bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life’ evaluation for individuals with enduring mental illness transitioning from institutional residential care to supported community living arrangements
Authors: Usman M. , Spelman L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

HSE ‘Vision for Change, 2006’ placed emphasis on person-centred, recovery-oriented, community-integrated treatment. The high support residential hostel in Tuam ‘Toghermore House’ is not integrated into the community and was scheduled to be closed as a residence in the last quarter of 2019. The individuals whom accessed support from Toghermore House were offered residential places in community settings in the urban area of Tuam with support plans according to individual assessed needs.

Objectives

To assess the quality of life of individuals accessing the Rehabilitation & Recovery Service and who are residing in supported and independent accommodation in Tuam.

Methods

Cross sectional study. Scales used were Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life Scale (MANSA) including both objective and subjective components and the INSPIRE scale which gathered information about the support and relationship each individual has with their assigned keyworker. SPSS 24 was used for data analysis.

Results

27/32 responses. Mean age: 52 years, males: 78% and schizophrenia: most common primary diagnosis (52%), mean duration of illness: 28 years 3 months. 74% of individuals were satisfied with their life, 78% with their health and 56% with mental health. Only three individuals were employed and were happy with work and finances. 81.5% service users reported to have a good quality of life but only 59% felt in control of their lives.

Conclusions

Majority of individuals reported having a good quality of life and being satisfied with their overall health and current living arrangements. Meaningful occupation and subjective supportive therapeutic relationships are predictors of enhanced quality of life.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Peer worker involvement in N. Macedonia: Reflections and lessons learned
Authors: Milutinović M. , Kalpak G. , Novotni L. , Bajraktarov S. , Novotni A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

For the first time in N. Macedonia we had the experience to include peer workers as an equal members in the newly formed community mental health teams. For the purpose of the RECOVER-e project we engaged 2 patients to be the new peer workers.

Objectives

To evaluate the initial period of peer worker involvement in the community mental health teams and to identify the next steps for them.

Methods

Conducting interviews with the peer workers.

Results

One important aspect that is worth mentioning is their motivation to continue their work in the community mental health teams and continue to improve. Another finding is their will to establish a user led organisation. A user led organisation in the field of mental health in our country is rare to be find, with only a couple of them functioning in N. Macedonia. So if our peer workers can make it, it would be a great step in the right direction.

Conclusions

Overall, taking into consideration all that the peer workers have achieved in the last period, including the ups and downs of being the first official peer workers in N. Macedonia, they are looking forward to improve their knowledge and continue building their practical experience. A great plus of it all is that they have a financial stability for this troubled pandemic period.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Systematic review of racial and ethnic disparities pertaining treatment in mental healthcare amongst incarcerated patients
Authors: Quintão A. , Urzal M.D. , Donas-Boto I. , Lemos M.M. , Coelho F. , Simião H. , Moura N. , Vian J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Research has shown that ethnic/racial minorities have a higher risk of homelessness, involvement with the criminal system, psychiatric misdiagnosis, treatment delay, and being prescribed first (versus second) generation antipsychotics.

Objectives

To investigate if the disparities found in the community are replicated in incarcerated patients.

Methods

Systematic review on PubMed for articles that fulfilled criteria for 4 domains: prison, psychosis, race/ethnic, and treatment.

Results

Forty-one articles matched the search criteria. Of those, 24 were irrelevant; 2 were inaccessible. Fifteen articles were considered; most highlighted the interplay between the criminal system, homelessness, mental disorders, and ethnic/racial minorities. Five articles highlighted differences in treatment. One stated that African-Americans and Asians were less likely than Whites to have access to mental health services. Concerning treatment for substance use disorders, one study found Hispanic inmates were more often engaged in treatment, followed by Caucasians and lastly, African-Americans; a different study reported the percentage of Whites and Blacks receiving treatment was similar, while Latinos were under-represented. Whites were most likely to have mental health counseling/substance use treatment as part of their sentence. A study from New-Zealand stated that treatment for mental disorders was less common for Maoris, in whom suicidal thoughts were often unrecognized. The last study reported a higher risk of self-harm for foreign patients, coupled with non-recognition/misinterpretation of symptoms.

Conclusions

Racial/ethnic inequalities show that disparities in healthcare are pervasive in all settings. More studies are needed to better understand the complex nature of this problem.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Self reported experience of physical abuse in schools in Nigeria
Authors: Oladosu A. , Abiodun O. , Tunde-Ayinmode M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Physical abuse of children in schools is common in Nigeria, but its prevalence and forms are yet to be clearly studied.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and pattern of physical abuse of children in Secondary Schools in Ilorin Nigeria

Methods

Cross sectional survey of secondary school students aged 11-18 years in Ilorin Nigeria using multistage random sampling technique with proportional allocation was done. Respondents completed the ICAST-CI questionnaire which covers child abuse in educational institutions. Prevalence and pattern of child abuse was computed.

Results

Table 1: Pattern of physical abuse in School in the last 12 monthsForm of abuseFrequencyPercentagePhysical Abuse* (n=1,554)Caused you pain151497.4Stay in cold/heat128582.7Hit you with fist71646.1Kneel in a way that hurts68644.1Slap on head as punishment66342.7Twist ear as punishment63540.9Kicked you47630.6Slap on your arm44828.8Throws object at you34722.3Crushed your finger as punishment23114.9Choked you22414.4Pulled your hair as punishment1167.5Starvation as punishment674.3Forced to do dangerous acts644.1Soap or pepper in mouth483.1Cut you with sharp object101.0Burnt as punishment--Put into hot or cold water--Tied with rope or belt--

Conclusions

Physical abuse of children is extremly commonplace in public secondary schools in Nigeria. it is neccessary to explore other ways of dealing with children in educational institutions.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Violence exposure among children in Nigeria
Authors: Oladosu A. , Abiodun O. , Tunde-Ayinmode M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

There is a paucity of information on the exposure of children to violence in Nigeria. The current study aims, as part of a larger study, to explore the experiece of children to violence in their homes in Nigeria.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and pattern of violence exposure of children in Ilorin Nigeria.

Methods

Cross sectional survey of 1,554 secondary school students aged 11-18 years in Ilorin Nigeria using multistage random sampling technique with proportional allocation was done. Respondents completed the ICAST-CH questionnaire which covers childrens’ exposue to violence. Prevalence of violence exposure was computed.

Results

63.4% (994/1554) of respondesnts had witnessed violence at home. Table 1: Pattern of violence exposure at home in the last 12 months Form Frequency Percentage*Violence Exposure* (n=994)Something stolen from home53253.5Adults shouted in a frightening way39239.4Witnessed adults in home hit, kick, slap37838.0Seen people being shot, bombs, rioting21021.1Adults used alcohol then frightened828.2Someone close got killed near home565.6Witnessed adults in home use weapons101.0

Conclusions

A good number of children in Nigeria might be exposed to violence. There is thus a need for initiative to strengthen family life and control the exposure of children to violence given its potential to cause long standing mental health problems in victims.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes; self reported experience of children in Ilorin Nigeria
Authors: Oladosu A. , Abiodun O. , Tunde-Ayinmode M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in Nigeria is poorly understood. Data from other parts of the world indicate it is commoplace and has enduring negative mental health impact. The current study aims to understand the phenomenon the more.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and pattern of emotional abuse of children in their homes in Nigeria

Methods

Cross sectional survey of 1, 5444 secondary school students aged 11-18 years in Ilorin Nigeria using multistage random sampling technique with proportional allocation was done. Respondents completed the ICAST-CH questionnaire which covers child abuse in its several forms including emotional abuse. Prevalence of emotional abuse was computed.

Results

All respondents (100%) had experienced emotional abuse at home in the last one year Table 1: Prevalnce annd pattern of emotional abuse at home among children in Ilorin NigeriaEmotional Abuse* (n=1554)FrequencyPercentageThreatened to hurt or kill you or threatened with evil spirits1554100Screamed at152898.3Bullied by another child at home121878.4Insulted112272.2Made you feel embarrassed57436.9Wished you were dead22414.4Locked out of home19612.6Threatened to abandon you956.1

Conclusions

Emotional abuse of children at home is common place in Ilorin Nigeria. It would seem important to educate parents on what emotional abuse is and its potential impact in children.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Not guilty by reason of insanity and dangerousness: A demographic, clinical and forensics description of the patients in the forensic inpatinent service of Coimbra
Authors: Coroa M. , Pereira D. , Santos V. , Macedo A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Despite being essential for the service quality improvement, empirical research on the characteristics of people hospitalized in forensic psychiatry units and the psychopharmacological treatment instituted in this care context is scarce in Portugal.

Objectives

To describe the sociodemographic, clinical and criminological characteristics of the patients admitted to a forensic psychiatric unit in Portugal, as well as, the psychiatric drugs prescription pattern in this care context.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was carried out, through the data analysis of patients admitted to the Sobral Cid Forensic Psychiatry unit of the Coimbra Hospital and University over the past 12 years.

Results

The sample had 194 inpatients, 153(78.9%) male and 41(21.1%) females. The mean age was 43.3 years and 74.7% had no professional, school or occupational activity. The most frequent psychiatric diagnoses were psychotic disorders (56.7%) and neurodevelopmental disorders(33.5%). 24.2% had at least two psychiatric diagnoses and 38.7% had concomitant medical conditions. 77.8% had history of psychiatric hospitalizations and 21.6% had history of self-injurious behaviors. 37.1% of the sample had a criminal record. Crimes against people were the most frequent. The use of injectable antipsychotic formulations was frequent and 18.6% of the patients were medicated with Clozapine. The prescribed daily doses were above the defined daily dose. Psychotic disorders and addictive disorders were less frequent in women. Statistically significant differences were found in the frequency of homicide between females(41.5%) and males(22.2%).

Conclusions

Tailored solutions are crucial to accomplish the purpose of security measures, mostly by addressing the identified needs and rethinking the approach on this specific context.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

Keyword

Forensic Psychiatry Units
Traumatic brain injury in forensic psychiatry
Authors: Regala J. , Ferreira P. , Vieira F.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Assessment of neuropsychiatric sequelae of traumatic brain injury (TBI) brings about challenges in the forensic setting, comprising analysis of neurobiological variables, preinjury variables (personality/psychiatric disturbances), postinjury psychosocial, allowing the expert witness to provide clear and appropriate explanations, so the court can decide with justice, particularly in civil law cases.

Objectives

Discuss the main clinical and neuroimagiologic aspects to consider in civil litigation of TBI cases.

Methods

Comprehensive literature review.

Results

Although accurate predictions are difficult, some generalizations can be made. Recovery from hypoxic and diffuse axonal injury (DAI) takes longer and is less complete than focal contusions. Posttraumatic amnesia is the main predictor of long-term cognitive outcome. In moderate/severe TBI (m/sTBI) occurs chronic lesion expansion (axonal degeneration) and brain atrophy. DAI topography determinates the cognitive disfunction pattern yet underestimated in conventional neuroimaging. Diffusion-Tension-Imaging (DTI) may be valuable to outcome predictions in m/sTBI: structural disconnection within the Default Mode and the Salience Networks are linked to attention and executive impairments; hippocampus and fornix damage correlates with memory/learning impairments. Conversely, DTI findings can be misleading in mild TBI (mTBI), and case-by-case analysis seldomly prove its scientific validity.

Conclusions

To elaborate formulations within reasonable medical certainty, outcome predictions should not be made until at least six months following the TBI, considering that most mTBI symptoms resolve in few months, and up to 1-½ years, when m/sTBI neuropathologic changes stabilize. The neurobiological underpinnings are fundamental for causality formulations, however atypical outcomes in mTBI are frequently predicated upon non–brain-injury psychiatric conditions and psychosocial factors.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Simulation of huntington’s disease in forensic psychiatry: Case report
Authors: Leite R. Almeida , Costa A. , Santos T. , Colón M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Huntington Disease (HD) is an autosomal-dominant, neurodegenerative disorder, with a progressive course, that typically involves a triad of cognitive, motor and psychiatric disorders. Its pathogenic mechanisms are not fully understood, although a faultily encoded version of the protein huntingtin—resulting from a cytosine-adenine-guanine (CAG) trinucleotide expansion in the HTT gene—has been shown to cause intracellular toxicity in neural tissue. Patients usually presents with prodromic psychiatric perturbances, such as depression, delusions or personality changes. Occasionally HD gives rise to criminal behavior.

Objectives

To understand HD clinical presentation and underlines the differencial diagnosis. We present a case of a 31-year-old male offender, whose mother was diagnosed with HD, and during his forensic-psychiatric evaluation, HD was considered, but not confirmed.

Methods

Case report.

Results

A 31-year-old male offender was under a forensic-psychiatric evaluation due to a crime of domestic violence, after he discovers that his wife had an affair. He reports previous personality changes and depression, and compares himself with his mother, stating she was diagnosed with HD due to psychiatric prodromic disturbances. He shows concern about having a disease, and was waiting for genetic test result. After a clinical evaluation, and despite a family history of HD and genetic suspicion, it was important to consider differential diagnosis. The case refers to a passionate crime, which attempted to simulate a HD, considering his genetic background.

Conclusions

Psychometrically identifiable features in HD appear to be important in the context of analyzing circumstances occasioning criminal acts, but the medical history is the most important part of the examination.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Toxic accumulation of copper and neuropsychiatric symptoms due to a familial tunisian compound heterozygous ATP7B missense mutation
Authors: Abdelmoula N.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Wilson disease (WD) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the P-type copper ATPase, ATP7B (ATPase copper-transporting beta), which transports copper out of cells. It is characterized by toxic accumulation of copper primarily in the liver and brain, leading to liver disorders and/or neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Objectives

Here, we report a Tunisian pedigree associated to familial ATP7B gene mutation.

Methods

Medical genetic investigations, and molecular screening of ATP7B gene mutations were performed to a Tunisian three-generation pedigree with eight members having neuropsychiatric symptoms. Molecular genetic testing of the ATP7B 21 exons was carried out by direct sequencing.

Results

A compound heterozygote mutational status of ATP7B with 2 substitutions: p.H1069Q and p.D642H was found. The family originated from the city of Sfax (Tunisia) showed a pronounced amount of consanguinity and eight members affected by WD. All cases derived from consanguineous couples and harbored psychiatric disorders associated or not to neurologic symptoms. Diagnosis of WD was piloted first through the cases harbouring intention tremor in the upper limbs and ataxia associated with psychiatric symptoms.

Conclusions

The first missense mutation p.H1069Q - c.3207C>A (CAC-CAA) (exon 14) is the most commonest mutation in WD associated with late onset neurological conditions in Europe (Natural variantiVAR_000758 dbSNP:rs76151636). The second missense mutation in exon 6 : p.D642H - c.1924G>C (GAC-CAC) (Natural variantiVAR_000713 dbSNP:rs72552285) affects the domain affinity to copper or the folding structure in the cytoplasmic region and decreases the stability, leading to abnormal localization of the protein within cytoplasm and an impairment of protein function.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The impact of the environment and parental education on the emotional state of adolescents
Authors: Kamberi B.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Its basic object of study is the understanding of the individual and the group, Scientific direction in the study of behavior is an important feature of psychiatry.

Objectives

Adolescence is a stage of physical and mental development of human, usually listed between the stage of childhood and legal maturity. in the middle aged 13 and 18 years the sexual way begins.

Methods

Education is the primary category of pedagogical theory, which includes the concepts of education and teaching. Physical education is a subject taught in school to train students physically, to enable them to work and to defend themselves. The totality of spiritual, mental and physical qualities or qualities of family and society and learning and working.

Results

By taking preventive measures to close educational institutions against the spread of the covid virus 19, it has affected the education system of students, teachers and parents because it has been physically disconnected from learning and has gone virtually ONLINE, where it has been a form of home isolation.

Conclusions

Parenting is a constant concern for our entire society today, for child and adolescent psychiatry specialists and education experts, especially for all young parents.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Glutathione as a powerful antioxidant in oxidative stress in the brain tissue of rats caused by the pathophysiological action of copper
Authors: Mirkovic J. Jovanovic , Jurinjak Z. , Kocic G. , Medojevic N. , Alexopoulos C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Due to increased human activity, the amount of copper in air, soil and water has increased. Copper, at minimum concentrations, is essential for the normal functioning of the organism (cellular respiration, hemoglobin formation, growth and reproduction). At higher concentrations, copper is deposited in the liver, brain tissue, and bone marrow.

Objectives

To investigate the protective role of the supplement, glutathione (GSH), the S-donor ligand, in conditions of chronic copper intoxication via the parameters of oxidative stress, ie. Alkaline and acidic DNase values in brain tissue in albino rats of Wistar strain.

Methods

The model system for testing the effects of copper exposure and the protective effect of GSH was a study on female albino rats of Wistar strain, stored in the vivarium of the Scientific Research Center for Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Niš, Serbia. Endonucleases, alkaline and acidic DNase activities were determined spectrophotometrically from homogenates of brain tissue.

Results

Copper is believed to be a likely cause of oxidative damage to the DNA molecule, as manifested by increased alkaline and acidic DNase activity. The results of this study show that GSH is a potent chelator that binds copper and enables its elimination from the body.

Conclusions

In this experiment, the beneficial role of GSH supplements, which has an antioxidant character, in the prevention and reduction of the adverse effects of chronic copper intoxication was demonstrated. In this way, GSH acts as a powerful protector and antioxidant.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Investigation of the glucocorticoid receptor co-chaperone FKBP5 in individuals with first-episode psychosis
Authors: Theodoridou D. , Vlaikou A. M. , Karampas A. , Georgiou G. , Filiou M.D. , Syrrou M. , Petrikis P.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Stress has been associated with the onset and progression of neuropsychiatric conditions. The neuroendocrine response to psychosocial stressors is mediated via the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, resulting in systemic glucocorticoid secretion. FKBP5 is a co-chaperone of the cortisol-bound glucocorticoid receptor. FKBP5 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) may indicate stress-response alterations, thus affecting vulnerability or resilience to neuropsychiatric phenotypes.

Objectives

To investigate the FKBP5 polymorphism rs1360780 and FKBP5 mRNA levels in a well-characterized, drug-naïve sample of First-Episode Psychosis (FEP) individuals and matched controls.

Methods

For genotyping rs1360780, whole blood DNA was extracted from FEP individuals and matched controls. The presence of the C (protective)→T (risk) alleles was assessed using TaqMan SNP genotyping assay. Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) were isolated and whole RNA was extracted. FKBP5 mRNA levels were detected with RT-qPCR, using SYBRgreen. Results were normalized against the 18s rRNA reference gene. Statistical analysis was performed in GraphPad Prism 8.

Results

The distribution of C→T alleles of rs1360780 genotyped in FEP (N=44) and controls (N=39) indicate a statistically significant prevalence of the C/C alleles in FEP individuals (*p=0.0432). mRNA FKBP5 data revealed increased levels of FKBP5 in FEP individuals (N=25) compared to controls (N=18), (***p=0.0007).

Conclusions

Our data show increased FKBP5 mRNA levels in FEP individuals compared to matched controls, as well as the presence of the rs1360780 protective (C) allele. Follow up studies include investigation of the translational profile of stress-mediators, in order to pave an individualized approach towards deciphering psychosis onset pathobiology.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychotropic medication for challenging behavior in people with learning disabilities in Qatar
Authors: Eltorki Y. , Tahir M. El , Husein B. El , Abdallah O.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Challenging behavior is a common reason for referral to psychiatric service. Psychotropic medications widely used to modify behaviors, even when no evidence of diagnosable mental illness. However, literature show little evidence that benefits outweigh the risks in their prescription. Monitoring using International guidelines may help improving the outcomes. We audit current practice against known standards.

Objectives

- To assess adherence within the Qatar Mental Health Services to National guidelines on using medication to manage behavior problems in adults with a learning disability. - To identify strengths and weaknesses in current practice. - To Make recommendations to improve LD patient care

Methods

Patients with LD attending psychiatric clinic screened using selection and exclusion criteria and data collected and analyzed using format from the International standards.

Results

102 patients screened, 85 selected and 17 cases excluded Age range 18 to 50 years. 27% mild, 29% moderate and 44% severe LD, Autism 40% Psychiatric Diagnosis 55% Challenging behavior 45% Antipsychotic prescribing: 79% Rationale documented in 74%, Capacity assessment in 81%, Review of side effects in 53% Safety of medication in 61%, Medication discontinuation in 66%, Reasons for discontinuation in 36%

Conclusions

Antipsychotics use (79%) is high with several combinations of IM and oral or more than 2 drugs. There is need for improvement across all standards. Rationalising the prescribing for LD patients to improve the outcomes for the safety of these patients. The audit indicate need for specialist service to monitor prescribing and apply standards of care in clinical service.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Study of changes in neuropsychological indicators in adults
Authors: Sidenkova A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Currently, the number of cases of pathological aging of the CNS, represented by a violation of cognitive functions, is increasing. But there is a social request to prolong the physical and mental activity of older people

Objectives

The study of the dynamics of cognitive aging is timely and relevant. The article contains a report on a cohore non-repeating study of higher brain functions at various age periods

Methods

The average age was 45.1 + 5.7 years. Inclusion criteria: 1. Dextral. Non-inclusion criteria: 1. Clinically significant somatic diseases in their medical history. 2. Mental disorders in their medical history. •Applied neuropsychological, statistical research methods. The research tool was the neuropsychological rapid method including the subtests: •“Memorizing 9 words in three presentations (1st, 2nd, 3rd attempts)”, •“Sequential subtraction”, •“Test of Benton’s visual memory”, •“Solving an arithmetic problem”, •“Overlaid images”, •“Specified flow of associations in 1 minute”, • “Figure of 3 geometric figures”, • “Blind hours”, • “Graph-motor test”, “Delay word reproduction”

Results

The first cohort 27–40 years old. The second cohort 41–50 years old.Third cohort 51 years old and older. A significant difference in the performance of the graphomotor test between the subjects of the age subgroup of 27-40 years and the subgroup of 41-50 years was statistically confirmed. In older people revealed a much greater number of errors, interruptions of the test than the representatives of the more “young” subgroup

Conclusions

The deterioration in the performance of the graphomotor test was the most age-specific

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Prevalence of psychological disorders among caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities and motor disabilities in Shiraz
Authors: Bakhshisamarin F. , Mirzaei S. , Ansarizangakani F. , Mousavi L. , Sorifijini A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The prevalence of mental disorders plays an important role in identifying the state of mental health of the community and estimate the required facilities at any time.

Objectives

Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of psychological disorders in caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities and motor disabilities in Shiraz.

Methods

The research was descriptive and cross-sectional survey. The statistical population consisted of all mothers of children with disabilities who were admitted to welfare centers and clinics of Shiraz in 2019. Of these families, 35 mothers with children with intellectual disability and 35 mothers with children with motor disability were selected as the sample group. SCL-90-R (1976) was used to collect of data. For analyze the data, MANOVA test was used.

Results

The results of this study showed that the most common psychological disorders in caregivers of children with intellectual disability were aggression (hostility), hypersensitivity to interpersonal relationships, anxiety and depression, and in caregivers of children with motor disabilities were physical complaints, sensitivity to interpersonal relationships, paranoid thoughts and anxiety.

Conclusions

According to the findings of this research, it can be concluded that caregivers of children with special needs in terms of mental health are not in a favorable situation, which is due to the lack of proper adaptation with the disability of their child and the failure to meet their needs.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Occupational stress and mental suffering among emergency staff
Authors: Dhouib F. , Kotti N. , Masmoudi R. , Hrairi A. , Hammami K. Jmal , Masmoudi M. Larbi , Masmoudi J. , Hajjeji M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In emergency departments, workers regularly report unfavorable working conditions. It’s a stressful workplace with excessive workloads, high demands on patient care including exposure to violence, time pressures and overcrowding.

Objectives

-Identify the prevalence of violence, psychological distress and job stress in the emergency department. -Investigate risk factors of aggression among emergency department staff.

Methods

This study is a descriptive-cross sectional analysis study conducted on emergency department staff. Data were collected through a questionnaire including sociodemographic information, circumstances of the aggression, the Karasek questionnaire, and the GHQ-12 (General Health Questionnaire).

Results

Our study included 62 health workers. Half of the population were physicians. The prevalence of assault was estimated at 59.6%. Psychological distress was noted in 64.5% of cases. Occupational stress was estimated at 75.8%. The most common type of assault was verbal aggression (86.4%). The aggressor was most often an accompanying person. The occurrence of violence was not associated with the worker’s psychological distress or job stress. On the other hand, we noted an association between aggression and variable work schedule.

Conclusions

Violence against healthcare workers in the emergency department is an important phenomenon. Preventive actions should be taken to improve health professional wellbeing at work.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The impact of experiences of violence on the physical and mental health of a portuguese sample
Authors: Esgalhado G. , Ferreira L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Violent Experiences result in economic and social costs for society, impacting on emotions in families, on health (both physical and mental), and overall quality of life, causing potential damages. Thus, it becomes relevant to do research on this impact, aiming at raising awareness and promoting prevention.

Objectives

The purpose of the study is to estimate the impact of experiences of violence on both physical and mental health taking into account variables such as age, gender, and marital status.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study sampling 1407 Portuguese speaking adults, with an age average of 42 years old (DP=17.28). The measures used were: The SF-36 questionnaire to assess quality of life, physical and mental health, and the Experiences of Violence Questionnaire.

Results

The sample was divided into two groups (victims and non-victims). The group of participants that were not subjected to violence presents more positive results. In relation to the comparison between genders, it was verified that males present more positive results having into account all dimensions SF-36 when compared to women. Also, older participants (53 years old or more) presents lower results of general health.

Conclusions

Violence and health, increasingly related due to the impact it has on the subjects’ physical and mental health and quality of life.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Trauma: Harmful effect of diagnostic labeling and iatrogenic intervention for the recovery process
Authors: Villarroel C. Martín , Garcia L. Carpio , Matsuura J. , Revuelta M. Sánchez , García G. Belmonte , Cutanda J. Dominguez , Daza M. Fernández-Torija , García E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

We know the coexistence of traumatic factors (loss of affective relationships, experiences of abuse, extreme risk situations, etc.) is common in psychiatric pathologies in which level of stress experienced exceeds normal capacity of the person, favoring the appearance of dissociative or excision mechanisms. A common mistake is to pathologize them and try to eliminate them.

Objectives

The objective of this paper is to study trauma and defense mechanisms involved, in order to carry out a better approach.

Methods

A bibliographic search was performed from different database (Pubmed, TripDatabase) about trauma, mechanisms involved and the construction of identity.

Results

We know neural pathways mature asymmetrically in evolutionary development (functions related to attention, concentration and executive function having special importance) and thus, traumas occurred in moments of greatest vulnerability such as early childhood, can damage and interfere with the correct integration of neural processes, producing disproportionate and unnecessarily maintained alert responses (common basis for many pathologies such as borderline personality disorder or traumatic psychosis). In response to this, reactive mechanisms are produced (such as dissociation or cleavage) that are not necessarily pathological and therefore, we should not always intervene by eliminating them because they often function as a protective factor, allowing to preserve functioning and favoring recovery.

Conclusions

In conclusion, we need a better understanding of mechanisms involved in trauma, executive function and the alarm system beyond anxiety reactions, trying to understand the function of symptom without eliminating it, but evaluating whether there are healthier alternatives can be promoted for the complete recovery of the patient.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The effect of psychoeducation regarding relaxation breathing, in stress reduction in a sample of nurses in a Greek hospital
Authors: Lyrakos G. , Androutsos D. , Aslani E. , Spinaris V.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Stress is one of the biggest problems leading a large portion of people to seek medical or psychotherapeutic management, while a large portion of hospital staff report high levels of work-related stress.

Objectives

The purpose of this intervention was to implement a psychoeducation seminar on stress management by implementing diaphragmatic breathing exercises and to detect the reduction of its levels in nursing staff.

Methods

The study took place at the General Hospital of Nikaia. Fifty employees, 38 women, aged 20-60 (M=37.4±10.5) participated in a two-hour group psychoeducation workshop, concerning psychoeducation on stress and application in diaphragmatic breathing exercises. The measurement of the success of the intervention was performed using a proportional stress assessment scale before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS26.

Results

Stress levels before the intervention ranged from 0 to 10 (M=5.7±5.7) while after the intervention ranged from 0 to 7 (M=2.3±2.04). Age did not appear to play a role in stress reduction, but was found to be positively and significantly associated with pre-existing stress in employees (r=0.423 p=0.002). On the contrary, gender was found to be related both to the pre-existence of stress, with women reporting the highest levels (t=-3.534 p=0.001), and to the reduction of stress after the intervention (t=-2,534 p=0.001).

Conclusions

The above findings indicate the importance of implementing group psychoeducation programs to reduce stress at the organizational level, a very important result considering the cumulative effect that the recent existence of covid-19 has had on nursing staff.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Functional impairments in ADHD in function of anxiety, depressive and somatic complains in Brazilian young adults
Authors: Carreiro L.R. , Silva M. , Paes I.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Comorbidities between Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders or Somatic Symptoms, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can cause variability in the functional impairments faced by young adults. Knowing the possible configurations resulting from these comorbidities is important for a better understanding of the cases, diagnostic processes, and proposed treatments.

Objectives

To verify associations between indicators of the aforementioned mental disorders, and symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity, and functional impairments in different areas of life, related to ADHD.

Methods

There were 27 participants (23 women, age m = 22.5 sd = 1.8, education m = 15.7 sd = 2.2), with complaints of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity compatible with ADHD, screened with ASRS-18 score> 24 and WASI IQ> 79, and assessed by DIVA-2.0 (symptoms of ADHD), ASR-ASEBA (depressive, anxiety and somatic problems), EPF-ADHD (functional impairments in the academic, professional, affective, domestic, social, health, financial, traffic areas and legal risk). Spearman’s Correlation analysis was performed in the SPSS program (significance p <0.05).

Results

Increase in depressive problems associated with increased symptoms of inattention (rho=0.386, p=0.049) and hyperactivity-impulsivity (rho = 0.406, p = 0.036). Increased somatic problems associated with increased functional impairment in health (rho=0.458, p=0.016). Increase in depressive problems associated with increased losses in the academic (rho=0.437, p=0.023), affective (rho=0.408, p=0.034), domestic (rho=0.550, p=0.002), social (rho=0.445, p=0.002), financial (rho=0.389, p=0.045) and health (rho=0.514, p=0.006).

Conclusions

ADHD with comorbidities can have a peculiar clinical evolution with specific characteristics, including diagnosis, management, and response to treatment. These subgroups with different intervention needs demand outlining needs and personalized treatment.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Organizational environment as a factor of physicians’ psychological well-being
Authors: Abdullaeva M. , Abdullayeva G.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The importance of ensuring the well-being of physicians is determined by the serious changes in medical organizations that transform the traditional “doctor - patient” relationship and set different indicators of the medical care quality (Melnyk et al., 2020; Sandy et al., 2019; Tawfik et al., 2019).

Objectives

The main objective was to study the characteristics of the well-being of physicians working in public and commercial medical institutions. The difference in these “environments” is the degree of independence and responsibility in the course of diagnosis and treatment.

Methods

The study involved 102 people: 66 of them are employees at public hospitals, 36 –at commercial medical centers. The respondents were offered a methodic package aimed to diagnose: career orientations; the degree of satisfaction with various work aspects; severity of burnout symptoms; subjective assessment of their work.

Results

The estimating factor analysis identified 3 factors (73% of the total variance of the data) –such as emotional acceptance of one’s work, stress and tension, intellectual workload. The indicator of emotional exhaustion among physicians of commercial centers is significantly higher than that of doctors of public hospitals, which indicates a greater emotional involvement in the situation of providing paid services (p≤0.007).

Conclusions

The main direction of psychological work with physicians of commercial institutions is teaching them to regulating the emotional state and to master communicative techniques. An important part of psychological support of physicians in public hospitals is to provide a favorable psychological climate that ensures the professional growth and adherence to humane principles of working with patients.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychiatric care in university population
Authors: Espada N.M. Casado , Flores A. , López M.T. Lozano , Bonaechea B. Bote , García A.B. Sánchez , Rodríguez M. , Roncero C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

It is well-known that university students experience high levels of mental health problems (1). University life presents changes and challenges that can be stressful and may affect the mental health of its community (2,3). More than 20 years ago, the Social Affairs Service (SAS) of the University of Salamanca started a program that ensured the mental health care in their community. The Psychiatric Care Unit is part of this program and its objectives are: 1) to detect serious mental disorders; 2) treat mild mental disorders; 3) give information to prevent illness and promote mental health; 4) serve as support in patients with previous follow-up that has been discontinued due to the beginning of their studies; 5) liaise with referral psychiatrists.

Objectives

To make known a Psychiatric Care Unit targeted in the university community

Methods

18 people between 19 and 52 years old (22% male, 78% female) were evaluated between November and December of 2020 in the Psychiatric Care Unit of the Social Affairs Service (PCU-SAS, University of Salamanca). The assessment consisted in an interview carried out by a psychiatrist, in the presence of a medical graduate. Every patient belong to the university community (students/ staff).

Results

The most frequent diagnosis in the sample is Adjustment Disorder (F43.2). Substance use, eating disorders, low-self-concept, perfectionism and emotional dysregulation are very prevalent symptoms along our sample.

Conclusions

Universities should invest in creating environments that promote student and staff mental wellbeing. However, the current body of evidence is scarce and more research is needed to recommend what are the best strategies(4).

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Burnout in medical residents - a prospective study in Albania
Authors: Alikaj V. , Skendi V. , Metaj E. , Dashi E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Burnout is a syndrome characterized by the high workload in the workplace, which is very common in hospital settings. Medical trainees and early career physicians are more likely to experience burnout than their non-medical peers. Burnout has been linked with a great number of consequences, whether personal, family or work related. Physicians burnout specifically, is related to high rates of medical errors, lack of professionalism, decreased productivity but also to suicidal ideation, depression and substance abuse.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to investigate the level of burnout in medical residents at University Hospital Center “Mother Theresa” Tirana, changes in burnout depending from the year of study, specialty or associated demographic factors.

Methods

This is a prospective study conducted over two time periods, in 2017 and 2019 using the Maslach Burnout Inventory - short version questionnaire. The information was obtained through the direct filling in of the printed questionnaires, by the residents in their workplace.

Results

We collected 137 responses from different medical specialties where 15,3% were psychiatric residents. About 70 % of residents are females and 40% of residents where in their third year of residency by the time they completed the questionnaire. 68% of residents declared more than one night shift within a week.

Conclusions

Residents are given great responsibility coupled with low levels of control, placing them at risk for role problems such as role ambiguity, role conflicts or role overload. Moreover, medical residents are relatively young and at the beginning of their careers, which makes them vulnerable to burnout.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Housing and youth mental health during a COVID-19 lockdown
Authors: Groot J. , Keller A. , Joensen A. , Nguyen T.-L. , Andersen A.-M. Nybo , Strandberg-Larsen K.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Declines in mental health among youth in the COVID-19 pandemic have been observed, yet longitudinal studies on how housing may impact these declines are lacking.

Objectives

Our aim was to determine whether changes in mental health among Danish youth were dependent on their housing conditions.

Methods

Young participants from the Danish National Birth Cohort, who had responded to an online questionnaire at 18 years of age, and later during the initial national Danish lockdown, were included. Associations between housing conditions (direct access to outdoor spaces, urbanicity, household density, and household composition) and changes in mental health (mental well-being, quality of life (QoL) and loneliness) were examined in multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses.

Results

We included 7455 participants. Greater decreases in mental well-being were observed for youth with no access to direct outdoor spaces and those living in denser households (mean difference -0.83 [95 % CI -1.19, -0.48], -0.30 [-0.43, -0.18], respectively). Onset of low mental well-being was associated with no access and living alone (odds ratios (OR) 1.68 [1.15, 2.47] and OR 1.47 [1.05, 2.07], respectively). Household density was negatively associated with QoL (mean difference -0.21 [-0.30, -0.12]). Youth living alone experienced more loneliness (OR 2.12 [95 % CI 1.59, 2.82]).

Conclusions

How youth’s mental health changed from before to during lockdown was associated with housing conditions. Among the Danish youth in our study, greater decreases in mental health during lockdown were observed among youth without access to outdoor spaces, living alone, or living in denser households.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.