bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Dynamics of Information Search Queries about COVID-19 at the Self-Isolation Stage
Authors: Belinskaya E. , Tihomandritskaya O. , Stolbova E. , Tsikina E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The dynamics of search queries in large random samples may reflect both the reaction of the population to the statements of power subjects, and the presence of certain mechanisms of emotional self-regulation.

Objectives

Studying the dynamics of information search queries in the situation of experiencing an objective global threat-the spread of COVID-19.

Methods

Quantitative methods of the Data Mining class were used for data collection. Qualitative methods of the Data Mining class and contextual analysis were used for data analysis. Search queries related to COVID-19 and the introduction of self-isolation were analyzed: 5 million queries were randomly selected.

Results

The number of information requests on the topic of the pandemic increased sharply after V. Putin’s first address, and then steadily decreased, but the overall picture of the content dynamics of search queries, depending on official statements of the authorities, was not observed; requests about the current level of morbidity are constantly presented to the greatest extent, and to the minimum-about the possibilities of psychological assistance and the state of the Russian economy. During the whole time of the study the contents of the Internet search shifted towards positive emotional information.

Conclusions

. To the maximum extent, the relationship between the experience of a pandemic and self-isolation with the nature of search queries manifests itself at the initial stages and tends to decrease in the future. The dynamics of the content of requests is ambiguously related to official statements of power subjects, influenced by the effect of counter-regulation.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Variable feelings of cohesion, trust, individualism and exclusion and their consequences on Swiss public mental health during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kraxner F.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The first cases of COVID-19 in Switzerland were related to the Milan cluster in February 2020. Border crossing restrictions were imposed and economic support measures worth 40 billion Swiss francs were announced. By 24th September 2021 Switzerland achieved a fully vaccination rate of 54%, confirmed 836’000 cases and 11’060 deaths.

Objectives

The objective was to describe and analyse the mental health of the general Swiss population under the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and it’s social changes: including a case description, transgenerational influence and psychosocial treatment opportunities

Methods

To answer the research question, I used deepened internet research, population interviews among different age gropus and colloquies with healthcare providers and federal authorities.

Results

Different psychosocial phenomena lead to the transgenerational influence. Unfortunately, vaccination rate is slowed down by this pandemic’s impacts on public mental health. While during the first wave the positive feelings of cohesion and trust dominated, the mood changed afterwards to anxiousness and reactive individualism. Among all generations the fear of infection was shown to be a general booster of anxiety and distress. In fact, Swiss experts perceive the corona crisis as a catalysator for depression and anxiety disorders.

Conclusions

Specific psychosocial treatment has to address general and individual vulnerability factors. However, staying in touch with family members, pursuing meaningful activities and being physically active can all help to overcome COVID-19 related mental health issues.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Post-traumatic stress symptoms and professional quality of life among healthcare professionals working in COVID departments
Authors: Elleuch O. , Feki R. , Smaoui N. , Gassara I. , Maalej M. , Omri S. , Charfi N. , Zouari L. , Ben Thabet J. , Maalej M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID pandemic had a heavy impact on the mental health of people in general and healthcare professionals in particular.

Objectives

Our study aimed to examine the the prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms among healthcare professionals working in COVID departments, and assess their professional quality of life.

Methods

Our sample consisted of 23 healthcare professionals who are working in the COVID departments of the Hospitals of Sfax. We collected their sociodemographic data, their medical history and COVID-related details. Their mental health was assessed by the Impact of Event scale (IES-R) and the professional quality of life scale (ProQOL-5)

Results

The sex ratio in our study was 17:6, with a mean age of 31.79 years. They carried out 5.43 nightshifts per month, 57 hours of work per week including 27.38 hours of direct contact with COVID positive patients. A rate of 21.74% of the patients had a high IES-R score, indicating severe post traumatic stress symptoms. As for the subscales of the professional quality of life score, 21.73% of the participants had a low compassion satisfaction score, 65.21% of the participants had a moderate one and 13% had a high one. A rate of 91.3% of the participants had a moderate burnout score, the mean was 29.39. The secondary traumatization score was low in 26% of the cases, moderate in 60.86%, high in 13% and the mean was 27.91.

Conclusions

COVID healthcare professionals are at a relatively high risk of developing burnout and post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Suicide Prevention in Patients with Severe Mental Disorders
Authors: Courtet P.
Published: September 2022

Until 2016, only few interventions were supposed to work in suicide prevention: restriction of access to lethal means, school-based universal prevention, treatment of depression and ensuring chain of care. Then, despite the multiplication of the therapeutic strategies for psychiatric disorders during the last decades, the incidence of suicide has not substantially decreased. Among several hypotheses, we proposed that suicidal depression is a specific form of depression, less responsive to antidepressants, carrying a high suicide risk, which deserves specific interventions. During the last decade, few controlled studies have been performed in at risk patients with short term reduction of the risk of suicide as a main objective, and the interest for old drugs such as lithium and clozapine remains. Recent data allow to propose that a new era is coming with evidence-based strategies of suicide prevention that should lead to change the way we deal with suicidal patients. Importantly, most efforts to develop interventions have moved to a perspective that suicide- specific treatments are necessary in addition to interventions for primary psychiatric disorders. By formulating the hypothesis that suicidal patients present a dysregulated response to social adversity based on specific brain areas associated with psychological pain, relying to opioidergic, immune and glutamatergic systems. Last, due to the difficult management of suicidal patients, innovative psychosocial interventions should be implemented for patients in suicidal crises and including safety planning, coordination of care, brief contact using phone calls. We have probably more solutions than ever to prevent suicide.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
High Resolution Covid Program. Purposely a case
Authors: Ogando Portilla N. , Bañón González S.M. , Martínez Cortés M. , Agudo Urbanos M. , Gutiérrez Labrador R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The covid pandemic has become a unique phenomenon in world history with great impact on mental health.

Objectives

A great growth of anxious depressive pathology in relation to the Covid situation has appeared with the need to increase the psychiatric approach in the general population

Methods

A 58-year-old woman with no personal medical story of interest is referred to the high-resolution Covid program due to severe depressive symptoms: intense apathy, abulia, anhedonia, weight loss, insomnia and important social distancing after the beginning of the confinement due to the Covid Pandemic. 4 psychotherapy sessions are performed, with a maximum duration of 45 minutes. It is necessary to add antidepressant medication with sertraline up to 100mg to improve psychotherapeutic work.

Results

A complete recovery of symptoms is achieved even their severity with normalization of daily life.

Conclusions

Small psychotherapeutic interventions have been shown, even with critically ill patients, to be very effective in helping patients regain their baseline status.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on people with a pre-existing psychiatric disorder
Authors: Khouadja S. , Asgharzadeh M. , Younes S. , Zarrouk L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a deleterious impact on populations across the world. Yet it remains unclear how this pandemic is affecting the psychological health of people with a previous history of mental illness.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the impact of Covid-19 on patients with established mental disorders.

Methods

The PubMed and science direct databases were systematically searched using the keywords combination “Covid-19” and “psychiatric disorders”, “the pandemic” and “mental disorders “, from inception up to November 2021. We adopted a broad inclusion criterion for the study requiring patients to have a pre-existing mental disorder, excluding narrative reviews and preclinical studies. In addition, a search of google scholar was conducted to identify any additional relevant publications.

Results

We have found 26 studies but only 19 met our inclusion criteria. Included studies were published between 2020 and 2021. 2 major results were identified. Symptoms deterioration was reported in individuals with severe mental disorders and those with schizophrenia in particular, such as depressive or anxiety symptoms, substance use and suicidal ideation, due to the psychological stress and physical distancing measures associated with the Covid-19 outbreak. The symptomatic treatments used in Covid-19 had frequent interactions with the most used antipsychotic drugs leading to a substantial increase in relapse rates in people with mental disorders.

Conclusions

The Covid-19 pandemic has a serious impact on individuals with pre-existing mental illness reinforcing symptom severity and psychological stress. Additional studies are needed to strengthen current findings with pre-pandemic records.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Vaccination day and perceived stress among university teachers
Authors: Haddar A. , Sellami I. , Abbes A. , Derbel N. , Halweni H. , Masmoudi R. , Bouattour M. , Masmoudi J. , Hammami K. , Masmoudi M.L. , Hajjaji M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Covid-19 vaccination in adults become a common behaviour nowadays. It may induce stress in some of the vaccinated patients.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate perceived Stress among university teachers desiring to be vaccinated.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study on Tunisian university teachers who participated in a COVID-19 vaccination campaign organized in June 2021. A self-administered questionnaire was administered. The survey dealt with socio-professional data and the level of stress assessed with the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10).

Results

A total of 100 participants were included. The mean age was 51 years ±7. The Sex Ratio (M/F) was 1.7. The majority of participants were married and reported living with their families (96%). On a 0 to 10 scale, 71% of participants described an excellent health status and rated it greater than or equal to 8. The average job tenure was 15 years. The PSS-10 showed moderate and high perceived stress in 86% and 4% of participants, respectively. Only 10% of university teachers presented low-stress perception.

Conclusions

Getting vaccinated against Covid-19 is crucial in order to protect the population. This behaviour could be associated with a big amount of stress. Taking into account the psychiatric mental condition is crucial for the vaccinating health care providers in order to alleviate this experience.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The consequences of the pandemic among patients with psychiatric history
Authors: Gurita A.V. , Abu Shehab A.H.I. , Luca L. , Isabela N. , Terpan M. , Ciubara A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Throughout this period we were confronted with news and information about the Corona virus and its consequences. Which led to the development of a huge sense of fear among people. Although fear has helped to maintain restrictions, it has also had a significant impact on mental health, especially among patients with a psychiatric history.

Objectives

In this paper I will highlight the consequences of the nocebo effect of the pandemic among people with a psychiatric history.

Methods

To complete this work I used medical articles, studies, and specialized information on the subject.

Results

The pandemic’s restrictions have made it difficult for psychiatric patients to be compliant treatment by avoiding regular psychiatric exams.Isolation and fear of infection has led to new decompensations in existing psychiatric pathologies.

Conclusions

The exacerbations of psychiatric pathology increased both in number and in their intensity, ultimately determined by the increase in the number of hospitalizations in psychiatric emergencies.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Fear of death and the pandemic
Authors: Abu Shehab A.H.I. , Gurita A.V. , Luca L. , Isabela N. , Terpan M. , Ciubara A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Looking at the vast majority of mental disorders in the last year, we noticed that most of them were closely related to this feeling of fear but also to the restrictive measures that appeared with the pandemic. Exposure for a period of more than a year to this mental stress has led to the appearance of a large number of psychiatric patients, especially those who have undergone SARS-CoV-2 infection or who have had close people infected, some of whom have even died.

Objectives

In this paper I will highlight the post traumatic consequences in patients who have gone through the disease.

Methods

To complete this work I used medical articles, studies, and specialized information on the subject.

Results

Patients who have gone through the disease developed sleeping problems, phobias, various anxiety and delusional disorders.

Conclusions

These conditions create the need for a multidisciplinary approach among this particular category of patients.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Mental Health Refugees - Difficulties from the country of origin to the receiving country – A review
Authors: Vila-Chã D. , Leal B. , Pinto I. , Mateiro R. , Avelino M. , Salgado J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The most recent global refugee figures are staggering, with over 82.4 million people forcibly displaced as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, human rights violations. However, little is known about their long-term mental health.

Objectives

This review aimed to assess prevalence of mental disorders and to identify the main factors associated with the development of mental disorders among refugees.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE databases using the key terms “refugees” and “global mental health” without language or date restriction. Articles were considered for inclusion in the review if they comprised a population of refugees. Three studies were identified.

Results

Our review showed a great heterogeneity in the prevalence of mental disorders that affect migrants showing an overall prevalence of 20% of these pathologies among them. War-related factors are more associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and post-migration-related factors (acculturation, economic uncertainty and ethnic discrimination) are more associated with mood, anxiety and substance use disorders.

Conclusions

Existing evidence suggests that mental disorders tend to be highly prevalent in refugees many years after resettlement. The increased risk is not only caused by the past adversities in the country of origin but also by the post-migration-related factors. Thus, there is a need for more consistent and rigorous research from a methodological point of view on the mental health of refugees, allowing to find measures to protect and promote their mental health.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Regional specificity in the subjective evaluation of factors determining health in Russians
Authors: Shilko R. , Shaigerova L. , Almazova O. , Dolgikh A. , Vakhantseva O.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Important role of sociocultural mediation of human health is reflected in the regional specificity of subjective evaluation of factors determining human health.

Objectives

The research is focused on the opinion of respondents from different regions of Russia about the importance of various factors that determine health and subjective well-being.

Methods

210 men and 403 women aged 14 to 76 years (M=26.9; SD=13.7) from six regions of the Russia (Moscow, St. Petersburg, Udmurtia, Sakha, Sverdlovsk and Kemerovo) participated in the study. Respondents were asked to rank six factors (genetics, healthy lifestyle, good ecology, regular medical examination, absence of stress, financial well-being) in terms of their impact on health (1 is the most important, 6 is the least important).

Results

It was revealed significant differences among respondents from different regions of the Russia in evaluation of importance of health factors such as “genetics” (F=3.317; p=0.003) and “good ecology” (F=5.008; p<0.001). Respondents from the Sverdlovsk consider “genetics” significantly more important than participants from the Sakha (MD=-0.706; p=0.019) and Kemerovo (MD=-0.859; p=0.015). Respondents from St. Petersburg consider the ‘good ecology’ significantly less important than participants from Moscow (MD=0.791; p=0.046), Udmurtia (MD=0.867; p=0.035), Sakha (MD=1.168; p<0.001), and Kemerovo (MD=1.286; p<0.001).

Conclusions

Regional specificity was found in the subjective evaluation of the importance of factors that determine health and subjective well-being. The reported study was funded by the RFBR, project number 17-29-02506.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Art-therapy focused on stimulating the emotional and expressive skills of children with special educational needs
Authors: Lorint L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The link between school education and art therapy is supported by the fact that it comes to supplement the common school education activities of children with special educational requirements with a dual purpose: to complete and fix their specific content; to train and practice as much as possible the students’ minds and critical thinking through artistic means.

Objectives

Prevention of absenteeism and school dropout of the child with special educational requirements through art therapy.

Methods

In art therapy, the most used methods specific to the fields of visual arts are: drawing, painting, icon, modeling on the wheel, but other techniques can be used. Children are the ones who choose their work materials and activities from the offer that the art therapist makes.

From the offer of materials, the beneficiary prefers to paint porcelain objects and letters. He was challenged to identify letters after which he painted them.

Results

Increasing the feeling of social utility, self-confidence. Improving school situation. Reducing school dropout and literacy.

The beneficiary has an interest in letters and numbers and their writing. Form words quickly, easily identifying letters. Create your own games by comparing numbers. Make puzzles with letters and numbers.

Art education helps the beneficiary to more easily express their emotions, perceptions, desires and way of thinking. Learning numbers and letters becomes a fun activity when using colors.

Conclusions

The child needs education through art, because without it there is an imbalance in the fundamental purpose of man, that of developing harmoniously and multilaterally.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Depressive disorders among physician parents in times of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Regaieg N. , Ben Touhemi D. , Fayala A. , Boudabous J. , Kammoun W. , Khemakhem K. , Hadj Kacem I. , Ayadi H. , Moalla Y.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Studies have shown that physicians manifest a clear duty to work. For parents, reconciling work with parenthood is not easy and can even lead to depression.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and the factors for depression in Tunisian physician parents.

Methods

This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of 93 Tunisian physician parents, conducted on google drive in March 2021, including a questionnaire containing the parents’ personal and professional data and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Results

In our study, the sex ratio (M/F) was 0.05. The average age was 34.43 years old. Almost three-quarters of doctors (71.3%) were providing on duty services in the hospital while 69% were providing at least one call per month in COVID units. The average BDI score was 6.16. According to the BDI score, 60.9% of participants had depression. The BDI score was correlated with several types of dissatisfaction: dissatisfaction with the relationship with his child (p = 0.002), time devoted to the partner (0.001), time devoted to the child (p = 0.004), child’s educational style (p <0.001), time spent on leisure or personal activities (p <0.001), child’s academic performance (p = 0.001) and child’s behavior (p <0.001). Furthermore, the BDI score was associated with postponing having a child for career reasons (p = 0.038) and thinking that his career is slowed down by parenthood (p <0.001).

Conclusions

Depression’s rate among physician parents appears to be significant. It’s associated with a feeling of guilt and dissatisfaction, hence the necessity of an early detection and management.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The characteristics of bipolar dipression
Authors: Jupe T. , Zenelaj B.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The National Institute of Mental Health describe the main symptoms of bipolar disorder as alternating episodes of high and low mood. Changes in energy levels, sleep patterns, ability to focus, and other features can dramatically impact a person’s behavior, work, relationships, and other aspects of life. Most people experience mood changes at some time, but those related to bipolar disorder are more intense than regular mood changes, and other symptoms can occur. Some people experience psychosis, which can include delusions, hallucinations, and paranoia.

Objectives

Through this research we aimed to identify all the special features of bipolar depression which will help the clinical psychiatrists in easier diagnosis and management of the disorder.

Methods

Literature review (PubMed)

Results

Clinical Characteristics in Favour of Bipolarity in Depression: psychomotor retardation, history of psychotic depression,history of psychotic depression shortly after giving childbirth, frequent catatonic symptoms, atypical depressive features, severe impairment in interpersonal relationships, inconsistency in business life, history of hypomania, mania or mixed episode,common feeling of numbness and anhedonia; less common sadness and feelings of guilt, mood instability, volatility in temperament, frequent change in affect, daydreaming during the episode and daily life, short duration of depression <3 months, poor cognitive functions during depressive episode, generally similar symptom severity during the day and night etc.

Conclusions

This leads to misdiagnosis of bipolar depression as unipolar depression, which in turn leads to delayed correct diagnosis and treatment and may severely affect the patient’s entire life.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Mood disorders as a risk factor for family aggregation of somatic diseases
Authors: Kasyanov E. , Mazo G.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Mood disorders (MDs) are associated with somatic diseases and tend to aggregate in families. But there are limited studies on the risk of somatic diseases for relatives of patients with MDs.

Objectives

To assess whether a patient’s mood disorder diagnosis is associated with a family history of somatic disorders.

Methods

This cross-sectional family study included 36 patients with MDs (66.7% women; age - 32 [11.2] years) and 68 of their relatives, and 23 healthy individuals (56,5% women; age - 30.5 [6.9] years) and 53 of their relatives. A Pearson’s χ2 test was used to compare the frequencies of family history of somatic disease. Logistic regression models were used to determine the independent association of MDs, after adjusting for the effects of sex, age, with binary characteristics.

Results

Individuals with and without MDs had different frequencies of family history of cardiovascular (66,7% vs. 43,4%; p=0,03) and endocrinological diseases (47,2% vs. 39,1%; p=0,04). There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of family history of gastrointestinal, pulmonary, urogenital and musculoskeletal diseases (p>0,05). Logistic regression revealed that MDs diagnosis in patients was a risk factor for cardiovascular (p=0.03, OR=3.5) and endocrinological disease (p=0.04, OR=3.7) in their relatives.

Conclusions

MDs are associated with the aggregation of somatic diseases in families. Future research is needed to clarify the biological reasons for this association.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Associations between implicit and explicit affective inhibitory control, trait rumination and depressive symptoms
Authors: Nahum M. , Van Vleet T. , Jordan J. , Shimony O. , Bonne O.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Inhibitory control is the executive function component which underlies one’s ability to maintain goal-directed behavior by inhibiting prepotent responses or ignoring irrelevant information. Recent models suggest that impaired inhibition of negative information may contribute to depressive symptoms, and that this association is mediated by rumination. However, the exact nature of this association, particularly in non-clinical samples, is unclear.

Objectives

The goal of the current study was to assess the relationship between inhibitory control over emotional vs. non-emotional information, rumination and depressive symptoms.

Methods

A non-clinical sample of 119 participants (mean age: 36.44 ± 11.74) with various levels of depressive symptoms completed three variations of a Go/No-Go task online; two of the task variations required either explicit or implicit processing of emotional expressions, and a third variation contained no emotional expressions (i.e., neutral condition).

Results

We found that for participants who reported elevated depressive symptoms, their inhibitory control ability was reduced for all three task variations, relative to less depressed participants. However, for the task variation that required implicit emotion processing (rather than explicit), depressive symptoms were associated with inhibitory deficits for sad and neutral, but not for happy facial expressions. An exploratory analysis showed that the relationship between inhibition and depressive symptoms occurs in part through trait rumination for all three tasks, regardless of emotional content.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results indicate that elevated depressive symptoms are associated with both a general inhibitory control deficit, as well as affective interference from negative emotions, with implications for the assessment and treatment of mood disorders.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Perfectionism in academic settings and relationship to depression and socio-demographic characteristics
Authors: Bouhamed M. , Sallemi R. , Bouaziz A. , Kallel I. , Feki I. , Masmoudi J.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Acute measles encephalitis is a pathology of the central nervous system. It is most frequent in children but can also be described in adults. Given the rarity of this pathology, we present the case of this patient.

Objectives

To assess perfectionism and depression and to study the relationship between these two parameters in a population of medical students.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study among students of the Faculty of Medicine of Sfax during the months of June, July, and August 2020. The data were collected through a self-questionnaire disseminated on the social network “Facebook”.This questionnaire included identification of socio-demographic characteristics as well as the personal history of students. Perfectionism was assessed by the Rheaume scale and depression by the Beck scale.

Results

A total of 206 students participated in the survey. The mean age was 21.49 ± 1.37 years. The majority of students were female (57.2%) with a sex ratio (F/H) of 1.34. Of the participants, 39.8% were enrolled as undergraduates and 60.19% as graduate students. According to their scores on the Rheaume scale, the students were non-perfectionists (NP) in 21.4% of cases; moderately perfectionists (MP) in 70.38% of cases, and highly perfectionists (HP) in 8.25% of cases. Severe depression was objectified in 7.3% of the cases. Students living alone were less perfectionist (p=0.01). Perfectionism score was higher in depressed students (35 ± 6.34) versus (31.428 ± 6.37) with a statistically significant correlation ( p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

It is true that perfectionism is an essential element for academic success. However, screening and prevention of depression are deemed necessary given its significant association with perfectionism.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Therapy group following a Ketamine treatment – a case report of a patient with resistant depression
Authors: Yaniv H. , Savlev V.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

There are some patients that remain resistant to treatment for major depressive disorder - who were treated with two or more different medications, and did not demonstrate any improvement in their mental-state. These patients can be treated with a new treatment – Esketamine. The recommended Esketamine treatment protocol includes 8-treatment sessions, each session lasts about two hours. In our clinic, we added a therapy group after each treatment. The therapy group is led by two co-therapist and lasts 30 minutes. The patients are invited to share their experiences from the session.

Objectives

We will present a case report of a 44 year old man, that suffers from a major-depression for years, with symptoms such as loss of energy, recurrent thoughts of death and a decrease in functioning. He was treated with different medications, but there was no improvement in his mental state.

Methods

For the last six months, he was treated with Esketamine and also participated in the therapy group.

Results

According to content that he raised in the sessions of the therapy group and following conversations with him and with his close environment, we observed a clinical improvement in his condition – a positive mood, a decrease of the thoughts of death, an increase in his function at work and at home.

Conclusions

He reported that the improvement is more significant because of the therapy group – he found a peer group, a place to process his treatment experience and to share his feelings and thoughts. We will present vignettes to demonstrate.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
S-Ketamine in the treatment of depressive emergencies: a cases series of patients in a suicidal crisis
Authors: Baune B. , Susam Z. , Falcone V. , Knümann C. , Sarkheil P. , Kavakbasi E.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Psychiatric emergencies in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) are characterised by multiple types of symptoms including risk of self-harm and suicidal ideation. S-ketamine intranasally (Spravato) has recently been shown to help alleviate symptoms during depressive emergencies. In this case-series, we detail the clinical effects and usability of S-ketamine applied intranasally in a psychiatric emergency setting.

Objectives

To describe the effects of S-Ketamine on depressive crises associated with suicidality and self-harm in a psychiatric emergency setting.

Methods

Patients with MDD in a psychiatric emergency were provided with intranasal S-Ketamine according to clinical indication in routine clinical care in a University inpatient setting. Clinical characteristics were assessed in a standardised manner and symptom measures were applied pre-and posttreatment. Experience with 10 patients is systematically described in this case-series.

Results

Patients had a primary diagnosis of MDD accompanied by a variety of secondary psychiatric comorbidity. Among these 10 patients, the majority were female (70 %) and the mean age was 49.5 yrs (range 26-66). All cases were considered treatment resistant and suffered severe acute suicidal ideation. Across all cases, pre-treatment MADRS was 37 on average (range 20-47) indicating a severe form of MDD. High severity was confirmed in elevated BDI scores (pre-treatment 39). Post-treatment, MADRS scores were reduced to 18 on average, alongside BDI scores (mean 24). S-ketamine administration was well-tolerated and side effects such as dissociation were of short-lived duration.

Conclusions

S-Ketamine intranasally can be safely and effectively administered in an acute psychiatric setting to treat psychiatric emergencies.

Disclosure

BTB received honoraria for consultancy and presentations from AstraZeneca, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Lundbeck, Pfizer, Servier, Wyeth, LivaNova, Janssen, Novartis, Otsuka, Angelini.
The Role of Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Depression: What We Know?
Authors: Fraga A. , Mesquita B. , Esteves-Sousa D. , Facucho-Oliveira J. , Albuquerque M. , Espada-Santos P. , Cintra P. , Moutinho A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Depression is a leading cause of disability affecting over 300 million indivuals worldwide. About 1/3 of patients with depression fail to achive remission despite treatment with multiple antidepressants and are considered to have treatment-resistant depression (TRD). In view of such facts, vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy was approved as an adjunctive long-term treatment for TRD.

Objectives

The authors elaborate a narrative literature review about de effectiveness of VNS in treatment for TRD.

Methods

PubMed database searched using the terms “treatment-resistant depression”, “vagus nerve stimulation”

Results

The pathophysiology of depression is complex and includes social environmental stress factors, genetic and biological processes, inflammation, and disturbances in monoamine neurotransmission. The overdrive of the HPA axis is most consistently seen in subjects with more severe depression, when the cortisol feedback inhibitory mechanisms are impaired, contributing to cytokine oversecretion. It has been shown that chronic exposure to elevated inflammatory cytokines can lead to depression. The vagus nerve represents the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system, which oversees a vast array of crucial bodily functions, including control of mood and imune response. VNS therapy has a demonstrated anti-inflammatory effect which might be a significant reason for its efficacy in patients who did not respond to antidepressants. Treatments thar target the vagus nerve increase the vagal tone and inhibit cytokine production and the stimulation of vagal aferente fibers in the gut influences monaminergic brain systems.

Conclusions

The mecanismos by which VNS may benefit patients nonresponsive to conventional antidepressants is unclear, with further research need to clarify this.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Implementation of an innovative web base support system (Psynary) and Nurse Practitioner led service to support optimisation of treatment for depression (OptiMA2)
Authors: Kabaila R. , Tranter R. , Latimer P. , Oakeshott R.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

There is overwhelming evidence to show that achieving full remission in depression is important — especially in reducing the indirect costs of depression. Evidence further demonstrates that in primary care, clinicians are not optimising treatments for depression in a timely way —resulting in them not being able to achieve early remission for their clients experiencing depression. Presently, secondary care is unable to provide specialist input for this client cohort.

Objectives

This project is implementing a model which extends specialist care to primary care. This project assists GP’s through optimising treatments for clients presenting with moderate to severe depression This model uses nurse practitioner led care, with ‘Psynary’, an online system which optimises treatments for moderate to severe depression.

Methods

Mixed methods pilot service implementation study, utilising: literature review of published service implementation models; service data gap analysis; qualitative interviews and focus group methodology.

Results

GP and client focus group outcomes, as well as client remission rates in the OptiMA2 trial demonstrate that this healthcare pathway is effective.

Conclusions

The OptiMA2 trial focused on the qualitative analysis of the co-design process to implement the initial care pathway.The OptiMA3 trial will examine the cumulative clinical outcomes to consider if increased rates of remission are achieved and identify potential predictive factors. The long term goal for the system is to support the development of community based care-extender models, including specialist nurses, pharmacists and GPs, to extend specialist mental health expertise to larger primary care populations where the greatest burden of mental illness occurs.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
The possible role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in the etiology of Major depressive Disorder (MDD) The possible role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in the etiology of Major depressive Disorder (MDD) The possible role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in the etiology of Major depressive Disorder (MDD)
Authors: Pieters T. , Van Der Gronde T. , Van Der Velde L.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

1.Introduction MDD is a heterogeneous disorder, with a wide variety of symptoms and inconsistent treatment response, and is not completely understood. A dysregulated stress system is a consistent finding, however, and exhaustion is a consistent trait in adolescent patients. In order to open up our thinking about MDD we take up the challenge to reframe depression, specifically focusing on the possible role of the Microbiota-Gut-Brain-Axis in the etiology of MDD.

Objectives

We propose a ‘bidirectional feedback hypothesis’: microbiota can promote or inhibit a pro-inflammatory state, (in)directly altering the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis response and the microbiome and further increasing or decreasing its pro-inflammatory state. The aim is to show that the pro-inflammatory state is an integral part of a HPA axis stress spiralling mechanism that plays a role in the etiology of MDD.

Methods

A systematic review based on publications from PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo

Results

The etiology of MDD can be understood as sliding down a spiral. This stress spiralling mechanism can be promoted or inhibited by: 1.factors such as a poor lifestyle or (pre-existing) illness 2.bettering someone’s lifestyle, coping behavior or providing pro-/prebiotics in combination with personalised therapeutics.

Conclusions

We argue that an interdisciplinary One Health approach is the most promising preventive and therapeutic option for MDD.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
“I rather talk on the phone”: Factors affecting compliance with outpatient visits during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Arain F. , Motamedi N. , Hassan N. , Zamiri A. , Rashid A. , Jennings M. , Sanchez-Lacay A. , Korenis P.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a global public-health crisis that demanded healthcare to adapt at an unprecedented pace. While challenging, it also created opportunities for the advancement of novel electronic-treatment-modalities. Telepsychiatry has emerged as an effective method to ensure continuity of care and ensure social distancing.1 Studies indicate that mental-health patients have higher rates of noncompliance to follow-up,
1 thus finding means to increase compliance is critical.

Objectives

The objectives of this study are to determine the impact of telepsychiatry on compliance to follow-up and to identify numbers of psychiatric/medical emergency-room visits, most common contributing factors for admission, and compliance in terms of diagnosis.

Methods

This IRB approved study is a retrospective chart-review, that aims to study children/adolescents (5-18 years) who presented to the Child&Adolescent-Psychiatry Outpatient-clinic from July-December 2020 and engaged in telepsychiatry, compared to a group of patients presented in July-December 2019-Pre-Covid19-Pandemic. A review of clinical characteristics including diagnosis, demographic information, medication, and treatment compliance will be compared as well as admissions to inpatient-psychiatry/emergency-room visits.

Results

Our total sample (N=252) included patients from 2019-Pre-COVID19 (N=111) and 2020 Telehealth during COVID19-Pandemic (N=141). Our data analysis using SPSF and T-test has shown that Telehealth has significantly increased follow-up compliance (Two-tailed P-value=0.04); 2019-Pre-COVID outreach mean=0.06, 2020-Telehealth-during COVID outreach mean=0.02); significantly decreased ER/CPEP visits (P-value=0.02), and decreased In-patient-unit admissions (P-value=0.02).

Conclusions

According to the presented study, the incorporation of telepsychiatry has increased the compliance to psychiatric-care in outpatient and decreased the emergency-room visits and inpatient admission. Sufficient resources and steps need to be taken to further strengthen telehealth services.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Mental health and life satisfaction among nurses: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kchaou A. , Abbes A. , Hrairi A. , Masmoudi R. , Khrifech F. , Hammami K. , Masmoudi M.L. , Masmoudi J. , Hajjaji M.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Nursing is highly demanding and stressful profession. Therefore, maintaining and improving psychological wellbeing among nurses seems essential to have a better life satisfaction and a better productivity.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between mental health and life satisfaction among nurses.

Methods

The study was conducted in a group of active nurses from Hedi Chaker hospital in Sfax- Tunisia. Standardized questionnaires were used, including the general health questionnaire (GHQ-28) and the satisfaction with life scale (SWLS).

Results

A total of 100 (males = 40; females = 60) nurses participated in this study. The mean age was 50.20 ±7.20 years. The average of job tenure was 25.25 ± 9.70 years. The majority of participants (66.7%) reported having chronic diseases. Rotating shifts work was noted in 72.50% of cases. Average scores for the GHQ-28 and the SWLS were respectively 30.66 ± 11.07 and 21.61± 6.23. The presence of chronic conditions was associated with psychological distress (higher GHQ-28 scores) (p = 0.01). Life satisfaction score was positively correlated with age (r= 0.29, p= 0.023), whereas it was negatively correlated with GHQ-28 scores (r= -0.36, p= 0.01). Low life satisfaction (SWLS scores between 5 and 14) was significantly associated with three domains of the GHQ-28: somatic symptoms (p = 0.008), anxiety (p = 0.001) and social dysfunction (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

According to our study, low life satisfaction was associated with psychological disorder. Hence, nurses need support and subsequent interventions in order to improve psychological wellbeing and life-satisfaction.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Digital Psychiatry in the COVID-19 Era: the First Italian Cross-National Survey
Authors: Orsolini L. , Tempia Valenta S. , Marchetti V. , Bellagamba S. , Salvi V. , Volpe U.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of digital psychiatry (DP) in everyday clinical practice, resulting in the need for a skilled healthcare workforce.

Objectives

Our purpose was to investigate the level of training, knowledge and expertise of young mental health professionals and medical students in DP, as well as exploring their beliefs and experiences in this field.

Methods

An ad hoc cross-sectional survey was designed and administered to Italian medical students, psychiatry trainees, and early career psychiatrists.

Results

Most of the sample declared that the topic of DP was never discussed within their academic training (89.1%), mainly revealing an overall lack of knowledge on DP. Nevertheless, they mostly declared that DP represents a valuable therapeutic tool in mental health (80%) and that the academic background should include a dedicated course/module (54.4%). Moreover, most subjects declared that DP is less effective than in-person interventions (73.2%), despite the emerging evidence that being trained in DP is significantly associated with the belief that digital and in-person interventions are comparable in their effectiveness (p≤0.05).

Conclusions

During the current pandemic, DP represented an ideal response to the need for physical distancing by ensuring the advantage of greater access to care. However, DP interventions are still uncommon, and there remains a certain resistance to their use in mental health care. The lack of formal training during the academic training could be a limiting factor. Therefore, addressing these issues in academic settings could be crucial to spreading this innovative practice also in the post-COVID-19
era.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Zooming in on Agoraphobic Behaviors: a Case Study
Authors: Solis C. , De Sousa R. , Marques T.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic brought many new challenges that people had to overcome with ingenuity. However, many patients already suffering with psychiatric diseases saw their access to conventional health care limited, aggravating their statuses. E-Medicine is the branch of health care that provides access through the Internet, and it has been growing in the last few years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many health care workers shifted towards E-Medicine, aiming to provide support to patients, especially with the social distance policies that were implemented worldwide.

Objectives

Provide an example of how e-Medicine can be a tool in establishing a therapeutic alliance, and patient follow-up

Methods

Case report with a brief literature review on the subject

Results

RG is a 19-year-old female that contacts her family doctor through e-mail, expressing concerns over not being able to leave her house for over a year, also manifesting anxiety and depressed humor. This started in April 2020 and was slowly worsening throughout the year, culminating in a panic attack. RG started counselling and follow-up appointments via Internet and started treatment with vortioxetine. Three months later, improvements were stated, namely decreased anxiety, better sleep patterns, and leaving the house for small periods.

Conclusions

Without E-Medicine, RG wouldn’t be as able to reach out to her family doctor, and follow-up would be much more arduous since the patient avoided leaving her house, and telephone appointments lack the visual aspect of the clinical interview. E-Medicine is a valid alternative to conventional Medicine, providing a safe environment for patients concerned with public space.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.