bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bipolar disorders distribution in the two genders: An analysis of recently published large sample studies
Authors: Cafaro R. , Dell’Osso B. , Ketter T.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In the last decade, literature reports evidences of a growing number of patients diagnosed with Bipolar Disorders (BD), however, only few data are available regarding the distribution of BD diagnosis in the two genders. In fact, although many studies show differences in presentation and comorbidities of BD in the two genders, BD are commonly perceived as equally affecting both women and men. On the other hand, BD in female patients can often be misdiagnosed as MDD, especially because of the higher number of depressive episodes that characterize BD in women.

Objectives

We aimed to analyse the gender composition of large samples, recently published studies on BD, in order to evaluate a possible modification of representation of BD in the two genders.

Methods

An electronic review of literature was conducted, and results were filtered by year of publication (2011-2020) and number of patients (> 1,000).

Results

Our results show a higher number of female patients in every study evaluated (N=10). Of note, we found a higher number of females also in BD-I subsamples, in contradiction with previously published literature.

Conclusions

Even if with limitations connected to the design of the study, our study supports the hypothesis of a gender specific increment in BD diagnosis, and could lead the way for large epidemiological studies assessing gender specific prevalence of BD in the general population. Given the risks connected with untreated BD, and with antidepressants monotherapy, a better understanding of BD epidemiology could help physicians adequately diagnose and treat affected subjects.
Clinical and evolutionary features of bipolar disorder in women
Authors: Tfifha M. , Abbes W. , Nefoussi M. , Abbes M. , Mdhaffar K. , Zitoun K. , Ghanmi L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Bipolar female patients have clinical and evolutionary features wich involve different factors related to the women specifities.

Objectives

Establish clinical and evolutionary features in a population of bipolar female patients attending to Gabes psychiatry department.

Methods

A retrospective descriptive and analytical study was undertaken including female patients referred to psychiatry department of Gabes regional hospital, for the first time in a 6-year period (January 1st, 2010 to December 31, 2016) and who were already diagnosed with bipolar disorder (BD). Sociodemographic, clinical and evolutionary data were assessed. Patients were divised into two groups according to gender. The collected data were compared between the two groups. The statistical analysis was executed on the software SPSS (20th edition).

Results

From the 193 bipolar patients, 103 were women. The mean age of the disorder’s onset amongst Female patients was 32.4 years old [14 - 63]. The mean duration of the disorder was 7.6 years [2 - 30]. The polarity of the first episode was a depressive one in 74.7% of cases. It was associated to psychotic features in 43.7% of cases. Seasonal pattern was noted in 10.6% amongst female patients and rapid cycling bipolar disorder in 6.2% of cases. Analytical study showed that women began the BD more often with a depressive episode (p=0.004) and were more frequently diagnosed with BD type 2 (p<0.001). Men had significantly more auditory (p=0.002) and visual hallucinations (p=0.019).

Conclusions

There were clinical specifities of women with BD from which important to be considered.
Antidepressant-withdrawal mania - a case report
Authors: Magalhães M. , Moreno L. , Mendes R. , Gamito A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

An uncommon adverse event of antidepressant discontinuation is the paradoxical withdrawal hypomania or mania. It is rarely described in the literature and its true incidence is unknown, may it be a consequence of underrecognition or misattribution.

Objectives

Alert clinicians of the uncommon Antidepressant-Withdrawal Mania

Methods

Report and discuss, based on online pubmed database, a case of Antidepressant-Withdrawal Mania with Citalopram

Results

A 34 year old woman, with a previous unipolar depressive episode, presents to the emergency department in june/2020 with anxiety, recurrent thoughts of death without a plan, low energy, anhedonia, loss of appetite, sadness and insomnia developing over a period of 7 months. She was prescribed Quetiapine 50 mg XR, Lamotrigine 100 mg, and sent to a psychiatry consultation. After a month and a half there was no important clinical improvement and Citalopram 20 mg was started. The patient reported slow improvement and by august she had a complete symptomatic response. In the beginning of september the patient stopped citalopram abruptly. Three weeks later, she was presented with an irritable mood, increased energy with decreased need for sleep, sweet cravings, easy irritability, racing thoughts, pressure to keep talking and suicidal thoughts. After 2 weeks of Quetiapine 300 mg XR id, Lamotrigine 100 mg id and Olanzapine 5 mg there was a partial symptomatic response.

Conclusions

Antidepressant withdrawal manic states are an under-recognized phenomena, with ill defined patho-physiological pathways and nosology. It is important to continue close follow up of the patient and to investigate whether it can be included on the bipolar spectrum.
Point of view and expectation of parents with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder enrolled in regular and special schools
Authors: Ferreira B. , Fernandes F.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause social and professional harm in an individual. Many teachers are unprepared to receive students with ASD. They find it difficult to communicate with other professionals or to comfort the family. And parents often do not feel that their children at school benefit socially and in their academic skills.

Objectives

To know the point of view and expectations of parents with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder about the academic future and professional life.

Methods

An online questionnaire was applied with 38 multiple choice questions about the future academic perspectives and expectations of their children, the job market and about school adaptations and the school year during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

So far, 16 parents of a Speech-Language Pathology laboratory in which they assist children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have answered the questionnaire. When asked if there were teachers who work with TEA individuals, nine guardians 56.3% answered that they did not, 50% of the guardians said they had received adapted material during the COVID-19 pandemic, 100% of the guardians believe that their child will finish high school, 93.8% of those in charge do not believe that the job market is prepared for individuals with ASD.

Conclusions

Parents are dissatisfied with the education their children receive and most of them did not get adequate support during the COVID-19 pandemic. There are also low expectations for the future in the job market.
Temperament, bipolar disorder and addictive disorders: Which personalized and integrated approach?
Authors: Orsolini L.
Published: February 2022

Affective Disorders are on a clinical continuum in which temperaments and other coexisting or emerging mental conditions may cover the role of risk factors or determinants of specific dimensional aspects of Bipolar Disorder. Overall, it is important to better characterize the psychopathological conditions associated to the clinical picture of an affective disorder in order to perform more personalized and integrated approach for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals with dual disorder.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Inflammatory cytokines dysfunction in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Ben Othman A. , Slama H. , Cherif E. , Azaiez M. , Gharsallah H.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. Its underlying causes and pathophysiologies remain unclear. Recent data support the potential involvement of neuroinflammation in the onset of this disorder.

Objectives

The aim of our study was to investigate the potential link between ASD and inflammatory mediators.

Methods

This descriptive study was conducted among ASD outpatients followed-up at the child and adolescent psychiatry department in the Military Hospital of Instruction of Tunis. Blood samples were collected for inflammatory cytokines dosage, notably the interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and the Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNF-α) immunodosage.

Results

Twenty-four patients were included in this study, aged between four and ten years old (mean age= 6,55 years; minimum=4; maximum=10 years). Our sample was mainly represented by male patients (95,6%). TNF-α plasmatic levels were high (>5pg/mL) among all of our sample with a mean of 11,6 pg/mL (minimum= 6,87; maximum=17,7 pg/mL; standard deviation= 3,52 pg/mL), suggesting abnormal peripheral blood mononuclear cells response. However, IL-1β and IL-6 plasmatic levels were relatively normal.

Conclusions

An immune response dysregulation was detected in our sample. Multiple clinical and experimental studies investigated the implication of inflammatory cytokines in neurodevelopmental disruption. Their results, however, remain controversial and limited by small samples. Further studies need to be done in order to investigate the neuroimmunological factors linked with ASD.
Managing the challenges in implementing digital mental health in europe
Authors: Vlijter O.
Published: February 2022

Abstract Body

The demand for mental health care is increasing globally as a result of societal challenges such as automation, increased economic competition, unemployment and the growing impact of climate change. The direct and indirect economic costs of mental health problems are substantial, totalling over € 600 billion yearly across the EU (OECD 2018). The COVID-19 crisis has led to an additional increase in demand and has changed the way care is delivered. Since March 2020 there has been a significant increase in the use of e-mental health (eMH), telemental health in particular. eMH can contribute to keeping services, accessible, affordable and patient focused. The eMEN project (funded by the EU Interreg North-West-Europe programme) is promoting the latter through a European cooperation platform for eMH development, research and implementation. This platform focuses on high quality and professional ‘blended care’, which combines face-to-face and online treatment. The implementation of eMH has been slow and varies considerably between EU countries, even though this technology has been on the market for over 20 years. The reasons for this are related to quality problems (e.g. validation, usability), resistance from clinicians, lack of blended care treatment protocols, digital skills, reimbursement systems and policies and other barriers. Many service providers and public health authorities are increasing their efforts to overcome these barriers. This presentation will give a short overview of how the eMEN project is trying to overcome these barriers and accelerate the eMH implementation process.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Reading program research proposal
Authors: Abbasy D.M.S. , Cruz D.R. , Fitzgerald A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

There is a significant problem of unidentified and unaddressed reading disabilities leading to psychiatric problems in children and adolescents because of not having proper tools of assessments in schools. This research proposal can be a revolutionary paradigm in identifying, classifying, modeling, and benefitting children and adolescents with a specific learning disorder (SLD).

Objectives

The objective of the current research proposal is to provide a framework of our reading program and collect data over time as cohorts to reflect the positive outcomes of the reading program.Sub-Objectives
1. To provide an intervention that is accessible and feasible for children and their parents that will improve their academic and socio-emotional aspects.2. Educate parents regarding SLD.3. To provide reading training to address SLD in reading and improve reading.4. To provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to target the anxiety and depression that results because of having a SLDin reading.

Methods

After a reading assessment, students with specific reading disabilities will be registered in the program for 10 weeks. Every student will have reading training and CBT on different days of the week via video conference. Data will be collected retrospectively from the initial cohort and subsequent cohorts will be added to the data collection process for a final analysis when 60 students have completed the program.

Results

Initial two weeks of reading training and CBT shows positive and promising results so far.

Conclusions

Children need to be screened at a young age for a reading disability before they struggle academically, and develop psychiatric issues later in life.

Conflict of interest

The aim of this research proposal is to help us understand, evaluate and benefit children with Specific Learning Disorder (SLD) with our newly setup reading program at RUSH University Medical Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
The impact of treatment with antidepressants on HBA1c- and LDL levels in type 2 diabetes: A real-world within-subject study
Authors: Rohde C. , Thomsen R.W. , Østergaard S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

With regard to glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D), treatment with antidepressant drugs is a double-edged sword. Real-world, population-based data on the impact of antidepressant treatment on glycemic control in T2D is absent from the literature.

Objectives

To estimate the impact of treatment initiation or termination with an antidepressant on HbA1c levels in individuals with T2D.

Methods

Population-based, within-subject, study design examining HbA1c levels in the 16 months leading up to - and the 16 months following - antidepressant treatment initiation or termination, respectively. All individuals with newly developed T2D between 1 January 2000 and 31 October 2016 were identified. Study population 1 consisted of individuals that initiated antidepressant treatment after incident T2D and age- and sex matched individuals with T2D and without antidepressant treatment. Study population 2 consisted of individuals with prevalent antidepressant use at the time of incident T2D, who terminated antidepressant treatment during follow-up, and age- and sex matched individuals with T2D and without antidepressant treatment.

Results

Antidepressant treatment initiation was associated with a decrease in HbA1c levels (7.05% to 6.89%). The age- and sex matched individuals did not have a change in mean HbA1c levels after the matched date. Antidepressant treatment termination was associated with a decrease in HbA1c levels (7.05% to 6.73%). Age- and sex matched individuals did not see a change in HbA1c levels after the matched date.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that antidepressant treatment initiation is not associated with adverse effects with regard to glycemic control in T2D. Rather, the data are indicative of a beneficial effect.

Conflict of interest

Aarhus University funded the study. CR was supported by the Danish Diabetes Academy, funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, grant number NNF17SA0031406. The funders had no role in the study design, data analysis, interpretation of data, or writing of the
The pharmacotherapy of infections in patients with mental disorders receiving psychotropic drugs: Focus on good practices
Authors: Stuhec M.
Published: February 2022

There is little data on infection treatment in patients with mental disorders, including on the selection of psychotropic, antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral medications. Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections often occur in patients with mental illnesses, and there is little data on rational pharmacotherapy in this vulnerable population. Antibiotic treatment is a common event during hospitalization in adult psychiatric hospitals and poses a risk of significant potential to almost a quarter of all patients. Most infections are bacterial infections where antibiotics are used, and this topic will be covered in this lecture.

Most patients are being treated for urinary tract infections or respiratory tract infections. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics are co-amoxiclav and cotrimoxazole, followed by ciprofloxacin and nitrofurantoin. Drug-drug interactions (DDIs) between antibiotics and psychotropics often occur, where medications with QTc prolongation potential should be avoided (e.g., some antipsychotics and antidepressants, quinolones, and cotrimoxazole). Penicillins are the most appropriate group, and quinolones should be avoided. DDIs between antibiotics and psychotropic drugs have been reported to occur in 20% of patients, which means that DDIs checking is always necessary before prescribing. Psychiatric adverse events (e.g., hallucinations, restlessness, insomnia) have also been seen in patients with mental disorders.

The participants will learn about general recommendations on antibiotic prescribing in this population, focusing on antibiotics and psychotropics, supported by evidence-based data and real clinical pharmacological tools useful for daily practice.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The role of social acuity assessment in differentiating primary psychoses from drug-induced psychoses
Authors: Ciobanu V. , Minciună M. , Bucatos B. , Ciotu M. , Sudrijan C. , Olteanu A. , Bortun A.-M. , Bondrescu M. , Papavă I. , Romosan A.-M. , Romosan R. , Dehelean L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The dual diagnosis among patients with primary psychotic disorders is frequent and causes diagnostic and treatment challenges. In clinical practice, differentiating between substance-induced psychoses and independent (primary) psychoses when the patient is actively using drugs of addiction, is difficult, especially in the acute phase of the psychosis.

Objectives

The aim of the study is to identify clinical data relevant for differentiating between primary psychoses triggered by addictive drug misuse and substance-induced psychoses, using psychometric scales.

Methods

The study was conducted on 111 patients divided in four samples: 28 dual diagnosis psychotic patients (DD), 27 bipolar patients (BD), 25 schizoaffective patients (SCA) and 31 patients with schizophrenia (SCZ). The subjects were assessed using scales for the severity of psychiatric symptoms, cognitive functions and social acuity (theory of mind): BPRS-E (Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale – Expanded), MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), CBS (Cambridge Behavioral Scale), and RMET (Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test). The tests were performed when patients were in the remission phase of the psychosis.

Results

BPRS-E scores showed significant differences between DD subjects and patients from the other three samples (primary psychoses). CBS revealed significant differences between the DD subjects and patients with schizophrenia spectrum psychoses (SCA and SCZ). RMET identified significant differences between DD and BD patients.

Conclusions

Although differentiating between substance-induced and primary psychoses remains a difficult task, social acuity assessment performed in remitted patients may be helpful in guiding the clinician to establish a more accurate diagnosis.
Clinical dynamics of anhedonia symptom in mood disorder and in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Roshchina O. , Simutkin G. , Bokhan N.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Anhedonia is an important transdiagnostic phenotypic characteristic of schizophrenia, mood disorders (MD), alcohol use disorder (AUD) and other mental diseases. This Symptom could reflect the neurochemical abnormalities in addictive and affective disorders when the function of reward system is dysregulated (Koob G.F., 2017).

Objectives

To compare the severity of Anhedonia in clinic of MD and AUD in dynamic of antidepressant therapy

Methods

The study enrolled 93 patients under treatment in MHRI Clinics: 45 AUD (F10.2; ICD-10) and 48 MD patients (F31-F34; ICD-10). The evaluation of Anhedonia was provided with the SHAPS modified for clinician administration (SHAPS-C) (Rezvan A., 2014).

Results

Due to statistical analysis, we found the level of anhedonia in the MD group was higher than in the AUD group before the treatment. After four weeks of antidepressant therapy the scrutiny of score difference shows less changes in severity of the Symptom in the AUD group (Table 1) Table 1. Dynamics of Anhedonia in MD and AUD groups by SHAPS-C

GroupTotal score upon admissionTotal score after four weeks therapyTotal score upon admission and after four weeks therapyAUD (n=45)24 (22; 27,5)22 (20,25; 28)1 (-3; 4)MD (n=48)30 (23; 38)25 (20; 28)4 (1; 8)р (Mann-Whitney test)0,0030,3730,002

Conclusions

Anhedonia in the structure of AUD is less pronounced than in MD, but responds less to antidepressant therapy. The study is supported by RSF Grant no. 19-15-00023 “Clinical features and search of potential biomarkers of comorbidity of alcoholism and affective disorders”.
The challenge of neuropsychiatric manifestations in parkinson’s disease. A case report
Authors: Del Campo A. Cerame , Limeres P. Coucheiro , Soler A. Franco
Published: February 2022

Introduction

We present the case of an 82-year-old patient who was treated by our liaison psychiatry unit after a suicide attempt through prescription-drug overdose. The patient had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) ten years prior to his admittance and was being treated with carbidopa/levodopa and non-ergot dopamine agonists.

Objectives

Impulse control disorders and depression are the most prevalent neuropsychiatric manifestation of PD. According to several sources, this symptomatology is underdiagnosed and undertreated, causing helplessness and distress to patients and their caregivers. Likewise, the accumulated evidence suggests that certain drugs can contribute to the appearance of the aforementioned symptoms.

Methods

A case report is presented alongside a review of the relevant literature regarding the neuropsychiatric manifestations in the context of PD and the diagnosis and treatment of these symptoms.

Results

During his treatment, ropinirole was removed while quetiapine was progressively administered (up to 150mg/day). Carbidopa/levodopa regime was increased causing visual hallucinations and delusional jealousy. A careful balance between antiparkinsonian and antipsychotic medication needed to be achieved before discharge.

Conclusions

Neuropsychiatric manifestations in the context of PD are more prevalent than what was thought in the past. Certain medications, particularly non-ergot dopamine agonists could potentially contribute to the onset of these symptoms. Moreover, these manifestations can be underdiagnosed due to the stigma or social burden imposed upon family and / or caregivers. It is important that recent advances in the understanding of non-motor symptomatology of PD could permeate clinical practice to achieve an adequate identification and treatment of these symptoms.
Consultation liaison psychiatry after COVID-19
Authors: Alvarez M. Hernandez
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The paper will describe the experience as consultation-liaison psychiatrist during the Covid 19 Pandemic in a private hospital in Madrid, what we have learned and its implications given the considerable and increasing interest in European Consultation-Liaison research.

Objectives

Following the request of one of the internal medicine department doctors the service was initially provided for patients admitted with the infection but very quickly included relatives and also the hospital staff.

Methods

Patients were offered a telephone consultation that in most cases took place on a daily basis. Referrals where made by a doctor, some of them were locums due to the increasing demands of the service since patients from public hospitals were also admitted. Relatives were also referred by doctors and the frequency was more varied, depending on their needs. Members of the multidisciplinary team referred themselves..

Results

Patients and their families felt that the telephone consultation was useful to them. The work with some members of the staff is ongoing and will continue given the toxic levels of stress that they had to face and the changes taking place at the institution at the time.

Conclusions

The COVID-19 pandemic and the short and long term consequences that will follow will increase our understanding the breadth and depth of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and the broad perspective required for a comprehensive evaluation and treatment of patients. My experience as psychoanalytic psychotherapist and organizational consultant proved most helpful.
Cognitive impairments in patients with treatment resistant epilepsy: Complex rehabilitation in university clinic
Authors: Korostiy V. , Maltsev A. , Blazhina I.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Сognitive deficit significantly affects the quality of life of patients. Aims of research was detection of cognitive impairments of varying degrees in epilepsy, and as well as studying the results of complex treatment in conditions of University clinic, physical and psychological rehabilitation, cognitive training and VNS included.

Objectives

We studied the features of clinical and psychopathological manifestations of cognitive impairments in patients suffering from epilepsy.

Methods

The study was attended by 100 patients (35 men and 65 women) who were inpatient care. The following psychodiagnostic techniques were used: the Toronto Cognitive Assessment TorCA, the test of 10 words of Luria, the MOCA test, the Münsterberg test, the quality of life scale, the Hamilton scale of depression and anxiety.

Results

MCI was observed in 88 % patients, dementia in 12 % (50 % - mild dementia, in 24 % - moderate dementia and in 16% - severe dementia). We used non-pharmacological rehabilitation methods for correction of cognitive impairment in epileptic patients with MCI and mild dementia during 3 mounth.. Improving of cognitive function was observed in 48 % patients, stable level of cognitive function - in 36 %, progressing of cognitive imparment - in 16 % patiens with epilepsy.

Conclusions

The results of the conducted research indicate the need for further study of the features of cognitive disorders in pharmacologically treatment resistant epilepsy and implementation of training aimed at improving cognitive function and preventing the progression of cognitive impairment in complex treatment of those patients.
Psychiatric symptoms in huntington’s disease
Authors: Peixoto C. , Rego D. , Bicho M. , Coelho J. , Medeiros H.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Huntington’s disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant neurodegenerative disorder, that typically manifests in adulthood, clinically characterized by progressive motor, cognitive and psychiatric/behavioural symptoms. Psychiatric symptoms are common in HD. The presentation of these symptoms is highly variable, and their course does not correlate with motor or cognitive disease progression. Psychiatric symptoms often precede motor onset by many years.

Objectives

The authors intend to review the literature the most frequent psychiatric disorders in patients with HD.

Methods

Non-systematic review of the literature.

Results

Psychiatric symptoms have been a core feature of HD. Pre-symptomatic HD patients exhibit a greater prevalence of psychiatric symptoms, particularly affective disorders. This symptoms are presenting symptoms of HD in up to half of all people. In symptomatic HD patients, it is estimated that up to 73–98% of patients will have a major psychiatric disorder or psychiatric symptoms. Psychiatric manifestations in HD include depression, irritability, apathy, anxiety, mania, perseverations, obsessions and psychosis. Cognitive changes include progressive deficits in attention, learning, executive and sensory functions, resulting in dementia. Depression, diagnosed in half of patients with HD, is the most common and earliest symptoms prior to the motor onset. There are likely multiple causes of the psychiatric symptoms, with underlying factors including a combination of neurobiological, cognitive, psychological, social and environmental factors.

Conclusions

Patients with HD have high psychiatric comorbidity, that causes significant functional impairment and affect quality of life. Thus, they require a multidisciplinary approach in the recognition and treatment of psychiatric symptoms.
Impacts of social distancing during the covid19 pandemic on the development of children with autism in Brazil
Authors: Pacheco P. , Pacheco M. , Marinho D. , Oliveira T. , Marques A. , Souza K. , Franco E. , Maia J. , Silva L. , Molini-Avejonas D.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease and its main symptoms are fever, dry cough and difficulty breathing. It spread to several countries, which led the World Health Organization to decree, on March 11, 2020, a pandemic state that deeply affected Brazil. Due to the impossibility of leaving the house, the routine of children with autism was changed. Children in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have a qualitative deficit in social interaction. Clinical and daily observations reinforce several scientific studies that defend the importance of maintaining a routine as stable as possible for people with ASD, without this stability they may become emotionally disorganized, feel discomfort or even irritability.

Objectives

Investigate the impact caused by social distancing on the development of children and adolescents with autism.

Methods

An online questionnaire based on the DIR/Floortime basic map of emotional functional capacity development was distributed in Brazil from April to May, 2020. The results were analyzed using SPSS software.

Results

Results obtained from 122 questionnaires showed that after 30 days of quarantine 20% of children no longer had the characteristic of being able to remain calm and organized for at least 2 minutes; 11% no longer initiates interactions with their parents; 27% demonstrated more protests and anger than before the social distancing; 18% demonstrated more emotions such as anger, fear and intimacy, 28% began to understand their limits and 12% of the children are using greater facial expression during the social distancing.

Conclusions

This study brings results that can help to understand the processes in a child with autism.
Undergraduate students’ attitudes to COVID-19 during the lockdown period: Hierarchy of psychological factors
Authors: Nikolaev E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The effect of COVID-19 on different age groups is not the same. It is of great interest to see how specifically students, who are regarded as a less susceptible group, relate to COVID-19 during the period of government imposed lockdown.

Objectives

To determine the factorial structure of the revealed university students’ attitudes to COVID-19 during the period of lockdown and distance learning.

Methods

We questioned online 127 male and 200 female Russian universities students during their distance learning. We used a 17-point Attitude towards COVID-19 Questionnaire based on the results of the half-structured interview with the students. We subjected the received data to a factor analysis.

Results

With the principal components method, we obtained a five-factor structure of the questionnaire under study with the total variance of 65.2%. According to the content of the questions, we defined these factors in the following way: factor of COVID-19 danger to the society (with variance – 20.2%); factor of ruined personal life plans (14.0%); factor of COVID-19 threat to personal health and life (13.9%); factor of disbelief in COVID-19 dangers (9.1%) and factor of expecting new pandemics (8.0%). Here is the hierarchy of the mean numbers of students who had maximal points in each of the factors mentioned: 66.6%; 59.3%; 24.4%; 23.9% and 23.2%.

Conclusions

The students’ attitudes to COVID-19 depended on different tendencies during the lockdown period. The prevailing perception of COVID-19 as a real threat to health and life went together with the undervaluation of its significance and a shift to everyday life issues.
Attempted suicide and pregnancy in COVID-19´s times
Authors: Solis M.O. , Rodriguez L. Soldado , Sánchez Rus S.S. , Barea M. ValverDe , Fernandez S. Jimenez
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Pregnancy is a special risk factor for suicide attempts among females (Andrew E. Czeizel et al. 2011). Situational factors such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) have also been reported to impact on individual’s mental health.

Objectives

Examine the effect of COVID-19 and its association with mental health and attempt suicide risk in pregnant population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study that includes 113 pregnant women from Spain, through an anonymous, voluntary and multiple response type online survey which included questions about socio demographic aspects, COVID-19’s aspects and mental health.

Results

Of the 112 pregnant patients surveyed, only 2 reported suicidal ideation. The age of the respondents was 32 and 33 years, both of whom were in the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Both report that it was the first pregnancy and affirm a worsening of their economic situation since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. One of them did not have a partner / marriage and was living with a relative, in turn this respondent was unemployed. Both responded that they were “always” worried about the possible outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic and that their fears had increased, being difficult to control and let them pass. It is very relevant that both agree that they “never” felt that the professionals who carried out the pregnancy controls asked or inquired about their current state of mental health.

Conclusions

Antepartum suicidal ideation is an important and common complication of pregnancy, specially in COVID-19’s times, healthcare professionals who follow pregnancy should detect high-risk suicidal patients and be able to carry out a suicide prevention program.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on paramedics’ mental health in Greece
Authors: Peppou L.E. , Giannouchos T. , Economou M. , Paschali A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Converging evidence substantiates a negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of frontline workers. Nonetheless, there is paucity of research on paramedics.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of stress, anxiety and depression in frontline paramedics in the Athens region, Greece, and to investigate the coping skills that are associated with less favourable mental health outcomes

Methods

A total of 100 ambulance paramedics participated in the study. The online questionnaire encompassed the DASS-21 for assessing mental health outcomes and the Brief-COPE for measuring coping skills. Information about socio-demographic characteristics and personal/relatives’ vulnerability to COVID-19 was also gleaned.

Results

The prevalence for moderate to severe cases was found to be 7.2% for stress, 9.4% for anxiety and 11.3% for depression. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that men demonstrated significantly higher stress [B = -2.28, 95%CI = -3.88 - -0.68] and depression compared to women [B = -1.69, 95%CI = -3.19 - -0.19]. Similarly, the use of denial was found to be associated with higher stress [B = 0.69, 95%CI = 0.11 -1.37] and anxiety [B= 0.55, 95%CI = 0.13 – 0.98]. Moreover, emotional support was linked to heightened anxiety [B= 0.71, 95%CI = 0.36 – 1.06] and self-distraction to depression [B = 0.60, 95%CI = 0.16 – 1.04]. Personal or relatives’ vulnerability to COVID-19 did not impinge on mental health outcomes.

Conclusions

Healthcare initiatives should be tailored at the mental health needs of frontline paramedics, especially men. Psychosocial interventions should target maladaptive coping, especially the use of denial.
Children’s mental health hospital throughout COVID-19
Authors: Shchedrinskaya O. , Basova A. , Bebtschuk M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Children with mental health issues are heavily dependent upon the attitude of their caregivers towards disease control and prevention. There is also a high risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in the mental health clinics (hospitals) for children.

Objectives

Children with mental health issues are heavily dependent upon the attitude of their caregivers towards disease control and prevention. There is also a high risk of COVID-19 outbreaks in the mental health clinics (hospitals) for children.

Methods

The data from the Municipal Department of Health and Medical records of patients who were treated at the clinic from January to June in 2019 were compared. Statistical processing was carried out using the Chi-Square for 2 x 2 Contingency Table method.

Results

The study demonstrated the statistically significant difference in the types of mental health conditions that require more attention and in-patient emergency treatment options during the pandemic, including decompensation, exacerbation or manifestation of endogenous diseases, anorexia nervosa and suicidal manifestations. To prevent the spread of infection, a specific separate clinical unit was created for patients with severe mental health disorders and symptoms of COVID-19. Additionally, multiple changes were implemented in treatment protocols, staff duties and interactions with the patients’ caregivers.

Conclusions

There was a higher demand for in-patient emergency treatment for children with severe mental health disorders in 2020, as compared to 2019. Timely introduced anti-epidemic measures made it possible to avoid outbreaks of COVID-19 in the children’s psychiatric hospital.
Role of digital health in improving physical and mental well-being during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Arain F. , Tohid A. , Arain H. , Afzal S. , Tauheed M.S. , Tauheed M. , Zeshan M. , Azeem W.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a steep rise in the acceptance of telemedicine and digital health, including increased interest in pursuing mental health treatment through telepsychiatry. Digital health helps following social distancing measures and increases the health outcomes.

Objectives

To see the role of digital health in improving physical and mental well-being during COVID-19 Pandemic

Methods

This study is a part of a large global project where 240 people inquired advice on phone app during COVID-19-Pandemic. Later on, a short study was conducted on the same population through survey to evaluate the effectiveness of digital health/tele-mental health. We also searched PubMed, Google Scholar, PsychInfo, and Medline for words “Digital Health, Tele-mental health, COVID-19-Pandemic”. Reviewed 40 articles and included 3 in this review1,4,5.

Results

We received a total of 98 responses. 65.6% people reported that online health resources are helpful in relieving pandemic-induced anxiety/stress, 66.2% reported to continue online health services after pandemic, 37.7% noted that digital health saves times in waiting areas, 46% reported lack of physical interaction with doctor as a disadvantage of digital health, and 40.3% reported comfort in using tele-mental health. Our literature review has shown barriers like privacy concerns and technological issues1. Provision of tele-psychiatry is safe and effective in continuity of mental health care.4,5

Conclusions

There has been an increased inclination towards digital health during any disaster. During COVID-19-Pandemic, digital health has increased access to mental health care and reduced risk of infection. The drawbacks include poor patient-doctor relationship, reimbursement concerns, and lack of confidentiality.
Binge eating disorder experienced by young doctors struggling with COVID-19
Authors: Tfifha M. , Abbes W. , Dhemaid M. , Mdhaffar K. , Abbes M. , Zitoun K. , Ghanmi L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The COVID19 outbreak has disrupted the mental health of resident doctors who had to care for patients. Eating disorders were among these reported mental health problems.

Objectives

To screen binge eating disorder among young Tunisian doctors and its associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical online-based survey, from April 19, 2020, to May 5, 2020 on 180 medical residents in training. We sent the survey via a google form link. We used a self-administered anonymous questionnaire containing sociodemographic and clinical data of young doctors. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria were used to assess Binge-Eating Disorder.

Results

Among 180 young doctors who enrolled the survey, 70,2% were female, 16% were married. The mean age was 29 years. 51,1% were frontline caregivers, working directly in diagnosing, treating or caring for patients with coronavirus disease. Among our participants, 5% presented anxiety disorder, another 5 % presented depression disorder and 1,7% had eating disorder. Binge eating disorder were present among 8,9 % of participants and it was associated to personal history of eating disorder (7,7% vs 1,1%, p<10-3), past history of depression disorder (7,2% vs 3,3%, p=0.008), exposure to media or news about coronavirus outbreak (0.5% vs 8,3%, p=0.04).

Conclusions

Our study indicated the evolving proportion of binge eating disorder among young doctors. Screening eating disorder is important in order to prevent related physical health problems.
Tracking emotions and emotion regulation strategies used in a hospital staff cohort during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Goldring A. , Silston B. , Krueger S. , Bendt J. , Loguidice M. , Wimberger N.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In response to collective life events, many people regulate their emotional states through social interactions to reduce cognitive tolls. During pandemics, physical distancing renders the social support strategy less viable, increasing mental health risks.

Objectives

The current work aims to understand the range of emotions and strategies used in a population of Mental Health staff.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous survey on staff from OMH facilities (n=211) to assess the impact of Covid-19. The current survey captures a host of social, affective, and demographic variables. Accompanied by scales on emotions, emotion regulation, risk, and perception.

Results

Work, family, and health-concerns were the primary contributors to mood. The most common strategy was “situation-avoidance,” then “exercising.” When comparing depression scores against whether or not specific kinds of regulation strategies were utilized, only differences in the strategy of “emotion-suppression” and “authority-seeking” were substantially related to the CES-D scores. Specifically, participants who kept feelings to themselves tended to have higher CES-D scores than those who let their feelings show, while those who sought out authority scored lower on the CES-D, on average than those that did not seek authority.

Conclusions

Healthcare staff are under greater stress and pressure during national emergencies, and to regulate emotions during consistent high-stress, our preliminary data suggest that suppression and distraction strategies are dominant. Suggesting that staff prefer or have little choice but to focus on work. Alternatively, perhaps they are overwhelmed to the extent that avoidance and distraction are more accessible strategies. Further analysis of our data may help us understand more.
How COVID-19 related psycho-social stressors affect longevity
Authors: Moser D.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the literature on psychosocial stressors and psycho-social protective factors already clearly indicated that the two were linked in a multitude of ways to longevity. These ways include 1) directly through increased risk in suicides with respect to psycho-social stress or lack of connectivity 2) increased risk for psychopathologies such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and others, which in turn can decrease longevity in indirectly, and 3) a worse/healthier lifestyle that may be associated through decreased/improved social connectivity. With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ways in which these psychosocial factors could be impacted by policy came into focus. Attempting to quantify the potential future impact of such policies on longevity through psycho-social changes appeared necessary to allow better guidance of policy making. Objective: This presentation aims to leverage the experience gained from making a projection of the impact of pandemic mitigation strategies on longevity in the early advent of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results

The authors model indicated the high need for measures that are protective of the general populations’ psychosocial health in the face of a pandemic and associated mitigation strategies. Discussion: This presentation will discuss issues concerning quantifications of the impact of COVID-19 related policy on psychosocial health. The assumptions necessary to arrive at projective models may be at odds with parts of the current culture in the field. The presentation will discuss potential strategies in order for the scientific community to be better prepared for similar events in the future.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Psychopathological symptoms among the russian population during the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020
Authors: Koniukhovskaia J. , Pervichko E. , Stepanova O. , Dorokhov E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lifestyle and psychological well-being of millions of people.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of psychopathological symptoms in the Russian population in the COVID- 19 pandemic context.

Methods

We used a socio-demographic questionnaire (20 questions) and a Short Scale for Psychopathological Symptom Checklist (SCL -32) (Derogatis 1977; Mitina, Gorbunova, 2011). 582 Russian residents (496 women and 86 men) aged 18-64 years participated in the online survey in May 2020.

Results

Women were significantly more likely than men to have somatic dysfunctions (5.6±2.54vs4.8±1.9;p=0.001), interpersonal problems (6.97±2.9vs6.0±2.8; p=0.005), depression signs (6.9±3.2vs5.7±2.9;p=0.001) and anxiety disorders (6.8±2.8vs5.2 ±2.1;p=0.000), as well as sleep disorders (6.4±2.8vs5.9±2.1;p=0.049) and suicidal thoughts (4.2±1.8vs3.7±1.8;p=0.032). In addition, women are more hostile than men are (6.3±2.7 vs 5.1±2.3; p=0.000). Respondents under the age of 30 are more likely than older people to have interpersonal problems (p=0.286, p=0.000), as well as signs of depression (p=0.216, p=0.000), hostility (p=0.226, p=0.000) and psychoticism (p=0.203, p=0.000). Respondents’ low income is statistically associated with interpersonal problems (p=0.139,p=0.001), anxiety (p=0.131, p=0.002), hostility (p=0.156, p=0.000), psychoticism (p=0.137, p=0.001), and suicidal intentions (p=0.152,p=0.000). Among respondents whose relatives had COVID-19, signs of anxiety disorders (7.2±3vs3.5±2.9;p=0.027) and obsessive disorders (8.1±3.2 vs 7.3±2.6; p=0.029) were significantly more common than in the whole sample.

Conclusions

The study highlights socio-demographic factors of vulnerability to psychopathological symptoms in the COVID-19 pandemic context, which should be taken into account when organizing medical and psychological assistance to the population.