bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Euthanasia - A Novel Intricacy for Psychiatry’s Purview?
Authors: Alberdi-Páramo Í. , Pérez-Lombardo M. , Pemán-Rodríguez J. , Ibáñez Vizoso J. E. , Baena Mures R. Á. , Niell Galmés L. , Rodríguez Quijano J. , Montero-Hernández G.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Numerous countries, notably within Europe, have sanctioned the practice of euthanasia. Extant legal frameworks meticulously define the extent, essence, and application of euthanasia, encompassing divergent characterizations, explications of entitlements, procedural modalities, and provisions for access. Nonetheless, the precise function of psychiatrists within these legislative contours remains conspicuously nebulous.

Objectives

The present inquiry undertakes a comprehensive evaluative review of the euthanasia phenomenon vis-à-vis the intricate tapestry of European legislative paradigms, with an emphasis on elucidating the multifaceted involvement of psychiatry within this evolving landscape.

Methods

A nuanced narrative review is undertaken, encapsulating the contemporary state-of-affairs, fundamental conceptual architectures, the tenets of the Spanish Organic Law 03/2021, and the pharmaceutic armamentarium deployed in the orchestration of euthanasic practices. Additionally, the methodological blueprint employed within a prominent tertiary healthcare institution situated in Madrid is meticulously expounded.

Results

To date, euthanasia has garnered legal imprimatur across diverse jurisdictions including, but not limited to, the Netherlands, Belgium, Colombia, Canada, Spain, and New Zealand. The ambit of assisted death and its application to the domain of mental infirmities is meticulously deconstructed. Within the overarching realm of foundational concepts, a rigorous delineation is rendered between euthanasia, medical succor in the throes of mortality, assisted self-termination, facilitated demise, provision of mortal release, judicious calibration of therapeutic enterprise, and the contours of palliative sedation. Distinction between the principal executor and the advisory consultant is rendered salient. The rubric of conscientious objection emerges as an inviolable entitlement of healthcare practitioners enmeshed in the provisionary matrix.

The enduring incumbency of the psychiatrist as a pivotal appraiser of cognitive and volitional faculties holds firm. The conspicuous influence of psychopathological constellations upon the contours of euthanasia eligibility precipitates cogent deliberation.

Conclusions

As the frontiers of euthanasia expand to encompass an augmented array of legal jurisdictions, this study underscores the increasingly intricate role inhabited by psychiatrists in the matrix of evaluative assessments. The proclivity of mental maladies to exert a substantial gravitational pull upon determinations of eligibility for euthanasia accentuates the exigency for refined explication of roles and responsibilities within this evolving sphere, a clarion call resonant not only within the precincts of psychiatry but reverberating across the broader firmament of medical praxis.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Artificial intelligence, Internet addiction, and palliative care
Authors: Tei S. , Fujino J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have recaptured and revised the essential roles of death in life and mind. However, their prospects and risks require further study. Because of the development of digital technologies (for example, AI-based chatbots), the process of bereavement may have become complex, immersive, and even addictive. Furthermore, AI-enabled generation of medical notes can ease the administrative burden for healthcare professionals; however, the clinical application of generative AI remains largely speculative.

Objectives

This study aimed to illuminate the emerging concept and experience of death, bereavement, and addiction associated with cybernetics, thereby expanding their cognitive and ethical aspects.

Methods

In this preliminary review, we performed a literature search to identify the current state-of-the-art literature on AI and Internet addiction. We also inspected the possible adaptations to pursue mental well-being with the modified death concept. We mainly searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases using relevant keywords. All retrieved studies were assessed for eligibility to reduce the selection bias.

Results

Current cybernetics have meaningfully recontextualized death that allows interaction with deceased individuals (for example, scholars and artists) to establish their virtual, besides biological, existence using AI-based chatbots. Furthermore, AI consistently provides evidence-based answers to public health inquiries; nevertheless, it may offer unsuitable advice rather than referrals that can sometimes facilitate suicide or harm (instead of help) people in grief, thus requiring more fine-tuned governance. Accordingly, the maladaptive use of existing AI-related communication (such as metaverse characters) can increase Internet addiction prevalence and further complicate autonomy and self-motivation. In addition, excessive internet access is frequently associated with reduced self-control, cognitive flexibility, and exaggerated automatic processing.

Conclusions

We are challenged to acknowledge the tradeoffs of AI and consider ways to compromise by employing flexible perspectives. The emerging concept of death affects or improves the conventional one. The potential advantages and pitfalls of AI-related technology must be carefully weighed against the profound effects they may have on people’s identities, relationships, and mental health. These issues require continued monitoring and assessment in light of the AI/cybernetic-related studies. We hope these results will inspire further research into the appropriate use of AI and palliative care, including suicide prevention, euthanasia, and grief management.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Obsessive-compulsive symptoms in professional tennis players
Authors: Gurrieri R. , Arone A. , Parra E. , Palermo S. , Marazziti D. , Gemignani A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Engaging in moderate physical activity holds a vital role in our daily lives, serving as both a means of social recreation and a fundamental contributor to physical and mental wellbeing. It is also worth noting that such activity can potentially produce mood-enhancing effects by promoting neurogenesis and neuronal adaptability. Intriguingly, certain individual psychological traits such as rituals, compulsions, obsessional thinking, and superstitious beliefs, as well as inflexibility in daily routines, appear to serve a purpose in competitive athletic endeavors.

Objectives

The aim of our study was to investigate the possible presence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms or disorders, as well as of superstitions or magical thinking, in a group of professional tennis players, by means of standardized assessment scales, as compared with healthy subjects who did not professionally perform any kind of sport activity.

Methods

Twenty-five current or former professional tennis were recruited within the Italian Tennis Federation during an international competition and during a master meeting of coaches. All of them underwent a psychiatric interview with a structured scale and a psychopathological assessment carried out with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) and the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS). Data were analyzed and compared.analysis was performed by means of contingency tables, χ² tests, group statistics, paired, independent and Mann Whitney’s tests.

Results

The Y-BOCS total score was significantly higher in both current and retired athletes than control subjects (5.96 ± 5.76 versus 1.24 ± 2.65, p = 0.001, t = 3.72). Current athletes showed more frequently current aggressive obsessions (χ2 = 0.041, r = 5.24) and current miscellaneous compulsions (χ2 = 0.030, r = 5.94) than past athletes. The Y-BOCS (t = 3.4, p = 0.002) obsessions (t = 3.48, p = 0.002), and compulsions subscale (t = 3.11, p = 0.005) scores were higher in current players than in the other group.

Conclusions

Our results support the hypothesis that high-level competitive sports activities, which suppose compliance with strict daily routines and extensive training, could constitute a risk factor for the onset of full-blown obsessive-compulsive disorder in more vulnerable subjects. Similarly, there is a growing demand for sport psychological support experts in order to prevent high stress in training and competitions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Validation of the rating scales for negative symptoms: new strategies
Authors: Leucht S. , Wehr S.
Published: August 2024

Negative symptoms of schizophrenia are linked with poor functioning and quality of life. Therefore, appropriate measurement tools to assess negative symptoms are needed. The NIMH-MATRICS Consensus defined five domains for negative symptoms. We used the COSMIN guidelines for systematic reviews to evaluate the quality of psychometric data of negative symptom scales as Clinician-Rated Outcome Measure (ClinROM). COSMIN assesses risk of bias, so called updated criteria of measurement properties, a modified GRADE approach and a final judgement on the rating scale. In the lecture the process will be described using the Brief Negative Symptom Scale and the Clinical Assessment Interview for Negative Symptoms (CAINS) as examples.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Rapid cycling bipolar disorder and atypical anorexia nervosa: changes in drug metabolism
Authors: Teišerskytė J. , Norvainytė K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex mental illness described by recurrent episodes of mania and depression. One subtype of the illness is rapid cycling BD, characterized by experiencing four or more extreme mood swings within a year. Diagnosing and treating BD can be complicated by comorbid conditions, such as atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN), marked by disordered eating and disturbing weight-related thoughts.

Objectives

To discuss the diagnosis and treatment plan of a patient with rapid cycling BD, who experienced adverse effects from prescribed medication and later was diagnosed with comorbid AAN.

Methods

We present a case of a 21 year-old man initially presenting with anxiety, low mood, and obsessive weight-related thoughts, ultimately diagnosed with major depression and mixed anxiety disorder.

Results

21 year-old man was diagnosed with major depression and mixed anxiety disorder, initially treated with mirtazapine and fluoxetine (limited success), later attempting escitalopram and bupropion combination (partial remission). After 2 years the patient discontinued the treatment due to feeling “euphoric”, subsequently experiencing depression and manic episodes – the initial diagnosis was rapid cycling BD. The treatment was changed to sodium valproate (up to 1500 mg/day) and aripiprazole (up to 10 mg/day), however extremely rare adverse medication effects (nosebleeds, diarrhea with blood admixture, “high-frequency sounds”) were reported. Throughout valproate treatment, the patient experienced persistent diarrhea. During hospitalization for treatment adjustment lithium carbonate was introduced at a starting dose of 900 mg/day, maintaining blood lithium levels between 0.4 mmol/l and 0.49 mmol/l. Later the dose was adjusted and a therapeutic lithium blood level was reached with 1575 mg/day of lithium carbonate. Additionally, risperidone was prescribed, however, the patient experienced an uncommon adverse reaction – nasal congestion. Subsequently, amisulpride was introduced, which provoked severe anxiety and fear, resulting in medication discontinuation. During the latest outpatient visit, fluoxetine was added to the treatment due to observed depressive symptoms. Throughout the treatment, the patient episodically intermittently starved, had persistent distressing thoughts about weight and was diagnosed with AAN. While planning further treatment it was hypothesized that comorbid AAN might affect drug metabolism and the patient was referred to a specialized inpatient facility for eating disorder management.

Conclusions

This case report highlights the complexity of psychiatric disorders and the importance of monitoring and adjusting treatment based on patient response and side effects. Additionally, it emphasizes comorbid conditions significance in influencing the primary disorder’s dynamics as well as the metabolism and effectiveness of psychiatric medications.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Touch hunger: trajectory and predictors of longing for physical contact during the COVID-19 pandemic in people with and without psychiatric disorders
Authors: Mann S. E. , Kok A. L. , Rius Ottenheim N. , Giltay E. J. , Penninx B. W.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Little is known about touch hunger (longing for physical contact) during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for people with pre-existing mental health disorders.

Objectives

We aim to investigate the dynamics of touch hunger in people with and without depressive, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the potential predictors for touch hunger during lockdown.

Methods

Data were aggregated from three Dutch ongoing prospective cohorts with similar methodology for data collection. We included participants with pre-pandemic data gathered during 2006–2016, and who completed up to 9 online questionnaires between October 2020 and February 2022. We compared trajectories between subgroups with different pre-pandemic chronicity of disorders and healthy controls using linear mixed models. Sociodemographic, clinical (number and type of mental health disorders, personality traits) and COVID-19-related variables were analysed as predictors of touch hunger using multivariate linear regression analyses.

Results

We included 1061 participants with (n = 811) and without (n = 250) mental health disorders. In all groups, touch hunger increased during lockdown (Fig. 1). Extraversion (β = 0.256, P <0.001), social distancing due to COVID-19 anxiety (β = 0.122, P = 0.001) and death of a close contact from COVID-19 (β = 0.073, P = 0.02) predicted higher touch hunger, while living with a partner (β = -0.109, P = 0.004) or with a partner and children (β = -0.147, P <0.001) were protective factors for touch hunger. Remarkably, pre-pandemic mental disorders did not predict touch hunger during lockdown.

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Conclusions

Social distancing measures have important psychological and emotional implications, as our study showed an increase in touch hunger during lockdown, which did not differ between people with and without mental health disorders. Extroverted individuals may benefit most from interventions aimed at addressing their need for physical contact during times of crisis.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Tunisian parents’ expectations and approaches regarding sex education of their children according to their age: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rouached S. , Rouached M. , Lagha M. , Boudriga S. , Boumnijel A. , Dakhli A. , Zakhama K. , Ben Romdhane I. , Homri W. , Labbane R.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Adolescents often lack vital information for making wise sexual and reproductive decisions, leading to risks like abuse, unwanted pregnancies, and infections. Comprehensive, early, and age-appropriate sex education is crucial. While parents should play a significant role, many underestimate their responsibility. The perception of sex education is changing, with younger parents being more open to participating in their children’s education.

Objectives

This study compares the approaches of Tunisian parents with adolescent and pre-adolescent children towards sex education.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional design to collect data from Tunisian parents of children between the ages of 1 to 18 using an online survey. Two groups were recruited based on the age of their children, one group had parents of children younger than 10 years old, and the other had parents of adolescents. The survey included questions about the participants’ demographics, approach to sex education, reasons for their approach, and opinions on sex-related education in public schools. The survey was anonymous and confidential, and data were collected from January to March 2023 through various social media platforms.

Results

This study surveyed 232 Tunisian parents with children between the ages of 1 and 18, divided into two groups based on the age of their children. The majority of participants were female (62.1%) and married (81.9%). The majority of participants in both groups agreed that sex education is important and indispensable, but only 54.7% of parents in the older children group responded positively to teaching sexual education as an independent subject. There was a significant difference between the two groups regarding their opinions about the appropriate age of sexual education for their children, and who they think should discuss sexual and reproductive health with young people. Most participants indicated that the human body and its development, sexual and reproductive health, prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and infections, contraception as well as puberty are the most important subjects to be addressed. Sexuality and sexual behaviors, the concepts of violence and safety, interpersonal relationships, consent, insults, harassment, and sexist cyberbullying were less frequently mentioned.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of sex education in Tunisia. Parents in both groups support it but differ on timing and integration. Barriers like communication challenges and religious beliefs exist. These insights can guide tailored sex education programs for Tunisian parents, promoting youth sexual and reproductive health.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Inflammatory based psychotic symptoms: when psychosis means encephalitis
Authors: Rojnic Kuzman M.
Published: August 2024

Schizophrenia, as one of the most common disorders from the psychotic spectrum is most commonly detected in the phase of first psychosis and may pose a diagnostic challenge, as commonly comprise a heterogeneous group of schizophrenias, with distinct clinical presentations. If it detected in its prodromal phase without clearly developed psychotic symptoms, the diagnosis is even more unreliable, as the transition to full blown psychosis in the next two years happens in 15-40% of more, depending probably on a variety of cumulative environmental risk factors (including childhood trauma, the use of high-potency cannabis, urbanicity, season of birth). Moreover, the first episode psychosis may underlie for example the first manic episode, brief intermittent psychotic symptoms in persons with borderline personality disorders, acute reaction to trauma, the use of cannabis and psychostimulants and different organics causes, such as endocrinologic disorders and autoimmune encephalitis. Therefore, in everyday clinical practice, the diagnosis of first episode psychosis always requires an assessment of possible causes of psychosis, and also factors that may influence prognosis and treatment. Usual assessment include detailed anamnestic and heteroanamnestic data, physical examination, standard blood laboratory findings, drugs in urine/ blood, EEG and CT/MR scan. The absence of typical risk factors for schizophrenia, as well as the absence of premorbid symptoms and developmental course typical for schizophrenia, abrupt course of psychotic symptoms, symptoms such as disorientation, catatonia, speech disturbances, alteration of consciousness, neurologic signs, autonomic dysfunction and laboratory aberrations may be especially indicative for organic cause and possibly encephalitis and require further confirmation with the analysis of cerebrospinal liquor with antineuronal antibodies.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Peer Support in Psychosis Care: A Valuable Resource for Recovery
Authors: Cunha F. , Santos I. , Castro N. , Andrade R. , Almeida E. , Abreu J. , Martins J. , Vaz R. , Borges S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

A variety of peer support workers have been integrated in the mental health workforce in several countries. The effectiveness of this approach is still inconclusive. However, some data reveals promising results. Some projects have integrated peer support intervention in the treatment of psychosis. In fact, UK clinical guidelines for psychosis advise the inclusion of peer support within Early Intervention in Psychosis services.

Objectives

The current study aims to evaluate how peer support may assist the intervention in psychosis and highlight challenges ahead in this field.

Methods

Narrative review of the available scientific literature.

Results

Research suggests that consistent and frequent peer support enhances social support and boosts self-confidence and the overall quality of life for people going through psychosis. Individuals diagnosed with severe mental illnesses who receive peer support reportedly experience an increased sense of control, hopefulness, and empowerment, enabling them to initiate positive changes in their lives. People going through psychosis experience internalized stigma. Destigmatization of psychotic experiences is a central theme of intervention in psychosis. Participants viewed peer support as a valuable form of assistance that could offer advantages to both peers (service users) and peer support workers.

Conclusions

Peer support makes a strong contribution to destigmatising psychosis. The available date is promising and supports the effectiveness of peer support in such instances. As projects of peer support in psychosis continue to be implemented, further research should provide additional insight into the effectiveness and inherent challenges of this type of intervention.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The role of long-acting antipsychotics in illness relapse: an observational study
Authors: Berardelli I. , Mancinelli I. , Rogante E. , Erbuto D. , Trocchia M. A. , Longhini L. , Rapisarda L. , Bruzzese A. , Sarubbi S. , Pompili M.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In patients affected by Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder disorders the use of antipsychotic drugs is essential in preventing the exacerbation of symptoms. The use of long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics is considered an important treatment option. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and predictors of relapse during antipsychotic treatment with LAIs in a sample of psychiatric outpatients up to a year after the start of long-acting therapy.

Objectives

The study included 103 adult patients admitted to the psychiatric unit of Sant’Andrea University Hospital in Rome.

Methods

We evaluated duration of untreated illness, previous treatments, substance abuse, suicidal status, LAI dose, and use of other medicines for association with new episodes of illness or of symptomatic worsening as well as hospitalization, using bivariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

Seventy-three patients were diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum and 30 with bipolar disorders. Age at study entry averaged 36.7 years (SD= 11.55). 40.8% of patients were women. The mean age at onset were 23.11 (SD= 7.0). All the other information were reported in Table 1. On 103 patients undergoing with LAI treatment for a year only 9 (8.7%) patients had a relapse during the study period. The two groups differed according to the presence of hospitalization during the 12 months before the LAI treatment (p = .022), in particular patients with relapse were more hospitalized than patients with no relapse (62.5% vs. 21.7%). Moreover, group with relapse were more at risk of suicide during the 12 months before the LAI treatment than the other group, for both suicidal ideation (11.1% vs. 4.3%; p= .015) and attempt (25.0% vs. 3.2%; p= .049). Finally, the two groups differed according to the side effects reported during the year of LAI treatment (χ² =38.48; p< .001). Specifically, patients’ group with relapse reported more side effects caused by parkinsonism (25.0% vs. 1.1%) and tremor (25.0% vs. 0%). No differences were found for the other variables (See table 1).

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Conclusions

In conclusion, our observations confirm the importance of LAI therapy in real word. However, our results indicate that these drugs might not prevent subsequent exacerbations for a proportion of individuals whose illness is stabilised on continuous antipsychotic treatment. Extra pyramidal symptoms in particular might have pathophysiological implications for relapse.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Insomnia and Its Association with Successful Aging in the Older Indian Population: A Large Population-Based Study Based on LASI, Wave 1
Authors: Leng S. , Jin Y. , Tang X.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Evidence regarding the link between insomnia and successful aging (SA) in the older generation remains scarce.

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship of insomnia with SA within a substantial sample of the community-dwelling Indian population.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI), Wave 1, conducted during 2017-2018. Older participants aged 60 years and above who completed both the insomnia and SA surveys were included. Insomnia was determined by the presence of at least one of three symptoms: 1) difficulty in initiating sleep; 2) difficulty in maintaining sleep; or 3) early morning awakening, occurring 5 or more times per week. SA was assessed by five components: 1) absence of chronic diseases; 2) low probability of disability; 3) high cognitive functionality; 4) low probability of depression; and 5) active social engagement. The association between insomnia and SA was examined through survey-weighted multivariable logistic regression, with adjustments made for potential covariates. Subgroup analyses were carried out to evaluate interactions with age, sex, alcohol use, and smoking status.

Results

A total of 31362 participants met the eligibility criteria. The overall weighted prevalence was 9.91% for insomnia and 23.94% for SA. In fully adjusted models, insomnia exhibited a negative association with SA (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.63-0.78, see Table 1) and with each of SA’s components, except for the absence of chronic diseases (OR 0.94; 95% CI 0.85-1.04, see Table 1). Subgroup analyses, stratified by age, sex, alcohol use, or smoking status, did not reveal any significant interactions between insomnia and SA (p for interaction = 0.098, 0.873, 0.704, 0.095, respectively).Table 1.

Relationship between insomnia and successful aging.

InsomniaORs (95% CIs)Unadjusted modelModel 1Model 2NoReferenceReferenceReferenceYesSuccessful aging0.50 (0.45, 0.55)0.54 (0.49, 0.60)0.70 (0.63, 0.78)Absence of chronic diseases0.66 (0.61, 0.71)0.65 (0.60, 0.70)0.94 (0.85, 1.04) †Low probability of disability0.43 (0.40, 0.46)0.45 (0.42, 0.49)0.51 (0.47, 0.55)High cognitive functionality0.66 (0.61, 0.72)0.75 (0.68, 0.83)0.78 (0.71, 0.87)Low probability of depression0.33 (0.30, 0.36)0.34 (0.31, 0.38)0.38 (0.34, 0.42)Active social engagement0.79 (0.73, 0.86)0.87 (0.80, 0.95)0.86 (0.78, 0.94)

† p > 0.05; ORs, odds ratios; 95% CIs, 95% Confidence intervals.

Model 1 adjusted for: age, sex, level of education, work status, marital status, place of residence, economic status, caste; Model 2 adjusted for: model 1 plus body mass index (BMI), alcohol use, smoking status.

Conclusions

Insomnia was negatively linked with SA within the older Indian population. Future prospective studies are warranted to validate these relationships, investigate underlying mechanisms, and enhance the understanding and promotion of SA.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Women’s addiction : experiences at Arrazi Psychiatric Hospital in Morocco
Authors: Khallouk A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medicine. there is a complex interplay of neurobiology, genetics, and the environment --nature and nurture-- that play into the development of addiction, alcohol, and other drug use disorder.Substances such as alcohol, marijuana and nicotine also are considered drugs.

Research has shown that women often use drugs differently, respond to drugs differently, andcan have unique obstacles to effective treatment as simple as not being able to find child care orbeing prescribed treatment that has not been adequately tested on women.

Objectives

describe the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of female patients admitted to the addictology department of Arrazi Hospital in Salé

Methods

Retrospective study with descriptive and analytical aims on the files of women who were admitted to the addictology service since its opening in 2000, with the aim of specifying the prevalence and the characteristics of addictive behaviors in the female population.

Results

in progress

Conclusions

in progress

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The Relationship Between Problematic Internet Use (PIU) and Psychological Distress: A cross- sectional study
Authors: Theodoratou M. , Varvitsioti M. , Kougioumtzis G. A. , Tsitsas G. , Kaltsouda A. , Flora K. , Papathanasiou C.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Problematic Internet Use (PIU) has emerged as a widespread social challenge and is characterised by an individual’s inability to regulate their internet use, culminating in a negative impact on their daily life. It is vital to explore the possible mediating relationship between psychological distress and unregulated Internet use.

Objectives

The study aims to explore the relationship between problematic Internet use, psychological distress and quality of life.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, participants engaged in a structured data collection process using Google Forms, responding to a series of questions developed through a quantitative methodology using a Likert scale questionnaire.

The K-6 Distress Scale and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life (WHOQOL) were used in conjunction with questions about demographics and problematic internet use.The integration of these multiple measures aimed to provide comprehensive insights into the effects and patterns of Internet use and its association with different levels of distress and demographic variables.

Results

Statistical data analysis revealed notable associations between psychological distress and several variables, including age, education, employment status and health, but no significant associations were found with place of residence or marital status. Significant associations were also found between problematic Internet use (PIU) and variables such as age, education, employment, marital status and health. However, no significant association was found with place of residence. Quality of life was also found to be correlated with age, employment status and health, but not with marital status or educational attainment. In addition, the analysis revealed a strong association between problematic internet use (PIU) and psychological distress. A concurrent increase in reported psychological distress was observed as PIU levels escalated, reinforcing the relationship between excessive internet use and psychological wellbeing. This suggests that PIU may be associated with increased levels of mental distress in the population studied.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the multifaceted dynamics of mental distress, PIU, and quality of life in relation to demographic factors. It underscores the importance of holistic approaches to mental health that consider individual characteristics and behaviors, with a particular focus on addressing the challenges posed by problematic internet use. Further research and tailored interventions are needed to better understand and support people facing these complex issues.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Prevalence, sociodemographic factors and psychological distress related to compulsive buying online
Authors: Mnif M. , Guermazi F. , Mnif D. , Abid W. , Feki I. , Baati I. , Masmoudi J.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Since that the online commerce provides an important shopping environment, it has been argued that traditional buying-shopping disorder may migrate into the online market.

Objectives

The aims of the current study were to investigate the prevalence of online buying-shopping disorder, and to determine sociodemographic and psychological factors related to this addictive behavior.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study was conducted among subjects who had already made at least one online shopping. Data was collected using a self-questionnaire published by GOOGLE FORMS. Assessment included the short version of the Internet Addiction Test modified for online shopping sites (s-IATshop). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) has been used to assess anxiety and depression.

Results

A total of 137 participants aged 34.62 ± 9.82 years completed the online questionnaire.

Only 4 (2.9%) participants had a probable compulsive buying shopping on line.

The HADS-A score ranged from 0 to 14, with a mean of 6.85 +/- 3.49 and almost half of the participants (44.5%; N=61) had anxiety symptoms.

A high s-IAT shopping score was correlated with secondary or university education (p=0.046). We also found that women, who were younger and had higher incomes, had the highest scores on the s-IAT-shopping scale, without however confirming statistical significance.

Conclusions

Our study has shown the potential vulnerability factors for compulsive online shopping disorder. Thus, this behaviour deserves to be taken into account in behavioural addictions.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Exploring treatment specifics of addictive disorder in a young adult living in a post-war middle income country with rapid social and cultural transition: a qualitative case report
Authors: Agani N.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Addictive disorder, characterized by the tendency to abuse an illicit substance or manifest a repeated risky behavior, is a fairly common phenomenon occurring in the last 50 years, predominantly in middle and high income countries. While psychotherapy has an evident positive impact in the treatment of the disorder, data has shown that it is often not sufficient to achieve full remission and have optimal positive impact in the quality of life compared to simultaneous use of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and psychosocial rehabilitation.

Objectives

The aim of the study is to highlight different specifics of the inpatient treatment of “Mr. E”, living in a post-war middle-income country with rapid social and cultural transition.

Methods

Subject of this case study is “Mr. E” a 17 year old student with a history of family trauma with a long history of abuse and ambulatory psychiatric treatment. Data has been analyzed from the medical history of the patient treated in 2023, in the substance abuse unit of the Department of Psychiatry, University Clinical Center of Kosova. Semi structured interviews, daily abstinence symptoms evaluation and self - report measures were used to gather qualitative data throughout the treatment process. Treatment protocol consisted on: detoxification, pharmacotherapy and simultaneous supportive individual and group psychotherapy, with the goal to evaluate, treat and reintegrate “Mr. E” into the society free of illicit substance abuse. Comorbidities are correlated with underlying causes, while a healthy lifestyles are promoted through the work on behavior changes that will support optimal social reintegration in a rapid changing social and cultural environment.

Results

The findings revealed several significant therapeutic objectives such as: Enhanced self – awareness; Reduced ruminations and increased self-control; Enhanced quality of life; and Decreased substance abuse. Detoxification protocol in the treatment of addictive disorder in inpatient psychiatric treatment was essential for abstinence symptom management during crisis. Strengthening the body parallel to healing the mind was found as an important stepping stone.

Conclusions

Combined, detoxification, psychopharmacological, and psychotherapeutic approach was essential for successful treatment of a young adult in a post-war middle income country with rapid social and cultural transition.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Mental health impact of fentanyl abuse, a case report
Authors: Lorenzo - Chapatte G. , Guerra Valera G. , Marqués Cabezas P. , Vázquez L. R. , Ríos Vaquero M. , Monllor Lazarraga A. , Pando Fernández M. P. , Martínez Gimeno P. , Andreo Vidal M. A. , Calvo Valcárcel M. , Rodríguez Rodríguez B. , Navarro Barriga N. , Mateos Sexmero M. J. , Fernández Lozano M. , Jiménez Aparicio T. , De Andrés-Lobo C. , Vallecillo Adame M. D. C. , Guillén Soto M. D. L. Á. , Sobrino Conde L. , Aparicio Parras A.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

In recent years, there has been an increase in the prevalence of illicit use of fentanyl and other opioids in the United States population. This has led to an increase in medical, psychopathological and abuse-associated comorbidity, an increase in deaths and a decrease in the age of consumption, and has become a serious emerging problem in young people.

We present the case of an 18-year-old woman from the United States who recently settled in Spain and started a follow-up in Mental Health due to opioid and other substance abuse problems.

Objectives

To address the growing problem surrounding the illicit use of fentanyl and opioids as drugs of abuse based on the presentation of the clinical case mentioned above.

Methods

Bibliographic search and description of a clinical case of a patient under follow-up by Mental Health at the “Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid”.

Results

An 18-year-old woman from the United States who has been living with her father in Spain since the summer of 2023, having moved to Spain due to problems related to substance abuse.

With no previous medical or surgical history and with a history of follow-up in Mental Health in her country of origin for depressive symptomatology, dysfunctional personality traits and abuse of different toxic substances since adolescence.

After a brief and erratic follow-up in Psychiatry for anxious-depressive symptoms reactive to a complex and conflictive relationship with his mother and marked academic difficulties during the first years of adolescence, at the age of 15 he started using cannabis and alcohol, thus beginning a period marked by relationships with marginalized sectors of the population, substance abuse and school failure.

As his cannabis consumption intensified, he began to consume fentanyl prescribed to his mother, as well as other opioids to which he had access illegally, for which reason he had to be admitted twice to detoxification centers without results, which is why his family finally decided to move him to Spain.

Conclusions

In recent years, fentanyl abuse has become a serious public health problem that is mainly centered in the young population.

High levels of impulsivity and lack of frustration tolerance predispose to the use of illicit substances for elusive purposes.

Substance abuse carries with it not only an important organic comorbidity, but also a marked socio-familial and economic repercussion.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
The amount of drunk days and its relationships with other characteristics of alcoholic behavior of the respondents
Authors: Kuzminov V. , Linskiy I. , Minko O. , Denisenko M. , Tkachenko T. , Zadorozhny V. , Malykhina N. , Minko O. , Lakinskiy R. , Vasilyeva O. , Herasymov B. , Herasymov D. , Yurchenko O.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Alcohol abuse is a multifaceted problem. Its harmful effects on the individual have been more studied. Less studied is the influence of a drinking person on his microsocial environment. Having an abusing person in his space makes it interesting to study the influence of some quantitative and qualitative indicators of his alcohol consumption on the microsocial environment.

Objectives

1532 people were examined during 2018-2022, who belonged to three comparison groups: patients with alcohol dependence (AD) (401 people); healthy relatives of AD patients (725 people); representatives of the general population comparable with the representatives of the first two age groups (406 people).

Methods

The main research instruments were the questionnaire of the international research consortium “GENAHTO” (Gender, Alcohol, and Harms to Others), as well as the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). The obtained data were processed by methods of mathematical statistics (variance, correlation and regression analysis).

Results

An algorithm for regression analysis in conditions of high dispersion of the initial data has been developed. Using this algorithm, it was shown that the regression dependence of the main characteristics of alcohol behavior on the frequency of DD is non-linear, while for typical and maximum doses of alcohol it is optimally described by polynomials of the second degree, and for the severity of disorders due to alcohol use (AU), the time spent on AU, as well as self-assessment of the negative impact of AU by respondents on their environment - by polynomials of the third degree. It was found that for men (on average) to reach the border of risky-dangerous AU (according to the criteria of the AUDIT test), a lower frequency of DD is sufficient than for women, which indicates a greater vulnerability of men (compared to women) to the formation of disorders due to AU.

Conclusions

It was established that for men (on average) to reach the limit of risky and dangerous (according to the criteria of the AUDIT test), a lower frequency (2-3 times a week) is enough than for women (3-4 times a week), which once again indicates greater vulnerability of men (compared to women) to the formation of due to psychological problems and mental disorders.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Psychiatric comorbidities among patients hospitalized in the addictology department of Ar Razi hospital in Morocco
Authors: Bensalah Y. , Sabir M. , Elomari F.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Comorbidity between psychiatric disorders and disorders linked to psychoactive substance use is common and represent a real public health problem.

The association of a psychiatric disorder can, in certain cases, modify the treatment methods and also the evolution of the addictive behavior.

Objectives

Determining the prevalence of psychiatric comorbidities in patients with substance use disorder Identify the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized in the addictology department.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study with descriptive and analytical aims, in order to study psychiatric comorbidities in 150 patients with substance use disorder hospitalized in the addictology department of Ar Razi hospital in Salé over a period from June 1, 2022 to August 30, 2023.

Data collection was done using a questionnaire including clinical and socio-demographic characteristics, the prevalence of problematic use of psychoactive substances and the comorbidity of psychiatric disorders (diagnoses assessed by DSM 5 criteria).

Results

A male predominance was noted (80%). The main substances consumed in the last 12 months were tobacco (98%), cannabis (74%), alcohol and benzodiazepines.

The majority of patients presented at least one psychiatric comorbidity (80%), with a predominance of depressive disorder and anxiety disorders.

Personal history of suicide attempts was found in 30% of the sample Substance dependency that prompted initially the consultation was higher in patients with psychiatric comorbidity (p < 0.05)

Post-traumatic stress disorder was significantly associated with the presence of problematic cocaine and alcohol use. Social phobia is associated with the absence of a criminal record.

Conclusions

Addictive behaviors are often associated with psychiatric disorders. The most common psychiatric comorbidities are depression, anxiety and personality disorders, hence the need for simultaneous treatment of psychiatric pathologies and addictive behavior

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Group therapy for problematic chemsex in Ngos community treatment settings in Spain
Authors: Curto Ramos J. , Sanz Velasco N. , Carballeira L. , López Álvarez I. , Barrio P. , Ibarguchi L. , García A. , Dolengevich Segal H.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The intentional use of drugs before or during sexual intercourse (chemsex) is a phenomenon of special importance in the MSM (men who have sex with men) population due to its impact on mental, physical and sexual health. Group therapy has been included in several programs for chemsex users.

Objectives

To describe and to compare the different group therapy treatments for problematic chemsex users in NGOs community treatment settings in Spain.

Methods

We conducted several interviews with key informants from 5 NGO in Spain. A qualitative analysis of the different group therapy treatments for problematic chemsex was performed.

Results

Different models of groups were described including: psychoeducational, support, interpersonal process, harm reduction and mindfulness-based cognitive groups. Most of the group interventions developed were support and psychoeducational based. There were fewer interpersonal group and relapse prevention group therapy. The different models of group intervention were considered useful and necessary for deliver information in a culturally sensitive context and for reducing drug use, social isolation and loneliness.

Conclusions

Chemsex is a phenomenon that needs a multidisciplinary approach, including individual and group therapy. Group therapy for problematic chemsex has several advantages over individual model treatments, including the reduction of sense of isolation, loneliness, information and feedback from peers. More research is needed to analyze the implementation and efficacy of group therapy for chemsex users in different contexts.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Nomophobia and psychological distress in a sample of young adults and adults
Authors: Pinheiro S. , Maia B. R.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Nomophobia comes from the term “no-mobile-phone phobia” and describes the discomfort, stress, or anxiety caused by the absence of a cell phone or any other virtual communication device in individuals who use these devices frequently. Research, although scarce, points to a statistically significant relationship between nomophobia and psychological distress factors such as anxiety, depression, and stress.

Objectives

To explore the relationship between nomophobia and psychological distress in a sample of young adults and adults

Methods

The sample was composed of 194 Portuguese subjects, aged between 18 and 30 years old (M = 22.08, DP = 2.89), who sulfilled a sociodeomographic questionnaire, and the Portuguese version of the Nomophobia Questionnaire, and of the Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Scale.

Results

The entire sample showed some type of nomophobic symptomatology, specifically 59.3% (n = 106) had moderate nomophobia and 24.2% (n = 40) had severe nomophobia. Positive and statistically significant correlations, with strong magnitude, were found between nomophobia and anxiety (.46**), depression (.58**), and stress (.50**) subescales. Females presented significantly higher nomophobia levels (Md = 109.35) compared to males (Md = 71.66), U = 2480.50, p <.001, with an hight effect size (d =.69). A significant and negative correlation was found between nomophobia and age (.-.18*).

Conclusions

Nomophobia was present in all the sample, and it is related to psychological distress. Females and younger subjects presented higher nomophobia levels. Further studies are needed to clarify their etiology, but some preventive and remediative actions need to be developed in order to minimize its emergence and their negative psychological impact.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared