Coronavirus Anxiety Scale: A brief mental health screener for COVID-19 related anxiety

Hope, Belief in Just World and Trust in Government: An Interaction Amidst Covid-19 Pandemic in India

The outbreak of COVID 19 has brought about changes in all spheres of human life. In the present times of pandemic, human life has suffered not only from physical stresses but also encountered and endured several mental stresses. In recent times people adopted several measures to bring positivity to their life. The present study explores the relationship between- Hope, Belief in Just World, Covid -19, and Trust in the Government in India, during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Data was collected online from young adults, via Google forms, using the tools- Adult Hope scale, Covid Anxiety scale, Belief in Just world scale, and Trust in Government. Results showed a significant correlation between the three variables. Hope, Belief in Just World, and Trust in government. Regression analysis found these three variables to significantly impact Covid anxiety. Further, Belief in Just World was found to mediate the relationship between Hope and Covid anxiety. During challenging times, it is important to boost mental health in the right direction. Implications have been further discussed in the article.

Influence of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Codiagnosis on the Relationship between Perceived and Objective Psychoneuro-Immunoendocrine Disorders in Women with Fibromyalgia

Although the predominant symptom in fibromyalgia (FM) is muscle pain, and fatigue in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), differential diagnosis is very difficult. This research investigates the psychoneuroimmunoendocrine disorders of FM patients and ascertains whether a previous CFS diagnosis affected them. Through accelerometry objective parameters, physical activity/sedentarism levels in relation to fatigue are studied, as well as whether perceived levels of stress, anxiety, and pain correspond to objective biomarkers, all of these with respect to a reference group (RG) of women without FM. FM patients have a worse psychological state and perceived quality of life than those with RG. These perceived outcomes are consistent with impaired objective levels of a sedentary lifestyle, higher systemic levels of cortisol and noradrenaline, and lower levels of serotonin. However, FM patients with a previous CFS diagnosis had lower systemic levels of IL-8, cortisol, oxytocin, and higher levels of adrenaline and serotonin than FM patients without diagnosed CFS. In conclusion, while perceived health parameters do not detect differences, when objective neuroimmunoendocrine parameters related to stress, inflammation, pain, and fatigue are used, people with CFS could be overdiagnosed with FM. This reinforces the need for objective biomarker assessment of these patients for better diagnostic discrimination between both syndromes.

The Psychological and Wellbeing Impacts of Quarantine on Frontline Workers during COVID-19 and Beyond

OBJECTIVE

The current study investigated the experiences, wellbeing impacts, and coping strategies of frontline workers who participated in "Hotels for Heroes", an Australian voluntary hotel quarantine program during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program was open to those who were COVID-19 positive or exposed to COVID-19 as part of their profession.

METHODS

Frontline workers who had stayed in voluntary quarantine between April 2020 and March 2021 were invited to participate in a voluntary, anonymous, cross-sectional online survey including both quantitative and qualitative responses. Complete responses were collected from 106 participants, which included data on sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, experiences of the Hotels for Heroes program, and validated mental health measures.

RESULTS

Mental health problems were prevalent amongst frontline workers (e.g., moderate anxiety symptoms, severe depression symptoms, and greater than usual impact of fatigue). For some, quarantine appeared to be helpful for anxiety and burnout, but quarantine also appeared to impact anxiety, depression, and PTSD negatively, and longer stays in quarantine were associated with significantly higher coronavirus anxiety and fatigue impacts. The most widely received support in quarantine was from designated program staff; however, this was reportedly accessed by less than half of the participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study points to specific aspects of mental health care that can be applied to participants of similar voluntary quarantine programs in the future. It seems necessary to screen for psychological needs at various stages of quarantine, and to allocate appropriate care and improve its accessibility, as many participants did not utilise the routine support offered. Support should especially target disease-related anxiety, symptoms of depression and trauma, and the impacts of fatigue. Future research is needed to clarify specific phases of need throughout quarantine programs, and the barriers for participants receiving mental health supports in these contexts.

Recalling Self-efficacious Memories Reduces COVID-19-Related Fear

Purpose

Manipulating perceived self-efficacy can mitigate the negative impact of trauma and increase ability to adapt to stress. It is possible that a similar domain-based manipulation aimed at anxiety around the pandemic might mitigate the negative mental health impact of COVID-19. The current experimental study assessed whether a self-efficacy induction would be effective in reducing COVID-19 distress.

Methods

Participants were randomized to a self-efficacy autobiographical memory induction or control condition. We hypothesized that individuals in the self-efficacy group would exhibit lower levels of fear on an implicit measure of emotional states following exposure to COVID-19-related stimuli.

Results

A significant increase in general self-efficacy and self-confidence was found in the self-efficacy group from pre- to post-induction. Individuals in the self-efficacy group had significantly lower levels of fear counts on the implicit measure of emotional states than the control group following exposure to COVID-19-related stimuli.

Conclusions

Results suggest that (1) self-efficacy can be increased among individuals with high levels of COVID-19-related distress using an autobiographical memory induction and (2) doing so reduces fear processing among these individuals when exposed to COVID-19 stimuli. This is relevant for future intervention as it reveals a possible mechanism for reducing and recovering from COVID-19-related distress.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10608-023-10377-6.

The prevalence of adjustment disorder and predisposing factors in infertile women

BACKGROUND

Infertility is a stressful life event that increases the risk of developing mental disorders, particularly adjustment disorder (AD). Given the paucity of data on the prevalence of AD symptoms in infertility, the purpose of this study was to ascertain the prevalence, clinical presentation, and risk factors for AD symptoms in infertile women.

METHOD

In a cross-sectional study, 386 infertile women completed questionnaires including the Adjustment Disorder New Module-20 (ADNM), the Fertility Problem Inventory (FPI), the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), and the Primary Care Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PC-PTSD-5) at an infertility center between September 2020 and January 2022.

RESULT

The results indicated that 60.1% of infertile women exhibited AD symptoms (based on ADNM > 47.5). In terms of clinical presentation, impulsive behavior was more common. No significant relationship was observed between prevalence and women's age or duration of infertility. Infertility stress (β = 0.27, p < 0.001), coronavirus anxiety (β = 0.59, p = 0.13), and a history of unsuccessful assisted reproductive therapies (β = 2.72, p = 0.008) were several predisposing factors for AD symptoms in infertile women.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that all infertile women be screened from the start of infertility treatment. Additionally, the study suggests that infertility specialists should focus on combining medical and psychological treatments for individuals predisposed to AD, particularly infertile women who exhibit impulsive behaviors.

Coronavirus Anxiety Level and COVID-19 Vaccine Attitude Among Patients With Hematological Malignancies

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 vaccine is the most essential tool for altering the pandemic's trajectory. The pandemic's control is complicated by society's unwillingness to vaccinate. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess patients with hematological malignancies and their attitudes regarding COVID-19 immunization and to investigate COVID-19 anxiety in this susceptible population.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 165 patients with hematological malignancies were included. COVID-19 anxiety was evaluated with the coronavirus anxiety scale (CAS), and COVID-19 vaccine attitude was evaluated with the Vaccine Attitudes Review (VAX) scale.

RESULTS

The mean CAS score was 2.42 (0-17). There were 22 (13%) participants with a mean CAS score of ≥ 9. Half of the participants had a CAS score of 0. The CAS score was higher in females (p = 0.023). Similarly, it was significantly higher in patients who were not in remission for hematological malignancy and who received active chemotherapy (p = 0.010). The mean VAX score was 49.07 ± 8.76 (27-72). Most of the participants (64%) had a neutral attitude toward the COVID-19 vaccination. In a survey of 165 patients, 55% said that they were skeptical about vaccination safety, and 58% said that they were concerned about unintended side effects. In addition, 90% expressed moderate concerns about commercial profiteering. Natural immunity was preferred by 30% of the participants. There was no statistically significant correlation between CAS scores and the Vaccine Attitudes Review (VAX) scale.

CONCLUSION

This study draws attention to the level of anxiety in patients with hematological malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Negative attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine are worrisome for at-risk patient groups. We think that patients with hematological malignancies should be informed to eliminate their hesitations about COVID-19 vaccines.

COVID-19 anxiety and mental health among university students during the early phases of the U.S. pandemic

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the impact of COVID-19 in the early stages of the pandemic on university students in the U.S. by: (1) characterizing COVID-19-related disruptions; (2) evaluating health anxiety, obsessive-compulsive (OC), depression, and stress symptoms; and (3) analyzing the unique role of COVID-19 anxiety on mental health outcomes, after accounting for relevant variables.

PARTICIPANTS

Participants included 263 students (63.9% female).

METHODS

Data were collected online between March 19, 2020 and May 1, 2020.

RESULTS

Participants screened positive for health anxiety (6.5%), OC symptoms (48.7%), or depression (29.7%). COVID-19 anxiety was positively associated with mental health symptoms. After controlling for demographics and COVID-19 impact, COVID-19 anxiety accounted for significant variance in health anxiety, OC symptoms, and stress.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings demonstrate the vast impact of COVID-19 on mental health among university students and provide guidance for identifying mental health priorities in the context of public health crises.

Behind the Blackpill: Self-Verification and Identity Fusion Predict Endorsement of Violence Against Women Among Self-Identified Incels

Incels (involuntary celibates) have advocated for and even enacted violence against women. We explored two mechanisms that may underly incels' actions: identity fusion and self-verification. Study 1 (n = 155) revealed stronger identity fusion (deep alignment) with the ingroup among men active in online incel communities compared to men active in other male-dominated groups. Study 2 (n = 113) showed that feeling self-verified by other incels predicted fusion with incels; fusion, in turn, predicted endorsement of past and future violence toward women. Study 3 (n = 283; preregistered) replicated the indirect effects from Study 2 and extended them by linking fusion to online harassment of women. All indirect effects were particularly strong among self-identified incels high in narcissism. We discuss the synergistic links between self-verification and identity fusion in fostering extreme behaviors and identify directions for future research.

Influence of the Psychological Effect of COVID-19 on Saudi Student Nurses' Attitudes toward Nursing and Their Future Career Plans

BACKGROUND

The effects of COVID-19 on the attitude of student nurses toward the nursing profession remain unclear because few studies have been conducted on this topic. Thus, this study examines the influence of the psychological effects of COVID-19 on student nurses' attitudes toward the nursing profession and their desire to become nurses.

METHOD

The study utilised a quantitative, cross-sectional, and observational design. It surveyed a convenience sample of 726 student nurses in Saudi Arabia during the first semester of the 2021-2022 academic year.

RESULTS

The students reported low levels of COVID-19 fear, anxiety, stress, phobia, and obsession. The students reported positive attitudes toward the nursing profession and 86.0% highlighted their desire to continue with nursing as their future profession. Gender, knowing someone infected with COVID-19, confidence in the government's pandemic response, fear, anxiety, and phobia were significant predictors of the nurses' attitudes. Community, family members in the profession, "COVID-19-related anxiety", and "preference for the nursing profession" were significant predictors of the student's desire to continue nursing.

CONCLUSIONS

Living in a rural community, having family members in the nursing profession, having low levels of COVID-19-related anxiety, and having positive attitudes toward nursing increased the likelihood of nursing students continuing their nursing careers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Psychological Health of Patients Who Underwent Liver Transplantation Due to Hepatocellular Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The primary aim of this study was to compare liver transplant (LT) recipients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in terms of COVID-19-related depression, anxiety, and stress.

METHOD

A total of 504 LT recipients with (HCC group; n = 252) and without HCC (non-HCC group; n = 252) were included in the present case-control study. Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21) and Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) were used to evaluate the depression, stress, and anxiety levels of LT patients. DASS-21 total and CAS-SF scores were determined as the primary outcomes of the study. Poisson regression and negative binomial regression models were used to predict the DASS and CAS scores. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) was used as a coefficient. Both groups were also compared in terms of awareness of the COVID-19 vaccine.

RESULTS

Poisson regression and negative binomial regression analyses for DASS-21 total and CAS-SF scales showed that the negative binomial regression method was the appropriate model for both scales. According to this model, it was determined that the following independent variables increased the DASS-21 total score: non-HCC (IRR: 1.26; p = 0.031), female gender (IRR: 1.29; p = 0.036), presence of chronic disease (IRR: 1.65; p < 0.001), exposure to COVID-19 (IRR: 1.63; p < 0.001), and nonvaccination (IRR: 1.50; p = 0.002). On the other hand, it was determined that the following independent variables increased the CAS score: female gender (IRR:1.75; p = 0.014) and exposure to COVID-19 (IRR: 1.51; p = 0.048). Significant differences were found between the HCC and non-HCC groups in terms of median DASS-21 total (p < 0.001) and CAS-SF (p = 0.002) scores. Cronbach's alpha internal consistency coefficients of DASS-21 total and CAS-SF scales were calculated to be 0.823 and 0.783, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that the variables including patients without HCC, female gender, having a chronic disease, being exposed to COVID-19, and not being vaccinated against COVID-19 increased anxiety, depression, and stress. High internal consistency coefficients obtained from both scales indicate that these results are reliable.

Hazardous alcohol use, drinking motives and COVID-19-related anxiety in college students

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the associations of anxiety and drinking motives with hazardous and binge alcohol use among young adults.

PARTICIPANTS

We recruited young adults (N = 182, mean age 25) between November 2020 and December 2020.

METHODS

Linear regressions were used to evaluate relationships among hazardous alcohol use (US Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-C [USAUDIT-C]), binge drinking (Alcohol Intake Questionnaire [AIQ]), PROMIS-Anxiety, COVID-19 related anxiety (CAS), and the drinking to cope with depression and anxiety subscales of the Modified Drinking Motives Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Sixty-two percent of participants reported hazardous drinking (USAUDIT-C score > 4). PROMIS Anxiety and CAS scores were 63.7 and 1.0, respectively. Scores were positively associated with drinking patterns. However, the drinking to cope with depression motive significantly mediated these associations.

CONCLUSIONS

After the onset of the pandemic, hazardous and binge drinking patterns among young adults were associated with drinking to cope with depression rather than anxiety.

COVID-19 phobia, loneliness, and dropout intention among nursing students: the mediating role of social support and coping

The coronavirus outbreak led to many students' experiencing tremendous fear, resulting in numerous psychological and mental health issues, and potentially impacting academic outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating role of coping and social support on the relationships between COVID-19 phobia, loneliness, and the intention to abandon nursing education in students. An online survey using a cross-sectional research design was used. A total of 301 full-time student nurses from the Philippines who were currently registered in a nursing programme were included. Nearly half 40.8% (n = 127) of the nursing students were found to experience COVID-19 phobia. COVID-19 phobia had direct positive effects on loneliness (β = 0.210, p < .001) and intention to abandon nursing education (β = 0.293, p < .001). Social support and coping had partial mediating effects on the association between COVID-19 phobia and loneliness and the intention to abandon nursing education. COVID-19 phobia was associated with increased loneliness and greater desires to abandon nursing studies in students. However, by providing adequate social support and coping, the negative effects of the pandemic on nursing students' outcome were reduced, resulting in decreased loneliness and improved student retention.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on neuropsychiatric and sleep disorders, and quality of life in individuals with neurodegenerative and demyelinating diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the mental health, sleep and quality of life, especially in individuals with chronic disease. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, anxiety, stress), sleep disorders (sleep quality, insomnia) and quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD), Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) compared to healthy controls.

METHODS

Seven databases (Medline, Embase, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Scielo and Lilacs) were searched between March 2020 and December 2022. Observational studies (i.e., cross-sectional, case-control, cohort) were included. GRADE approach was used to assess the quality of evidence and strength of the recommendation. Effect size was calculated using standardized mean differences (SMD; random effects model). A customized Downs and Black checklist was used to assess the risk of bias.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies (PD = 7, MS = 11) were included. A total of 627 individuals with PD (healthy controls = 857) and 3923 individuals with MS (healthy controls = 2432) were analyzed. Twelve studies (PD = 4, MS = 8) were included in the meta-analysis. Individuals with PD had significantly elevated levels of depression (very low evidence, SMD = 0.40, p = 0.04) and stress (very low evidence, SMD = 0.60, p < 0.0001). There was no difference in anxiety (p = 0.08). Individuals with MS had significantly higher levels of depression (very low evidence, SMD = 0.73, p = 0.007) and stress (low evidence, SMD = 0.69, p = 0.03) and low quality of life (very low evidence, SMD = 0.77, p = 0.006). There was no difference in anxiety (p = 0.05) and sleep quality (p = 0.13). It was not possible to synthesize evidence in individuals with AD and sleep disorder (insomnia).

CONCLUSION

In general, the COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted individuals with PD and MS. Individuals with PD showed significantly higher levels of depression and stress; and individuals with MS presented significantly higher depression and stress levels, as well as significantly lower quality of life when compared to healthy controls. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in individuals with AD.

Examining the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic: an international cross-sectional study protocol

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed people to significant and prolonged stress. The psychosocial impacts of the pandemic have been well recognised and reported in high-income countries (HICs) but it is important to understand the unique challenges posed by COVID-19 in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where limited international comparisons have been undertaken. This protocol was therefore devised to study the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in seven LMICs using scales that had been designed for or translated for this purpose.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This cross-sectional study uses an online survey to administer a novel COVID Psychosocial Impacts Scale (CPIS) alongside established measures of psychological distress, post-traumatic stress, well-being and post-traumatic growth in the appropriate language. Participants will include adults aged 18 years and above, recruited from Indonesia, Iraq, Iran, Malaysia, Pakistan, Somalia and Turkey, with a pragmatic target sample size of 500 in each country.Data will be analysed descriptively on sociodemographic and study variables. In addition, CPIS will be analysed psychometrically (for reliability and validity) to assess the suitability of use in a given context. Finally, within-subjects and between-subjects analyses will be carried out using multi-level mixed-effect models to examine associations between key sociodemographic and study variables.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval was granted by the Human Ethics Committee, University of Otago, New Zealand (Ref. No. 21/102). In addition, international collaborators obtained local authorisation or ethical approval in their respective host universities before data collection commenced.Participants will give informed consent before taking part. Data will be collected and stored securely on the University of Otago, New Zealand Qualtrics platform using an auto-generated non-identifiable letter-number string. Data will be available on reasonable request. Findings will be disseminated by publications in scientific journals and/or conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05052333.

Health Literacy and Anxiety Among Hemodialysis Patients During the Coronavirus Disease Pandemic

Background and Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic can cause psychological distress, and hemodialysis patients with chronic kidney disease may be particularly vulnerable. The aim of this study is to investigate anxiety levels among patients undergoing hemodialysis during the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore the relationship between health literacy and anxiety.

Methods

This study recruited 149 hemodialysis patients from two hospitals between July 16th and July 31st, 2021. Patient data were collected using questionnaires on general characteristics, health literacy, generalized anxiety, and coronavirus disease-related anxiety. We used the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) and the Korean version of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) scale to evaluate the anxiety symptoms of the patients. Statistical analyses were performed using descriptive statistics, t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, one-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Walli's test and Spearman's rank correlation.

Results

The results showed that health literacy increased with decreasing age and increasing educational level among patients who source health information from the internet and among patients without comorbidities. Patients with comorbidities showed high levels of general anxiety. Patients who search for health information for ≥1 hour had high levels of coronavirus disease-related anxiety. Both CAS and GAD showed a significant negative correlation with the sub-domains of health literacy, except for critical health literacy.

Conclusion

The results of this study highlight the need for a follow-up study on whether health literacy programs will reduce the anxiety levels of patients undergoing hemodialysis during infectious disease outbreaks. In addition, provision of social support for patients with comorbidity is essential for reducing their anxiety levels during disease outbreaks.

Supplementation use and diet changes during COVID-19 pandemic according to anxiety level and Mediterranean diet adherence

Aim; This study was planned and conducted to examine the change in food consumption and nutritional supplement use during the COVID-19 pandemic according to individuals' status of anxiety and Mediterranean diet adherence. Methods; This prospective, cross-sectional research was completed online with the participation of 949 people (66.4% women). The Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener Scale (MEDAS) and Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) were applied. After this section of the questionnaire was completed, the participants were tasked with answering questions regarding changes in food consumption and use of nutritional supplements during the pandemic. Results; While 50.8% of the participants had low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 18.2% were considered to have a high adherence. It was observed that legume (p = 0.001), milk and dairy (p = 0.01), and fruit (p < 0.001) consumption of participants with high adherence to the Mediterranean diet increased during the pandemic, and packaged food (p < 0.001) consumption decreased. The increase in the consumption of fruit (p < 0.001) and vegetables (p = 0.018) were significantly higher in the group with anxiety. Age, sex, educational status, positive COVID-19 test, place of residence, CAS score and MEDAS score affect the use of dietary supplements according to binary logistic regression (R² = 0.106 p < 0.001). The three most commonly used supplements were identified as vitamins C, D and B₁₂. Conclusions: These results can shed light on how to prepare for possible future pandemics when it comes to dealing with anxiety through diet.

Digital phenotyping of student mental health during COVID-19: an observational study of 100 college students

Objective: This study assessed the feasibility of capturing smartphone based digital phenotyping data in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic with the goal of understanding how digital biomarkers of behavior correlate with mental health. Participants: Participants were 100 students enrolled in 4-year universities. Methods: Each participant attended a virtual visit to complete a series of gold-standard mental health assessments, and then used a mobile app for 28 days to complete mood assessments and allow for passive collection of GPS, accelerometer, phone call, and screen time data. Students completed another virtual visit at the end of the study to collect a second round of mental health assessments. Results: In-app daily mood assessments were strongly correlated with their corresponding gold standard clinical assessment. Sleep variance among students was correlated to depression scores (ρ = .28) and stress scores (ρ = .27). Conclusions: Digital Phenotyping among college students is feasible on both an individual and a sample level. Studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to understand population trends, but there are practical applications of the data today.

Mental Health and Alcohol Use during and before the Early Phases of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The early phases of the coronavirus 19 disease (COVID-19) pandemic were associated with changes in psychological well-being and alcohol use. However, it is unclear whether these changes are artifacts of psychological well-being and alcohol use prior to the pandemic across different sociodemographic groups. We received surveys from 247 adult residents of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania (United States), with an oversampling of sexual- and gender-minority individuals. Responses included measures of psychological well-being, substance use, and sociodemographic characteristics. Unadjusted mean depression scores, anxiety scores, and number of drinking days increased for all age and income groups during COVID-19, while average number of drinks per drinking day and days intoxicated differentially increased or decreased by age and income groups. Using Bayesian seemingly unrelated regression, we assessed depression and anxiety symptoms and alcohol use during the early stages of the pandemic and one month before COVID-19 was first identified in Allegheny County concurrently. Those in the youngest (18-24) group drank on more days during (but not before) the pandemic than those in the 25-44 age group. Compared to cisgender women, gender-minority adults had higher depression scores during the early stages of the pandemic. Employed adults had lower anxiety scores during (but not before) the pandemic than adults who were unemployed. Those with past-year annual incomes above $80,000 had fewer drinks on average drinking occasions than those in the $40,000 or below group before (but not during) the pandemic. Patterns of psychological distress and alcohol use associated with the COVID-19 pandemic differ by subgroup compared to patterns prior to the pandemic. Interventions addressing worsening mental health outcomes and shifting alcohol use patterns must be sensitive to the needs of vulnerable groups, such as younger adults and those experiencing poverty or unemployment.

Pandemic grief in El Salvador: factors that predict dysfunctional grief due to a COVID-19 death among Salvadoran adults

Thousands of people have died of COVID-19 in El Salvador. However, little is known about the mental health of those who are mourning the loss of a loved one to COVID-19. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the dysfunctional grief associated with COVID-19 death among Salvadoran adults. A sample of 435 Salvadorans (M = 29 years; SD = 8.75) who lost a family member or loved one to COVID-19 completed a digital survey using the Google Forms platform, during April 2 and 28, 2022. The results revealed that 35.1% reported clinically elevated symptoms of dysfunctional grief and among those mourners, and 25.1% also exhibited clinical levels of coronavirus anxiety. A binary logistic regression revealed that predictor variables such as COVID-19 anxiety (p = .003), depression (p = .021), and COVID-19 obsession (p = .032) were significant (χ² = 84.31; Nagelkerke R² = .242) and predict a 24.2% chance of dysfunctional bereavement.

Arabic language version of the obsession with COVID-19 scale adaptation and validity evaluation in Saudi sample

Background

The obsession with COVID-19 scale is a reliable and validated scale developed to assess obsessions related to coronavirus infection (COVID-2019) and because of its usefulness, this paper is aiming to develop an Arabic version of the obsession with COVID-19 scale and evaluate its validity. Firstly, scale translated to Arabic through the guidelines of Sousa and Rojjanasriratw for scale translation and adaptation. Then we distributed the final version with some sociodemographic questions and an Arabic version of the COVID-19 fear scale to a convenient sample of college students. Internal consistency, factor analysis, average variable extraction, composite reliability, Pearson correlation, and mean differences has been measured.

Results

Out of 253 students, 233 responded to the survey, where 44.6% of them were female. Calculated Cronbach’s alpha was 0.82, item-total correlations were 0.891–0.905, and inter-item correlations were 0.722–0.805. Factor analysis identified one factor which reflects 80.76% of the cumulative variances. The average variance extracted was 0.80, and the composite reliability was 0.95. The correlation coefficient between the two scales was 0.472.

Conclusions

The Arabic version of obsession with COVID-19 scale has high values of internal consistency, and convergent validity, and has a unidimensional factor that reflects its reliability and validity.

Online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic: How university students' perceptions, engagement, and performance are related to their personal characteristics

University students faced unexpected challenges in online learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. Findings from early phases of the Covid-19 pandemic and before show that online learning experiences may vary from student to student and depend on several personal characteristics. However, the relative importance of different students' personal characteristics for their online learning experiences at later phases of the Covid-19 pandemic is still unclear. This cross-sectional, correlational study investigates how personal characteristics of university students are related to five dimensions of online learning perception and to their engagement and performance in online courses. In an online survey, 413 students from German universities provided full information on their online learning experiences and personal characteristics in terms of demographic information, Big Five personality traits, self-regulation skills, three facets of self-efficacy, and two types of state anxiety. Results of multiple regression analyses show that students' age was significantly positively related to all online learning perceptions and engagement in online courses. Our findings also confirm that self-regulation skills and academic and digital media self-efficacy are important factors in various online learning experiences. In contrast, students' personality traits and state anxiety were less important for most online learning experiences. Noteworthy, several bivariate associations between personal characteristics and online learning experiences are not reflected in the multiple regression model. This underscores the need to consider relevant variables simultaneously to evaluate their relative importance and to identify key personal characteristics. Overall, our results show valuable starting points for theory development and educational interventions.

Mental Health of Tourism Employees Post COVID-19 Pandemic: A Test of Antecedents and Moderators

Many people are experiencing a lack of confidence in the security of their employment due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly employees in the tourism sector, which has caused adverse effects on their mental health. These adverse effects involve the management of stress, anxiety and depression, that may arise from the demands of the industry. However, few studies have explored how insecurity in the workplace and financial pressure from families affects mental health and can intervene in these relationships. In this study, the aim was to investigate job insecurity as an antecedent of employees’ mental health and family financial pressures as a moderator using a sample of 475 hotel and travel industry employees. The theoretical background of the study was built upon the theories of resource conservation and effort–reward imbalance. The participants completed an online survey that measured job insecurity, family financial pressure, depression, anxiety, and stress. The collected data were subjected to PLS-SEM data analysis. The findings of this study reveal that job insecurity had a significant influence on depression, anxiety, and stress among tourism employees, and family financial pressure worsened the negative consequences of job insecurity on mental health. This research highlights the significance of addressing the mental health of employees in the tourism sector after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the crucial role played by family financial pressures. The findings of this study highlight the importance of addressing job insecurity in the tourism industry and its impact on employees’ mental health. This could involve implementing policies and practices that enhance job security, such as providing more stable work schedules, better benefits packages, and greater opportunities for professional development. The results also underscore the need to take into account the role of family financial pressure in moderating the impact of job insecurity on mental health. Practitioners and policymakers in the tourism industry should consider ways to alleviate financial pressure on employees and their families, such as offering assistance programs, flexible work arrangements, and supportive company policies.

Social Distancing and Shopping Behaviour: The Role of Anxiety, Attention, and Awareness on Safety Preferences while Queuing during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic increased global anxiety, and many people shopped less frequently. This study quantifies customer preferences in where to shop while following social distancing regulations, specifically focusing on customers' anxiety. Collecting data online from 450 UK participants, we measured trait anxiety, COVID-19 anxiety, queue awareness, and queue safety preferences. Confirmatory factor analyses were used to develop novel queue awareness and queue safety preference variables from new items. Path analyses tested the hypothesised relationships between them. Queue awareness and COVID-19 anxiety were positive predictors of queue safety preference, with queue awareness partially mediating the effect of COVID-19 anxiety. These results suggest that customers' preferences for shopping at one business and not another may depend on safe queueing and waiting conditions, especially in those more anxious about COVID-19 transmission. Interventions that target highly aware customers are suggested. Limitations are acknowledged and areas for future development are outlined.

“Pandemic Fatigue” in South America: A Multi-Center Report from Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a heavy impact on daily life, leading to physical and psychosocial consequences. Nowadays, clinicians and health researchers are particularly interested in describing and facing the long-term effects of COVID-19, also known as “long-COVID syndrome”. Pandemic fatigue has been defined as a cluster of demotivation, tiredness, and psychological effects that emerge gradually over time after the infection or through the adoption of the recommended measures to combat it. In this study, we report the findings of a large survey conducted in South America involving 1448 participants (mean age: 33.9 ± 11.2 years old) from Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Peru, and Paraguay. An online survey was launched through the common social media based on a specific assessment aimed to detect the prevalence of pandemic fatigue and associated factors. Socio-demographic characteristics, medical, and personal information were collected; the Pandemic Fatigue Scale (PFS) and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) were also administered. We found mid-levels of pandemic fatigue among respondents (21.7 ± 7.95 score at PFS) as well as significant anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic (1.56 ± 2.76 score at CAS). In addition, pandemic fatigue was significantly associated with the experience of the loss of a relative/friend due to COVID-19, anxiety related to the infection, and reliance on social media as a primary source of information on the pandemic. Vaccination significantly reduced the levels of fatigue among respondents. Our findings may add to the international debate regarding the long-term health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and strategies to manage them in the general population of South America.

Effect of COVID-19 on Stress and Biomarkers: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study

Background Anxiety and stress in COVID-19 lead to continual pro-inflammatory cytokine activity resulting in excessive inflammation. Levels of different bio indices of COVID-19 may predict clinical outcomes and the severity of COVID-19 disease and may correlate with anxiety and stress levels. Objectives To measure the level of anxiety in COVID-19 patients using the coronavirus anxiety scale (CAS) as an assessment of psychological stress. To measure the levels of blood biomarkers and biochemical and hematological markers of inflammation in COVID-19. To record and measure the indices of short-term HRV in COVID-19 patients to assess their physiological and psychological stress levels. To determine the relationship between anxiety scores, levels of laboratory indices (blood biomarkers), and HRV parameters across mild, moderate and severe cases of COVID-19. Material and method A total of 300 COVID-19 patients aged between 18 and 55 years were included. A questionnaire-based CAS was used to assess anxiety levels. Short-term HRV was recorded to measure stress. Blood biomarkers: Biochemical and hemato-cytological markers of inflammation were measured. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software version 20.0. Results Anxiety and stress increased with the severity of COVID-19. A positive correlation was detected between anxiety and serum ferritin, IL-6, MCV, and MCH levels, and a negative correlation between the corona anxiety score and RBC count. The increase in the severity of COVID-19 showed elevated levels of WBC count, neutrophil%, platelet count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, serum ferritin, D-dimer, C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, interleukin-6, and lactate dehydrogenase, and decreased lymphocyte and monocyte percentages. The increase in the severity of COVID-19 decreased lymphocyte, monocyte, and eosinophil counts. Conclusion The Corona Anxiety Scale and heart rate variability can be used as complementary tools to index COVID-19-related anxiety and stress. An association exists between immune dysregulation and heart rate variability, which can be used to predict the inflammatory response and prognosis of COVID-19.

The Pandemic Anxiety Inventory: A validation study

The Pandemic Anxiety Inventory (PAI) assesses anxiety symptoms individuals attribute to the presence of a pandemic. We conducted this study of 379 British adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that the PAI exhibited excellent reliability and solid criterion validity. Pandemic anxiety was associated with reduced social support, anticipated life changes, financial strain, job loss, economic insecurity, and the hospitalization or death of a close friend or relative. Using correlational and bifactor analyses, we found that the PAI demonstrated solid convergent and discriminant validity. The findings suggest that the PAI can be used in research and clinical practice.

Factors Associated with Anxiety During COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Association with Hypertension in Saudi Arabia

Objective

Patients with chronic diseases such as hypertension (HTN) are considered a vulnerable group, and they are prone to anxiety and other psychological conditions during pandemics. Very few reports discussed factors related to anxiety and how it is associated with HTN during COVID-19 pandemic. In this project, we aimed to identify the prevalence of anxiety among hypertensive patients in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted, and data were collected using an electronic self-administered pretested questionnaire distributed via trained data collectors. Data were analyzed using t-test and chi-test.

Results

A total of 2135 participants were enrolled in this study. Anxiety was reported in 5% of all participants and 8% of the hypertensive participants. Older age, marital status, higher body mass index (BMI), smoking, and Khat chewing were strongly associated with anxiety among the general population. In addition, less adherence to medication made participants with HTN significantly more anxious.

Conclusion

The prevalence of anxiety among hypertensive individuals is higher compared to the general population. Moreover, anxiety is significantly associated with some sociodemographic in the general population, and with less adherence to medications in hypertensive patients. Further studies with data from medical record including more variables are needed to highlight this association.

Relationship between supportive care needs with coronavirus anxiety and death anxiety of women with gynecologic cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic

AIM

The study aimed to determine the relationship between supportive care needs with coronavirus anxiety and death anxiety of women with gynecologic cancer during COVID-19.

METHODS

The population of the study was women with gynecologic cancer who received chemotherapy in a university hospital. The study sample was calculated using G*Power 3.1.9.4 analysis program and completed with 64 patients who agreed to participate and met the research criteria. The personal information form, supportive care needs survey-short form (SCNS-SF29^Tr ), coronavirus anxiety scale (CAS), and death anxiety scale (DAS) were used for data collection.

RESULTS

The participants' SCNS-SF29^Tr mean score was 105.7 ± 17.26, CAS mean score was 11.19 ± 3.96, and DAS mean score was 40.13 ± 15.5. There was a positive, very high-level correlation between the health system and information and psychological needs subscales of SCNS-SF29^Tr and CAS (r = 0.809, r = 0.878, respectively; p < 0.05). In addition, a high-level relationship was found between the daily life subscale of SCNS-SF29^Tr and CAS (r = 0.674; p < 0.001). A positive low-level relationship was determined between the health system and information, daily life, and psychological needs (except for the sexuality) subscales of SCNS-SF29^Tr and DAS (r = 0.357, r = 0.252, r = 0.353 respectively; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Gynecologic cancer participants had unmet supportive care needs in all subscales except for the sexuality. The participants had higher supportive care needs, high-level coronavirus anxiety, and medium-level death anxiety. In addition, the participants' all supportive care needs have increased as their coronavirus anxiety levels have increased. The participants' supportive care needs have increased, except for sexuality, as their death anxiety levels have increased.

The mediator role of well-being in the effect of COVID-19 anxiety on occupational commitment: research in the aviation sector

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which emerged in China in December 2019, has severely affected many industries across the world and created substantial psychological, social and economic impact on individuals. With the coronavirus outbreak labelled as a pandemic by the World Health Organization, the first measures have been taken for the aviation industry. The crisis environment created by the pandemic had a negative impact on aviation personnel. The main purpose of this research is to investigate the mediator role of employee well-being in the effect of COVID-19 anxiety on occupational commitment. The data were collected through a survey of cabin and cockpit staff (n = 3862). After the analyses, it was found that the effect of COVID-19 anxiety on well-being, and occupational affective and normative commitment was significant. Moreover, it is among the findings that well-being has a partial mediator role in the effect of COVID-19 anxiety on occupational affective and normative commitment.

The Individual- and Organization-Related Stressors in Pandemic Scale for Healthcare Workers (IOSPS-HW): Development and Psychometric Properties of a New Instrument to Assess Individual and Organizational Stress Factors in Periods of Pandemics

The validation and psychometric properties of the Individual and Organization related Stressors in Pandemic Scale for Healthcare Workers (IOSPS-HW) were presented. This is a new measure to assess individual factors related to the health and well-being of individuals, such as family and personal relationships, as well as organizational factors related to the management of the pandemic, including workplace relationships, job management and communication. Across two studies conducted at different time points of the pandemic, psychometric evidence of the IOSPS-HW is presented. In Study 1, through a cross-sectional design, we conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis through which the originally developed 43 items scale was reduced to a 20-item bidimensional scale with two correlated dimensions: Organization-related Stressors (O-S; 12 items) and Individual- and Health-related Stressors (IH-S; 8 items). Internal consistency and criterion validity were also provided by investigating the relationship with post-traumatic stress. In Study 2, we provided evidence for the temporal invariance of the measure and for temporal stability through a Multigroup-CFA through a longitudinal design. We also supported the criterion and predictive validity. The results suggest that IOSPS-HW is a good instrument to simultaneously investigating individual and organizational factors related to sanitary emergencies in healthcare workers.

Accuracy-sensitisation promotes the sharing of pro- (but not anti-) vaccine information

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated (i) factors predicting the seeking and sharing of vaccinerelated information, and (ii) the effect of an accuracy-sensitisation prime on sharing intentions. Design:This was a preregistered online survey with 213 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (who were exposed to an accuracy-sensitisation prime) or a control group.

DESIGN

This was a preregistered online survey with 213 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (who were exposed to an accuracy-sensitisation prime) or a control group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Measures included decision-making style, COVID-19 anxiety, and percentages of pro and anti-vaccine friends. We also measured preferences to seek pro or anti-vaccine-related information and sharing intentions with respect to this information.

RESULTS

Compared with those seeking both pro and anti-vaccine information, participants seeking only pro-vaccine information had lower hypervigilance and buck-passing and higher COVID-19 anxiety. The likelihood of sharing anti-vaccine information was positively predicted by the percentage of one's anti-vaccine friends, the size of one's social network, and conservative political orientation. Conversely, the likelihood of sharing pro-vaccine information was positively predicted by the percentage of one's pro-vaccine friends, and liberal political orientation. Participants sensitised to accuracy were significantly more likely to share provaccine information; however, accuracy-sensitisation had no effect on anti-vaccine information sharing.

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals who seek anti-vaccine information have a tendency towards disorganised and impulsive decision-making. Accuracy-sensitisation may prime people to internalise a norm promoting truth-sharing.

Anxiety and Depression in the Initial Stage of the COVID-19 Outbreak in a Portuguese Sample: Exploratory Study

BACKGROUND

In previous studies, it was found that the confinement to which the population was subjected during the quarantine of the COVID-19 pandemic increased the risk of anxiety and depression.

OBJECTIVE

to analyze the levels of anxiety and depression symptoms in Portugal residents during the quarantine of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This is a descriptive, transversal, and exploratory study of non-probabilistic sampling. Data collection was carried out between 6th and 31st of May 2020. Sociodemographic and health questionnaires PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were used.

RESULTS

The sample consisted of 920 individuals. The prevalence for depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥ 5) was 68.2% and (PHQ-9 ≥ 10) was 34.8%, and for anxiety symptoms (GAD-7 ≥ 5) was 60.4% and (GAD-7 ≥ 10) was 20%. Depressive symptoms were moderately severe for 8.9% of the individuals, and 4.8% presented severe depression. Regarding the generalized anxiety disorder, we found that 11.6% of individuals present moderate symptoms, and 8.4% severe anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms were substantially higher than those previously found for the Portuguese population and when compared with other countries during the pandemic. Younger individuals, female, with chronic illness and medicated, were more vulnerable to depressive and anxious symptoms. In contrast, participants who maintained frequent levels of physical activity during confinement had their mental health protected.

COVID-19 anxiety and associated factors among university students in Bangladesh

Cross-sectional data were collected from 787 Bangladeshi students ages 18 to 27 years, to assess dysfunctional COVID-19 anxiety using the Coronavirus anxiety Scale or CAS and to identify factors influencing their anxiety. Results indicated that 53% of the respondents attained CAS scores in the clinical range. Women reported a significantly higher anxiety than men. Additionally, not having a steady family income, having poor physical health, having relatives or acquaintances infected with COVID-19, and being highly worried about becoming infected were associated with COVID-19 anxiety. Psychosocial interventions should be adopted to mitigate the anxiety of these high-risk groups and to deter harmful behavior during this emergency.

The association of severe COVID anxiety with poor social functioning, quality of life, and protective behaviours among adults in United Kingdom: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Anxiety about COVID-19 is common. For most people this is an appropriate response to the loss of livelihoods and loved-ones, disruptions to social networks, and uncertainty about the future. However, for others these anxieties relate to contracting the virus itself, a phenomenon termed COVID anxiety. Little is known about the characteristics of people with severe COVID anxiety or the impact it has on their daily lives.

METHODS

We conducted a two-phase cross-sectional survey of people aged 18 or over who were living in United Kingdom, self-identified as anxious about COVID-19, and had a score of ≥9 on the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale. We recruited participants nationally through online adverts and locally via primary care services in London. Data on demographic and clinical factors were used in multiple regression modelling to examine the greatest contributors to functional impairment, poor health-related quality of life and protective behaviours in this sample of individuals with severe COVID anxiety.

RESULTS

We recruited 306 people with severe COVID anxiety between January and September 2021. Most were female (n = 246, 81.2%); they had a median age of 41 (range = 18-83). The majority of participants also had generalised anxiety (n = 270, 91.5%), depression (n = 247, 85.5%), and a quarter (n = 79, 26.3%) reported a physical health condition which put them at increased risk of hospitalisation with COVID-19. Half had severe social dysfunction (n = 151, 52.4%). One in ten reported never leaving their home, one in three washed all items brought into their house, one in five washed their hands constantly, and one in five of those with children reported not sending them to school because of fears of COVID-19. Increasing co-morbid depressive symptoms best explained functional impairment and poor quality of life after controlling for other factors.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the high degree of co-occuring mental health problems, and the extent of functional impairment and poor health-related quality of life among people with severe COVID anxiety. Further research is needed to establish the course of severe COVID anxiety as the pandemic progresses, and steps that can be taken to support people who experience this distress.

Generalized anxiety disorder among rural primary and middle school students during the outbreak of COVID-19: a multicenter study in three southern Chinese cities

BACKGROUND

The major public health crisis caused by the rapid spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the large-scale public health measures such as social isolation and school closures enforced by some countries have severely affected on the physical and mental wellbeing of children and adolescents globally. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of the psychological impact and investigate the similarities and differences in the influential factors for generalized anxiety disorder among rural adolescents as a relatively lesser noticed population the outbreak of COVID-19.

METHODS

From May 11 to 22, 2020, a total of 1,179 adolescents, including Grade 5-6 in primary school and Grade 7-8 in middle school, were selected by multistage sampling in three Southern Chinese cities (Shantou, Guangdong Province; Hezhou, Guangxi Province; Nanchong, Sichuan Province), and completed the questionnaires including sociodemographic, generalized anxiety disorder, academic stress, coronaphobia, knowledge of COVID-19, and precautionary measures. ANOVA, Chi-square test, Kruskalwallis H test and multivariate linear regression were performed in the statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The average scores of generalized anxiety disorder during the past two weeks were 3.43 (SD 4.46), 4.47 (SD 5.15), and 4.10 (SD 4.94) in Shantou, Hezhou and Nanchong, respectively. For the pooled data, academic stress (P < 0.001), coronaphobia (P < 0.001), and precautionary measures (P = 0.002) contributed to the prediction of anxiety scores. Academic stress was significantly associated to anxiety symptoms in all cities (P all < 0.001). Coronaphobia was also significantly associated to anxiety symptoms in all cities (P all < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the urgent need for researchers and policymakers to focus on the mental health of rural children and adolescents during the COVID-19 epidemic. The adolescents with academic stress and coronaphobia, the greater the risk that adolescents will suffer from anxiety, suggesting mental health counseling and professional family support are needed.

Psychological Factors Explaining the COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Mental Health: The Role of Meaning, Beliefs, and Perceptions of Vulnerability and Mortality

This study tested an expanded version of the explanatory model of the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health proposed by Milman and colleagues. Participants (N = 680) completed an online survey on demographic variables associated with poor pandemic mental health, COVID-19 stressors, mental health symptoms, and pandemic-related psychological processes we hypothesized as mediating mechanisms explaining the negative mental health effects of the COVID-19 stressors. Results indicated that these psychological processes (core belief violation, meaning made of the pandemic, vulnerability, and mortality perception) explained the severity of mental health symptoms to a far greater extent than COVID-19 stressors and demographics combined. In addition, these psychological processes mediated the impact of COVID-19 stressors on all mental health outcomes. Specifically, COVID-19 stressors were associated with increased core belief violation, decreased meaning making, and more intense perceived vulnerability and mortality. In turn, those whose core beliefs were more violated by the pandemic, who made less meaning of the pandemic, and who perceived a more pronounced vulnerability and mortality experienced a worse mental health condition. This study's results suggest some possible ways of intervention in pandemic-like events useful for limiting such impact at the individual, group, social and political levels.

Measuring various aspects of coronavirus anxiety: a psychometric evaluation of Pandemic anxiety and Coronophobia scales from the latent and network perspective

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, understanding and describing the changes in experiences related to the pandemic and its correlates have become crucial. The current study aims to provide a psychometric evaluation and examination of the relationship of two COVID-related anxiety scales through the latent and network approach. The data was collected from the same participants at two time points (Nwave 1 = 1283; Nwave 2 = 1326). The study examined the psychometric properties of the Pandemic Anxiety Scale and Coronaphobia scale. It also examined the factor structure, invariance and relationship with selected variables through both the latent and network approach. The results revealed that both scales provided good fit and psychometric properties-PAS (wave1: CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.05 [0.04, 0.07], SRMR = 0.048; wave2: CFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.95, RMSEA = 0.05 [0.04, 0.07], SRMR = 0.049), and Coronaphobia scale (wave1: CFI = 0.99, TLI = 0.98, RMSEA = 0.05 [0.03, 0.07], SRMR = 0.027; wave2: CFI ~ 1, TLI = 0.99, RMSEA = 0.03 [0.002, 0.06], SRMR = 0.015). The results also indicated that distinguishing between them is crucial as they were related differently to various variables. The global network models provided a more complex insight in their connections with the set of selected variables. The PAS and Coronaphobia scales are brief and valid measures that can be used in research looking at mental health issues related to the pandemic. The present study shows a unique pattern of relationships of these scales with other variables, extending previous studies into the topic of COVID-related anxiety.

How anxiety attributed to COVID-19, disease knowledge, and intention to vaccinate against SARS-CoV-2 viral infection prevail in general public of Saudi Arabia?

Aim

The study aimed to document the anxiety attributed to COVID-19, disease knowledge, and intention to vaccinate against the disease in general public. Moreover, the interplay among these three outcomes was also investigated.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted for 2 months in three cities of Dammam Region of Saudi Arabia. The target segment was the adult population of Saudi Arabia. Convenience sampling was used and all adults aged ≥18 were invited to participate. The questionnaire used in the study was available in both Arabic and English languages. It included a demographic section, a section dedicated to vaccination intention and, a section containing coronavirus anxiety scale (CAS). The data analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS version 23. The study was approved by an ethics committee (IRB-2021-05-297).

Results

A total of 542 responses were analyzed. Most respondents had no anxiety attributed to COVID-19 (92.1%), self-reported good knowledge of COVID-19 (79.7%) and intended to administer a vaccine (57.4%). Age groups 18-29 years and 30-45 years, and having a chronic medical condition, were found to be determinants of having COVID-19 anxiety (p < 0.05). The variables of self-rated good knowledge of disease, never contracted COVID-19, and incomes of SAR 5,000 (i.e., USD 1333), and SAR 7,500-10,000 (i.e., USD 1999.5-2666), were found to be determinants of having positive intention toward vaccination (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The anxiety due to COVID-19 was present in a few participants. Besides, self-reported knowledge about COVID-19 and intention to administer a vaccine, were positively linked to each other. However, both variables had no effect on COVID-19 anxiety. It is important to review and address the determinants of positive intention to further increase vaccine acceptance rate.

Continuous Exposure to Terrorism during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Moderated Mediation Model in the Israeli Context

This study tested the role of perceived social support as a moderating factor in the mediation of COVID-19-related concerns in the association between continuous traumatic stress (CTS) and depression. The study participants were 499 college students who responded to an anonymous online questionnaire. Measures included the assessment of prior continuous exposure to threats of terrorism, COVID-19-related distress, perceived social support and depressive symptoms. The results demonstrated that COVID-19-related concerns mediated the relationship between continuous exposure to threats of terrorism and depression symptoms, and that perceived social support moderated the association between COVID-19-related concerns and depression. The implications of the study highlight the role of prior exposure to traumatic stress as a risk factor for depression and the role of social support as a protective factor. These results point to the need to develop accessible and non-stigmatic mental health services for populations exposed to other types of continuous traumatic stress.

Increased alcohol use to cope with COVID-19-related anxiety one year into the coronavirus pandemic

Background: An increase in drinking to cope with anxiety provoked by the coronavirus was observed during the first few months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: In the present study, we examined the role of drinking motives in the anxiety–alcohol link one year into the pandemic. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, we collected data between April and May 2021: 678 participants located in Romania or the Netherlands completed an online survey on alcohol consumption in the past month (assessed using a simple quantity-frequency measure), change in drinking during the past year (assessed using a single item asking whether there had been an increase, decrease or no change), drinking motives (assessed using the Revised Drinking Motives Questionnaire), drinking-related problems (assessed using the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test), and COVID-19-related anxiety (assessed using the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale). Results: Compared to before the pandemic, while 42% of participants had decreased their alcohol consumption, 15% reported an increase. Participants with clinically relevant COVID-19-related anxiety (11%) were more likely to drink to cope with negative affect, enhance positive affect, and conform to others. The association between COVID-19-related anxiety and drinking-related problems was specifically moderated by drinking to cope, such that the anxiety–alcohol link was stronger in participants who endorsed this drinking motive more. Conclusion: Drinking is a maladaptive coping strategy for individuals with high levels of COVID-19-related anxiety. These individuals might benefit from interventions involving the learning of healthier skills to deal with the ongoing pandemic.

The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Women's Mental Helath in Turkey and What these Effects Suggest

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected societies and individuals in all aspects, including mental and physical health. In this study, we aimed to determine the effects of COVID 19 pandemic on anxiety and depression levels and related factors in women. Methods: As a descriptive cross-sectional study, it was conducted with a total of 728 women between December 2020 and March 2021. Data were collected by Google survey using the descriptive information form, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results: Having concerns about own health had a strong effect on coronavirus-related anxiety (p&lt;0.001, η2 = 0.037) and the anxiety dimension of Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) (p&lt;0.001, η2 = 0.098). Marital relationships had a strong effect on HADS depression dimension scores (p&lt;0.001, η2 = 0.067). Conclusion: The younger women, those who had problematic marital relationship and those who were exposed to domestic violence had higher anxiety and depression scores. Relevant measures should be taken to reduce the concerns of more risky groups, especially women, in the health system and should be considered in future planning on this subject.

Psychometric properties of a brief version of the COVID‐19 Stress Scales (CSS‐B) in young adult undergraduates

We extracted items to create a brief version of the COVID-19 Stress Scale (i.e., CSS-B) and examined its psychometric properties in young adults. A sample of 1318 first- and second-year undergraduates from five Canadian universities (mean [SD] age = 19.27 [1.35] years; 77.6% women) completed an online cross-sectional survey that included the CSS-B as well as validated measures of anxiety and depression. The 18-item CSS-B fit well on both a 5-factor and a hierarchical model indicating that the five CSS-B dimensions may be factors of the same over-arching construct. The CSS-B factor structure displayed lower-order and higher-order configural and metric invariance across sites but not scalar invariance indicating that the intercepts/means were not consistent across sites. The CSS dimensions were positively related to measures of general anxiety and depression but not so strongly as to indicate that they are measuring the same construct. The CSS-B scale is a valid measure of COVID-19 stress among young adults. It is recommended that this shorter version of the scale be considered for use in longer surveys to avoid participant fatigue.

Application of Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 to Measure the Anxiety Response of Cold Chain Practitioners During the COVID-19 Post-Pandemic Era in China

OBJECTIVE

This study explored the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-6 Items (SAVE-6) scale for cold chain practitioners exposed to moderate-to-high risk of infection.

METHODS

A total of 233 cold chain practitioners participated in an anonymous online survey, conducted from October to November 2021. The questionnaire comprised participant demographic characteristics, the Chinese version of SAVE-6, the Generalized Anxiety Disorders-7 (GAD-7), and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scales.

RESULTS

Based on the results of the parallel analysis, the single-structure model of the Chinese version of SAVE-6 was adopted. The scale showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.930) and good convergent validity based on Spearman's correlation coefficient with the GAD-7 (rho=0.616, p<0.001) and PHQ-9 (rho=0.540, p<0.001) scale scores. The optimal cutoff score for Chinese Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-9 Items was identified as ≥12 (area under the curve=0.797, Sensitivity=0.76, Specificity=0.66) for cold chain practitioners.

CONCLUSION

The Chinese version of the SAVE-6 scale has good psychometric properties and can be applied as a reliable and valid rating scale to assess the anxiety response of cold chain practitioners in the post-pandemic era.

An evaluation of the impact of COVID-19 safety measures in public transit spaces on riders' Worry of virus contraction

The coronavirus pandemic has brought about global change in travel behavior. Transit ridership volumes have dropped to record lows. Concerning environmental, health, and social consequences lie in store if transit networks are not able to regain a substantial portion of pre-pandemic users. Transit providers have implemented several interventions aimed at both slowing the spread of the virus and retaining riders as travel restrictions lift. While the effectiveness of these measures has been evaluated with respect to spread rate reduction, little consideration has been given to their impact on riders' feelings of worry regarding virus contraction. By deploying a photo-simulation approach in a randomized control trial, this study finds that level of compliance with safety measures and the conditions of transit spaces themselves significantly impact riders' levels of worry. Given these findings, a series of recommendations are made regarding compliance practices that are expected to lessen rider worry regarding the risks of COVID-19 infection.

The Relationship Between Social Support, Fear, and Psychological Distress Among Frontline Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia

The current cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship between social support, fear, and psychological distress among frontline nurses during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Participants from 20 wards for adult patients from public and private hospitals in Indonesia were recruited. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Job Stress Scale, and Perceived Social Support Questionnaire were used to measure outcomes of interest. Questionnaires were completed by a total of 211 nurses. High risk working unit, higher fear score, younger age, less working experience, and less social support were significant influences on nurses' psychological distress. Social support as a modifiable factor is a potential target for intervention strategies to manage psychological issues among nurses. Findings can help policymakers and managers better understand how to support frontline nurses' psychological health and maintain well-engaged nursing staff. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, xx(xx), xx-xx.].

The mental health impact of COVID-19 on pre-registration nursing students in Australia: Findings from a national cross-sectional study

AIM

The study aimed to measure and describe the mental health impact of COVID-19 on Australian pre-registration nursing students.

BACKGROUND

The COVID -19 pandemic has had a swift and significant impact on nursing students across the globe. The pandemic was the catalyst for the closure of schools and universities across many countries. This necessary measure caused additional stressors for many students, including nursing students, leading to uncertainty and anxiety. There is limited evidence available to identify the mental health impact of COVID-19 on Australian pre-registration nursing students currently.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study was conducted across 12 Australian universities.

METHODS

Using an anonymous, online survey students provided demographic data and self-reported their stress, anxiety, resilience, coping strategies, mental health and exposure to COVID-19. Students' stress, anxiety, resilience, coping strategies and mental health were assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale, the Brief Resilience Scale, the Brief Cope and the DASS-21. Descriptive and regression analyses were conducted to investigate whether stress, anxiety, resilience and coping strategies explained variance in mental health impact. Ethical Approval was obtained from the University of New England Human Research Ethics Committee (No: HE20-188). All participating universities obtained reciprocal approval.

RESULTS

Of the 516 students who completed the survey over half (n = 300, 58.1%) reported mental health concerns and most students (n = 469, 90.9%) reported being impacted by COVID-19. Close to half of students (n = 255, 49.4%) reported signs of post-traumatic stress disorder. Mental health impact was influenced by students' year level and history of mental health issues, where a history of mental health and a higher year level were both associated with greater mental health impacts. Students experienced considerable disruption to their learning due to COVID-19 restrictions which exacerbated students' distress and anxiety. Students coped with COVID-19 through focusing on their problems and using strategies to regulate their emotions and adapt to stressors.

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic has considerably impacted pre-registration nursing students' mental health. Strategies to support nursing students manage their mental health are vital to assist them through the ongoing pandemic and safeguard the recruitment and retention of the future nursing workforce.

IMPACT STATEMENT

This study adds an Australian understanding to the international evidence that indicates student nurses experienced a range of negative psychosocial outcomes during COVID-19. In this study, we found that students with a pre-existing mental health issue and final-year students were most affected. The changes to education in Australian universities related to COVID-19 has caused distress for many nursing students. Australian nursing academics/educators and health service staff need to take heed of these results as these students prepare for entry into the nursing workforce.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

The study was designed to explore the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of undergraduate nursing students in Australia. Educators from several universities were involved in the design and conduct of the study. However, the study did not include input from the public or the intended participants.

Brazilian Adaptation of the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale: A Psychometric Investigation of a Measure of Coronaphobia

This study examined the psychometric properties of a Brazilian adapted version of the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS-BR) in a sample of adults in Brazil. Confirmatory factor analyses demonstrated that the CAS-BR produces a reliable (α = .84), unidimensional construct whose structure was shown to be invariant across gender, race, and age. However, some items of the CAS-BR were stronger indicators of the coronavirus anxiety construct for women and younger adults. Although the CAS-BR demonstrated evidence of discrimination ability for functional impairment (AUC = .77), Youden indexes were low to identify a clinical cut-score. Construct validity was demonstrated with correlations between CAS-BR scores and measures of functional impairment, generalized anxiety, and depression. Exploratory analyses revealed that CAS-BR total scores were higher among women and participants with a history of anxiety disorder. These findings are consistent with previous investigations and support the validity of CAS-BR for measuring coronavirus anxiety with Brazilian adults.

Fear of COVID-19, Coronavirus Anxiety, COVID-19 Burnout, and Resilience: Examining Psychometric Properties of COVID-19 Burnout Scale in Urdu

This research examined the associations between resilience, fear of COVID-19, coronavirus anxiety and COVID-19 burnout. The study also aimed to validate the COVID-19 Burnout Scale (COVID-19-BS) in Urdu. Participants included 812 Pakistani young adults (55.7% males; mean _age 26.4 ± 8.7 years). Results supported a one-factor solution for the COVID-19-BS with high reliability. Mediation analysis showed that resilience mediated the relationships between fear of COVID-19 and coronavirus anxiety with COVID-19 burnout. The study provided preliminary evidence that fear of COVID-19 and coronavirus anxiety might be significant risk factors for burnout among the Pakistani general population, and resilience might mitigate the impacts of these factors.