bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of depression symptoms among caregivers of children that take therapy in the national center for children rehabilitation and treatment during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dobi F. , Kabili E. , Malile E. , Dragoti F. , Dorre I. , Jolla A. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionRaising a child with neurodevelopmental disorder is very challenging. Furthermore COVID-19 pandemic can increase stress levels especially among people that suffer from mental health disorders. On of the high risks group are children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Studies show that these difficult, challenging times have had a negative impact on most families, which have a child with neurodevelopmental disorders.ObjectivesEvaluation of depression symptoms among caregivers of children that take therapy in the National Center for Children Rehabilitation and Treatment (NCCRT) during COVID-19 pandemicMethodsThe 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.ResultsMost of individual interviewed, whom are responsible for children wellbeing were their parents, 69% of them. 56% of individuals were among 31-45 years old and 92% of them were women. Depression symptoms were slightly present. We noticed that depressive symptomatology was a bit worse in caregivers in urban areas compared with ones in rural areas.ConclusionsIt is necessary supporting with special attention caregivers whom have depressive symptoms. Yet has to be evaluated the connection, if it’s present, between parents with depressive symptoms and children progress, for ones that are being supported with development therapy.
Facing the COVID-19: A qualitative research on the impact of the pandemic on autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
Authors: Luque T. Pretel , Puigdesens A. Vilaregut , Hernando N. Farriols , Santos M. Roca , Gárriz C. Andrés 
Published: February 2022

Introduction
Lockdown resulting from the experienced pandemic has had a great influence on the emotional and social well-being of the general population. Specifically, it is known that those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their caregivers had to overcome several challenges during this period. Moreover, this situation has influenced the professionals who work in this field.ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to describe the impact, the learnings and the challenges that have arisen for the patients with ASD, their families and professionals during the coronavirus outbreak through progenitors’ and professionals’ perceptions.MethodsA qualitative research design using focus groups was selected to identify and discuss participants’ experiences, beliefs, perceptions and attitudes. The target population consisted on parents with children with ASD and professionals who work with them. Data was collected via two focus groups. A content was made using the program Atlas.ti to determinate the principal categories and themes that describe the COVID-19 impact.Results
Findings widely describe the problems faced and difficulties experienced by this population during lockdown and after it. As well as the challenges, opportunities and learning that this situation has offered.Conclusions
Reflections derived from the study manifest the need of thinking about new models of intervention with children with ASD and their families. Greater attention must be paid to parents’ experiences in order to attend to the actual demands of patients and their caregivers contextualized within our current changing situation.
Washing COVID-19 away: COVID-19 and obsessive compulsive disorder
Authors: André R. , Gonçalves M.J. , Sereijo C. , Abreu M. 
Published: February 2022

Introduction
We are facing a crisis caused by an extremely infectious disease, Covid-19. The mechanisms of infection and transmission of this coronavirus are largely unknown but some of the clearer recommendations are washing hands and surfaces. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder has a lifetime prevalence of 2-3%, among the multiple symptoms, fear of dirt or being contaminated, and excessive washing are the most common affecting about 50% of patients.ObjectivesWe reviewed the available information to understand if there are changes in OCD symptoms during the pandemic.MethodsNon-systematic review of the literature with selection of scientific articles published in the past 6 months; by searching Pubmed and Medscape databases using the combination of MeSH descriptors. The following MeSH terms were used: Covid-19; SARS-Cov2; pandemic; obsessive compulsive disorder; OCD.ResultsFrom a theoretical point of view, the increased frequency of hand washing and the importance of following hand-washing steps can add to a ritualistic pattern, also cleaning hands every time a person comes from outside or contacts with others can be justified as a preventive action rather than considered a problem and it can be “normalized” by others as a pandemic response.ConclusionsIn conclusion, there is evidence that during quarantine an overall increase in obsession and compulsion severity emerged with contamination symptoms associated with worse outcomes. There is data on an increase in relapses with patients not asking for help in a timely manner. The current situation is unpredictable and rapidly changing. It is likely that more information about this topic will arise in the next months.
Binge eating disorder and coronavirus outbreak among health care workers in tunisia
Authors: Dhemaid M. , Abbes W. , Tfifha M. , Medhaffer K. , Abbes M. , Ghanmi L. 
Published: February 2022

Introduction
COVID19 outbreak had affected physical and mental health of individuals. Different adverse health behaviors had worsened and eating disorders had evolved. Health care workers were not spared.ObjectivesTo screen binge eating disorder among health care workers of regional hospital of Gabes (south of Tunisia) and its associated factors.Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study, from April 19, 2020, to May 5, 2020 on 289 in Gabes regional Hospital. All healthcare workers were included (n=620). Workers who were on sick leave during the study were excluded. During this period, the total confirmed cases of COVID-19 exceeded 900 cases in Tunisia and around 20 cases in Gabes. We used a self-administered anonymous questionnaire containing sociodemographic and clinical data. DSM-5 diagnostic criteria were used to assess Binge-Eating Disorder.ResultsOf the 289 responding participants, 85 were physicians (29%), 166 nurses (57.4%), 8 ambulance drivers (2.8%) and 30 health-related administrators (10.3%). A total of 100 participants (34.6%) were frontline health care workers directly engaged in diagnosing, treating or caring for patients with coronavirus disease. Nine percent of participants experienced binge eating disorder during the outbreak. Binge eating disorders were associated to past psychiatric history of eating disorder (p=0.001), social isolation (p=0.001), increased consumption of tea and coffee (p=0.02) and the fact of being a frontline care giver (p=0.009).Conclusions
Binge eating disorders are usually associated with health problems: obesity and consequently severe form of coronavirus disease. Screening those disorders is important to alleviate its physical impact.
What is the role of video feedback in supporting parents experiencing mental health problems?
Authors: Barlow J. 
Published: February 2022

Abstract BodyParental mental health problems have been found to have a significant impact on a range of aspects of parental caregiving during the postnatal period, with significant implications in terms of key aspects of the child’s development. Video feedback is a generic term that refers to the use of videotaped interactions of the parent and child to promote parental sensitivity, and a recent meta‐analysis of 20 studies (1757 parent‐child dyads) found that video feedback can improve parental sensitivity compared with a control or no intervention up to six months’ follow‐up. This paper will examine the ways in which video feedback might contribute to the ability of parents with mental health problems to provide the type of caregiving that will promote the development of a secure attachment in the infant.DisclosureNo significant relationships.
The digital era and the psychiatric follow up during COVID-19 pandemic– are we ready?
Authors: Andrade G. , Gonçalves M.J. , Sereijo C. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionThe pandemic caused by the SARS CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) has a profound effect in the health care system (HCS). The therapeutic effect of communication skills is well known. Psychiatric patients are a vulnerable population and remote care via telephone was one of the first implemented measures during the lockdown.ObjectivesThe aim is to highlight the potential benefits and risks of remote follow up, according to the scientific evidence currently available.MethodsNon-systematic review of the literature with the selection of scientific articles published in the last year. The search was performed in Pubmed database with the following Mesh terms: “COVID-19”, “psychiatry”, and “health communication”. Complementary references were also included.ResultsFor those with a stable psychiatric condition, remote appointments may guarantee the adequate follow up in a safe way throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, telephonic appointments are associated with a limited ability to perform psychopathological examination. A better assessment can be achieved if video call is used. Also, data protection and the ability of giving informed consent by psychiatric patients should be addressed. Additional training should be considered. A subgroup of patients with severe mental illness may require face-to-face visits.ConclusionsCOVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented crisis and telemedicine is now emerging as an alternative. Remote consultation has advantages and, in some situations, it may replace or complement the in-person visits. Since social isolation is one of the most effective measures, digital means constitute a window of opportunity for the HCS.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown period on the number of hospitalizations for acute mania
Authors: Aissa A. , Ghabi H. , Alaya M. Ben , Ouali U. , Meddouri S. , Nacef F. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionCOVID-19 pandemic has affected social interaction and healthcare worldwide especially during the period of lockdown. As a result of this pandemic in Tunisia, the activity of hospital services and all non-emergency acts, in several specialties have been reduced. In psychiatry, such measures have not been taken. In the social zeitgeber hypothesis social rhythm disrupting life events such as eating, activity, and social patterns, may lead to the onset of manic episodes.ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the frequency of acute mania in the context of bipolar disorder during the lockdown and post lockdown period compared to the same period during last year in a psychiatric department in Tunisia.MethodsWe assessed the number of hospitalizations in our department for acute mania in the context of bipolar disorder during the lockdown period in our country, (from March 1st and May 30, 2020) and during the two months following it. We compared this frequency to that of the previous year during the same periods.ResultsDuring the lockdown period, 17 patients were hospitalized for acute mania in the context of bipolar disorder. Sixty-seven patients were hospitalized in 2019 during the same period for acute mania. Nine hospitalizations for acute mania in the post lockdown period (between June and July 2020), were noted compared to 16 hospitalizations in the same period in 2019.ConclusionsLockdown seemed to have a protective effect from affective episodes in bipolar disorder. Perceiving increased connectedness among families may explain these findings.
Stress and affective disorders in COVID-19 pandemic: On-line survey of russian respondents in different cities of residence
Authors: Kasyanov E. , Rukavishnikov G. , Sorokin M. , Makarevich O. , Neznanov N. , Lutova N. , Mazo G. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionThe psychological stress associated with the COVID-19 pandemic has a complex multifactorial nature.ObjectivesThe aim: to evaluate the level of stress during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Russian-speaking population with(-out) affective disorders in different cities of residence.MethodsThe data obtained from an online survey of 4803 Russian-speaking respondents (age over 18) from March 30 to May 18, 2020. The survey included social, demographic and the history of affective disorders data. The anxiety distress level was evaluated with the Psychological Stress Measure (PSM-25).ResultsIndividuals from sub-cohort of Russian cities with populations less than one million had higher stress levels (M=135.39) compared to Moscow (M=129.47; p=0.003) or St.-Petersburg (M=126.63; p<0.001). However, stress scores in respondents with a history of affective disorders correspond to the average stress level according to PSM-25. Respondents without affective disorders from St.-Petersburg reported lower stress levels (M=92.88) than respondents from Moscow (M=100.47; p<0.001) and Russian cities with less than one million population (M=98.4; p<0.001). Average stress scores from St.-Petersburg and other Russian cities show a low level of stress on PSM-25, which indicates psychological adaptation. Stress scores from Moscow have borderline values between low and medium levels.ConclusionsOur study showed that the city of residence and affective disorders status significantly affect stress levels in Russian population. These factors could be further used in individual psychological support strategies.
Web-based tools applied to therapy and counseling during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Dores A.R. , Geraldo A. , Carvalho I. , Barbosa F. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionWeb-based tools allowed the provision of psychological counseling and therapy at-distance during the COVID-19 lockdown. Nevertheless, psychologists’ attitudes towards the adoption of these tools and its impact in their professional practices need to be further explored.ObjectivesThe objective was to study the use of web-based tools on psychological practices before and during COVID-19 lockdown, trying to identify changes on psychologists’ professional practices related to the pandemic, as well as to explore factors that could have affected such changes.MethodsOne-hundred and eight psychologists filled-in an online survey, developed for the purposes of this study, during mandatory lockdown. The study was disseminated by mailing list, social networks, and by the Portuguese Psychologists Association.ResultsThe results have shown that psychologists kept providing their services during lockdown thanks to the adoption of web-based tools. Although psychologists have recognized that additional precautions were needed for at-distance practice in comparison to in-person interventions, the experience of using IC technologies in clinical practice was described as positive, ensuring clients’ adherence with positive results. Additionally, despite psychological services were maintained on a larger scale by psychologists with more years of experience, professionals with average experience stated more favorable attitudes towards the use of web-based tools in counseling and therapy.ConclusionsAlthough the implementation of ICT based practice was enforced by current circumstances, the experience that psychologists gathered and shared during the lockdown can guide future professional practice, improving and fostering the replication of best practices at distance.
Stigmatization attitudes of medical staff toward people with respiratory syndromes during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sorokin M. , Kasyanov E. , Rukavishnikov G. , Makarevich O. , Neznanov N. , Mazo G. , Lutova N. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionThe health care workers have extremely high risks of adverse psychological reactions from COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, patients with respiratory syndromes face stigmatization due to their possible contagiousness of SARS-Cov-2.ObjectivesTo study the association of behavior, psychological distress in health care workers, and their stigmatization attitudes to the patients.MethodsThe online-survey of 1800 health care workers performed during different lockdown periods in Russia: the first week and the last (30/Mar-5/Apr/20 and 4-10/May/20). The Psychological stress scale (PSM-25), modified Perceived devaluation-discrimination scale (Cronbach’s α=0.74) were used. Dispersion analysis with p-value=0.05 and Cohen’s d, Cramer’s V calculation (ES) performed.ResultsIn the 2nd phase medical stuff more often wore masks (64% vs. 89%; χ2=98.7, p=0.000, df=1; ES=0.23) and gloves (30% vs. 57%; χ2=57.6, p=0.000, df=1; ES=0.18), continued perform hand hygiene (94-95%) and physical distancing (73-74%), but was restricted in most effective protective measure: self-isolation (49% vs. 36%; χ2=16.0, p=0.000, df=1; ES=1.0). The psychological stress levels decreased in the 2nd phase (ES=0.13), while the stigma levels (ES=0.33) increased. Physicians experienced more stress compared with nurses and paramedical personnel (ES=0.34; 0.64) but were less likely to stigmatize SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals (ES=0.43; 0.41). The highest rates of contacts with COVID-19 patients (83%) were reported by physicians (χ2=123.0; p = 0.00, df=4; ES=0.28).ConclusionsDirect contact with SARS-Cov-2 is associated with a significant increase in stress among medical personnel. However, the stigmatizing reactions are not directly associated with the risks of infection and are most prevalent among nurses and paramedical personnel.
The effects of excessive and compulsive online searching of COVID-19 information (“cyberchondria”) on general and COVID-19-specific anxiety and fear in romantic couples during lockdown
Authors: Stewart S. , King F. , Rodriguez L. , Meier S. , Sherry S. , Abbass A. , Deacon H. , Nogueira-Arjona R. , Hagen A. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionCyberchondria involves excessive and uncontrollable online searching of information about a perceived illness. This behavior can cause or maintain distress.ObjectivesLittle is known about cyberchondria during the COVID-19 pandemic or how cyberchondria in one individual may cause distress in their significant other if they are self-isolating together; our study sought to fill these gaps.MethodsWe conducted a Qualtrics Panel survey with 760 cohabitating Canadian couples; in June 2020, participants retrospectively reported on their cyberchondria behavior, general anxiety, and COVID-19 fears during the month of April 2020, while adhering to stay-at-home advisories. Two separate actor-partner interdependence models (APIMs) used cyberchondria excessiveness and compulsion to predict generalized anxiety and COVID-19 danger/contamination fears in the actor and partner.ResultsBoth cyberchondria excessiveness and compulsion were associated with higher general anxiety and higher COVID-19 danger/contamination fears in the individual (actor effects). Partner cyberchondria compulsion was associated with higher general anxiety in the individual whereas partner cyberchondria excessiveness was associated with higher COVID-19 danger/contamination fears in the individual (partner effects).ConclusionsFindings suggest that excessive and uncontrollable searching of information about COVID-19 on the internet during lockdown may contribute to distress in both the individual engaging in the cyberchondria behavior, and in their romantic partner. Moreover, different aspects of cyberchondria in the partner (compulsion vs. excessiveness) appears to contribute to general vs. COVID-19-specific anxiety/fears in the partner, respectively. Future research should examine mechanisms underlying the observed partner effects (e.g., co-rumination, social contagion) and reasons for the differential partner effects of cyberchondria components.
Practical observations - the COVID-19 influence on latvian early intervention work with first episode psychosis (FEP) patients
Authors: Kokina N. , Sile L. , Butorins B. , Pocopko A. , Lesina A. , Kikuste S. , Sapele I. , Rancans E. 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionCOVID-19 is a very stressful experience for people with FEP and changed the work routine of the mental health services they have used.ObjectivesIn this work, we aim to explore how the restrictions influenced the out-patient visits and rehospitalization rates.MethodsThe Latvian Early intervention programme (Berze et al.,2019) for patients with FEP had started on 1st January, 2019. The 1st group of patients (n=28) finished the programme on 31st December, 2019. The 2nd group of patients were enrolled in programme on 1st January, 2020 (n=12). When on 12th of March in Latvia health care restriction started due the COVID-19 situation, we were forced to change our structure of LAT-EIP.ResultsThe average patient age of patients was 29.9 (SD±7.1) years in the 1st group, in 2nd group average age is 26.2 (SD±5.9) accordingly in years. In the 1st group 60.7% of patients visited the psychiatrist 6-10 times vs 8.33% in 2nd group, in the 1st group 32.1 % of patients had 2-5 visits with psychiatrist vs 75% in 2nd group. There were 72 family sessions in 1st group, whereas in 2nd group the family sessions were excluded. During the programme 7% (n=2) of patients in the 1st group were rehospitalized vs 25% (n=3).ConclusionsThe structure of LAT-EIP had change at the time of COVID-19 restrictions, unfortunately our work lack the statistical power. From the descriptive statistics, we can speculate that the rehospitalization rate is higher because of the lack of regular contact with psychiatrist and the lack of psychoeducation with families.
“Covid madness”
Authors: Meseguer C. Capella , Vázquez E. Rodríguez , Cerejeira J. Gonçalves , Carrasco I. Santos , García L. García 
Published: February 2022

IntroductionWe present the case of a man who, after receiving treatment for Covid-19 pneumonia, suffers a manic episode induced by medication.ObjectivesThis case is chosen to present as an example of a psychiatric illness derived from Covid-19, in this case secondary to its treatment.MethodsWe present a manic episode induced by covid medication.ResultsComplementary examinations are carried out in which organic pathology is ruled out, being diagnosed of a manifest episode in probable relation to the treatments used and hospital admission is decided due to the impossibility of home management. Neuroleptic and anxiolytic treatment was started at low doses with a good response, and he was discharged with complete recovery and critiqued of the episode.ConclusionsIt is estimated that between 20-40% of patients with COVID infection have presented neuropsychiatric symptoms. Mania secondary to treatment was reported in 13 (0 · 7%) of 1744 patients with coranavirus included in a study (1). The Spanish Pharmacivigilance System of Medicines for Human Use (SEFV-H) closely monitors the suspected adverse reactions reported with drugs considered potential therapeutic strategies for SARS-CoV-2 infection. 327 cases of adverse reactions have been reported, of which 18 cases include 28 thermal cases of suspected psychiatric adverse reactions. The interest of this case lies in the fact that it illustrates a psychiatric disorder derived from Covid-19, in this case secondary to the treatment used, which causes a manifest episode with a typical evolution in this type of case with rapid improvement at low doses of antipsychotics.