bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychiatric emergencies and trauma : the impact of stress in emergency nurses
Authors: Baabouchi N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Mental health at work is increasingly an essential element to assess, especially in sectors with a high risk of psychological and physical stress. Working in a healthcare environment and particularly work in a psychiatric environment can constitute a psychological risk for workers. Among the risks faced by emergency psychiatric medical staff is the risk of developing PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), which occurs after a traumatic event and results in moral suffering and physical complications that profoundly alter life:personal, social and professional life.

Objectives

Screening psychiatric emergency nurses for post-traumatic stress disorders.

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study carried out in the psychiatric emergency department of the Arrazi University Hospital in Salé, using an anonymous questionnaire distributed to nurses. It includes a 1st part on sociodemographic and professional data, a 2nd part focused on the evaluation of mental health through the GHQ12 and a 3rd part which evaluates post-traumatic stress made by the scale of post-traumatic stress disorder (PCLS).

Results

60 pourcent of women are more able to have ptsd disorder

40 pourcent men 95 pourcent are under the age of 30 and 5 pourcent have more than 30 years

80 pourcent have morked less than 5 years in the emergency hospital

and 20 pourcent have worked more 73 pourcent have scored more than 44 in pcls score

23 pourcent have scored less than 44 in pcls score

Conclusions

This work highlighted an extremely high rate of exposure to a violent event among psychiatric emergency nurses, even if in this study the prevalence of PTSD found among nurses is lower than expected, in this professional environment overexposure a violence requires special attention to protect and prevent the development of PTSD in professionals

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Descriptive study of patients admitted to a Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit in Santa Coloma de Gramenet and Badalona
Authors: Marti Bonany J. , Garcia Hernandez D. , Tolosa Merlos D. , Romar Navia R. , Sauras Quetcuti R. B. , Ambros Ghisilieri M. J. , Mateu Codina G. A. , Garcia Fuentes D. , Coratu A. M. , De Iturbe Catania G. , Sanchez Gonzalez R. , Campillo Sanz M. T. , Riera Soler A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Hospital at home for psychiatric patients is a new emerging resource of delivering acute mental health care in the community. The main objective of this program is to provide intense care to patients with severe mental disorders at home as an alternative to acute admission.

Although home hospitalisation has begun to develop widely in recent years there is a notable lack of studies

The CAEM Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit (HAD-CAEM) has been operating since 2018 and takes place in Santa Coloma de Gramenet; and from March 2022 also in a part of Badalona. Both are sociodemographically depressed areas near Barcelona.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to describe the characteristics of patients attended at the Psychiatric Home Hospitalization Unit of our hospital and to study differences according to area and place of referral.

Methods

Socio-demographic and clinical data were collected retrospectively at admission and discharge of all patients treated at HAD-CAEM between March 2022 to february 2023.

Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS program.

Results

85 patients were included in the study. 45.9% were women. The mean age was 45.5 years (SD 15.58 years). The main diagnoses of the sample were psychosis and schizophrenia (38.8%), Bipolar disorder (23.53%), Depressive disorder (21.18%), schizoaffective disorder (8.24%) and others (8,24%).

54 (63.53%) patients were from Santa Coloma area and 35 (41.18%) from Badalona area.

The total mean duration of admission was 40.22 days (SD 26.18 days), with a mean follow-up of 10.09 visits (SD 5.39 visits) and 2.41 teleassistence (SD 2.62).

The mean duration of admission for Santa Coloma patients was 43.98 days (SD 28.59), and for Badalona patients 33.68 days (SD 20.13). Trend without significance is observed (t= 1.77, p=0.08)

We found differences in the mean duration of admission according to referral location. Acute psychiatric unit 33.25 days (SD 18.06), Mental health Center 51.93 days (SD 33.45), Emergencies 34.28 days (SD 19.69) (F=5.1, p=0.008).

Conclusions

Sociodemografic and clinical característics obtained in our study are consistent with those reported in previous studies. The duration of admission of patients referred from the mental health center is longer than those referred from the acute psychiatric or emergency unit. Home hospitalization teams have been increasing in recent years, being an alternative to traditional hospitalization.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Stigma Associated with Mental Illness: Perspectives of Judges and Lawyers in Lebanon
Authors: Mroue R. , Cherro M. , Kassir G. , Dandan N. , Ghossoub E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Legal professionals frequently encounter forensic mental health issues in the criminal justice system. These issues can significantly impact the outcome of cases, making it essential to understand the attitudes and perceptions of these experts towards mental illness. Despite a high number of individuals with mental illness in prisons, the availability of forensic mental health services is limited. While prior research has shown widespread stigma towards mental illness, there hasn’t been a study assessing the attitudes of judges and lawyers.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the stigma related to mental health among Lebanese legal professionals.

Methods

An online questionnaire was sent to judges and lawyers practicing in Lebanon. The survey included a section on demographics and personal data with the following scales: Reported and intended behavior scale (RIBS) which measures mental health stigma–related behavior and Perceived devaluation and discrimination scale (PDD) measuring the extent to which a person believes that most people will devalue or discriminate against someone with a mental illness.

Results

A total of 215 participants, with a mean age of 38.69 and a mean 13.16 years of experience, completed the questionnaire. Most were female (62.8%) and worked as civil attorneys (47.4%). Only a minority received instruction on mental health or mental health law during training (10.7% and 8.8%). About a quarter believed their education on mental health issues was sufficient (27%). Participants with positive attitudes (RIBS) were more likely to have a family member with a mental illness (p value = .001), feel comfortable handling cases involving mental health (p value = .001), and have lived with someone with a mental illness (p value = .007). Feeling adequately educated about mental health issues was associated with lower perceived stigma (PDDS, p value = .021). No significant associations with stigma scores were found for factors like age, gender, occupation, years of experience, contact with a mental health professional, taking psychotropic medications, disclosing personal mental health issues to friends or co-workers, receiving education on mental illness or mental health law, or working with individuals with mental health issues.

Conclusions

The findings imply that enhancing mental health education and awareness within the legal profession could be a key strategy to reduce stigma and improve the overall treatment of individuals with mental health issues within the criminal justice system in Lebanon.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Dysmorphic physical appearance and psychosocial burdens in Klippel-Feil condition
Authors: Bouayed Abdelmoula N. , Rannen R. , Abdelmoula B.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Klippel-Feil abnormality (KFA) is an association of bone defects characterized by a triad: fusion of the cervical vertebrae and consequent short neck, low hairline and a limited motion in the neck. KFA may be a feature of another disorder, such as MURCS association. Familial mutations in the GDF6 (KFS1 8q22), MEOX1 (KFS2 17q21), GDF3 (KFS3 12p13) and MYO18B (KFS4 22q11) genes cause inherited KFA.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to report dysmorphic features and psychological burdens in two sisters with Klippel-Feil condition.

Methods

Two sisters with amenorrhea and dysmorphic clinical features were examined at our genetic counselling. Assessment of dysmorphic and behavioral features and karyotyping using RHG banding were performed.

Results

Familial history revealed consanguineous parents and seven other healthy sisters. Physical examination shown typical triad of KFA. Karyotyping showed 46,XX formula in both patients. The first 22-year-old sister had body asymmetry with size difference between the two sides at the level of bones, pectus excavatum of the sternum, an ascent of the left scapula, scoliosis, dental position abnormalities and facial dysmorphism. The second 28-year-old sister had size difference between the two legs and scoliosis, vitiligo and facial dysmorphism. Anxious and depressed, the two sisters had normal learning abilities but shared many personal psychological concerns regarding their physical appearance and their amenorrhea. They were also exposed to significant discrimination and stigma making them feel excluded and ignored because of their visible difference.

Conclusions

Physical appearance has a profound impact on a person’s life. To our knowledge, there is no reports that describe specific psychological burdens of KFA. Self-esteem, body image, and quality of life is negatively impacted in the case of dysmorphic physical appearance, always associated to social discrimination. Patients with KFA should be assessed not only for associated congenital defects but also for psychological distresses.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Context of implementation of mental health fremekork in Blumenau, Brazil (evidence based)
Authors: Cigognini M. A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Promoting high quality mental health (MS) services is an obligation of many social agents due to the impact of these diseases on the population. Making care increasingly evidence-based does not depend exclusively on technical training, but also on gradual and functional changes in the structure of an institution. Improving the quality of services in MH is a predominantly social intervention, in which it is necessary to group and interpret complex data. They represent real-time interventions in a real world by teams delivering health services.

Objectives

Describe the context where the MH service (iNC) is inserted, its main characteristics and purposes.

Methods

Mixed study identifying the location, socio-demographic data, characteristics and fundamentals of an organization providing services in MH that proposes to act based on evidence.

Results

iNC is a private secondary care institution located in the city of Blumenau, Vale do Itajaí, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil (FIG 1). Vale do Itajaí is a mesoregion with approximately 1.5 million inhabitants composed of small regions: Blumenau, Itajaí Ituporanga and Rio do Sul. Most of the population is of German and Italian descent. Blumenau has 361,261 inhabitants, an average monthly income of 2.9 minimum wages, 97% of schooling between 6-14 years old and the number of deaths of 6.48 (1000 live births). iNC is located in the center of the city (3-story building) with a clinical staff idealized for 3 psychiatrists, 16 psychologists, 4 nutritionists, 1 nurse, 1 nursing technician and 1 physical educator in face-to-face and online, individual and in-person sessions group. Performs care for adult patients between 18-70 years. Its missions are: to promote MS care from an interdisciplinary perspective, to provide health interventions supported by the best individualized scientific evidence and to encourage teaching and research in the field of MH. Its guiding principles are: psychopathology and nosology (DSM-5 and CID-11), neuroscience and psychopharmacology, mood, anxiety, sleep, eating and obesity disorders (FIG 2), psychological treatments and psychoeducation, assessment instruments in MH and neuropsychology, evidence-based medicine, health promotion and disease prevention.

Conclusions

Identifying, measuring and quantifying a local assistance service in MH can help in its development and allow comparisons over time. The improvement of services depends on multiple factors and is necessary for their development, both for researchers, implementers, health professionals and patients.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Stress and its impact on healthcare professionals: A study on prevalence and coping strategies
Authors: Lafraxo M. A. , Guider H. , Boumaaize Z. , Darif H. , El Madhi Y. , Soulaymani A. , Hami H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Stress is a significant issue among healthcare professionals and impacts both their personal well-being and the quality of care they provide.

Objectives

This study evaluated the prevalence of stress among healthcare professionals and investigated the possible effect of physical activity on perceived stress levels.

Methods

In 2019, a cross-sectional observational study of 30 nurses was conducted at the Hassan II Oncology Center in Oujda. A self-administered survey was used to gather information regarding the participants’ sociodemographic and professional characteristics. The Perceived Stress Scale was employed to gauge stress levels, whereas the Ricci-Gagnon questionnaire was used to determine physical activity levels and engagement in sports.

Results

The study findings indicate that the sample had moderate levels of stress measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and struggled with managing stress in diverse situations. Physical activity was common among 87% of the participants, as indicated by the Ricci-Gagnon questionnaire. In addition, a statistically significant correlation was found between stress levels and family situation (p = 0.05). The Perceived Stress Scale and the Ricci-Gagnon questionnaire exhibited high internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.79 and 0.64, respectively.

Conclusions

The study results have raised significant concerns regarding the effectiveness of different coping strategies in managing stress. In particular, the results indicate that engagement in physical activity and sports does not significantly affect stress levels. Thus, stress management training is recommended as the best strategy for stress prevention.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Different patterns of MRI structural alterations in schizophrenia spectrum disorders with delusions of influence vs persecution
Authors: Tomyshev A. S. , Dudina A. , Romanov D. , Ilina E. , Magomedagaev M. , Kostyuk G. , Andriushchenko A. , Smulevich A. , Lebedeva I.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

There is strong evidence that delusions are associated with cortical and subcortical structural alterations. However, whether these abnormalities differ in different types of delusions within schizophrenia spectrum disorders remains unclear.

Objectives

We aimed at exploring structural neural patterns underlying influence/persecutory delusions across diagnostic categories within the schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.

Methods

Twenty six right-handed patients with delusional disorder (n=7) and schizophrenia (n=19), presenting with delusions were divided in two clinical subgroups. The first one was presented with persecutory delusions (n=12, 20.2-55.4 years, mean age 36.0±11.6, 2 females) and the second with delusions of influence (n=14, 21.2-47.6 years, mean age 36.7±8.4, 2 females). The control group consist of 26 matched healthy controls (20.2-53.6 years, mean age 36.3±9.9, 4 females). All participants underwent structural MRI at 3T scanner. MRI images were processed via FreeSurfer 6.0 to quantify cortical thickness (CTh) and volumes for subcortical and brainstem (midbrain, pons, superior cerebellar peduncle and medulla) structures.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, patients with delusions of influence showed decreased gray matter thickness in 17 cortical regions (Figure, A), and decreased volumes of thalamus bilaterally (left: F(1,35)=9.0, p=0.005; Cohen’s d=−0.8; right: F(1,35)=8.0, p=0.008; Cohen’s d=−0.8), left hippocampus (F(1,35)=8.8, p=0.005; Cohen’s d=−0.8), midbrain (F(1,35)=11.0, p=0.002; Cohen’s d=−0.9) and pons (F(1,35)=8.2, p=0.007; Cohen’s d=−0.8). Conversely, patients with delusions of persecution showed decreased thickness only in 4 cortical regions of the right hemisphere (figure, B) and no alterations in subcortical volumes compared to healthy controls.

No differences in cortical or subcortical measures between two clinical subgroups survived corrections for multiple comparisons. No correlations between structural alterations and total PANSS or BABS scores were found in either clinical groups.

Figure. Clusters of decreased cortical thickness according to atlas of Desikan et al. (2006) in delusions of influence (A) and delusions of persecution (B) subgroups compared to healthy controls.

Image:

Conclusions

The findings suggest that patients with delusions of influence have more pronounced cortical, subcortical and brainstem structural deficit as compared to patients with delusions of persecution. However, the limited sample size and the lack of correlations with clinical scores do not allow to conclude definitely whether the revealed structural abnormalities underlies delusions of influence, which should be elucidated via further research.

This study was supported by RFBR grant 21-515-12007

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Body dysmorphia in a 23 year old patient with obsessive compulsive disorder: a case report
Authors: Setién Preciados P. , Arroyo Sánchez E. , Díaz Mayoral C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) was considered an anxiety disorder in the DSM-IV, but in the DSM-V was added to the obsessive-compulsive and related disorders category. BDD is a psychiatric disorder characterised by an excessive, persistent, and distressful preoccupation with a perceived defect in appearance. These perceived defects are slight and are unnoticed by others. People with BDD usually have poor insight and are preoccupied with a perceived physical defect which causes them to check on it repeatedly. This leads to an impairment in psychosocial functioning, depression, and an increase in suicide risk.

Objectives

Review how dismorphophobia (BDD) and obsessive compulsive syndrome intersect, the differences they present in symptomatology, prevalence and treatment.

Methods

Presentation of a patient’s case and review of existing literature, in regards to body dysmorphic syndrome and its similarities and differences with respect to obsessive compulsive syndrome.

Results

There are common features between both disorders, which are genetic overlap, physical past traumatic events, sex ratio, trait of perfectionism and body image disturbance.

Studies have found the prevalence of BDD in patients with OCD in a large patient sample was 8.7% to 15% compared to 3% in non-OCD.

The risk of comorbidity of OCD-BDD is three times higher in samples with a primary diagnosis of BDD compared to those with a primary diagnosis of OCD with 27.5% and 10.4%, respectively.

BDD as well as OCD must be managed with pharmacological and psychotherapy treatment. A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is the recommended first-line medication for BDD, even if appearance beliefs are delusional in nature.

Serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) doses and trial durations are similar to those used for OCD; higher doses and a longer treatment trial are recommended than those typically used for depression and most other disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy that is specifically tailored to BDD is the psychosocial treatment of choice. Simply treating BDD as if it were OCD is not recommended.

Conclusions

There are limitations included a restricted number of studies overall, an absence of studies comparing biological parameters, and the frequent inclusion of participants with comorbid body dysmorphic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The current nosological status of body dysmorphic disorder is somewhat tenuous and requires further investigation, with particular focus on dimensional, biological and aetiological elements.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Prevalence and Associations of geriatric depression in Sudur-Paschim Province of Nepal: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kunwar D.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The elderly population is rapidly growing worldwide. Depression is an important public health concern among the elderly population in terms of its prevalence and the burdens of ill health in individual sufferers and families.

A considerable number of studies focusing on the prevalence, associated factors, and treatment of depression have been conducted in Western Europe and North America. However, this kind of research is relatively limited in Nepal.

Objectives

- To find out and prevalence and its associated factors of depression among the elderly in sudur paschim province Nepal.

Methods

This community-based, cross-sectional, door-to-door survey was conducted in the two representative districts of Sudur-paschim Province, Nepal. Eligible participants were assessed for geriatric depression and quality of life. the sample size was calculated at 945.

Results

Depression was found in 43.9% of the participants.

The association of different variables with WHOQOL-8 first question. Income was significantly associated with poor quality of life (p-value 0.04).

Furthermore, we have evaluated the association of different variables across four domains of the WHOQOL-8 scale and found statistically significant differences across age, sex, residence, occupation, income, history of smoking, history of alcohol use, comorbidities, and depression.

Conclusions

Depression is highly prevalent among the elderly in the Sudur-Paschim Province of Nepal. So policymakers should take this research outcome seriously and should keep the mental health of the elderly population a priority during the implementation of public health policies.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
User involvement in psychiatric research: shifting from traditional research paradigms to collaborative partnerships
Authors: Cavaleri D.
Published: August 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of involving people with lived experience of mental health issues in psychiatric research. User involvement in research goes beyond being merely instrumental and is deeply intertwined with ethical and political considerations. Shifting from traditional research paradigms to collaborative partnerships with users is seen as a crucial step in ensuring that research is more relevant, meaningful, and respectful of the diverse perspectives within the mental health community. While there is a growing interest and responsibility regarding this matter, there is still a need to better understand the differences between participation, engagement, and user-led research alongside a respectful integration of user perspectives.

In this presentation, the state-of-the-art regarding user involvement in psychiatric research will be reviewed and possible ways to practically implement such practice will be discussed.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Prevalence of Dementia, associated Co-morbidities, and Multidisciplinary Team Involvement in a Psychiatry of Old Age Service
Authors: Crowley S. , Dunne E.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Dementia is a common diagnosis in service users seen by Psychiatry of Old Age (POA) Services. This clinical audit was conducted prior to the services engagement with a focus group, which aimed to explore the implementation of the “Appropriate prescribing of psychotropic medication for non-cognitive symptoms in people with dementia” (National Clinical Guideline No. 21) and identify additional resource requirements to be submitted for consideration by the HSE’s estimate process for 2023.

Objectives

Its aims were to evaluate:

•

The prevalence of service users with a dementia diagnosis among those seen by the POA Service, from January 2018-June 2022

•

The prevalence of co-morbid psychiatric diagnoses among those with a dementia diagnosis.

•

The resources needed to manage currently active cases with a diagnosis of dementia, by evaluating MDT member involvement.

Methods

Data is routinely collected on service users treated by the POA service for service evaluation, including service users’ diagnoses, and current MDT member involvement. All service users seen by the POA service between Jan 2018 – June 2022 were included. The total number of service users, and service users with dementia and mild Cognitive impairment were counted, in order to evaluate the prevalence of dementia. We then evaluated the proportion of those with dementia who had co-morbid psychiatric diagnoses. We then looked at currently active cases with dementia, and evaluated how many MDT members were involved in their ongoing care.

Results

392 service users were treated by the service from Jan 2018-June 2022. Of these 104 cases were still active with the service. 152 (39%) of these service users had a diagnosis of dementia. Of those with dementia, 45% (68, n=152) also had another psychiatric co-morbidity. Psychosis was the most common psychiatric co-morbidity, seen in 22% of those with dementia (33, n=152). 12% of active service users with a dementia diagnosis were only seen in outpatients clinics only, 60% were seeing one MDT member, 28% were seeing multiple MDT members (n=25).

Conclusions

Dementia was the most common diagnosis among service users seen by the POA service. 45% of service users with dementia being seen by the POA service also had another psychiatric co-morbidity. Such patients require significant MDT input.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Underrated and Underestimated – Deprivation in Dementia. A Case Report
Authors: Steininger S. C. , Frizi-Roser R. , Schneider S. , Hoang T.-V. , Zetzsche T.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Deprivation is widely known in children and adolescents and means a lack of social, emotional, or sensory stimuli, due to disabilities such as deafness, but also social isolation and reduced parental care. It may cause developmental disorders such as impaired language, motoric and social development. Little is known of the impact of social deprivation in demented patients.Stimulus shielding, which is a widespread option for psychiatric symptoms of dementia such as agitation, vocalization and aggressive behavior may – if frequently used- have similar effects on demented patients.

Objectives

We report the case of a 71-year-old patient with dementia caused by PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy), who was in inpatient treatment due to continuous undirected vocalizations. She presented with inability to walk, dysarthria, aphasia, and hearing difficulties beside major mnestic impairment. In a prior hospitalization and in her residency, she was frequently isolated from other patients due to loud screaming and vocalizations in terms of stimulus shielding by suspected overstimulation. In order to that, for four months, she developed progressive difficulties to speak, hear, understand, as well as gait disorders. In addition, the vocalizations increased.

Methods

We rated the symptoms due to deprivation, triggered by lack of mobilization, social experiences, visual, tactile and acoustic stimuli following a vicious circle of anxiety, vocalizations and recurrent isolations. Therefore, a multimodal therapy assessment was implemented, including daily physical therapy, mobilization, basal stimulation, social reintegration and basal conversation training.

Results

After a few days of high intensity treatment, speech reappeared in form of one- word sentences and proceeded to the ability to have short conversations. Mobility increased, starting from severe gait disorder, including the use of a wheelchair and emerged to the ability of walking up to 50 metres. Additionally, the undirected vocalizations improved and were reduced. In addition, hearing ability improved during the four-week treatment.

Conclusions

This case highlights the impact of deprivation in demented patients. Especially it shows that these symptoms can be reversible under a high intensity multimodal and multi- professional treatment within a few weeks. Therefore, stimulus shielding, should be carefully evaluated in order to prevent deprivation – and thus deterioration of the symptoms – in demented patients.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Fibromyalgia: functional, autoimmune or both? Treatment options for drug-resistant fibromyalgia
Authors: Desport C. P. , Martins D. O. , Freitas J. R. , de Castro L. C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

fibromyalgia is a modern disease, with growing investigation concerning its etiology and treatment. It has become a very prevalent diagnosis and total remission of symptoms is the exception which is dramatic considering the socio-occupational impact of this highly debilitating disease.

Objectives

to review the updates in the pathophysiology and treatment of fibromyalgia, especially when it is refractory to treatment. The authors also intend to better understand where fibromyalgia belongs, is it in psychiatry as a functional disorder or in rheumatology as an auto-immune disease?

Methods

bibliographical search in PubMed database, using the key-words “fibromyalgia” and “psychiatry”, limited to works published in the last 10 years.

Results

from our search resulted 158 articles, from reading of abstracts 30 were chosen for further reading.

Conclusions

concerning the etiology of this disease, on the one hand psychological factors cannot be neglected since there are several studies finding a positive correlation between stressors like history of physical abuse and fibromyalgia in adulthood, on the other hand investigation and meta-analysis have found that the immune-inflammatory response system might be altered with dysregulation of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines and cell-mediated immunity. Regarding treatment, symptom relief is often unsatisfactory with classical treatment and so adjunct treatment such as electrical neuromodulation and aerobic exercise might, respectively, be effective in reducing pain and depressive symptoms, thereby improving quality of life, and in improving fatigue and in a lesser degree sleep.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Level of personality functioning among outpatients with predominant anxiety symptoms
Authors: Bogdanovska Toskic A. , Arsova Hadzi-Angjelkovska S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Dimensional diagnosis of personality disorders has as its main criterion the assessment of the level of functionality. And in patients with other diagnostic categories, there is a difference in the degree of functioning, as well as a difference in the course and prognosis of the disorder. The reason for such a different course may be the existence of a certain degree of personality dysfunctionality.

Objectives

The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of personality disorder in patients with neurotic disorder and predominantly anxiety symptomatology.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was made to determine personality disorder in patients with neurotic disorder (F40-F48, excluding those where the disorder is related to stress F43) and predominantly anxiety symptomatology. The HAM-A scale was used to assess anxiety, and the LPFS-BF-2.0 was used to assess the level of personality functioning. The results were processed by descriptive statistical analysis.

Results

The study included 25 individuals (N 25, 64% women), aged between 18 and 65 years (mean age 44.16, SD 13.20) with a diagnosed neurotic disorder. All subjects had elevated anxiety symptomatology, mean HAM-A score was 35.36 (SD 7.76). The assessment of the level of personality functioning with the LPFS-BF-2.0 gave the following results: 20% of people have a personality difficulty, 12% have a mild personality disorder, 32% have a moderate and 4% have a severe personality disorder.

Conclusions

According to the obtained results, 68% of people with a neurotic disorder and a high degree of anxiety have a certain degree of personality dysfunction. The prevalence of personality disorder in individuals with neurotic disorder is high (48%). These results lead to the conclusion that people with pronounced anxiety often have a disruption in personality. In people with a high level of anxiety, an assessment should be made for the level of functioning of the person, as well as for the existence of a personality disorder, and the treatment should be adjusted according to the results obtained. In addition to the treatment of the emerging symptoms, the personality dysfunctions should also be treated.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Typology of hyperthymic personalities with affective phases
Authors: Barkhatova A. , Churkina A. , Sorokin S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Modern authors characterize hyperthymic individuals as eloquent, humorous, self-confident, optimistic, energetic, liberated, sexually active, constantly planning and implementing their plans. Four or more of the listed characteristics indicate the individual’s involvement in the circle of hyperthymic people. Statistical data on the prevalence of hyperthymic is scarce, which is due to rare requests for help and the diagnosis of this condition not as a disease, but within the framework of characterological traits. Attempts to classify hyperthymics have been made more than once, but previously none of the authors divided them according to the presence of side character traits in the personality structure.

Objectives

To establish psychopathological types of hyperthymic individuals in whom affective states were formed.

Methods

The sample consisted of 50 patients (42 women, 8 men) who were on inpatient or outpatient treatment at the clinic since 2019 to 2022. Patients were examined by clinical-psychopathological, clinical-anamnestic methods due to the presence of a phase affective state.

Results

Four types of hyperthymic personalities have been identified: anxious-hyperthymic, hysterical-hyperthymic, schizoid-hyperthymic and standard hyperthymic. Anxious-hyperthymic type,
20% (n=10) characterized by a combination of increased activity, sociability with such traits as suspiciousness, perfectionism, meticulousness, exactingness, concern for one’s health and the desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Hysterical-hyperthymic type,
46% (n=23) includes both hyperthymic and hysterical traits in the form of increased emotionality, egocentrism, drama, and desire for recognition from others. In addition, patients in this group are characterized by increased concern about their appearance (bright clothes, makeup, tattoos). Schizoid-hyperthymic type,
10% (n=5). In addition to increased activity and emancipation, patients in this group are prone to fantasizing, overvalued hobbies, sthenicity, emotional poverty and rationalism. Standard type,
24% (n=12) are characterized by the presence of typical hyperthymic traits - optimism, energy, constant desire for productive activity, success in the chosen profession, rapid career growth, sociability, openness.

Conclusions

Hyperthymic individuals with the development of affective phases are heterogeneous in their psychopathological structure and have features of the pathocharacterological structure that make it possible to distinguish anxious-hyperthymic, hysterical-hyperthymic, schizoid-hyperthymic and standard types. The developed classification of hyperthymia reveals the predominance of the hysterical-hyperthymic type (46%).

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Achieving self-awareness through film screening “Twin Peaks” By D. Lynch as an example of mindfulness meditation
Authors: Nowocień J. K. , Szejko N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Transcendental cinema, distinguished from slow cinema by Paul Schreader, draws on the philosophy of existentialism and depicts the complexity of the human psyche using psychoanalytic tools. We claim that through the use of special procedures, the projection of transcendental cinema essentially becomes a meditation session in the spirit of mindfulness, which has been proven to alleviate and cure more than just neuropsychiatric ailments.

Objectives

The purpose of this work is to demonstrate the similarity between mindfulness philosophy and transcendental cinema. We believe that the assumptions of both currents are so similar that we can treat the film screening in the category of a meditation session. Thus, we arrive at a situation in which we not only watch the protagonist developing his own consciousness in accordance with the mindfulness philosophy (also following the path of psychoanalysis), but also we, as viewers, develop self-awareness.

Methods

We analyze D. Lynch’s Twin Peaks series in accordance with Paul Schrader’s understanding of ‘transcendental cinema’. In addition, we use the scientific achievements of classical psychoanalysts, analyzing the metaphysical world of the characters in accordance with this trend. Using J. Kabat Zinn’s scientific publications, we analyze cinema in terms of a meditation session.

Results

Participation is crucial; in meditation and in the transcendental cinema. Mindfulness means focusing on the emotions and feelings experienced at a given moment, on what comes to us, what we experience. Transcendental cinema using specific formal and narrative tools (e.g. extended scenes, no cuts, etc.) forces us to actively participate. Transcendental cinema fulfills the tenets of mindfulness, and during the screening we undergo a meditation session. What’s more, this style in cinema allows an in-depth exploration of the psyche, it brings us closer to the metaphysical, emotional dimension of humanity what develops in us the ability to understand the psyche of others, as well as our own.

Conclusions

We claim that the similarity between the philosophy of mindfulness and transcendental cinema allows us to treat a film screening as a meditation session. Cinema enriches us not only with knowledge about disorders and the therapeutic process, but is in itself a supportive tool - screening can allow viewers to deepen their awareness and improve their health. What is more, David Lynch’s work brings us closer to exploring the human psyche and the individualization of inner experiences, while also showing us what influence transcendental meditation has on characters and what happens when they undergo a kind of therapy; in the spirit of psychoanalysis or mindfulness philosophy.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Post-traumatic stress disorder in parents of schizophrenic patients at the Arrazi Psychiatric Hospital in Salé following familial violence
Authors: Ait Bensaid N. , El Omari F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Parents whose adult child has a serious mental illness are at risk of serious violence from their child. One of the reasons for the high risk of PTSD is violence in the home [1,2]. The high risk of PTSD in parents of patients with schizophrenia is an issue of great concern because parents are likely to fear repeated violence and, therefore, to object to patients being discharged from hospital.

Objectives

To assess the existence of post-traumatic stress disorder in relatives of patients with schizophrenia treated at the Arrazi University Psychiatric Hospital in Salé following familial violence.

Methods

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study using a questionnaire including sociodemographic criteria, clinical criteria, questions about domestic violence and an “IES-R” post-traumatic stress symptom assessment questionnaire to investigate the existence of post-traumatic stress disorder in relatives of patients with schizophrenia followed up at Arrazi University Psychiatric Hospital in Salé following familial violence.

Results

The response of 72 relatives of schizophrenic patients was collected. About 70% of the participants were mothers. The average age of the participants was 58. All lived with children who had been treated for schizophrenia for more than 18 years (57% of participants). Around 20% of these children were in hospital at the time of completing this questionnaire.

About 80% of the children with schizophrenia spent all their time at home, and about 89% of the participants had already been victims of violence from their sick children. 90% had been sworn at and insulted, the majority blamed themselves for the illness, about 56% had already been kicked or punched, and 36% had already received death threats and 12% serious injuries/.

For all items, parents with a high IES-R score had significantly more experiences of violence than parents with a low IES-R score. The percentage of parents with a high IES-R score was 45%.

Conclusions

The experience of severe violence and hospitalisation of a patient was related to a high risk of post-traumatic stress disorder in parents. These two factors can be considered as traumatic events arising from crisis situations and can have harmful consequences for parents and their schizophrenic children, who are sometimes rejected. There seems to be a need to create crisis intervention programmes that offer a multidisciplinary approach capable of rapidly detecting the exacerbation of a serious mental illness and providing rapid and intensive treatment as quickly as possible. Finally, the provision of support, education or treatment for parents during their child’s hospitalisation is essential.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
A randomized controlled trial comparing trauma-focused treatment with and without concurrent personality disorder treatment in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder and comorbid borderline personality disorder
Authors: Snoek A. , Dekker J. , Beekman A. , Beekman A. , Aarts I. , Aarts I. , van den End A. , Blankers M. , Vriend C. , van den Heuvel O. , Thomaes K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) often co-occur. There is growing motivation among clinicians to offer trauma-focused treatments, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to patients with PTSD and comorbid BPD. However, a large subgroup of these patients does not sufficiently respond to trauma-focused treatment and is more likely to be excluded or dropout from treatment. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for BPD is well established and although there is some evidence that DBT combined with prolonged exposure is twice as effective in reducing PTSD symptoms than DBT alone, the comparative efficacy of trauma-focused treatment with and without concurrent PD treatment has not been investigated yet.

Objectives

The current study will therefore evaluate the comparative clinical efficacy of EMDR with and without concurrent DBT in patients with PTSD and comorbid BPD.

Methods

Adult patients were randomly assigned to EMDR with (n = 63) or without concurrent DBT (n = 63). A wide range of clinician-administered and self-report assessments were conducted before, during and up to six months after treatment. The longitudinal change in PTSD severity as the primary outcome was measured using multilevel mixed regression in SPSS. The present study is part of the overarching Prediction and Outcome Study in comorbid PTSD and Personality Disorders (PROSPER), which consists of a second RCT comparing trauma-focused treatment with and without concurrent PD treatment in patients with PTSD and cluster C PD.

Results

Results, available in January 2024, will reveal which treatment works best for this difficult-to-treat group of patients.

Conclusions

This is the first study to compare the clinical efficacy of EMDR with and without concurrent DBT in patients with PTSD and comorbid BPD. Results will reveal which treatment works best for this difficult-to-treat group of patients.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The Role of Alcohol Use Disorders in the Development and Progression of Dementia
Authors: Abu Shehab A. H. I. , Simona T. , Ciubară A. B. , Voinescu D. C. , Buciu C.-F. , Ciubară A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In recent years, there has been an increase in interest and research into the link between alcohol use disorders (AUD) and dementia. Alcohol use disorders, which are characterised by excessive and problematic alcohol consumption, have been associated to a variety of detrimental health effects, including liver disease, cardiovascular difficulties, and cognitive impairments.

Objectives

To explore the link between alcohol use disorders and dementia onset and progression, explaining probable causes and emphasising preventive approaches.

Methods

The present study involved a thorough examination of relevant research papers, with a specific emphasis on longitudinal cohort studies, neuropathological observations, and biochemical interactions pertaining to the effects of alcohol on the brain. In addition to the aforementioned criteria, the review also took into account other complicating factors, including choices regarding lifestyle, genetic predisposition, and coexisting medical conditions.

Results

The results indicate a strong association between prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption and a heightened susceptibility to the early onset of dementia. The mechanisms underlying alcohol-related neurological damage encompass direct neurotoxic effects of alcohol, thiamine shortage, and alcohol-related cerebrovascular illness. Moreover, it is worth noting that alcohol use disorder (AUD) has the potential to worsen the advancement of neurodegenerative processes in individuals already diagnosed with dementia.

Conclusions

The association between AUD (Alcohol Use Disorder) and dementia is complex and involves multiple factors, presenting considerable difficulties in terms of clinical intervention and treatment. The use of early intervention strategies and public health initiatives focused on addressing alcohol use disorder (AUD) could have a significant impact on preventing or reducing the development of dementia.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Assessment of the relationship between psychotic-like experiences and traumatic life events: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Boudriga S. , Methni M. , Ben Nasr S. , Larnaout A. , Ouali U. , Aissa A. , Ventura J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Traumatic life events (TLEs) have been associated with the entire spectrum of psychosis outcomes, including risk and severity of psychotic disorders and psychotic-like experiences (PLEs). In a non-clinical setting, understanding the relationship could help improve prevention services.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to establish the relationship between TLEs and PLEs.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Tunisan business and engineering school from March 2022 to June 2022. Participants completed the Tunisian dialect version of the Prodromal Questionnaire-Brief (PQ-B), a validated self-report instrument designed to evaluate prodromal symptoms. TLEs such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect experiences, lived or witnessed have been assessed along with bullying experiences.

Results

The final sample size consisted of 358 participants, with a median age of 22 ± 2.22 years, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 1.41. More than half of the participants (58.6%) reported having experienced TLEs (49% in the preceding 6 months) while 31% had experienced bullying or abuse in school (27.9% in the preceding 6 months). The mean total score of the PQ-B for the study population was 7.27 ± 4.387, 36.3% reached the threshold and were defined as PQ-B-positive subjects. Those with a lifetime history of major life events were more likely to screen positive on the total score PQ-B (p = 0.000), as were those with a lifetime history of bullying or abuse (p = 0.000).

Conclusions

Understanding the factors that interact in the significant association between PLEs and TLEs may provide useful information for prevention programs and the improvement of mental health.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared