bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and predictive factors of depressive and anxious symptoms among healthcare professionals at Farhat Hached University Hospital in Sousse during COVID-19
Authors: Belhadj Chabbeh N. , Athimni Z. , Chatti S. , Chelly F. , Bouhoula M. , Ben Arbia N. , Chouchane A. , Aloui A. , Kacem I. , Maoua M. , Brahem A. , Kalboussi H. , El Maalel O. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic was originally of a magnitude exceeding that of previous epidemics, placing a heavy burden on healthcare systems in general and healthcare professionals in particular.ObjectivesTo assess the prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms among healthcare professionals at Farhat Hached Hospital in Sousse during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify associated risk factors.MethodsThis is a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted among healthcare professionals practicing in the Farhat Hached Hospital of Sousse, which took place during the period extending between August and November 2021. The 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), were used to assess depression and anxiety respectively.ResultsOur study included 326 healthcare professionals from the Farhat Hached University Hospital. The mean age of our population was 36.38 ±10.19 years, with a clear female predominance of 81.3%. The prevalences of depression and anxiety were 46% and 35.3% respectively. Female gender and being a paramedical staff were risk factors for depressive and anxiety symptoms. On the other hand, professional seniority of over 5 years was statistically significantly associated with anxiety. Sporting activity was inversely associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms.The multi-variate analytical study revealed that the practice of leisure activities other than sport was a protective factor against the occurrence of depressive symptomatology in healthcare professionals, while current smoking and the practice of a sporting activity were inversely associated with the occurrence of anxious symptomatology.ConclusionsThese findings underline the need for specific prevention strategies to reduce these symptoms and help healthcare professionals maintain their mental health. This will help to guarantee the quality and efficiency of work in the medical environment, to better control the pandemic.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Depressive symptoms, insomnia and dyspnea in COVID-19 survivors: a tunisian study
Authors: Nadia B. , Mariem T. , Houda B. A. , Ghada C. , Sahar E. , Sameh M. , Sami K. , Najla H. , Jihen A. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe coronavirus infection emerging in 2019 caused a plethora of physical and mental health problems around the world. Recent studies showed a persistent psychological distress even after few months of the infection.ObjectivesTo determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms, insomnia and dyspnea among covid-19 survivors.MethodsWe conducted a prospective cohort study including 121 Tunisian COVID-19 inpatients who had been discharged alive from hospital. Each enrolled patient was asked about the period before the hospital stay, and the 6-9 month-period after hospital discharge. Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depressive symptoms. We assessed insomnia via the insomnia severity index (ISI) and dyspnea through the mMRC (modified British Medical Research Council).ResultsThe median age of participants was 59 years. The prevalence of depressive symptoms and insomnia increased significantly after the pandemic (5.7% vs 57.9%, p=0.038, r=0.189; and 4.9% vs 26.4%; p<0.0001, r=0.349 respectively). Younger patients presented more depressive symptoms (p<0.0001). females were more likely to suffer from depressive symptoms (p<0.0001). Dyspnea was more prevalent among survivors with depressive symptoms (p=0.001). Patients with depressive symptoms exhibited more insomnia (p<0.0001).ConclusionsThe pandemic of covid19 emerged a wide range of physical and mental health problems with complex physiopathology. The early detection of these disorders improves the quality of life of these patients.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Cultural Diversity and Mental Health Care: A Case Study
Authors: Soares M. R. , Cameira M. P. , Abreu P. , Pereira M. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionIn today’s world of global migration and cultural diversity, mental health care grapples with persistent challenges. Despite efforts to promote cultural competency and person-centred approaches, it’s vital to delve into the issues surrounding cultural differences and linguistic diversity in mental health care. This exploration highlights the complexities where culture, language, and healthcare intersect (Brisset et al., 2014; Desai et al., 2021).ObjectivesOur aim is to analyse cultural and linguistic barriers in mental health care for migrants and assess their impact on access and quality of care.MethodsLiterature review, drawing from sources such as PubMed, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar. This review will be framed around the case of a 34-year-old man from Bangladesh, who has been residing in Lisbon for a year. His clinical presentation includes depressive symptoms, disorganized behaviour, and psychotic manifestations, such as persecutory delusions. He does not speak Portuguese or English, thereby limiting his access to essential mental health treatment services. Through this review, we intend to elucidate the intricate dynamics surrounding cultural and linguistic barriers in mental health care.ResultsMigrants from diverse backgrounds face many challenges, including the loss of homes, livelihoods, and family, often leading to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Two primary challenges include adapting to a new life and experiencing discrimination and marginalization (Amri et al., 2013; Satinsky et al., 2019). Social stigma and mistrust hinder access to mental health services. Limited culturally competent services widen the gap between mental health needs and help-seeking attitudes. Language barriers significantly contribute to disparities in access to services (Amri et al., 2013). Additionally, mental health care providers’ organizational culture often prioritizes ‘ideal’ patients who are native speakers, favouring individual-oriented treatment over community-focused care (Desai et al., 2021).To address these barriers effectively, it is crucial to employ specific strategies. The Multi-Phase Model of Psychotherapy, Social Justice, and Human Rights (MPM) equips mental health counsellors to better serve immigrant communities while addressing social stigma. This comprehensive framework comprises five phases of intervention: psychoeducation, culturally responsive service delivery, cultural orientation, collaboration with local healers, and connecting patients to essential resources (Amri et al., 2013). Additionally, practitioners should receive training in effective collaboration with interpreters to provide multilingual healthcare (Brisset et al., 2014).ConclusionsAddressing cultural and linguistic barriers in mental health care is vital. The Multi-Phase Model of Psychotherapy offers a promising approach, while collaboration with interpreters remains essential.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
A case of misdiagnosis and mismanagement in forensic psychiatry
Authors: Saeedzadeh Sardahaee F. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractA case of misdiagnosis and mismanagement in forensic psychiatry Speaker: Farzaneh Saeedzadeh Sardahaee, MD, PhD, Consultant Psychiatrist, Trondheim, NorwayTimely diagnosis and treatment for psychiatric illnesses in first time offenders in forensic psychiatry remains a challenge. Presenting a young male first-time offender with recent onset psychosis, ADHD and anxiety disorder, the speaker reflects upon the complexities around making the right diagnosis in a prison with very limited resources for clinical observation. Minting the term “Psychosis Incognito”, the speaker goes on to explore a complex multiagency follow up process faced by this offender and his treating team, as well as many medical complications including malnutrition and Korsakoff syndrome.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Effects of light therapy in the anxious-depressive clinic
Authors: Gonzalez Salvador M. T. , Gutierrez-Labrador R. , Gómez-Ulla M. I. C. , de la Puente A. I. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionMajor depressive disorder (MDD) is defined as a mental disorder of multifactorial etiology, which presents with mood disturbance, mainly sadness associated with loss of interest or pleasure. Light therapy (LT) is a therapeutic intervention consisting of daily exposure to a light source. This study aims to evaluate the effects of LT on anxious-depressive symptomatology and sleep in a sample of patients diagnosed with depression.ObjectivesThis study aims to evaluate the effects of LT on anxious-depressive symptomatology and sleep in a sample of patients diagnosed with depression.MethodsProspective case-control study, in which the cases are outpatients diagnosed with MDD and the controls are healthy individuals. Both groups underwent LT sessions and were assessed by means of validated scales, anxiety and depression symptoms before and after LT sessions, as well as changes in sleep patterns through a sleep measuring device.Results11 cases and 18 controls were included in the study. Of the participants, 62.1% were female and 37.9% were male. The mean age of the sample was 54.03 □ 11.55 years. There were significant case differences in the pre and post LT scores of the depression scale. There were no significant differences in the changes in superficial, deep and total sleep and in the anxiety scale scores.ConclusionsIn the sample analysed, LT has significant effects on the cases at the level of the depression scale.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Assessing the relationships between emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in a Tunisian University Setting
Authors: Boudriga S. , Lagha M. , Methni M. , Ben Youssef Y. , Ben Romdhane I. , Homri W. , Labbane R. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionDifficulties in emotion regulation are known to be associated with various mental health problems, particularly depression, and anxiety.ObjectivesThis study aimed to explore the relationship between emotion regulation, depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms in a Tunisian university setting.MethodsA cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study was conducted among Tunisian students from August to September 2023. Data were collected through an anonymous online questionnaire, assessing sociodemographic characteristics, the Arabic version of the difficulties in emotion regulation scale short form (DRES-SF), and the depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS-21).Results
A sample of 307 university students were enrolled. The sex ratio (M/F) was 0.28. In the assessment of emotional regulation difficulties, participants reported a mean total score of 42.47 ± 12.68. The mean score of stress was 18.2 ± 11.36, reflecting a mild severity. Participants with higher stress levels have more difficulties in emotional regulation (r=0.658, p=0.00). Participants with depressive symptoms showed a higher DRES-SF total score (r= 0.629, p=0.00). Participants had a mean anxiety score of 15.6 ± 10.57, reflecting a severe severity. A significant correlation between total DRES-SF score and anxiety (r=0.606, p=0.00).ConclusionsOur study concluded significant positive correlations between depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress symptoms with emotion regulation difficulties.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Clinical and psychometric characteristics of depression in the elderly
Authors: Albu-Kalinovic R. , Pop M.-A. , Oana N.-S. , Adela B. , Gabriela-Ionela V. , Virgil-Radu E. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionDepression in the elderly represents a multifaceted and critical area of study within the realm of geriatric mental health. As the global population continues to age, the prevalence and impact of depression among older adults have garnered increased attention from researchers and clinicians.ObjectivesThis abstract delves into the comprehensive exploration of the clinical and psychometric characteristics of depression in the elderly population. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of depression’s manifestation in the third age, providing invaluable insights that can inform tailored interventions, improve diagnostic accuracy, and enhance the overall quality of life for older adults.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted that gathered 80 patients. Their common characteristics were the signing of the consent, their admission to the Psychiatry Clinic in Timișoara and their main diagnosis with one of the ICD-10 codes F32.x, F33.x or F06.8.This selection resulted in three groups: patients younger than 65 years old, patients older than 65 years in whom depression began before this age, and patients older than 65 years in whom depression began after 65 years of age. Anamnestic data, paraclinical, socio-demographic data, psychometric scales that measured the level of depression as well as personality scales were collected. The data that was obtained was compared and examined to find significant correlations between the 3 batches.ResultsThe results show that there are no significant differences between patients with depression from rural or urban areas, showing the universality of the occurrence of this disorder among the population, regardless their environment. Depression in the third age is most often found in the elderly who have only finished secondary school, education levels playing a role in depression prevalence suggest the significance of socio-economic factors, warranting targeted outreach and education efforts in vulnerable populations. Correlations were also found between the level of depression and certain blood parameters. The integration of these findings for an understanding of the etiology of depression can pave the way for new therapeutic approaches. Certain personality traits were correlated more with certain items on the scales that evaluated depression, thus in those with a neurotic personality it is very strongly correlated with the appearance of guilt as a symptom, agreeableness with psychomotor slowness, paranoid with insomnia, and anankastic and dependent personalities were correlated much more with social isolation.ConclusionsBy recognizing the distinct clinical features and implications of depression in older adults, we can pave the way for improved mental health care and better quality of life for this growing population. This study reinforces the importance of continuous research and collaboration in the field of geriatric mental health.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Predictors of relapse in bipolar disorder: an overview of the available evidence
Authors: Pacchiarotti I. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAfter the introduction of all the speakers, the main aim of this workshop will be mentioned, which consists of identifying and highlighting those clinical, sociodemographic, environmental and other factors than might predict an increased risk of overall, depressive, manic or mixed relapses in bipolar disorder, which is crucial for the identification of high-risk individuals. Dr. Pacchiarotti will present main results from a systematic review performed recently by the work group aimed at collecting the available evidence regarding different factors that increase rates of mood recurrences or relapses for different polarities in bipolar disorder.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Characterize and Address Mental health Problems in University Students (CAMPUS Study): preliminary results
Authors: Nosè M. , Muriago G. , Tedeschi F. , Turrini G. , Barbui C. 
Published: August 2024

Introduction
The transition phase from late adolescence to early adulthood, which corresponds with the period of university life, is a time that offers important opportunities for personal growth. However, this developmental phase also concurs with the peak period of risk for the onset of mental health disorders. For this reason, the literature clearly identifies university students as a vulnerable population group for psychogical distress and mental problems. Digital psychological interventions and e-mental health solutions are emerging as a promising solution for university students, particularly appealing due to their anonymity, portability and ease of access. Hence, the World Health Organisation has developed several psychosocial e-mental health tools including Doing What Matters in Times of Stress (DWM), which has been consistently shown effective in various vulnerable populations. These data provide the framework for the CAMPUS study that is intended for students attending the University of Verona.Objectives
The main objective of this project is to adapt the WHO psychological intervention called “Doing What Matters in Times of Stress” (DWM) to this target population and to evaluate the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of WHO’s DWM as a psychological strategy for effective mental health prevention and promotion, and for reducing psychological symptoms and distress in university students. Secondary objectives of the project include to evaluate the fidelity of DWM, to assess factors associated with its implementation and effectiveness and to co-create the necessary local conditions for implementation and up-scaling of DWM.MethodsThe CAMPUS study is a prospective non-randomized follow-up study. The target population is composed by university students of University of Verona, Italy. The online assessments, which are collected pre and post intervention, consist of an ad-hoc sociodemographic information page, and four self-administered questionnaires assessing psychological distress, depression and anxiety symptoms, and psychological well-being. In addition, implementation checklists will be administered to assess the acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility of the intervention.ResultsPreliminary results on a sample of 300 students attending University of Verona show that the adapted DWM intervention promote students’ psychological well-being and reduce the level of psychological distress as well as the risk for the later development of a psychopathology. Moreover we expect that future results would include data on the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of the adapted DWM intervention among university studentsConclusionsThese results provide valuable information for mental health promotion and support programs for university students, as well as insights into factors influencing its implementation and suggestions for future scaling of the intervention.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared
Psychiatrists’ Readiness for Digital Psychiatry in Pakistan: A Multicenter CrossSectional Study with Regression Analysis
Authors: Adeel Riaz M. M. , Abrar T. , Tebha S. S. , Tariq H. , Fatima R. , Hamad M. , Khan A. A. , Ahadi A. , Ul Sabah N. , Rasool W. , Latif K. , Umar M. , Siddique I. , Nawaz F. A. 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionThe concept of digital psychiatry, encompassing technologies such as mental health apps, Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and telepsychiatry, emerges as a potential solution to bridge the existing gaps in the mental health system of Pakistan. However, one of the major barriers to the implementation of these technologies is hesitancy to adopt digital tools by psychiatrists.ObjectivesThis study aims to explore the current understanding of digital psychiatry, the barriers faced by psychiatrists in its’ widespread implementation, and their willingness to adopt these services in clinical practice.MethodsThis cross-sectional study surveyed psychiatrists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices on digital psychiatry from 39 public hospitals across Pakistan using an online validated questionnaire from January to July 2023. Participants included psychiatry residents, fellows, and consultants practicing in Pakistan. Responses were analyzed with Raosoft software, Quirkos, and SPSS 26 using thematic analysis and correlation.ResultsA total of 200 participants responded to the questionnaire, primarily in the age range of 20-30 years (56%). The gender distribution was 55% male (N = 111) and 45% female (N = 89). Among the professional roles, 23% were consultants, 7% were registrars, 54% were psychiatry residents, and 17% were medical officers. Respondents came from both rural (N = 148, 74%) and urban (N = 52, 26%) practice settings. Regarding telepsychiatry, 46% strongly agreed that they are familiar with telepsychiatry, while 58% agreed that telepsychiatry can save time and money. Additionally, 22% strongly agreed that it’s a viable approach for patient care. Concerning perspectives on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in digital psychiatry readiness, only 40% of participants had received AI training. However, 55% expressed interest in collaborating with international centers on AI-related projects. In terms of mental health apps, 62% of respondents reported limited familiarity with them. Nevertheless, 65% believed that these apps could potentially save time and money for psychiatric health systems. Lastly, concerning Virtual Reality (VR) in psychiatric care, 57% of participants were familiar with VR technology, but only 43% were acquainted with its applications in psychiatry. Notably, 71% did not view VR as a viable replacement for in-person psychiatric management.Conclusions
This is the first study conducted on understanding digital psychiatry in Pakistan’s healthcare system, which revealed multiple challenges to digital health competency among psychiatrists. This emphasizes on the need for formal training and funding towards resources to overcome obstacles in utilizing mental health technologies.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared