bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the development of acute and transient psychotic disorders
Authors: Pérez-Balaguer A. , Solari-Heresmann L.M. , Gil-Benito E. , Sanz-Aranguez B. , Gayubo-Moreo L.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Since the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies have demonstrated its considerable psychological impact. The isolation and social distancing, the increased fear of being infected or infecting others and the insecurity generated by the economic impact, could contribute to an increase in the incidence of mental health issues, such as psychotic disorders.

Objectives

The aim is to discuss four clinical cases in order to provide further evidence on this matter.

Methods

We report on three females and one male with no personal psychiatric history who were admitted to a tertiary hospital during the first three months after the declaration of the pandemic. The average age was 44,25 ± 14,97 years.

Results

All patients met the International Statistical Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) criteria for acute and transient psychotic disorder. All of the episodes were triggered by the stress generated from the COVID-19. Complementary tests were unremarkable. They all tested negative for SARS-CoV-2. Rapid discharge with favorable response to relatively low doses of antipsychotics was possible with a mean length of stay of 7,25 ± 2,86 days. In two of the cases the delirious content was predominantly marked by the coronavirus itself.

Conclusions

It has been suggested that the intense psychosocial stress associated with a new life-threatening disease and national lockdown restrictions could be triggers for new-onset psychotic disorders. Some authors have reported cases similar to ours, which means that we could be experiencing and increase in the incidence of psychotic disorders due to the exceptional circumstances we are living around the world.
Relationship between fear of COVID-19 and individual factors – a preliminary study
Authors: Cabaços C. , Pereira A.T. , Araujo A. , Sousa R. , Macedo A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Fear associated to infectious diseases is directly related with their transmission rate, morbidity and mortality. High levels of fear associated with COVID-19 can affect people’s ability to act and think rationally. In a time of pandemics, it is essential to understand individual factors that might be associated to higher vulnerability to stress and fear.

Objectives

To analyse: a)correlations between Fear of Covid-19 and clinical and sociodemographic characteristics; b)the mediator role of repetitive negative thinking on the relationship between personality traits and Fear of Covid-19.

Methods

234 adults (75.6% women; mean age=29.53±12.51) completed an on-line survey with the Portuguese version of the Fear of Covid-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and other questionnaires to evaluate clinical and sociodemographic characteristics (years of education, perceived physical and mental health and infection by Covid-19), Personality (NEO-FFI-20) and Repetitive negative thinking (PTQ-15). SPSS and Process Macro (Hays, 2020) were used.

Results

FCV-19 mean scores were significantly higher in women and significantly correlated with years of education (r=-.14) (p<.05). History of previous/current Covid-19 infection did not significantly distinguish FCV-19 scores and they did not correlate with perceived health. FCV-19 correlated significantly with neuroticism and PTQ total and dimensional scores (r>.20, p<.01). Both Repetitive thinking and Cognitive interference were mediators of the relationship between neuroticism and fear of COVID, even after controlling for gender and education.

Conclusions

This study provides preliminary evidence on individual factors that might be associated to the emotional response to the Covid-19 pandemics, aiming to facilitate public health initiatives to ease people’s fears in a near future.
Prevalence of maternal burn out and depression in tunisia during the coronavirus pandemic
Authors: Bergaoui E. , Lansari R. , Karmous A. , Larnaout A. , Melki W.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Lockdown due to coronavirus pandemic has been a stressful experience especially to mothers. Juggling work from home and childcare has led to maternal burn out and depression.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to assess maternal burn-out rate during lockdown and its eventual relationship with depression and associated factors

Methods

156 Tunisian mothers responded to online questionnaire posted on social network after 1 month of lockdown. The questionnaire evaluated burnout and depression as measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) and depression and anxiety symptoms (HADS) respectively.

Results

The participants were aged between 24 and 64 years and 61.5% had more than one child. Mean score on the BMS10 was 4.11 out of 7 maximum score with 71.8% of participants fulfilling criteria for maternal burn-out. Among them, 30.1% had high level of burn out and 9.6% extreme burn out. The main factors associated with maternal burn out were age of children, financial difficulties and lack of leisure activities. Mother’s age, perceived husband support, medical or psychiatric history haven’t been associated with maternal burn out. HADS questionnaire indicated that 38.5% of mothers had moderate to severe anxiety disorder and 35,9% had moderate to severe depressive disorder. A postive correlation was found between burnout and anxiety (r=0.634, p<0.001) and burn out and depression (r=0.515, p<0.001).

Conclusions

The prevalence of maternal burn out during lockdown was significantly high resulting in higher rate of depression than ususal. However, severe forms of burnout may share several characteristics with depression raising the question of overlap of these two entities.
COVID-19 unit in psychiatric hospital
Authors: Salas I. Alonso , Navarro C. González , García O. Euba
Published: February 2022

Introduction

As coronavirus pandemic burst in Spain in March 2020, Zamudio Hospital -a monographic psychiatric institution- was urged to create an specific Covid unit. It was destined to patients with psychiatric admission criteria, who in addition oscillated between positive asymptomatics or with mild symptoms to suspect cases or close contacts.

Objectives

To describe and analyse the characteristics of the unit and the patients who were admitted during the confinement period by Covid-19, between March 14th and June 21st 2020.

Methods

The patients’ data were collected retrospectively. These data included: age; sex; admission criteria; diagnosis at discharge; confirmed/ suspected/contact case; presence/absence of symptoms; length of hospital stay; number of doctor on call assessment.

Results

An area within the hospital wards was reserved to COVID cases / suspected / contact patients requiring psychiatric care. The storing of material and PPE was held in the forementioned area, according to protocolary measures. 26 Patients (11 women and 15 men) were admitted to the unit. Mean age was 44 years old. Diagnosis at discharge were mainly Schizophrenia (31%), Schizoaffective disorder (23%), other psicosis (11,5%) and Bipolar disorder (8%). The mean hospital stay was 5 days. There were a total of 7 confirmed positive cases, all with asyptomatic-mild course.

Conclusions

The establishment of this unit has ensured a proper psychiatric care and a strict control of Covid-19 transmission within patients and staff members.
COVID-19 stigma
Authors: Marinho G. , Peta J. , Pereira J. , Marguilho M.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

‘Health‐related stigma’ is typically known as social rejection or exclusion of individuals and populations suffering from specific health problems. Results on previous infectious diseases showed that stigma can be experienced by survivors but also by health‐care workers (HCW). Several factors contribute to stigma associated with infectious diseases, such as people’s knowledge, myths and stories transmitted by the mass and social media and psychosocial variables, such as risk perception and fear of being infected. COVID‐19 is a new disease with many unknown aspects and, naturally, people are afraid of the unknown.

Objectives

To reflect on infectious diseases and social stigma during covid-19 pandemics.

Methods

Pubmed and Google Scholar search.

Results

Stigmatization can considerably increase psychosomatic distress and disturbance and can negatively affect people with infection and those at risk of infection in seeking medical care. HCWs and volunteers working in the field may also become stigmatized, leading to higher rates of distress, stress, and burnout When people avoid groups or geographic areas related to infectious diseases, this can pose significant economic losses. Thus, stigma is more than a mere negative outcome of infectious diseases; it is both a factor that contributes to the epidemics and pandemics and a disease in itself.

Conclusions

Anticipating disease‐related stigma during the COVID‐19 pandemic enables policy‐makers to address it, restricting its adverse effects. The hidden burden caused by this stigma can cause severe consequences for patients, HCW, and public health measures, so, coordinated psychological interventions to overcome this crisis seems essential.
Immediate psychological effects of COVID-2019 in Emilia Romagna, Italy
Authors: Piretti I. , Ambrosini F. , Sant’Angelo R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2, which began in Wuhan city in December 2019, quickly spread to various countries around the world. On march Italy had already become the second country after China in terms of number of infections and deaths and Emilia Romagna was the second region in Italy by number of cases after Lombardy. On 11th of March 2020 through the “Stay at home” decree, the entire nation was sheltered-in-place (SIP).

Objectives

Main objective is to understand immediate psychological effects on sheltered in place persons living in Emilia Romagna.

Methods

This study is based on a cross-sectional online survey conducted anonymously in the period between the tenth and seventeenth day of SIP. We used Zung Anxiety Self-Assessment Scale, Insomnia Severity Index and Perceived Stress Scale 4. SPSS 21.0 was used for data analysis.

Results

We collected data on 651 individuals. About 38% of the sample reported having sleep problems; 31% of the population has a minimal-moderate level of anxiety while 4% marked-severe; finally, 54% of the interviewees perceive a moderate level of stress while 31% high. The MANOVAs showed that anxiety is influenced by gender, age, level of education and occupational status. Greater levels of stress are shown by individuals who declared the fear of contracting the virus and the concern of financial loss.

Conclusions

Our results could be used as a “psychological baseline” meanwhile the outbreak of COVID-19 is still ongoing. Despite the few days of SIP, we found the presence of a significant incidence and pervasive prevalence of psychological distress.
COVID-19 pandemic’s burden on healthcare professionals’ mental health
Authors: Khaustova O. , Chaban O. , Assonov D.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Healthcare professionals report about anxiety, depression, and fear during pandemic COVID-19 worldwide. Resilience becomes the high-powered important mechanism that reduces stress impact on the emotional state of healthcare professionals.

Objectives

We suggested that effective resilience is associated with less COVID-19’s fear, as well as less anxiety, and depression; healthcare professionals’ mental health depends on age, gender, as well as involvement in the care of patients with COVID-19.

Methods

211 healthcare professionals participated in the study and were evaluated with the Connor-Davidson Resilience 10-item scale (CD-RISC-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale, PHQ-9, GAD-7.

Results

A negative correlation between resilience and fear of COVID-19 (p≤0,01), anxiety (p≤0,01), and depression (p≤0,001) was found. Positive correlations were found between depression, anxiety, and fear of COVID-19 (p≤0,001), between age and fear of COVID-19 (p≤0,05). No statistically significant association between age and depression, anxiety, or resilience was found. The significant difference of COVID-19 fear depending on gender – female vs male (p≤0,05) was found. No statistically significant difference in resilience and emotional state in healthcare professionals depending on the involvement in the care of patients with COVID-19 were found.

Conclusions

Resilience is associated with better mental health in healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Anxiety and depression are connected with the fear of COVID-19 and highly comorbid in healthcare professionals. The elder age and female gender are among the risk factors for a more deteriorated mental state. Fear of COVID-19, mental state, and resilience are not associated with healthcare professionals’ involvement in the care of patients with COVID-19.
Prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms in chronically ill children and adolescents during COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown: Preliminary findings of a pediatric hospital in Italy
Authors: Correale C. , Di Pastena M. , Tondo I. , Milo F. , Santato F. , Amodeo G. , Capitello T. Grimaldi , Vigevano F. , Cappelletti S.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Psychological problems are common among the pediatric population suffering from a chronic illness, especially compared to the normal population. Stressful life events, such as social distancing measures implemented to counter the COVID-19 pandemic emergency, can strongly influence their epidemiology.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence rate of depressive and anxiety symptoms among an Italian pediatric population affected by chronic illness and already under a Children Hospital psychological follow-up program during COVID-19 lockdown.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study among 54 Italian children and adolescents affected by chronic illness (mean age: 15y; range: 8.9-18y) during the COVID-19 epidemic period. We assessed depressive and anxiety symptoms with the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD-7) questionnaire during scheduled follow-up checks or teleconsulting.

Results

Preliminary results showed an elevated prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms (51% and 48% respectively) among chronically ill children during the COVID-19 outbreak. When compared with a non-ill pediatric population (Zhou et al. 2020), rates are + 7.3% higher for depression and + 10.6% for anxiety.

Conclusions

Chronic ill pediatric patients are a vulnerable group and require careful consideration. For this reason, the healthcare system should be able to implement and guarantee adequate mental health support programs and continuity of care. Further research is necessary since the COVID-19 outbreak could be repeated.
Rapid review of decision-making for place of care and death in older people: Lessons for COVID-19
Authors: West E. , Moore K. , Kupeli N. , Sampson E. , Nair P. , Aker N. , Davies N.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has affected the functioning and capacity of healthcare systems worldwide. COVID-19 has also disproportionately affected older adults, including those living with dementia. In the context of COVID-19, decision-making surrounding place of care and place of death in this population involves significant new challenges.

Objectives

To explore key factors that influence place of care and place of death decisions in older adults. A secondary aim was to investigate key factors that influence the process and outcome of these decisions in older adults. To apply findings from current evidence to the context of COVID-19.

Methods

Rapid review of reviews, undertaken using WHO guidance for rapid reviews. Ten papers were included for full data extraction. These papers were published between 2005-2020. Data extracted was synthesised using narrative synthesis, with thematic analysis and tabulation.

Results

Papers included discussed actual place of death, as well as preferred. Results were divided into papers that explored the process of decision-making, and those that explored decision-making outcomes. Factors such as caregiver capacity, the availability of multidisciplinary teams, cultural appropriateness of care packages and advanced care planning were found to be key.

Conclusions

The process and outcomes of decision-making for older people are affected by many factors – all of which have the potential to influence both patients and caregivers experience of illness and dying. Within the context of COVID-19, such decisions may have to be made rapidly and be reflexive to changing needs of systems and of families and patients.
Experiences with tailoring treatment modules in online versus face-to-face CBT
Authors: Boettcher J. , Wirz C. , Paskuy S. , Böttche M. , Renneberg B. , Wagner B.
Published: February 2022

Guided self-help interventions are effective in treating symptoms of various mental disorders, including depressive, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorders. Research also suggests that these interventions may be effective for refugee populations. However, proportion of drop-out and non-response are substantial, especially in this highly vulnerable group of patients. Tailoring treatments to the individual patient may be an important step towards improving patient-treatment fit and may help to increase success rates. While tailoring can be easily realized in face-to-face treatments, it becomes more complex in Internet-based treatments where treatment sequences are usually defined in advance. In this talk, we will present our theoretical considerations and decisions regarding the tailoring process in a randomized-controlled comparison of transdiagnostic CBT for refugee patients in an online versus face-to-face format. The trial will include N=320 Arabic speaking patients suffering from an emotional disorder. The transdiagnostic treatment includes modules for symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress, aggression, and suicidal ideation. Modules are tailored to the specific patient. We will discuss who or what should inform the tailoring decision (patient, therapist, questionnaire data, diagnostic interview) and when tailoring decisions should be made (prior and/or early and/or later in treatment). We will present options of how tailoring decisions can be standardized and be kept comparable in different treatment formats. We will present our first experiences with tailoring treatment modules to severely impaired and highly comorbid patients.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Integrated efforts to promote mental health care during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: Reflecting on the experience of a university helpline
Authors: Torres A. , Santos I.M. , Rosa C. , Monteiro S. , Rodrigues F. , Figueiredo A. , Santos T. , Ribeiro O. , Queirós A. , Pereira A. , Silva C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is affecting numerous dimensions of our society since the beginning of the outbreak. A significant increase in emotional distress was expected in the general population, particularly among the high-risk groups such as the oldest, chronic patients, healthcare professionals, and psychopathology vulnerable people. There was an urgent need to adapt and create solutions to promote mental health. Given the recommendations to minimize face-to-face interactions, several helplines were widely developed.

Objectives

In this work, we aim to reflect on the experience of a university helpline, that integrated efforts with the regional mental health care services.

Methods

A University helpline was created to give support to the regional community outside academia. The team was created on an online teamwork platform, to communicate through the chat, carry videoconference meetings, and store useful files. A Manchester screening decision tree was adopted, to define a set of guidelines to provide support to the callers, based mainly on the guidelines defined by the Order of Portuguese Psychologists. Liaison with the mental health care services, including other specific helplines, was established.

Results

Notwithstanding all the efforts, the number of received calls was scarce, similarly to helplines created by other national universities and by other entities.

Conclusions

A new approach to psychological intervention in crisis is needed, maintaining integrated efforts, and taking advantage of the opportunity to foster personalized mental health care in the digital era. It is important to continuously assess the value of integrated efforts in patient care and to the healthcare system.
Perception of stress by medical staff during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in russia
Authors: Barabantschikova V. , Vakhantseva O. , Almazova O. , Shaigerova L. , Shilko R.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Assessment of mental health in medical staff during the COVID-19 pandemic helps to prevent the delayed negative consequences of work under high risk.

Objectives

The study compares the perceived stress and coping ability in medical staff caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and in professionals, working with other patients.

Methods

Online survey involved 249 doctors and medical staff of a Moscow hospital aged 19 to 60 (80 men and 169 women). 135 people worked directly with COVID-19 patients and 114 specialists did not. The study was conducted with the Perceived Stress Scale (10-items) amidst the first wave of COVID-19 in Russia, in May 2020.

Results

No significant differences were found in the stress levels between the two groups of healthcare providers. On average, the sample revealed an increased level of stress (15.4 with standard values of 12-13). The general indicator of perceived stress (F = 13.471; p <0.001), stress level (F = 12.333; p = 0.001) and stress resistance (F = 6.003; p = 0.015) in women is significantly higher than in men. In addition, women working with COVID-19 patients have a higher level of stress resistance than women working with other patients (F = 3.432; p = 0.045).

Conclusions

The perception of stress by healthcare staff during the COVID-19 pandemic increases independently on whether or not they work with infected patients. Although stress is higher in women, they are better at coping, especially in extreme situations. The reported study was funded by RFBR, project number 20-04-60174.
Innovations in the provision of psychiatric treatment and rehabilitation assistance to the population in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and their preliminary results
Authors: Belokrylov I. , Munin A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Numerous publications highlight the need to modify mental health services in the stressful environment of the COVID-19 pandemic. The psychiatric service of the city of Moscow undertook some reforms in this regard.

Objectives

The measures taken are aimed at reducing the risk of infection of mentally ill patients undergoing treatment in dispensaries and day hospitals, as well as at preventing the exacerbation of psychopathological disorders in patients under the prevailing conditions.

Methods

The frequency of visits to the dispensary by patients in stable condition has been reduced to 1 time per week. At the same time, the frequency of telephone consultations with patients and their relatives increased up to 3 times a week. Face-to-face psychotherapy sessions have been replaced by remote (online) sessions. During the study period, medical documents of 60 patients were studied. The number of hospitalizations of outpatients to the hospital was recorded due to the deterioration of the mental state, as well as in connection with the infection with COVID in the period from 04/15/2020 to 06/09/2020.

Results

There were no hospitalizations due to mental deterioration. According to this indicator, the situation in 2020 turned out to be better than last year for the same period. There were also no cases of hospitalization of outpatients in connection with Covid-19.

Conclusions

The presented results indicate the effectiveness of organizational innovations introduced in Moscow in the provision of outpatient psychiatric care. However, these data need clarification and objective scientific interpretation.

Conflict of interest

No significant relationships.
Comparison of psychiatric emergency service admission rates in an italian COVID-19 hospital during lockdown and last year
Authors: Nastro F. Fiori , Mariano A. , Santini R. , Di Michele F. , Bianchi F. , Niolu C.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Italy has been one of the most affected countries by Covid-19 pandemic. Our University General Hospital, Policlinico of “Tor Vergata” (PTV) in Rome, has become a Covid Hub in order to manage the spread of the epidemic. Thus, our Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES)’s access has been partially limited. Direct indicators of PES activity, as admission rates, can be useful for evaluating the psychological impact of Covid epidemic.

Objectives

To assess psychiatric admittance rates to PES of PTV before and during Covid-19 global pandemic.

Methods

Data from our PES register have been obtained and analyzed. We compared all the psychiatric access during the trimester March – May 2019 and 2020. All patients have been characterized according to clinical features.

Results

A marked reduction of the number of patients presenting to PES has been observed (76 patients) in the 57-day period (March 11–May 04, 2020) of lockdown compared to the same period in 2019 (266 patients). The cutback was visible for all diagnostic groups, except for “Borderline Personality Disorder” diagnosis which have slightly increased. On the other hand, hospitalization rates in our psychiatric inpatients unit remained steady.

Conclusions

Although larger study are needed to understand the mental consequences of the lockdown experience, people’s fear of potential infection might explain our results. Interestingly, personality disorder patients represent an exception to it, suggesting the importance of the clinical characteristics of fearless, engagement in dangerous behavior and detachment from reality. These findings might be helpful to improve psychosocial crisis interventions during the pandemic.
Perceived stress level among patients with chronic illness during covid pandemia
Authors: Pawłowski M. , Fila-Witecka K. , Łuc M. , Senczyszyn A. , Rymaszewska J. , Pawłowska E. , Kamińska D. , Poznański P. , Krajewska M. , Stefaniak A. , Szepietowski J. , Pokryszko-Dragan A. , Budrewicz S. , Pawłowski T. , Rymaszewska J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has enormously impacted healthcare systems around the world. Both patients and health care professionals have been subjected to a novel stressor which affects their everyday life and functioning. This issue is especially important to patients suffering from chronic diseases which had already been exposed to a psychological strain related to their primary diagnosis. As chronically ill patients are depending on the availability of a specific treatment i.e. in need of specific healthcare facilities and have more reasons to worry about their future and hence be more prone to suffer adverse psychological consequences than the general population.

Objectives

In this study we aimed to examine whether the psychological results of the pandemic affect chronically ill and whether the specific illness and other demographic factors account for any changes in perceived stress levels.

Methods

An online questionnaire has been distributed to 4 groups (n=369): 92 psoriasis patients, 73 dialysis patients, 100 patients after kidney transplantation and 104 multiple sclerosis patients. The study was conducted during the pandemic in Poland (June-July 2020). Perceived stress levels were measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).

Results

The preliminary results suggest elevated perceived stress levels among the studied groups. As the data are currently under statistical evaluation specific statistical conclusions are to be expected in November 2020.

Conclusions

As the described study was conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Poland, it stands to reason that the epidemiological situation affected the levels of perceived stress among chronically ill patients.
Perinatal psychiatry and families’ mental health: Evidence from some french graduated and integrated practices
Authors: Sutter-Dallay A.-L.
Published: February 2022

Abstract Body

The first years of life represent a crucial period for psycho-affective development - the critical first 1000 days - because the events that happen to infants and babies during this period have psychosocial as well as epigenetic repercussions, with potential consequences throughout life and even for generations to come. The interactive circle that will develop between the skills (and/or vulnerabilities) of infants and parents and the interactive features arising from each triad, must be supported by perinatal mental health policies, of which the joint care of parents and infants in perinatal psychiatry is a pivotal element. It is necessary to develop care pathways, with systems integrated into “usual” care that take into account families from the prenatal or even pre-conceptual period to the postnatal period,

Joint care must also be scalable and thus encompass everything from parent-child psychotherapy to joint mother-baby hospitalisation. This intervention will present and discuss an example of a graduated, integrated and coordinated system of care, and will open up the perspective that perinatal clinicians must bear in mind that joint care is above all "a way of doing things", based on the notions of multidisciplinarity and prevention.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.
Perceived stress during the COVID-19 pandemic among the tunisian population
Authors: Regaieg N. , Baati I. , Elleuch M. , Hentati S. , Masmoudi J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Documenting Tunisian’ stress responses to an unprecedented pandemic is essential for mental health interventions and policy-making.

Objectives

To describe the perceived stress generated by the Covid-19 epidemic and confinement among the Tunisian people.

Methods

Participants had to fill out a questionnaire including epidemiological data and the Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS10), which is the most widely used psychological instrument for measuring the stress perception. Individual scores can range from 0 to 40 with higher scores indicating higher perceived stress.

Results

Our study included 121 subjects, of which 70.6% were women.They had an average age of 36.52 years and a history of psychiatric disorders in 13.1% of cases, such as anxiety disorders (10.4%), depressive disorders (5.9%) and obsessive compulsive disorders (2.3%). More than one in two participants (61.4%) reported the presence of sleep disorders. Regarding medical history, participants declared having asthma (5%), diabetes (1.8%), high blood pressure (3.6%), and a chronic disease with corticosteroid treatment (5%). The mean PSS score was 16.96. This last was correlated to age (p<0.001), female gender (p<0.001), primary or secondary school level (p=0.03), a history of anxiety (p<0.001) and depressive disorders (p<0.001), and to sleep disorders (p<0.001).

Conclusions

The stress level among the Tunisian people during the Covid-19 pandemic was very close to that observed in other countries, deserving special attention especially among vulnerable populations.
Insomnia and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. a retrospective study on anxiety and sleep disorders among psychiatric patients admitted at „elisabeta doamna” hospital galati, romania
Authors: Rădulescu I.D. , Moraru C. , Nechita P. , Ciubară A.B. , Ciubară A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In public mental health there are widespread concerns about the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on psychiatric patients. Anxiety and sleep disorders are the focal point in admissions for psychiatric care in individuals that are impacted by these changes.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of anxiety and sleep disorders among the patients admitted to our hospital. The state of pandemia was declared on the 11th of March but it had already become a main stream media subject in our country at the beginning of the month.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed at the Psychiatric Hospital ‘Elisabeta Doamna’ Galati, using the exact same period, between 01.03 and 30.09, in both 2019 and 2020. ICD-10 criteria were used and pacients with either F41.x or F51.x as discharge diagnosis were included.

Results

In total, 7638 cases were admitted during the period in 2019, of which 621 (8,13%) had anxiety disorders and 225 (2,94%) sleep disorders. In comparison in 2020 out of 4050 admitted patients, the number had risen to 1003 (24,76%) anxiety disorders and 388 (9,58%) sleep disorders.

Conclusions

Analysis of the data shows a three times increase in the percentage of both classes of disorders among our patients. Even considering the lower admition rates, there is a clear shift in the general profile of our average pacient and this has to be taken into consideration in the long and short term treatment of any psychiatric patient.
Evaluation of anxiety symptoms among caregivers of children that take therapy in the national center for children rehabilitation and treatment during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dobi F. , Zenelaj B. , Kabili E. , Shtylla A. , Malaj D. , Demaj A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Compared to the parents of kids with “typical” development the stress level and exhaustion in these parents is higher and more frequent. Furthermore COVID-19 pandemic can increase stress levels especially among people that suffer from mental health disorders. Studies show that these difficult, challenging times have had a negative impact on most families, which have a child with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Objectives

Evaluation of different aspects of emotional dimension among caregivers of children that take therapy in the National Center for Children Rehabilitation and Treatment (NCCRT) during COVID-19 pandemic

Methods

The study was conducted during a two-month period March-April 2020. The sample involved 110 relatives of children that were taking educative and rehabilitation therapy in NCCRT during last year, ambulatory or inpatients. Data were collected by clinical records and phone interviews. Instrument we used were: Demographic inventory and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale for anxiety symptom evaluation. All data were statistically analyzed through excel.

Results

Most of individual interviewed, whom are responsible for children wellbeing and pass most of the time with them were their parents, 69% of them. 56% of individuals were among 31-45 years old and 92% of them were women. Physical distancing seemed to risen anxiety levels in caregivers whom hadn’t have these problems before.

Conclusions

It is necessary the dynamic support with special attention for caregivers whom have emotional distress. Yet has to be evaluated the connection, if it’s present, between parents with emotional distress and children progress, for ones that are being supported with development therapy.
Evaluation of sleeping problems among caregivers of children that take therapy in the national center for children rehabilitation and treatment during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dobi F. , Zenelaj B. , Kabili E. , Ruci E. , Dokle E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Compared to the parents of kids with “typical” development the stress level and exhaustion in these parents is higher and more frequent. Furthermore COVID-19 pandemic can increase stress levels especially among people that suffer from mental health disorders. Studies show that these difficult, challenging times have had a negative impact on most families, which have a child with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Objectives

Evaluation of sleeping problems among caregivers of children that take therapy in the National Center for Children Rehabilitation and Treatment (NCCRT) during COVID-19 pandemic

Methods

The study was conducted during a two-month period March-April 2020. The sample involved 110 individuals, relatives, of children that were taking educative and rehabilitation therapy in NCCRT during last year, ambulatory or inpatients. Data were collected by clinical records and phone interviews with children’s caregiver. Instrument we used were: Demographic inventory and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale for anxiety symptom evaluation. All data were statistically analyzed through excel.

Results

Most of individual interviewed were parents, 69% of them. 56% of individuals were among 31-45 years old. 28,2% of individuals developed sleeping difficulties and they weren’t able to sleep within 30 minutes after going to bed. 12,7% of them reported to have had difficulties staying awake during driving, eating or other daily activities.

Conclusions

It is necessary the dynamic support with special attention for caregivers whom have sleeping problems. Yet has to be evaluated the connection, if it’s present, between parents with sleeping problems and children progress, for ones that are being supported with development therapy
Dysfunctional anxiety in pandemic: Relationship to infodemic and behavior
Authors: Kumchenko S. , Rasskazova E. , Tkhostov A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Anxiety are among the most common (Huang, Zhao, 2020, Rajkumar, 2020, Roy et al., 2020) and stable (Wang et al., 2020) mental complaints in a pandemic situation. Based on cognitive approach (Beck, Emery, Greenberg, 2005) one should differentiate unrealistic (dysfunctional) anxiety as well as different types of anxiety (Roy et al., 2020).

Objectives

The aim was to reveal relationship of different types of anxiety with the search for information about coronavirus and protective behavior.

Methods

In April 2020 (2-3 weeks of self-isolation regimen) 409 respondents not infected by coronavirus (186 men, 223 women) aged 18 to 64 years appraised their anxiety of infection and pandemic consequences (Cronbach’s alphas .77-.82), the degree to which anxiety disturbs their usual activities, the frequency of tracking information about the coronavirus (.75) and various protective actions against the coronavirus (.76).

Results

17.1% reported that anxiety disturbed their activities. Anxiety of pandemic negative consequences was more prominent than anxiety of infection and was unrelated to age and gender. Anxiety of infection was higher in females (t=-5.48, p<.01, η=.26) and elder people (r=.20, p<.01). Both anxiety of infection and of pandemic consequences was equally related to information tracking and protective behavior (r=.25-.36, p<.01). Dysfunctional anxiety was unrelated to adherence to self-isolation (r=.08) but was related to information tracking (r=.21, p<.01).

Conclusions

Dysfunctional anxiety is unrelated to self-isolation and should be differentiated from realistic anxiety in studies of pandemic. Research is supported by the Russian Foundation for Basic Research, project No. 20-04-60072.
Anxiety and need for support of college students during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: An exploratory study
Authors: Torres A. , Melo R. , Príncipe F. , Ferreira A. , Quesado A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

During the pandemic state, college students are exposed to additional stressful factors, including but not limited to: fear of being infected; fear of infecting a significant person; deal with a new reality of economic uncertainty; challenges of distance education; new rules in face-to-face classes; restrictions on access to internships and higher demanding in internships.

Objectives

This exploratory study aims to assess levels of anxiety and the perception of the need for support of students of a Portuguese Higher Education Institution (HEI).

Methods

An exploratory study was developed, on the return of students to the presential classes after the academic lockdown. It was spread out an email for all students with a link for an online form, which includes sociodemographic questions, a screening question of the anxiety level, and the need for support level (rating scales 0-10).

Results

It was obtained 36 answers from mostly female students (92%) with 17 to 21 years old (67%). Answers present an average anxiety level of 5.4 (Min=1; Max=9; SD=2.23), with 58% of answers with a score of anxiety level of 5 or higher. The need for support average was 3.7 (Min=1; Max=9; SD=2.23), with 33% of answers with a score of 5 or higher.

Conclusions

It is necessary to continuously monitor the anxiety level and the need for support of college students during the SARS-Cov-2 pandemic. It is similarly relevant to have responses of HEI to promote mental health and to answer to the high levels of students’ anxiety and needs for support during the pandemic.
The impact of COVID-19 on young people’s mental health in latvia
Authors: Konstantinovs N. , Lapa J.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

There is an ongoing debate about the impact on mental health associated with Covid-19 pandemics. Some studies have shown an increase in depressive and anxious symptomatology in general population. It has been noted that young people might be among the highest risk populations due to various enviorenmental and developmental influences.

Objectives

To estimate the impact of Covid-19 related restrictions on mental health measures among Latvian adolescents and young adults (14-24).

Methods

We conduct a survey on social media, recruiting 500 participants among the 14-24 age gropup. The survey consists of three parts: 1) sociodemographics; 2) quantitative mental health self-evaluation form; 3) open ended questionaire about the needs and expectations. For statistical analysis we use Excel software and use a regression analysis.

Results

483 participants participated in our survey. The average age was 17.2, 62% was female, 36% male, 2% identified as trans. 52.3% reported decline in their mental functioning and wellbeing in one or several mental health domains (depression, anxiety, addictive behaviours) out of which 13.4% reported significant impairment in a major life area. The support and needs defined by respondents can be divided in three clusters: socialising outside immediate family, psychosocial services, recreational needs.

Conclusions

Confirming to findings in other EU countries, majority of adolescents and young people in Latvia have experienced clinically significant mental health decline during the Covid-19 pandemic. These results can help policy makers in establishing appropriate, needs oriented support in tackling this problem.
Elevated clozapine levels in patients with COVID-19 infection
Authors: Bonany J. Marti , Sánchez E. Pérez , Carre M. Pérez , Casamitjana M.I. Martínez , Olive J.R. Fortuny , Castellví C. Macias , Diez E. Carrió , Moliner F. Lana , González R. Sánchez
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Clozapine is the most effective antipsychotic for treatment resistant schizophrenia. In patients treated with clozapine, COVID-19 infection may result in complications including an increased risk of pneumonia, clozapine toxicity, and disruption to clozapine treatment by COVID-19 induced lymphopenia.

Objectives

We report 5 cases of elevated clozapine levels occurring in patients with COVID-19 infection who had been previously managed for several years on stable doses.

Methods

Subjects: 48 admitted patients to a long-stay psychiatric unit. COVID-19 infection confirmed by positive nasopharyngeal swab for viral ribonucleic acid of SARS-CoV-2. Hematological controls between March and April 2020.

Results

16 patients (33%) treated with clozapine.18 patients (37’5%) had COVID-19 infection, of which 5 (10’4%) were treated with clozapine. Results are presented in table 1. Increases in plasma clozapine levels were observed in all cases (49’38 to 307.5%). We don’t have the clozapine levels of a patient who presented a pneumonia requiring admission and treatment in the general hospital. Two cases of neutropenia were observed, of which one had to discontinue treatment with clozapine. In the other three patients the dose of clozapine was reduced and they did not present haematological or intoxication complications that required further adjustments.

Conclusions

Covid-19 infection is associated with increased serum clozapine levels by probably multifactorial mechanisms (systemic infection, reduced smoking). Importance of full clinical assessment of suspected COVID-19 infection in clozapine treated patients, including assessment clozapine level, and full blood count. The general recommendation is to reduce the dose of clozapine in this patients.
The anxiety of nursing professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic period in a brazilian regional university hospital
Authors: Floriano L. , Dal’Bosco E. , Plantes R. , Arcaro G. , Ribas M. , Krum E.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Nursing work requires technical, scientific competence, knowledge, skill and emotional control over practice, considering that care presents risk situations, physical and emotional stress, responsibilities with people’s lives, coping with fears and suffering. All this situation in which the professional is exposed can lead to the occurrence of psychological wear, high stress and anxiety, this is conceptualized as a vague and unpleasant feeling of fear, apprehension, with characteristics of tension or discomfort derived from anticipating danger, something unknown or strange.

Objectives

To identify the prevalence and factors associated with anxiety among nursing professionals who work coping with COVID-19 in a Brazilian regional university hospital.

Methods

Cross-sectional observational study, with sociodemographic questionnaire and anxiety measurement scale (HAD), with 88 nursing professionals. The data were analyzed using absolute and relative frequency, using the software StatisticalPackage for the Social Sciences.

Results

There was a prevalence of anxiety (48.9%), with the majority of the sample consisting of women, over 40 years old, married or in a stable relationship, white, with higher education or postgraduate education, with income above R $ 3,000.00, tendered, with a work regime of 40 hours per week and time in the hospital from 1 to 5 years.

Conclusions

The impact should be considered on Nursing Mental Health caused by COVID-19 and intervene with coping strategies to minimize anxiety.
Anxiety and procrastination in distance learning
Authors: Boyarinov D. , Novikova Y. , Gubaidulina L. , Sultanova F. , Kachina A. , Barabanshchikova V.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In the context of distance learning students have an increase in the level of stress, anxiety (Husky, Kovess-Masfety, Swendsen, 2020). There is also a problem with time management and, as a result, procrastination. The reported study was funded by RFBR according to the research project №20-04-60174.

Objectives

To study the differences in the level of anxiety and procrastination depending on the type of learning.

Methods

A total of 290 students took part in the study. In the first study (before distance), 168 people took part, the average age was 19.8. In the second study (during distance) – 120 students, the average age was 19.2. The questionnaires: General Procrastination Scale, C.Lay; State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Ch.Spielberger.

Results

In the course of descriptive statistics, it was revealed that the level of procrastination and state anxiety have a middle score. However, the level of trait anxiety in conditions of distance learning is high, especially among 1st-year students. In a comparative analysis of the two studies, it turned out that the level of state anxiety is significantly higher (t=1,975;p=0,049) in conditions of distance learning. The correlation analysis revealed the relationship between procrastination and trait anxiety (r=0,414;p=0,0001).

Conclusions

These results can be used to create programs to optimize the stress manifestation in students, especially when taking online exams. The high anxiety of 1st-year students may be associated with their accumulated stress factors, such as uncertainty about the future and etc. It should be noted that the level of procrastination does not differ, which may indicate procrastination as a personality trait.