measure to assess severity of Hwa-Byung but it has several limitations to use in current clinical settings. Therefore, we investigated opinions of experts who have professionality in giving treatment of Hwa-Byung patients in the clinical settings.

Objectives

The present study aimed to reach consent of oriental neuropsychiatrists’ opinions about the direction of revision of the Hwa-Byung scale.

Methods

The Delphi method is a survey method that induces people to freely present their opinions without face-to-face processes and reaches consent through continuous feedback of survey results while ensuring anonymity. The Consensus Panel consists of 16 experts who are Oriental neuropsychiatrists and have experience in diagnosing patients with Hwa-Byung. A total of four surveys were conducted as consensus was reached on the fourth round. Each questionnaire was distributed by mail to a panel of experts and was asked to submit a response after receiving the questionnaire.

Results

The results of the study are as follows. First, common factors for Hwa-Byung include anger, resent/blame, modify memory bias and attention bias for anger events. Second, characteristics of young Hwa-Byung patients include stress caused by social factors and excessive immersion in certain things such as drinking or smoking.

Conclusions

Therefore, when revising the Hwa-Byung scale, it would be necessary to include these factors.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The impact of social media on self-esteem
Authors: Chamsi F.Z. , Katir I. , Korchi A. , Belbachir S. , Ouanass A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The Social media have gained tremendous popularity over the past decade, these sites have occupied a major part of people’s lives, especially young people. Many teenagers use tik tok, instagram, snapchat and facebook, to build relationships, connect with the world, share and acquire knowledge and information, and build their personalities, their effects are not limited. to that, comparisons made using social networking sites have led people to have a drop in self-esteem, with all the complications that can cause (anxiety disorders, depression and the anxiety disorder , etc.)

Objectives

Assessment of the impact of social media on the self-image, of young subjects in the Moroccan context

Methods

Cross-sectional study with a descriptive and analytical aim, using a questionnaire and a satisfaction scale to assess the impact of social media on the self-image of young subjects in the Moroccan context. bibliographic research to objectify several studies on this subject

Results

our results are close to the results of the literature. Sample of 200 young peoples was selected based on the confidence level of 80%. In order to test the hypothesis each respondent was given a questionnaire which tested their selfesteem and enquired the amount of time they spent on Facebook, instagram, tik tok, snapchat.

Conclusions

social networks are a way to communicate information, ideas of ways of life. this communication includes harmful effects on the social behavior of young people

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Cold water swimming as an add-on treatment for depression. A feasibility study
Authors: Hjorth P. , Løkke A. , Jørgensen N. , Jørgensen A. , Rasmussen M. , Sikjaer M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

In Denmark, about 14% of patients with depression develops treatment resistant depression (TRD) in the following year after the first hospital contact. Possible explanations for TRD include lack of adequate clinical effect of pharmacological treatment and reluctance to treatment due to unacceptable side effects. Cold water swimming (CWS), also known as winter swimming, describes swimming outdoors - mainly during the winter season in cold to ice-cold water on a regular basis. Many winter swimmers believe that exposure to cold water is beneficial for their health. However, evidence of health effects have been anecdotal or based on results from small sample-size studies. The availably studies report that winter swimming abolishes general tiredness, boosts self-esteem and improves mood and/or general well-being.

Objectives

To test if it is possible for patients with depression to participate in two weekly sessions of CWS and to measure the effects of CWS on general well-being and depression among the participating patients.

Methods

All psychiatric in- and outpatients from the department of psychiatry at Little Belt Hospital, Vejle with a diagnose of depression are eligible for inclusion. CWS-sessions will include a dip in an inlet - and if desired a short swim for a few minutes – depending on individual preferences. The CWS sessions will take place at the local inlet at a recreational area with sauna and changing facilities available.

Results

The study starts in October 2021 and we expect to have results by April 2022.

Conclusions

Conclusion: Awaiting.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
A Case Report of Anorexia Nervosa - the “perfect“ woman
Authors: Viseu M. , Oliveira A. , Barbosa Pinto M. , Sousa R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating behavior disorder characterized by intense fear of gaining weight or persistent behavior that interferes with weight gain, with caloric intake restriction and secondary loss of body weight. It can affect up to 4% of women during their lifetime and is responsible for one of the highest mortality rates from psychiatric disorders.

Objectives

Review of the literature and exposure of a case report of AN in a woman with high level of stress at work.

Methods

Case report and nonsystematic review using databases such as PubMed and UpToDate.

Results

Caucasian woman, 31-year-old, PhD in biology, who works in a multinational company. No personal or family history of psychiatric disorder. She was observed in the psychiatry emergency department, due to low weight, caloric restriction and intense physical exercise, maladaptive personality traits related to perfectionism and control were found. She began follow-up with a multidisciplinary team, but there was a need for hospitalization due to clinical deterioration with BMI of 11. After 6 months, she continued to follow up at the consultations and, despite refusing psychotropic drugs, she maintains psychotherapy and presents clinical improvement (BMI - 17).

Conclusions

Eating behavior disorders are chronic and difficult to treat diseases that are more frequent among people subject to high levels of stress. This case represents a restrictive AN in a woman with multiple risk factors: athlete, perfectionist, with stressful work and life events and restricted interpersonal and affective relationships.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Investigating the relationship between mental health, resilience and self-compassion among Greek unemployed people
Authors: Paralikas T. , Vagiatis K. , Gouva M. , Malliarou M. , Kotrotsiou S. , Theofanidis D. , Kotrotsiou E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Unemployment is considered to be one of the most stressful life events that a person may experience. There are a plethora of studies that highlighted the negative effects of unemployment on people’s overall mental health and well-being. Yet, psychological resilience and self-compassion contribute positively in coping with stressful situations and seem to be particularly supportive mechanisms when one is confronted with unemployment.

Objectives

This study intended to investigate the relationships between resilience, self-compassion and mental health in Greek unemployed people and the contribution of specific sociodemographic characteristics in this ‘equation’.

Methods

The study followed a survey design where a sample of 345 Greek unemployed participants completed an online questionnaire, examining the variables under study.

Results

According to the findings, people who reported being unemployed for more than six months showed decreased levels of mental health. Also, the unemployed with higher levels of resilience and self-compassion reported statistically significant higher levels of mental health and vice versa. Finally, self-compassion and psychological resilience were found to be statistically positive related to each other and are predictive factors of mental health with which they are statistically negative related.

Conclusions

The results of this study may contribute to the implementation of interventions aiming at improving mental health and the overall well-being of people affected by long-term unemployment.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Depression and quality of life in Tunisian institutionalized elderly subjects
Authors: Jabeur M. , Gassab L. , Hamdane F. , Amemou B. , Zaafrane F. , Gaha L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Depression in the elderly is common and closely interrelated with the deterioration of the quality of life, especially in the institutionalized elderly.

Objectives

In this work, we propose to determine the prevalence of depression in the elderly in institution, to assess their quality of life and to evaluate the correlations between depression and the quality of life.

Methods

Our study concerned 30 elderly subjects institutionalized at the retirement home(Sousse, Tunisia). Three validated Arabic version scales were used: The 30-item GDS (Geriatric Depression Scale), the MMSE (Mini Mental State Examination) and the SF36 (assessing the quality of life).

Results

The mean age of our population was 75±7.3 years, the sex ratio was 1.73. The prevalence of depression was 37%. The elderly had a cognitive impairment in 16.7%. The mean global SF36 score were 11.2, attesting an altered quality of life in all our subjects: the mental component (9.43) were more altered than the physical one (13.03). No correlation between depression and quality of life was found. Depression was significantly correlated with the presence of a medical history (p=0.05). Depression had a negative and statistically significant correlation with the physical score of SF36 (r=-0.41, p=0.02) and tended towards significance for the “general health” dimension of SF36 (r=-0.32, p=0.08).

Conclusions

Our study shows a high frequency of depression in the institutionalized elderly as well as a deterioration in their quality of life. Depression is strongly linked to deterioration in physical condition.Our results underline the influence of somatic diseases as a major risk factor for depression in the elderly.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Dynamics of Psychopathological Disorders and Changes in the Functional Activity of Neutrophils in Mercury Intoxication
Authors: Labunskiy D. , Podsevatkin V. , Kiryukhina S. , Kolmykova N.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The overall goal was to determine the degree of mental, neuromuscular and statodynamic functions disorders resulting from toxic effect of mercury and its compounds, to study relationship between the degree of loss of professional ability to work as a result of occupational disease with the presence of complications due to concomitant diseases.

Objectives

The relevance of studying the degree of violations of the main indicators of vital activity due to the toxic effect of mercury and its compounds is due to the persisting high level of loss of professional ability to work, and in some cases, and disability of this contingent. Analysis of indicators of primary and repeated disability due to occupational diseases showed that a sufficiently high number of persons recognized as disabledю

Methods

We studied the dynamics of psychopathological disorders: violation of the emotional sphere, thinking, perception, attention, volitional activity and cognitive functions. The functional and metabolic activity of segmented neutrophils in the peripheral blood of 42 patients, men and women aged 43 to 64 years, and 22 healthy donors were studied.

Results

Long-term exposure to chronic industrial mercury intoxication led to persistent disorders of mental functions, suppression of phagocytic activity of neutrophils up to 42.3+-4.7 per cent and inhibition of the reaction with nitro blue cytosol 4.2+-0.1 per cent..

Conclusions

The revealed violations of the emotional-volitional sphere and cognitive mental functions are possibly associated with the suppression of nonspecific cellular reactions of microphages. Violations of neuroimmune interactions in mercury intoxication require further study.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
A Phase 1, Dose-Ranging Study to Assess Safety and Psychoactive Effects of a Vaporized 5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine Formulation (GH001) in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Reckweg J. , Mason N. , Van Leeuwen C. , Tönnes S. , Terwey T. , Ramaekers J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

5-Methoxy-N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT)
is a tryptamine with ultra-rapid onset and short duration of psychedelic effects. Prospective studies for other tryptamines have suggested beneficial effects on mental health outcomes.

Objectives

In preparation for a study in patients with depression, the present study GH001-HV-101 aimed to assess the impact of four different dose levels of a novel vaporized 5-MeO-DMT formulation (GH001) administered via inhalation as single doses, and in an individualized dose escalation regimen on the safety, tolerability, and the dose-related psychoactive effects in healthy volunteers (n=22). Further, we aimed to assess the impact on cognitive functioning, mood, and well-being.

Methods

The psychedelic experience was assessed with a novel Peak Experience Scale (PES), the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ), the Ego Dissolution Inventory (EDI), the Challenging Experience Questionnaire (CEQ), and the 5-Dimensional Altered States of Consciousness Questionnaire (5D-ASC).

Results

5-MeO-DMT produced dose-related increments in the intensity of the psychedelic experience ratings on all questionnaires, except the CEQ. Prominent effects were observed following single doses of 6, 12, and 18 mg on PES and MEQ ratings, while maximal effects on PES, MEQ, EDI, and 5D-ASC ratings were observed following individualized dose escalation of 5-MeO-DMT. Measures of cognition, mood, and well-being were not affected. Vital signs at 1 and 3 h after administration were not affected and adverse events were generally mild and resolved spontaneously.

Conclusions

Individualized dose escalation of 5-MeO-DMT may be preferable over single dose administration for clinical applications that aim to enhance the short-term psychoactive effects to elicit a strong therapeutic response.

Disclosure

This study was funded by GH Research PLC, Dublin, Ireland.
Nitrous Oxide in Treatment Resistant Major Depression: Should We Laugh About It?
Authors: Leal B. , Vila-Chã D. , Garcia S. , Pinto I. , Mateiro R. , Avelino M. , Martins M. , Salgado J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Nitrous oxide (NO), also known as “laughing gas” is a colorless gas used as an anesthetic, a propellant in some foods, an engine performance enhancer and a recreational drug. When inhaled, it is known to provoke a rapid feeling of euphoria or excitement for a short period of time, dissociative phenomena and sometimes laughter. As its fellow anesthetic agent and NMDA-receptor antagonist, ketamine, NO is being studied for its possible therapeutic profile in treatment resistant major depression (TRMD).

Objectives

TRMD is a serious illness, that urges for effective alternative treatments. In that regard, we explored the recent studies conducted in these patients, using NO in different dosages when compared to placebo.

Methods

The authors revised the published literature about this topic, selecting relevant articles with the topic words: “Depression”, “Treatment Resistant Major Depression” and “Nitrous Oxide” in scientific data base.

Results

Since 2018, at least two randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that NO has considerable antidepressant effects in TRMD, when compared to placebo. Investigators noted that these positive effects where maintained at least for two weeks after a single 1-hour inhalation. In a more recent study, scientists compared different NO concentrations (25% vs. 50%) concluding that the 25% concentration had similar efficacy with a lower risk of adverse effects.

Conclusions

There appears to be encouraging results when treating patients with TRMD with NO in a 25% concentration. Nonetheless, there is need for further investigation, namely through studies that compare NO with other valid TRMD treatments and not only versus placebo.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Knowledge and attitudes toward repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a treatment for postpartum and peripartum depression
Authors: Al-Shamali H. , Zinchuk N. , Yan R. , Jackson M. , Morrissette M. , Greenshaw A. , Zhang Y.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Postpartum and peripartum depression are debilitating disorders that impact the mother and their ability to care for their children’s emotional, social, and physical needs. Current treatments include psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and electroconvulsive therapy. These treatments are moderately effective or come with side effects that can negatively impact mother and child. As a result, many mothers view some treatments as unacceptable while pregnant or breastfeeding. Over the last decade, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has shown promise as an effective and safe treatment option for postpartum and peripartum depression. However, little is known regarding people’s knowledge and attitudes towards this emerging technology, with no research assessing this in Canada.

Objectives

We aim to identify gaps in knowledge and to assess attitudes toward rTMS as a treatment for postpartum and peripartum depression in mental health professionals, patients, and the general public living in Canada.

Methods

A mixed methods study design will be employed. The qualitative portion will consist of individual semi-structured interviews. An inductive thematic analysis will be completed. The quantitative portion will consist of an anonymous, self-administered survey shared through REDCap. Focus groups with rTMS experts will be conducted to inform survey creation.

Results

No resulst at this time.

Conclusions

Understanding gaps in knowledge and attitudes toward rTMS is the first step toward ensuring that everyone is well informed and able to access safe and effective treatments. With limited treatment options available to a postpartum and/or peripartum depression patients being well informed on all treatments is crucial towards accessing treatments that best suit their needs.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Academic Mentoring for Psychiatric Trainees During the Pandemic
Authors: Rojnic Kuzman M.
Published: September 2022

In most academic settings, mentoring students is a part of the activities of the academic staff. Usually, associate professors, assistant professors and professors are required to mentor graduate and postgraduate students, and in some academic settings postgraduate students are required to mentor junior students. In psychiatric clinical settings, mentoring also extends to the supervision and evaluation of clinical work of postgraduate psychiatric trainees, usually for different parts of the psychiatric training. Depending on the local organisation of academic and clinical work, numbers of mentees per one mentor as well as description of activities may vary greatly across regions. Nevertheless, “mentoring” is not systematically taught and evaluated in the majority of systems but is infrequently self-taught. The situation of COVID-19 pandemic, especially in the first wave, has created a new situation which needed quick adaptations in many of the fields of the academic work, mentoring included. In this presentation, these new situations and lessons learnt will be presented and discussed from the point of the academic centre in Croatia.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Lennox-Gastaut and Schizophrenia: Comorbidity or complication?
Authors: Bencharfa Z. , Amara Y. , Tbatou L. , Belbachir S. , Ouanass A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) belongs to the group of severe childhood epileptic encephalopathies and represents 1 to 2% of all childhood epilepsies.It is characterized by the occurrence of generalized epileptic seizures, characterized by a particular pattern of the electroencephalogram; slowed mental development and personality disorders.

This syndrome appears between the ages of 2 and 7 years, and its management remains difficult, as it is generally refractory to conventional treatment.The long-term prognosis of this syndrome is poor, marked by the presence of periods of regression of cognitive functions, the appearance of frontal or even psychotic signs and extrapyramidal and cerebellar signs.

Objectives

We will try trow a clinical case, to discuss the evolution of Lennox Gastaut syndrome towards schizophrenia, which remains an infrequent complication, and to determine what would be the adequate management of these patients?

Methods

We report the case of a 16-year-old patient,followed for Lennox Gastaut syndrome since the age of 03, who presented to the psychiatric emergency room for psychomotor agitation, geophagia and altered general condition. The admission interview showed a patient with motor instability, disorganized speech, delusional persecution syndrome, auditory and intrapsychic hallucinations, suicidal ideations in the context of mental automatism, impaired judgment and insight, and insomnia.

The blood tests and the brain CT scan came back without any particularities.

Results

The patient was put on Risperidone, Valproate sodium, Lamotrigine and Clobazam, with good clinical evolution.

Conclusions

The cognitive consequences are catastrophic, 85 to 92% of the patients have a progressive cognitive deterioration, in spite of the reduction of the frequency of the seizures and the improvement of the paroxysmal EEG anomalies.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Multiple inpatient admissions for cannabis-induced psychotic disorder - sociodemographic, clinical and treatment evaluation
Authors: Machado A.S. , Elias De Sousa A. , Andrade F. , Vieira-Coelho M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Current evidence contradicts the idea that cannabis-induced psychotic disorder (CIPD) has an overall benign prognosis, with up to half of these patients being with a schizophrenia spectrum disorder later in life.

Objectives

To characterize sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and treatment plan of inpatients with multiple admissions for CIPD over a one-year period, compared to those with a single admission.

Methods

Retrospective observational study of inpatient episodes with CIPD between january 1st 2018 and september 30th 2021 in a tertiary psychiatric inpatient unit. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 27.0.

Results

Our sample included 80 inpatients, 15 (18.8%) with multiple admissions for CIPE within one year period and 65 (81.3%) with a single admission. The multiple admissions group had a median of 1 ±0,915 admissions within the same year. Being readmitted for CIPE was associated with outpatient compulsory treatment at discharge (OR 3,01 (95% CI 1,27-7,18, p=0,034). These patients had 3.14 higher odds of future admissions to psychiatry unit (CI 95% 1.70-5.78, p<0.001). We found no statistically significant differences regarding the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, daily vs. occasional use of cannabis in patients with multiple admissions for CIPE.

Conclusions

Patients with multiple admissions for CIPD tend to have more relapses and require assertive treatment measures. However, they did not differ regarding the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics studied from patients with single admissions. This suggests that additional assessment of these patients might be important to predict the course of the disease.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Attachment style, ways of coping with stress and life attitudes by MSM who are active chemsex users
Authors: Kaluzny P. , Kowalczyk R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The research was carried out in Poland between 7-19 March 2021 with the help of online questionnaire on a group of 183 male aged 18-20. The subjects were divided into two age groups: 18-29 and 30-40. The second division are chemsex and non chemsex users.

Objectives

Objective of this research was to test whether attachment styles, ways of coping with stress and feeling of sense of life influence the risk of overusing chemsex in MSM groups aged 18-29 and 30-40.

Methods

Online questionnaire composed of demographics and 3 psychological tests: Ways of Attachment Questionnaire (Polpa 2008) Ways of Coping Questionaire (polish adaptation by P. Szczepaniak, J. Strelau, K. Wrześniewski) Life Attitude Profile - Revised (polish adaptation by R. Klamut)

Results

Examinated chemsex users, based on life attitudes analysis, tend to lead a strongly oriented life, are convinced of having clear and well-defined goals. In terms of dealing with stress they are presenting focused-on-task style, they exhibit lowered levels of avoidant style than normally characteristic for addicts. The research did not reveal any connection between chemsex users and attachment styles.

Conclusions

The research did not allow to clearly point out any connections between risk factors and chemsex usage. During data analysis some weak links occurred, nevertheless too weak to state any risk factors. As results of carried out research it was possible to determine some models, which marked some specific values, obtained on given scales, and following connections between heightening and lowering chance of chemsex usage.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
A Case Report of Kratom-Induced Psychiatric Decompensation
Authors: Garrels E. , Gill G. , Mitra S. , Korenis P.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is an herb found in South East Asia belonging to the Rubiacea family, the active constituents being Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Sold as a dietary supplement in the form of a leaf, tablet, and powder, it has been gaining popularity as a natural supplement to alleviate pain, anxiety, depression, and manage opioid withdrawal symptoms. Our case report centers around a patient encountered with high-dose Kratom use who presented to our Psychiatric ER with psychosis.

Objectives

The objectives of this case report are to raise awareness regarding the use of a newly popular substance easily available over-the-counter and the potential impacts it has on mental health.

Methods

PubMed was searched for the criteria Kratom AND Intellectual Disability, with a secodary search for Kratom AND Psychosis.

Results

A 29-year-old male with a past psychiatric history of Schizoaffective Disorder, Borderline Intellectual Functioning, Polysubstance Use, ADHD, and six prior suicide attempts was brought to the Psychiatric ED by ambulance activated by his mother for severe psychiatric decompensation following ingestion of 270 pills of Kratom over the course of three days.

Conclusions

This case report further increases awareness of the dangers of Kratom use as well as brings to light the psychoactive properties of Kratom. This case report exposes areas where research can further expand understanding regarding the impacts Kratom can have on psychiatric populations.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) among psychiatric emergency patients at the emergency unit of a university hospital in Belgium (UZ Leuven) . A longitudinal approach with data from 2003-2015
Authors: Van Eldere L. , Claes S. , Voorspoels W. , Yurdadon C. , Sabbe M. , Bruffaerts R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) are a serious public health problem. Suicide prevention programs have been established over the years but many people who are suicidal do not seek treatment, and when they do they will end up in low-threshold sectors such as the Emergency Department in general hospitals. Previous studies about STB are mostly narrative, rather than a date-driven approach and limited in sample size.

Objectives

The main goal of this study is to describe the prevalence and evolution of STB (ideation, plan or attempt) of the psychiatric patient referred to the Emergency Department of the University Hospital Gasthuisberg (Leuven, Belgium) over a 12 year period.

Methods

During a 12 year period (2003-2015), all patients with a psychiatric referral to the Psychiatric Emergency Room (PER) of the University Hospital Gasthuisberg (Leuven, Belgium) were included (N˜25.000). We use descriptive statistics to summarize the data set, focusing on STB in terms of raw numbers, symptoms at referral, mental disorders and demographic characteristics.

Results

Around 1/9 patients presents with suicide attempt; another 1/5 with suicidal thoughts. STB accounts for 35% of psychiatric primary complaints at the PER. Women were more likely to present with STB. The proportion of STB referrals remains stable over the years.

Conclusions

Despite several reforms in mental health care, the PER remains a major entry point into mental healthcare for large proportions of STB patients.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Suicide behaviour and Problematic Internet Use
Authors: Ortuño-Sierra J. , Lucas Molina B. , Gutiérrez A. , Aritio Solana R. , Pérez-Albéniz A. , Fonseca Pedrero E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The use of internet among children and adolescent has risen in the last decade. In addition, suicide is the second cause of death among adolescents. Previous research have indicated the relation between Problematic Internet Use (PIU) and different mental health problems. Nonetheless there is a lack of studies analyzing the relation between suicide behaviour and PIU

Objectives

The main objective of the present work was to analyze the relation between Problematic Internet Use and suicide behaviour and depression in adolescents

Methods

A total of 1036 adolescents (450 males) were randomly selected. Mean age was 15,21 (SD = 1,23). The Adolescent Behavioural Suicide Scale SENTIA, The Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale Short Form (RADS-SF), and The Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS) were used. A Manova was performed with two groups (risk and non-risk to PIU) as independent variables and suicide and depression scores as dependent variables

Results

The results revealed a statiscally signifficant association between PIU and both depression and suicide behaviour (λ = 0.245, F(2,81,000) = 15.549, P ≤ 0.001, η² = 0.116). In particular, adolescents at a higher risk for PIU obtained higher scores on suicide behaviours and depression.

Conclusions

Results found in the present study reveal that adolescents have moderate prevalence rates for PIU. Also adolescents at risk for PIU with a total of more than 3 hour sof internet use everyday were at a higher risk for suicide. Prevention strategies should be devote to intervene in internet use as it maybe a variable affecting suicide behaviour.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Boredom, loneliness and modern type depression in a cohort of Italian university students
Authors: Orsolini L. , Bellagamba S. , Longo G. , Tempia Valenta S. , Salvi V. , Volpe U.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

COVID-19-related physical isolation, fear and anxiety determined de novo mental illnesses, by potentially facilitating the emergence of Hikikomori traits (i.e., a severe social withdrawal condition).

Objectives

The present study aims at screening a cohort of university students for the Hikikomori traits and assessing a set of psychopathological determinants associated with Hikikomori, particularly boredom and loneliness dimensions.

Methods

A cross-sectional web-based survey was carried out by administering Hikikomori Questionnaire (HQ-11), Italian Loneliness Scale (ILS), Multidimensional State Boredom Scale (MSBS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20).

Results

1,148 respondents (767 women and 374 men, mean age: 23.2±SD=2.8 years old) were recruited. 70.7% declared to have experienced psychological distress. HQ-11 average total score was 18.4±SD=7.5 with statistically significant higher values in the males (p=0.017) and amongst students studying Informatics, Mathematics/Physics/Chemistry, Science of Communication and Engineering. The HQ-11 positively correlated with ILS (r=0.609), MSBS (r=0.415), TAS-20 (r=0.482) and DASS-21 (r=0.434).

Conclusions

This study represents the first screening of the Hikikomori phenomenon in Italian university students. Hikikomori traits appear to be particularly represented in the Italian youth population and should be carefully investigated in future studies.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Tattooing and piercing are associated with symptoms of ADHD: A cross-sectional study of non-clinical adults
Authors: Glans M. , Bejerot S. , Dossou Nilsson J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Previous studies suggest that individuals with tattoos and piercings exhibit higher impulsive personality traits compared to peers without body modifications. No studies on body modifications and core-symptoms of ADHD are available.

Objectives

This study aimed to compare self-reported ADHD symptoms between non-clinical adults with and without body modifications.

Methods

A non-clinical adult Swedish population (n=815) completed the Adult ADHD self-report scale (ASRS-v1.1) and answered questions concerning body modification. ADHD diagnosis served as exclusion criterion. Three grouping variables were analysed separately; tattoo status, piercing status and a combination of having both tattoo and piercing. Linear regression compared mean ASRS total- and subscale scores between individuals with and without body modification according to each grouping variable, while adjusting for candidate covariates age and sex.

Results

The prevalence of each body modification variable was; 30% for tattoo, 18% for piercing other than earlobe and 12% for combination of tattoo and piercing. Any combination of body modification was associated with significantly higher ASRS total- and subscale scores compared to no body modification. The most pronounced differences between groups were for the combination of tattoo and piercing, and on the hyperactivity/impulsivity (HI) subscale; revealing adjusted mean differences of 4.3 points (range 0-72) on the ASRS-total score (p <0.001) and 2.6 points (range 0-36) on the ASRS HI subscale (p <0.001).

Conclusions

Body modification was associated with more pronounced ADHD core symptoms amongst non-clinical adults. Although statistically significant, the clinical significance is uncertain. The prevalence rates of body modifications in our cohort indicate that they are becoming cultural normal.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Social support and prenatal mental health problems: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tilahune A. , Peng W. , Adams J. , Sibbritt D.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Pregnancy is a time of profound physical and emotional change as well as an increased risk of mental health problems. Providing social support is vital to reduce such risk.

Objectives

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at examining the relationship between social support and depression, anxiety and self-harm during pregnancy.

Methods

We searched observational studies from PubMed, Psych Info, MIDIRS, SCOPUS, and CINAHL databases. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale tool was used for quality appraisal. The Q and the I² statistics were used to evaluate heterogeneity. A random-effects model was used to pool estimates. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot and Egger’s regression test and adjusted using trim and Fill analysis. All the analysis was conducted using STATA.

Results

Sixty-seven studies with 64,449 pregnant women were part of the current review. Of the total 67 studies, 22 and 45 studies were included in the narrative analysis and meta-analysis, respectively. From the studies included in the narrative analysis, 20(91%) of them reported a significant association between social support and the risk of mental health problems (i.e. depression, anxiety, and self-harm). After adjusting for publication bias, the results of the random-effect model revealed low social support was significantly associated with antenatal depression (AOR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.41) and antenatal anxiety (AOR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.34, 2.92).

Conclusions

Low social support was significantly associated with depression, anxiety, and self-harm during pregnancy. Policy-makers and those working on maternity care should consider the development of targeted social support programs to help reduce mental health problems amongst pregnant women.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Higher levels of concern about dieting and moderate-intensity physical activity predict orthorexia nervosa among young adults
Authors: Pardini S. , Szubert J. , Novara C. , Brytek-Matera A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

In some individuals, interest in healthy attitudes and behaviours towards food may show obsessive signs. Preoccupation with ‘healthful’ eating may contribute to orthorexia nervosa (ON) – a strong preoccupation with “healthy eating” manifested by the avoidance of all foods considered by the individual to be “unhealthy”.

Objectives

The objective of the present study was to determine whether disordered eating behaviour, physical activity and self-esteem are predictors of ON in young adults.

Methods

Five hundred fifty-four Polish and Italian university students participated in the present study. Participants were asked to answer the Eating Habits Questionnaire, the Eating Attitudes Test, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale.

Results

Our findings found that higher levels of concern about dieting and moderate-intensity physical activity were related to ON. Particularly, higher levels of concern about dieting, bulimic behaviour and thoughts about food and moderate-intensity physical activity predicted problems associated with healthy eating. Higher levels of concern about dieting, self-esteem as well as self-control of eating and perceived pressure from others to gain weight were associated with knowledge of healthy eating. Whereas, higher levels of concern about dieting with country factor (Poland) predicted feeling positively about healthy eating.

Conclusions

In ON treatment, reduction in symptoms and concerns characteristic of eating disorders and adequate levels of physical activity should be taken into consideration.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Transdiagnostic Role of Glutamate and White Matter Damage in Neuropsychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Luttenbacher I. , Philips A. , Kazemi R. , Hadipour A. , Sanghvi I. , Martinez J. , Adamson M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Neuropsychiatric disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Bipolar Disorder (BD), and Schizophrenia (SZ) have been considered distinct categories of diseases despite their overlapping characteristics and symptomatology.

Objectives

We aimed to provide an in-depth review elucidating the role of glutamate/Glx and white matter (WM) abnormalities from a transdiagnostic perspective.

Methods

The PubMed online database was searched for studies published between 2010 and 2021. After careful screening, 399 studies were included.

Results

The findings point to decreased levels of glutamate in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in both SZ and BD, whereas Glx is elevated in the Hippocampus in SZ and MDD. With regard to WM abnormalities, the Corpus Callosum and superior Longitudinal Fascicle were the most consistently identified brain regions showing decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) across all the reviewed disorders, except GAD. Additionally, the Uncinate Fasciculus was found to be affected in all the reviewed disorders, except OCD. Decreased FA was also found in the inferior Longitudinal Fasciculus, inferior Fronto-Occipital Fasciculus, Thalamic Radiation, and Corona Radiata in SZ, BD, and MDD. Decreased FA in the Fornix and Corticospinal Tract were found in BD and SZ patients. The Cingulum and Anterior Limb of Internal Capsule exhibited decreased FA in MDD and SZ patients.

Conclusions

The results suggest a gradual increase in severity from GAD to SZ defined by the number of brain regions with WM abnormality which may be partially caused by abnormal glutamate levels. WM damage could thus be considered a potential marker of some of the main neuropsychiatric disorders.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychotherapists’ Acceptance of Telepsychotherapy: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Békés V. , Aafjes-Van Doorn K. , Zilcha-Mano S. , Prout T. , Hoffman L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Therapists’ forced transition to provide psychotherapy remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic offers a unique opportunity to examine therapists’ views and challenges with teletherapy.

Objectives

We aimed to develop predictive models of three aspects of psychotherapists’ acceptance of teletherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic; attitudes towards teletherapy, concerns about using teletherapy, and intention to use it in the future.

Methods

In an international survey, therapists (N = 795) completed a survey about their experiences during the pandemic, including quality of therapeutic relationship, professional self-doubt, vicarious trauma, and telepsychotherapy acceptance. Regression decision trees machine learning analyses were used to build prediction models for each aspects of telepsychotherapy acceptance.

Results

Attitudes toward telepsychotherapy were most positive for therapists who reported neutral or strong online working alliance, especially if they experienced little professional self-doubt and were younger than 40 years old. Therapists who were most concerned about telepsychotherapy, were those who reported higher levels of professional self-doubt, particularly if they also reported vicarious trauma experiences. Therapists who reported low working alliance were the least likely to use telepsychotherapy in the future.

Conclusions

Therapists’ professional self-doubt and the quality of their working alliance with their telepsychotherapy patients appear to be the most pertinent factors associated with therapists’ acceptance of telepsychotherapy during COVID-19, and should be addressed in future training and research.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
COVID 19 survivors : Feeling suicidal ?
Authors: Nourchene K. , Khelifa E. , Abassi B. , Maatouk O. , Bouguerra I. , Ben Aissa S. , Mnif L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with several psychiatric manifestations leaving undoubtedly psychological consequences. However by escaping death ,do COVID-19 survivors present a higher risk for suicide ?

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to explore suicidal risk among recovering COVID 19 patients .

Methods

Our literature review was based on the PubMed interface and adapted for 2 databases: Science Direct and Google Scholar using the following combination ( suicide [MeSH terms]) AND (COVID-19 survivors[MeSH terms]).

Results

Recovering COVID 19 patients are at risk for developping posttraumatic stress disorder , anxiety , depression and sleep abnormalities , especially in severe forms. Added to that ,cognitive impairment was largely described in COVID 19 causing judgment and reasoning decline. These manifestations would partially explain the suicidiality among survivors regardless to their medical hisotry. Nonetheless,many COVID-19 survivors experience persistent physical symptoms and psychiatric disorders leading to post-COVID syndrome which is associated with increased suicidal ideation and behavior In addition , social factors are considered as a suicide risk factor such as isolation ,loss of loved ones ,loss of job and economic instability .

Conclusions

Over the course of illness , COVID 19 survivors may suffer from psychiatric and medical conditions leading to serieous suicide risk. Therefore ,suicide prevention interventions and appropriate medical management need to be provided to keep survivors alive .

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Evaluation of the self-reported questionnaires used to assess mental health after the January 2015 terrorist attacks in the Paris Region: IMPACTS survey
Authors: Bertuzzi L. , Vuillermoz C. , El Aarbaoui T. , Héron M. , Aubert L. , Pirard P. , Vandentorren S. , Motreff Y.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Structured clinical interviews are the gold standard for assessing mental health. However limited resources may allow the use of only self-report questionnaires. In the context of emergency, such as terrorist attacks, the performance and thresholds of such tools still unclear.

Objectives

We investigated the performance of the Posttraumatic stress disorder CheckList Scale (PCL-S) and of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HADS), both compared to the MINI Interview, among civilians and first responders involved in terrorist attacks.

Methods

The data came from the IMPACTS survey which was conducted from 6-10 months among civilians (N=190) and first responders (N=232) after the January 2015 terrorist attacks in the Paris Region, France. Sensitivity and specificity of the PCL-S and HADS were estimated by the ROC curve, and the optimal threshold was defined using the Youden index.

Results

Regarding the PCL-S: for civilians and first responders respectively, the overall AUC was 0.947 and 0.899, and the optimal threshold were 38.5 and 39.5. Regarding the HADS-D: for civilians and first responders respectively, the overall AUC was 0.908 and 0.617 and the optimal thresholds were 7.5 and 1.5. For the HADS-A for civilians and first responders respectively, the overall AUC was 0.823 and 0.717, the optimal threshold were 9.5 and 6.5.

Conclusions

In the context of a terrorist attack, compared to the MINI, our study underlined satisfactory performance of the PCL-S and the HADS-D in screening for PTSD and depression respectively, while the screening of anxiety using the HADS-A was unsatisfactory.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.