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Lillo-Navarro C, Fernández-Pires P, Benavides Gil G, Martínez-Zaragoza F, Chaves C, Roca P, Peral-Gómez P, González Valero ME, Mendialdua Canales D, Poveda Alfaro JL, Goldin PR, Sánchez-Pérez A. Effects of a mindfulness-based program on the occupational balance and mental health of university students. Protocol for a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302018. [PMID: 38696406 PMCID: PMC11065289 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim is to examine whether the addition of Virtual Reality (VR) meditation training to a standard 8-week Mindfulness-Based Health Care Program (MBHC-VR) results in a significantly increased improvement in occupational, mental health, and psychological functioning versus MBHC-only in university students. MATERIALS AND METHODS A randomized controlled clinical trial with three arms (MBHC, MBHC-VR, Control Group), four assessment time points (pre-intervention, inter-session, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up), and mixed methodology will be proposed. University students (undergraduate, master, or doctoral) interested in participating and who meet the inclusion/exclusion criteria will be included over two years. Data will be collected from different ad hoc questionnaires, several standardized tests, and an Ecological Momentary Assessment. We will use R software to carry out descriptive analyses (univariate and bivariate), multilevel modeling, and structural equation models to respond to the proposed objective. The qualitative analysis will be carried out using the MAXQDA program and the technique of focus groups. DISCUSSION It is expected that with the proposed intervention university students will learn to relate in a healthier way with their mental processes, so as to improve their occupational balance (OB) and their psychological well-being. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05929430.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Lillo-Navarro
- Centre for Translational Research in Physiotherapy (CEIT), Department of Pathology and Surgery, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
| | - Paula Fernández-Pires
- B+D+b Occupational Research Group, Department of Pathology and Surgery, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
- Alicante Health and Biomedical Research Institute (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - Gemma Benavides Gil
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Health, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
| | - Fermín Martínez-Zaragoza
- Department of Behavioural Sciences and Health, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
| | - Covadonga Chaves
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Roca
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Villanueva, Madrid, Spain
- Valencian International University, Valencia, Spain
| | - Paula Peral-Gómez
- B+D+b Occupational Research Group, Department of Pathology and Surgery, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
- Alicante Health and Biomedical Research Institute (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
| | - María Elena González Valero
- B+D+b Occupational Research Group, Department of Pathology and Surgery, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | - Philippe R. Goldin
- University of California, Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Alicia Sánchez-Pérez
- B+D+b Occupational Research Group, Department of Pathology and Surgery, Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH), Alicante, Spain
- Alicante Health and Biomedical Research Institute (ISABIAL), Alicante, Spain
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Ala S, Campos FR, Relva IC. Emotional Exhaustion Scale (ECE): Psychometric Properties in a Sample of Portuguese University Students. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:1044-1054. [PMID: 38667823 PMCID: PMC11049085 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14040068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Academic emotional exhaustion is the first stage of academic burnout syndrome, and it is necessary to assess it and intervene early, as the consequences can lead to harmful effects on psychological well-being. The main objectives of this study were to explore the psychometric properties of the Emotional Exhaustion Scale (ECE); to assess the association with suffering and positive well-being, using the MHI-5 Inventory; and to provide information on its validity and to compare it with these constructs. A total sample of 526 university students (81% female and 19% male) aged between 17 and 62 (M = 21.42 years and SD = 5.78) took part in this study. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were carried out. In the internal consistency assessment, the ECE was 0.89 and the MHI-5 was 0.81 (Cronbach's alpha). Exploratory factor analysis was carried out with Varimax rotation and confirmatory analysis, obtaining the factor that explains 50.5% of the variance. The results indicated that the ECE has adequate psychometric properties for use with higher education students in Portugal. Its use by mental health professionals in higher education institutions could be very relevant for screening for emotional exhaustion and thus preventing possible serious pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Ala
- Department of Social Sciences, Life and Public Health Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, School of Health, 5300-121 Bragança, Portugal
- Research Group on Neuroscience and Psychiatric Illnesses in Instituto de Investigation Sanitaria Galicia Sur, 36213 Pontevedra, Spain
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, 37005 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Francisco Ramos Campos
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Psychological Treatments, Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, 37005 Salamanca, Spain;
| | - Inês Carvalho Relva
- Department of Education and Psychology, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centre for Research and Intervention in Education (CIIE), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- Centre of Psychology (CPUP), University of Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
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Whatnall M, Ashton L, Patterson A, Smith J, Duncan M, Burrows T, Kay-Lambkin F, Hutchesson M. Are health behaviors associated with academic performance among tertiary education students? A systematic review of cohort studies. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:957-969. [PMID: 35549627 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2063024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the association between health behaviors with academic performance among tertiary education students. METHODS Six databases were searched until July 2020 for prospective cohort studies evaluating the association between health behavior(s) (dietary intake, physical activity, sedentary behavior, alcohol intake, sleep, smoking or illicit drug use) and academic performance. RESULTS Thirty-four studies were included (18 assessed sleep, 16 alcohol intake, 12 illicit drug use, 10 physical activity, 8 diet, 4 smoking, 2 sedentary behavior). A consistent negative association with academic performance was demonstrated for sleep (12/18 studies), alcohol intake (13/16) and illicit drug use (9/12). Most (7/10) studies found no association between physical activity and academic performance. CONCLUSION Findings suggest interventions to mitigate the influence of poor sleep, high alcohol intake, and illicit drug use on academic performance may be needed. Further research of other health behaviors, along with their co-occurrence, with academic performance, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Whatnall
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Lee Ashton
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
- School of Education, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Amanda Patterson
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Jordan Smith
- School of Education, College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Mitch Duncan
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Tracy Burrows
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Frances Kay-Lambkin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
| | - Melinda Hutchesson
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia
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Koppenborg KA, Garnefski N, Kraaij V, Ly V. Academic stress, mindfulness-related skills and mental health in international university students. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2024; 72:787-795. [PMID: 35427213 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2022.2057193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the relationships between academic stress, mindfulness-related constructs (ie, mindfulness, self-compassion and psychological flexibility) and anxiety and depressive symptoms in a sample of 190 international university students. Participants filled in an online questionnaire. Multiple Regression Analyses showed that anxiety and depressive symptoms were significantly related to higher levels of perceived academic stress, and to lower levels of acting with (mindful) awareness, lower self-compassion and lower psychological flexibility. None of the mindfulness-related constructs was found to moderate the relationship between perceived academic stress and anxiety and depressive symptoms. The results provide possible targets for mental health interventions in international university students. Especially the training of mindfulness-related skills could be a promising path.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nadia Garnefski
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Vivian Kraaij
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Verena Ly
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Tavares VDDO, de Sousa GM, Schuch FB, Campanelli S, Meyer J, de Almeida RN, Agrícola PMD, Alves L, Gurgel ML, Gonçalves KTDC, Patten S, Sarris J, Barbalho W, Arcoverde EN, Galvão-Coelho NL. Self-Reported Mood and Lifestyle-Related Physical Activity of Young Adults With Major Depressive Disorder. Percept Mot Skills 2024; 131:489-513. [PMID: 38231015 DOI: 10.1177/00315125241226997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
We investigated whether mood and lifestyle-related indicators of physical health are differentially expressed according to self-reported levels of depressive symptoms among young adults with a current episode of major depression. In a cross-sectional study, we recruited 94 young adults (females = 67, 71.3%; males = 27, 28.7%; aged 18-35 years) with a current episode of major depression. We assessed their mood with the Profile of Mood States (POMS), and Beck Anxiety Inventory-(BAI), sleep with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), physical activity with the Simple Physical Activity Questionnaire (SIMPAQ), and their cardiorespiratory fitness. Participants' depression levels were classified as follows using established cut-points: (a) Mild Depressive Symptoms (MIDS, BDI-II 14-19 points, n = 17), (b) Moderate Depressive Symptoms (MODS, BDI-II 20-28 points, n = 37) or (c) Severe Depressive Symptoms (SEDS, BDI-II 29-63 points, n = 40). As expected, we found that young adults with SEDS, when compared to those with MODS and MIDS, showed higher depressive mood on the POMS, and they exhibited greater anxiety symptoms, lower reported 'vigor' on physical activity measures, worse sleep quality as expressed by their global score sleep; daytime dysfunction; and sleep disturbance, and they showed lower cardiorespiratory fitness. Those with moderate depressive symptoms only differed from those with mild symptoms with respect to hostility, fatigue and mood disturbance. Although there was a gradient whereby worse mental and physical health indicators were more closely related to the SEDS depression categorization, while healthier indicators were associated with the MIDS category, some parameters were not different between the MDD severity groups, particularly when comparing MIDS and MODS. Clinicians treating patients with MDD should consider these factors when designing lifestyle-based interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vagner Deuel de O Tavares
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Psychobiology, Center for Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Geovan Menezes de Sousa
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Psychobiology, Center for Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Felipe B Schuch
- Department of Sports Methods and Techniques, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
- Instituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Providencia, Chile
| | - Stephany Campanelli
- Graduate Program in Psychobiology, Center for Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Jacob Meyer
- Department of Kinesiology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Raissa Nóbrega de Almeida
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Pedro Moraes Dutra Agrícola
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Alves
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Maria Luiza Gurgel
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Scott Patten
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jerome Sarris
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, AU-VIC, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, AU-NSW, Australia
| | - Walter Barbalho
- Onofre Lopes University Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Nicole Leite Galvão-Coelho
- Laboratory of Hormone Measurement, Department of Physiology and Behavior, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, AU-NSW, Australia
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van Beuningen B, Simons SSH, van Hooijdonk KJM, van Noorden THJ, Geurts SAE, Vink JM. Is the Association Between Alcohol Consumption and Mental Well-Being in University Students Linear, Curvilinear or Absent? Subst Use Misuse 2024; 59:1083-1094. [PMID: 38424738 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2024.2320382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Background: Both alcohol consumption and mental well-being problems have been found to be prevalent in higher educated students and often have severe consequences. However, previous findings of the association between these constructs are mixed, possibly because often linear models are fitted, while some theories suggest a curvilinear association between the two concepts. Objectives: To clarify previously mixed findings, the current study compared curvilinear and linear models for the relationship between alcohol consumption and mental well-being in university students. Because of potential gender differences in this relationship, these models were explored for females and males separately. Data from the first cross-sectional online survey wave of the Healthy Student Life project including 2,631 female and 998 male students was used. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-consumption was used to measure alcohol consumption. Mental well-being was assessed by six sub-concepts (i.e., depressive symptoms, anxiety, stress, life satisfaction, happiness, and self-rated mental health). Results: For females both linear (for anxiety, life satisfaction, and self-rated mental health) and curvilinear (for depression, stress, and happiness) associations were found, while for males no support for either curvilinear or linear models was found. Conclusions: Results should be interpreted with caution due to the small effect sizes in the relationships for females but may suggest that testing the curvilinear association between alcohol consumption and mental well-being is an important future endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo van Beuningen
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Sterre S H Simons
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Sabine A E Geurts
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline M Vink
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Levante A, Quarta S, Massaro M, Calabriso N, Carluccio M, Damiano F, Pollice F, Siculella L, Lecciso F. Physical activity habits prevent psychological distress in female academic students: The multiple mediating role of physical and psychosocial parameters. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26626. [PMID: 38420440 PMCID: PMC10901019 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Psychological distress is recognised as the most common mental health difficulty in emerging adult (18-to-24-year-old) female academic students. This study aimed to test a novel model positing physical activity habits as a protective factor for psychological distress through the mediating role of physical and psychological parameters. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet and self-reported physical health status were included as physical parameters. Self-reported psychological health status and time spent on leisure activities were the psychological parameters considered. Method Data were collected between April and May 2021. Correlation analyses and a multiple mediation model were computed on 411 online questionnaires filled out by 18-to-24-year-old female students from the University of blind (Italy). Results The multiple indirect effects were significant (β = -0.088; p < 0.001). This means that physical activity habits reduce psychological distress through high adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a good self-assessment of one's physical and psychological health status, and more time spent on leisure activities outdoors, with friends, and with family members. Conclusions Results show that academic policies should be adopted so as to design physical activity programmes that may improve the students' healthy behaviours and social interactions, which, in turn, mitigate the detrimental effects of psychological distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Levante
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Lab of Applied Psychology, Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - S. Quarta
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - M. Massaro
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - N. Calabriso
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - M.A. Carluccio
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - F. Damiano
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - F. Pollice
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - L. Siculella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - F. Lecciso
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Lab of Applied Psychology, Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy
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Newsome AM, Kilpatrick M, Dedrick RF. Exercise Prescription Practices Among Mental Health Professionals on College Campuses: Testing the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills Model. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10266-6. [PMID: 38409484 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10266-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The co-occurrence of physical inactivity and poor mental health in the college student population can lead to chronic health issues that have negative short-term effects (e.g., academic success). Poor mental health is associated with long-term conditions (e.g., obesity, serious mental illness) that are linked to premature mortality. The purpose of this study was to examine the information-motivation-behavioral (IMB) skills model and evaluate its ability to explain the variance in the use of exercise prescription in mental health treatment. METHOD Mental health professionals (MHPs) (n = 255) were recruited from college counseling centers in the USA. Structural equation modeling was used to examine the relationship between the predictor variables of information (exercise knowledge and benefits of exercise), motivation (personal beliefs, perceived barriers, and organizational support), and behavioral skills (self-efficacy), and the outcome variable of exercise prescription (i.e., brief counseling and referral for exercise). RESULTS The predictors accounted for 23% of the variance in exercise prescription (p = .001). Organizational support had a significant direct effect on exercise prescription (β = 0.27, p = .05). Personal beliefs (β = 0.96, p = .05) and organizational support (β = 0.31, p = .04) had significant direct effects on self-efficacy for prescribing exercise. MHP personal exercise behavior was associated with exercise prescription. CONCLUSION MHPs may be willing to support physical activity promotion and exercise prescription, but organizational structures are critical to enhance and sustain the delivery of this adjunctive therapy. The personal exercise history of MHPs may be an important consideration for behavior change interventions. The development and validation of scales are important considerations for future intervention study design.
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Affiliation(s)
- A'Naja M Newsome
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, USA.
| | - Marcus Kilpatrick
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
| | - Robert F Dedrick
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA
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9
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An SJL, Kim GR. A Quasi-Experimental Study Investigating the Impact of a Lifestyle Redesign Program on the Well-Being of Korean University Students. Occup Ther Int 2024; 2024:2683453. [PMID: 38390382 PMCID: PMC10883738 DOI: 10.1155/2024/2683453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Korean university students (KUS) face numerous challenges that can jeopardize their well-being, including academic stress, peer pressure, irregular sleep patterns, unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical exercise, and difficulties in time management, resulting in unhealthy habits and fluctuations in lifestyle. Consequently, there is a growing need for interventions tailored to this population. Aim This study explored the effects of a Lifestyle Redesign (LR) intervention on Korean university students' well-being including occupational participation, satisfaction, perceived stress levels, and quality of life. Method A quasi-experimental study with 33 KUS (17 intervention, 16 control) assessed the effects of a 10-week LR intervention on well-being of the students. Pre- and postintervention changes were measured using Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), Stress Response Inventory (SRI), and World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale Abbreviated Version (WHOQOL-BREF). The intervention, delivered by trained OTs, comprised of individual and group sessions. Results Statistically significant improvement was observed in occupational performance. While statistical significance was not consistently achieved in the rest of other areas, the LR group displayed positive trends. The LR group exhibited higher COPM satisfaction scores, lower SRI scores (indicating reduced stress), and elevated WHOQOL-BREF scores compared to the control group. Conclusion This study contributes to the understanding of the importance of addressing lifestyle changes and habits in the well-being of university students, especially in the context of academic stress and peer pressure. Future research with larger, more diverse samples and extended intervention periods may offer further insights into the benefits of LR programs in university settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Joung Leigh An
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Inje University, Gimhae-si, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rehabilitation Science, Graduate School of Inje University, Gimhae-si, Republic of Korea
- Ubiquitous Healthcare Research Center, Inje University, 197 Inje Rd, Gimhae-si, Gyeongsangnam-do 621-749, Republic of Korea
- HOPE Parent Training Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyu-Rin Kim
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Inje University, Gimhae-si, Republic of Korea
- HOPE Parent Training Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Gómez Chacón R, Nuñez Sánchez JM, Gálvez Ruiz P. Effects of Physical Activity and COVID-19 on Healthy Student Strengths in the University System: Implications for Post-Pandemic Management. Eur J Investig Health Psychol Educ 2024; 14:243-255. [PMID: 38275341 PMCID: PMC10814464 DOI: 10.3390/ejihpe14010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected the physical, mental, and social well-being of millions worldwide. It has also brought about abrupt disruptions to the entire university system, whose students form a crucial segment of society. The pandemic's effects on student education and well-being have been particularly significant. One of the primary consequences has been a drastic reduction in physical activity levels among students, leading to mental and physical health problems. Despite the rapid growth in the literature exploring student experiences during the pandemic, there is a paucity of research on how this decline in physical activity has affected the five strengths of the healthy student: optimism, self-efficacy, resilience, engagement, and hope. Therefore, the aim of this investigation is to examine the relationship between physical activity levels and the five strengths of the healthy student at two different time points (pre-COVID-19 and COVID-19) through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the Healthy Student Questionnaire. The study involved 897 participants, with 290 participating in the pre-COVID-19 phase and 607 participating in the COVID-19 phase. The results revealed significant differences in the five strengths between the two periods. Students who engaged in physical activity exhibited significantly higher optimism scores in the pre-COVID-19 phase. During the COVID-19 phase, physically active students demonstrated significantly higher scores in optimism, resilience, and self-efficacy. These findings provide clear guidance for university administrators seeking to enhance student well-being in a post-pandemic world and in the face of future disruptions. Universities should consider implementing physical exercise programs for their students to promote psychosocial well-being and provide training and resources to equip faculty members with new skills to better understand and support students' perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pablo Gálvez Ruiz
- Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, Valencian International University, 46002 Valencia, Spain;
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Gao TY, Huang FH, Liu T, Sum RKW, De Liu J, Tang D, Cai DY, Jiang ZK, Ma RS. The role of physical literacy and mindfulness on health-related quality of life among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sci Rep 2024; 14:237. [PMID: 38167897 PMCID: PMC10761947 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50958-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the role played by the physical literacy and mindfulness in the health-related quality of life (QoL) of college students. In early 2022, 24,236 college students from three universities in southern China were recruited in the study. R software and the lavvan package was utilized to build the structural equation model. The measurement model was composed of three latent factors (physical literacy, mindfulness, and quality of life) and 16 observed variables in total. The results of the measurement model indicated goodness fit with p > .05 in Chi-square result, and GFI = .92. In addition, the comparative fit index (.92), Tucker-Lewis index (.91), root-mean-square error of approximation (.07), and root of mean square residual (.11) were in accord with the cutoff model-fit criteria. The results confirm that physical literacy and mindfulness can play a significant and positive role in the structural equation model of quality of life. In addition, this study provides initial evidence that mindfulness and physical literacy could potentially buffer declines in student QoL during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, this study is the first to develop a structural equation model of QoL with multiple indicators, making it a strong addition to existing research on QoL during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Yu Gao
- School of Physical Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Fu Hua Huang
- School of Physical Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Nursing, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Raymond Kim Wai Sum
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jin De Liu
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Di Tang
- Department of Sports Science and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ding Yi Cai
- School of Physical Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zi Kang Jiang
- School of Physical Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Rui Si Ma
- School of Physical Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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Merchán Tamayo JP, Rocchi MA, St-Denis B, Bonneville L, Beaudry SG. A motivational approach to understanding problematic smartphone use and negative outcomes in university students. Addict Behav 2024; 148:107842. [PMID: 37778235 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2023.107842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Considering the rising integration of smartphones into classrooms, the purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between problematic smartphone use (PSU) and negative outcomes through the lens of self-determination theory. This study examined 1,039 students' reported academic motivation, PSU, anxiety, insomnia, and perceived stress. The first objective of this study was to examine how motivational orientations could predict PSU. Then, we examined how motivational orientations and PSU, when used as a mediating variable, could be modeled to predict negative student mental health outcomes (anxiety, insomnia, and perceived stress). As predicted, statistically significant results suggested that autonomous academic motivation was associated with less PSU (β = -0.16), as well as less anxiety (β = -0.12), insomnia (β = -0.16), and stress (β = -0.10). In contrast, higher levels of controlled academic motivation were associated with more PSU (β = 0.37), as well as higher levels of anxiety (β = 0.49) and insomnia (β = 0.41). Amotivation was also positively related to PSU (β = 0.17), anxiety (β = 0.36), insomnia (β = 0.62), and stress (β = 0.22). All indirect effects (mediation effects) were statistically significant and in the predicted direction: the impact of autonomous motivation on negative outcomes was mediated by lower levels of PSU while controlled motivation and amotivation were mediated by higher levels of PSU. Overall, this study advanced the understanding of PSU in university classrooms by demonstrating a link with academic motivation and mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jully P Merchán Tamayo
- Department of Sociology, College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Carolina, United States
| | - Meredith A Rocchi
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Arts, University of Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Bianca St-Denis
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Luc Bonneville
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Arts, University of Ottawa, Canada
| | - Simon G Beaudry
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Canada
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Elsden E, Kador T, Sercombe H, Piper K, Barkan M, Webster E, Smyth Zahra F. Experiential learning spaces and student wellbeing: a mixed-methods study of students at three research intensive UK universities. Int Rev Psychiatry 2023; 35:591-604. [PMID: 38461379 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2023.2268720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
There is clear evidence that university students are experiencing significant mental health difficulties, further exacerbated by the temporary closure of university campuses during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Against this backdrop, our study - Student Wellbeing and Experiential Learning Spaces (SWELS) - explored the role of experiential learning spaces in supporting student wellbeing. We adopted a mixed-methods approach, consisting of an online survey and interviews with students from three research intensive UK Universities. The survey results revealed that compared to the national average of 16-25-year-olds from the UK Office for National Statistics' (ONS) wellbeing questionnaire, the sampled students exhibited significantly lower levels of life satisfaction, happiness, perceived worthwhileness and higher levels of anxiety. The qualitative results further confirmed that students perceived their wellbeing to be affected by their university experience and the COVID pandemic. However, the results also suggest that experiential learning spaces (such as museums, collections, libraries, and gardens) hold strong potential to support student mental health. Accordingly, the study indicates that diversifying module content and conscientiously considering both physical and digital learning spaces can positively impact students. In short, curricula that are cognisant of the physical learning environment and embed a focus on wellbeing into their content might help to bolster student wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esme Elsden
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Kador
- Arts and Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Kim Piper
- Centre for Dental Education, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Emma Webster
- Oxford University Gardens, Libraries and Museums (GLAM), Oxford, UK
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Lo Moro G, Corezzi M, Bert F, Buda A, Gualano MR, Siliquini R. Mental health and adherence to Mediterranean diet among university students: an Italian cross-sectional study. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023; 71:2451-2461. [PMID: 34519625 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1970567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study is aimed to explore severe mental illness (SMI), mental well-being (MWB), and Mediterranean Diet adherence (MedDiet) among university students. PARTICIPANTS University students in Northern Italy (sample size = 502). METHODS Cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2019. The questionnaires included Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale for MWB, K6 for SMI, Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener for MedDiet. Multivariable regressions were mainly performed (p < .05 as significant). RESULTS MWB was high in 3.93% of the participants and low in 23.97%. SMI was probable in 21.87%. MedDiet adherence was high in 2.19% and low in 35.06%. Mainly, poor/very poor perceived health, Economics/Legal/Strategic Sciences courses, and not being on time with exams showed associations with both lower MWB and probable SMI. Gender and some lifestyle, dietary, and university factors predicted MedDiet. MWB and MedDiet were positively associated. CONCLUSIONS This study found high levels of mental issues and low MedDiet. Modifiable factors at university level should be investigated to design preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Lo Moro
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Michele Corezzi
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Bert
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessia Buda
- Degree Course in Dietistics, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Siliquini
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
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Dong J, Chen J, Li Y, Huang X, Rong X, Chen L. Relationship Between Freshmen's Psychological Health and Family Economic Status in Chinese Universities: A Latent Profile Analysis. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:3489-3502. [PMID: 37667735 PMCID: PMC10475299 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s424798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose With the rapid social changes, psychological health problems among freshmen in universities have become increasingly serious. Many researchers have studied the psychological health status of college freshmen using quantitative methods. However, most researchers have studied the psychological health of college freshmen by treating variables as the central concept and analysis unit, which has limitations on the variable-centered research method. Therefore, this study aims to explore the impact of family economic status and demographic variables on the psychological health of college freshmen, as well as the potential types of psychological health among college freshmen. Methods Based on the SCL-90 and the self-evaluation of the family economic status of college freshmen, latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to analyze the psychological health of 1497 college freshmen selected through a whole-group sampling method. Freshmen completed the questionnaire from October 18 to October 20, 2022. Then, multinomial logistic regression analysis and variance analysis were conducted using SPSS 25.0 to analyze the impact of family economic status and demographic variables on different psychological health subtypes of college freshmen from a university in Eastern China. Results There is obvious heterogeneity in the psychological health of college freshmen, which can be divided into three groups: psychological health group (69.54%), psychological distress group (24.65%), and psychological risk group (5.81%). The latent categories of psychological health among college freshmen differ by gender and family economic status. The psychological health status of female students is significantly better than that of male students. In addition, the lower the self-evaluation of family economic status of college freshmen, the lower their psychological health level. Conclusion Three categories of mental health exist for college freshmen, with significant group heterogeneity. Gender and family economic status significantly influenced mental health outcomes with female students faring better. The study's significance lies in providing useful recommendations for educational administrators and developing targeted interventions for college freshmen. Given the practical realities of mental health education efforts, personalized strategies that utilize peer support, counseling, and psychological services can be adopted to assist freshmen in acclimating to university life and maintaining mental wellness. The findings suggest considering the role of family economic status and gender in promoting mental health and the need for further research to develop comprehensive and effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junqiang Dong
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianyong Chen
- School of Psychology, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong Li
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaofang Huang
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xing Rong
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Liang Chen
- Mental Health Education Center, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Beltrán-Ruiz M, Fernández S, García-Campayo J, Puebla-Guedea M, López-del-Hoyo Y, Navarro-Gil M, Montero-Marin J. Effectiveness of attachment-based compassion therapy to reduce psychological distress in university students: a randomised controlled trial protocol. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1185445. [PMID: 37691796 PMCID: PMC10484595 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1185445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Higher education, particularly university, is a challenge for many students that can lead to their mental health being seriously affected. The stress to which they are subject throughout their time at university can lead to anxiety and depression. "Third wave" psychotherapies, including compassion-based therapy, have been used to improve psychological outcomes, such as stress, anxiety, emotional distress and well-being. There are some signs that third wave psychotherapies reduce psychological distress in university students, but more and higher-quality studies are needed. In this randomised controlled trial (RCT), we hypothesise that the provision of attachment-based compassion therapy (ABCT) will be more effective than an active control group based on relaxation therapy for improving psychological distress in university students. Methods and analysis A two-arm RCT will be conducted involving 140 university undergraduate and postgraduate students from the University of Zaragoza and the National University of Distance Education (UNED) who reside in the autonomous community of Aragon, Spain. Interventions with either ABCT or relaxation therapy will be implemented, with an allocation ratio of 1:1 between groups. Both interventions will last six weeks and consist of six weekly group sessions lasting 1.5 h each. Data will be collected before and after the intervention, and there will be a follow-up at six months. The primary outcome will be psychological distress at post-intervention. Secondary outcomes will be depression, anxiety, stress and burnout symptoms, affectivity and emotional regulation. Attachment style, experiential avoidance, compassion (for others/oneself) and mindfulness skills will be measured as potential mechanistic variables. Intention-to-treat analysis will be performed using linear mixed regression models. The clinical significance of improvements will be calculated. Potential side effects will be monitored by an independent clinical psychologist. Ethics and dissemination This study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Aragón. Participant data will remain anonymous, and results will be submitted to peer-reviewed open-access journals and disseminated via conferences. Clinical Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05197595.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Beltrán-Ruiz
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Selene Fernández
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Javier García-Campayo
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragonese Institute of Health Research, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Marta Puebla-Guedea
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Yolanda López-del-Hoyo
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Zaragoza, Spain
- Aragonese Institute of Health Research, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Mayte Navarro-Gil
- Department of Psychology and Sociology, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
- Research Network on Chronicity, Primary Care and Health Promotion (RICAPPS), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jesus Montero-Marin
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology & Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Rohde J, Marciniak MA, Henninger M, Homan S, Paersch C, Egger ST, Seifritz E, Brown AD, Kleim B. Investigating Relationships Among Self-Efficacy, Mood, and Anxiety Using Digital Technologies: Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e45749. [PMID: 37578827 PMCID: PMC10463091 DOI: 10.2196/45749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital tools assessing momentary parameters and offering interventions in people's daily lives play an increasingly important role in mental health research and treatment. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) makes it possible to assess transient mental health states and their parameters. Ecological momentary interventions (EMIs) offer mental health interventions that fit well into individuals' daily lives and routines. Self-efficacy is a transdiagnostic construct that is commonly associated with positive mental health outcomes. OBJECTIVE The aim of our study assessing mood, specific self-efficacy, and other parameters using EMA was 2-fold. First, we wanted to determine the effects of daily assessed moods and dissatisfaction with social contacts as well as the effects of baseline variables, such as depression, on specific self-efficacy in the training group (TG). Second, we aimed to explore which variables influenced both groups' positive and negative moods during the 7-day study period. METHODS In this randomized controlled trial, we applied digital self-efficacy training (EMI) to 93 university students with elevated self-reported stress levels and daily collected different parameters, such as mood, dissatisfaction with social contacts, and specific self-efficacy, using EMA. Participants were randomized to either the TG, where they completed the self-efficacy training combined with EMA, or the control group, where they completed EMA only. RESULTS In total, 93 university students participated in the trial. Positive momentary mood was associated with higher specific self-efficacy in the evening of the same day (b=0.15, SE 0.05, P=.005). Higher self-efficacy at baseline was associated with reduced negative mood during study participation (b=-0.61, SE 0.30, P=.04), while we could not determine an effect on positive mood. Baseline depression severity was significantly associated with lower specific self-efficacy over the week of the training (b=-0.92, SE 0.35, P=.004). Associations between higher baseline anxiety with higher mean negative mood (state anxiety: b=0.78, SE 0.38, P=.04; trait anxiety: b=0.73, SE 0.33, P=.03) and lower mean positive mood (b=-0.64, SE 0.28, P=.02) during study participation were found. Emotional flexibility was significantly enhanced in the TG. Additionally, dissatisfaction with social contacts was associated with both a decreased positive mood (b=-0.56, SE 0.15, P<.001) and an increased negative mood (b=0.45, SE 0.12, P<.001). CONCLUSIONS This study showed several significant associations between mood and self-efficacy as well as those between mood and anxiety in students with elevated stress levels, for example, suggesting that improving mood in people with low mood could enhance the effects of digital self-efficacy training. In addition, engaging in 1-week self-efficacy training was associated with increased emotional flexibility. Future work is needed to replicate and investigate the training's effects in other groups and settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05617248; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05617248.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Rohde
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marta Anna Marciniak
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mirka Henninger
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stephanie Homan
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Paersch
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University Hospital of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stephan T Egger
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adam D Brown
- Department of Psychology, New School for Social Research, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Birgit Kleim
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Páramo MF, Cadaveira F, Rodríguez MS. A 2-year follow-up of the effects of combined binge drinking and cannabis consumption on academic performance and adjustment in Spanish third-year university students. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1223597. [PMID: 37599769 PMCID: PMC10434773 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1223597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The study was based on 2-year follow-up of the effects of binge drinking and cannabis co-consumption on academic performance and adjustment in Spanish Third-Year University Students and to further explore the impact of academic adjustment on this relationship. Methods A total of 144 students (aged 19-20 years) enrolled in the third year of university completed the study. The students were recruited during in first academic year (T1) via a survey that included items regarding the use of alcohol (AUDIT-C), cannabis and other drugs and demographic variables. Then, participants meeting the study criteria were then selected and invited by e-mail to a clinical (face-to face) structured interview. The participants completed a calendar of alcohol consumption during the 6 months prior to the interview (Alcohol Timeline Follow back), and recorded cannabis consumption in 3 months prior to the interview. To examine the effects of alcohol and cannabis co-consumption on the outcome variables, we categorized participants into three consumption groups (i.e., control, BD, and BDCA) based on the number of BD days and cannabis unit scores. Results Binge drinking and cannabis co-consumption in first-year students was significantly associated with poor academic performance and adjustment after 2 years of undergraduate study. Relative to controls, co-consumers (BDCA) reported significantly lower academic and personal-emotional adjustment to university as well as poorer performance. Mediation analysis showed that academic adjustment explains the mechanism by which BDCAs perform less well, mediating the relationship between co-consumption and academic performance, with an indirect effect representing 64.61% of the total effect. Furthermore, the mediating effect of academic adjustment was maintained after controlling for academic adjustment and baseline grade point average (T1). Conclusion This prospective follow-up study helps to further our knowledge of how combined binge drinking and cannabis consumption may affect university adjustment and academic success in Spanish university students Overall, the study results should encourage health professionals, educational psychologists and academic institutions to take ownership of the need for support and involvement in prevention, as well as for provision of guidelines for implementing appropriate intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Fernanda Páramo
- Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Fernando Cadaveira
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychobiology, Faculty of Psychology, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - María Soledad Rodríguez
- Department of Social, Basic Psychology and Methodology, Faculty of Psychology, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
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Rockwell DM, Kimel SY. A systematic review of first-generation college students' mental health. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-13. [PMID: 37499142 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2225633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To synthesize peer-reviewed research on first-generation college students' mental health. Methods: Systematic searches were conducted in 4 databases through 2022 to identify empirical, peer-reviewed, and published articles on first-generation college student anxiety, depression, stress and mental health. Results: Across 62 papers, first-generation college students appeared to experience heightened anxiety, depression and stress when academic activities and social relationships conflicted rather than aligned with interdependent norms. Importantly however, when these negative mental health outcomes were measured generally - without reference to a specific domain (i.e., academic or social) - nearly all papers found no significant differences between first- and continuing-generation students. Conclusions: The findings further emphasized the need for understanding mental health within specific contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean M Rockwell
- Department of Education Studies, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sasha Y Kimel
- School of Education, California State University at San Marcos, San Marcos, California, USA
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Zhao X, Liu Z, Zhao L, Wang Q, Zhang L. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Mental Health in Chinese College Athletes during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Multiple Mediating Effects of Basic Psychological Needs and Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:567. [PMID: 37504014 PMCID: PMC10376336 DOI: 10.3390/bs13070567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological issues have a complex and multidimensional impact on a college athlete's training and performance. As the reserve talent of competitive sports, it is very important to investigate the psychological health of athletes. This study aims to explore the association between generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), basic psychological needs (BPN), and mental health (MH) among Chinese college athletes. Chinese college athletes who were willing to participate in the study, had participated in national competitions, and had a Chinese athlete rating certificate were included in this study. Participants completed the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the Basic Needs Satisfaction in General Scale (BNSG-S). The study involved 665 college athletes (415 males and 250 females), with an average age of 20.43 years (SD = 1.68). We performed descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and moderated chain mediation analyses using SPSS 22.0 and Hayes' PROCESS macro. The results of the final model showed that basic psychological needs were positively correlated with mental health (r = 0.443, p < 0.001), while PTSD (r = -0.346, p < 0.001) and generalized anxiety disorder (r = -0.527, p < 0.001) were negatively correlated with mental health among college athletes. There were significant indirect impacts. According to the bootstrapping results, basic psychological needs and generalized anxiety disorder played a mediating role in 22.54% and 50.29% of the total effects of PTSD on mental health, respectively. Meanwhile, the chain mediating effect of basic psychological needs and generalized anxiety disorder (7.23%) was also significant. The study's findings advance our understanding of the connections between PTSD and mental health and highlight the significant roles played by basic psychological needs and generalized anxiety disorder in that link among Chinese college athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhan Zhao
- School of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
| | - Zongyu Liu
- School of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
| | - Liangyu Zhao
- School of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
| | - Qi Wang
- School of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
| | - Liguo Zhang
- School of Physical Education, Shandong University, Jinan 250061, China
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Huckvale K, Hoon L, Stech E, Newby JM, Zheng WY, Han J, Vasa R, Gupta S, Barnett S, Senadeera M, Cameron S, Kurniawan S, Agarwal A, Kupper JF, Asbury J, Willie D, Grant A, Cutler H, Parkinson B, Ahumada-Canale A, Beames JR, Logothetis R, Bautista M, Rosenberg J, Shvetcov A, Quinn T, Mackinnon A, Rana S, Tran T, Rosenbaum S, Mouzakis K, Werner-Seidler A, Whitton A, Venkatesh S, Christensen H. Protocol for a bandit-based response adaptive trial to evaluate the effectiveness of brief self-guided digital interventions for reducing psychological distress in university students: the Vibe Up study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066249. [PMID: 37116996 PMCID: PMC10151864 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Meta-analytical evidence confirms a range of interventions, including mindfulness, physical activity and sleep hygiene, can reduce psychological distress in university students. However, it is unclear which intervention is most effective. Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven adaptive trials may be an efficient method to determine what works best and for whom. The primary purpose of the study is to rank the effectiveness of mindfulness, physical activity, sleep hygiene and an active control on reducing distress, using a multiarm contextual bandit-based AI-adaptive trial method. Furthermore, the study will explore which interventions have the largest effect for students with different levels of baseline distress severity. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The Vibe Up study is a pragmatically oriented, decentralised AI-adaptive group sequential randomised controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of one of three brief, 2-week digital self-guided interventions (mindfulness, physical activity or sleep hygiene) or active control (ecological momentary assessment) in reducing self-reported psychological distress in Australian university students. The adaptive trial methodology involves up to 12 sequential mini-trials that allow for the optimisation of allocation ratios. The primary outcome is change in psychological distress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, 21-item version, DASS-21 total score) from preintervention to postintervention. Secondary outcomes include change in physical activity, sleep quality and mindfulness from preintervention to postintervention. Planned contrasts will compare the four groups (ie, the three intervention and control) using self-reported psychological distress at prespecified time points for interim analyses. The study aims to determine the best performing intervention, as well as ranking of other interventions. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was sought and obtained from the UNSW Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC A, HC200466). A trial protocol adhering to the requirements of the Guideline for Good Clinical Practice was prepared for and approved by the Sponsor, UNSW Sydney (Protocol number: HC200466_CTP). TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12621001223820.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kit Huckvale
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leonard Hoon
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eileen Stech
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jill M Newby
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychology, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Wu Yi Zheng
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jin Han
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rajesh Vasa
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sunil Gupta
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Scott Barnett
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Manisha Senadeera
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart Cameron
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stefanus Kurniawan
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Akash Agarwal
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joost Funke Kupper
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joshua Asbury
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Willie
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alasdair Grant
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Henry Cutler
- Centre for the Health Economy, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bonny Parkinson
- Centre for the Health Economy, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Joanne R Beames
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rena Logothetis
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marya Bautista
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jodie Rosenberg
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Artur Shvetcov
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas Quinn
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew Mackinnon
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Santu Rana
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Truyen Tran
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon Rosenbaum
- School of Psychiatry, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kon Mouzakis
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Alexis Whitton
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Svetha Venkatesh
- Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Christensen
- Black Dog Institute, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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22
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Oftedal S, Fenton S, Hansen V, Whatnall MC, Ashton LM, Haslam RL, Hutchesson MJ, Duncan MJ. Changes in physical activity, diet, sleep, and mental well-being when starting university: A qualitative exploration of Australian student experiences. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37014766 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2194426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To explore young adult's experiences of how starting university influenced their physical activity, diet, sleep, and mental well-being, and barriers and enablers to health behavior change. Participants: University students aged 18-25 years. Methods: Three focus groups were conducted in November 2019. Inductive thematic approach was utilized to identify themes. Results: Students (female: n = 13, male: n = 2, other gender identity: n = 1, 21.2 (1.6) years) reported mental well-being, physical activity levels, diet quality and sleep health were negatively affected. Stress, study demands, university timetabling, not prioritizing physical activity, cost and availability of healthy foods, and difficulty falling asleep were key barriers. Health behavior change interventions aiming to support mental well-being need to include both information and support features. Conclusions: There is a significant opportunity to improve the transition to university for young adults. Findings highlight areas to target in future interventions to improve physical activity, diet, and sleep of university students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stina Oftedal
- School of Medicine & Public Health; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sasha Fenton
- School of Health Sciences; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vibeke Hansen
- Faculty of Health and Human Services, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Megan C Whatnall
- School of Health Sciences; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lee M Ashton
- School of Health Sciences; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Haslam
- School of Health Sciences; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Melinda J Hutchesson
- School of Health Sciences; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mitch J Duncan
- School of Medicine & Public Health; College of Health, Medicine and Wellness, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
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23
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Kiltz L, Trippenzee M, Fleer J, Fokkens-Bruinsma M, Jansen EPWA. Student well-being in times of COVID-19 in the Netherlands: basic psychological need satisfaction and frustration within the academic learning environment. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY OF EDUCATION 2023. [PMCID: PMC9977641 DOI: 10.1007/s10212-023-00680-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic affected student well-being through measures such as closing educational institutions and social distancing, which forced universities to adapt the student learning environment. Previous research has demonstrated that the learning environment influences student well-being by satisfying their basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. The present study therefore aimed to investigate, against the background of the pandemic, (1) how the basic psychological needs related to student well-being, (2) how students perceived interaction within the academic system, and (3) how they would like the “new educational normal” to look. To address these aims, we implemented a cross-sectional survey which included both quantitative measures and qualitative open-ended questions and distributed it at a Dutch university (n = 653). To identify the predictive strength of need satisfaction and frustration, we ran multiple regressions. We found that need satisfaction and frustration were significantly related to the well-being measures, of which relatedness was only weakly related to student well-being. Moreover, students reported restricted interactions with their teachers and fellow students, leading to feelings of disconnectedness, as well as struggles to establish or maintain relationships. In contrast with the quantitative findings, students highlighted relatedness as an essential, currently lacking part of their experience. They suggested a potential hybrid learning environment with a focus on social cohesion. This study emphasizes the relevance of interpersonal connections within higher education and provides practical ideas for post-pandemic academic structures. These insights can support systemic investments of universities in student well-being and creating a healthier learning environment for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Kiltz
- Department Teacher Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences Faculty, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M. Trippenzee
- Department Health Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J. Fleer
- Department Health Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M. Fokkens-Bruinsma
- Department Teacher Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences Faculty, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - E. P. W. A. Jansen
- Department Teacher Education, Behavioural and Social Sciences Faculty, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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24
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The Impact of COVID-19 Confinement on Substance Use and Mental Health in Portuguese Higher Education Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11040619. [PMID: 36833153 PMCID: PMC9957448 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The mental health of higher education students is a constant concern, and the pandemic situation caused by COVID-19 has intensified this concern. The social measures imposed to control and minimize the disease have led, among other things, to the reconfiguration of higher education students' academic life habits, which has naturally altered their emotional balance, mental health, and substance abuse. This cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational study assesses the influence of higher education students' personal characteristics on their (self-reported) use of addictive substances (alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and pharmaceutical drugs) before and during their first compulsory confinement in Portugal, as well as its relationship with mental health. An online questionnaire was applied between 15 April and 20 May 2020, to students from various study cycles of higher education institutions in one region of Portugal (northern area of Alentejo), which included the Mental Health Inventory in its reduced version (MHI-5) and questions (constructed by the authors) on personal characterization and on the use of addictive substances before and during confinement. The convenience sample included 329 mostly female health care students between the ages of 18 and 24. In our results, we found a statistically significant decrease in tobacco, alcohol, and drug use; however, there was an increase in tobacco use among older students and an increase in anxiolytic use among students with higher academic achievement and among students who exhibited more active social behavior in the period prior to confinement. Students who took anxiolytics during confinement had higher MHI-5 scores and students who used the most addictive substances during confinement had lower MHI-5 scores than the other students.
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25
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Martínez-Rubio D, Colomer-Carbonell A, Sanabria-Mazo JP, Pérez-Aranda A, Navarrete J, Martínez-Brotóns C, Escamilla C, Muro A, Montero-Marín J, Luciano JV, Feliu-Soler A. How mindfulness, self-compassion, and experiential avoidance are related to perceived stress in a sample of university students. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280791. [PMID: 36735700 PMCID: PMC9897529 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
University students constitute a population that is highly vulnerable to developing mental health problems, such as distress. The role of different variables associated with the development of states of stress has been studied in order to identify potential risk and protective factors. This study explored whether mindfulness, self-compassion, and experiential avoidance, while controlling for specific sociodemographic and academic variables, were potential significant protective or risk factors explaining perceived stress in a sample of 589 Spanish university students (81.2% female, age range 18-48 years). A hierarchical multiple regression analysis was performed using an exploratory cross-sectional design. Higher experiential avoidance, lower self-compassion, lower mindfulness, not perceiving family support, higher total study hours per week, having a partner (vs. being single), being female (vs. being male), and being older were significantly associated with higher levels of perceived stress. In conclusion, perceived stress in our sample was positively associated with experiential avoidance, which could be regarded as a potential psychological risk variable. In contrast, perceived stress was negatively correlated with self-compassion and mindfulness, which, in turn, could be seen as protective factors. Accordingly, it is concluded that programmes aimed at reducing stress and at improving well-being among university students should include experiential avoidance, self-compassion, and mindfulness as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Martínez-Rubio
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Psicoforma, Integral Psychology Center, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ariadna Colomer-Carbonell
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan P. Sanabria-Mazo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Adrián Pérez-Aranda
- Faculty of Psychology, Department of Basic, Developmental, and Educational Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Aragon Institute for Health Research, IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jaime Navarrete
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Martínez-Brotóns
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Psicoforma, Integral Psychology Center, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Escamilla
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Anna Muro
- Faculty of Psychology, Department of Basic, Developmental, and Educational Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Jesús Montero-Marín
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Psychology, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Juan V. Luciano
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, St. Boi de Llobregat, Spain
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Albert Feliu-Soler
- CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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26
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Alzhrani AM, Aboalshamat KT, Badawoud AM, Abdouh IM, Badri HM, Quronfulah BS, Mahmoud MA, Rajeh MT. The association between smartphone use and sleep quality, psychological distress, and loneliness among health care students and workers in Saudi Arabia. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280681. [PMID: 36701337 PMCID: PMC9879389 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of smartphones among the general public and health care practitioners, in particular, is ubiquitous. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between smartphone addiction and sleep quality, psychological distress, and loneliness among health care students and workers in Saudi Arabia. METHODS This cross-sectional study used an online questionnaire to collect data on smartphone addiction, sleep quality, psychological distress, and loneliness as well as demographic information. RESULTS A total of 773 health care students and workers participated in the study, with an average age of 25.95 ± 8.35, and 59.6% female participants. The study found a positive significant association between smartphone addiction and psychological distress (F(1,771) = 140.8, P < 0.001) and emotional loneliness (F(1,771) = 26.70, P < 0.001). Additionally, a significant negative association between smartphone addiction and sleep quality was found (F(1,771) = 4.208, P = 0.041). However, there was no significant relationship between smartphone addiction and social loneliness (F (1,771) = 0.544, P < 0.461). CONCLUSION These findings suggest that smartphone addiction has a negative impact on psychological distress, sleep quality, and emotional loneliness among health care students and workers. It is important to promote strategies to reduce smartphone dependency in order to avoid the harmful consequences of smartphone addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Muhammad Alzhrani
- Department of Occupation Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Talal Aboalshamat
- Preventive Dentistry Department, College of Dentistry, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Mohammmad Badawoud
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | - Ismail Mahmoud Abdouh
- Department of Oral Basic and Clinical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawara, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hatim Matooq Badri
- Department of Environmental Health, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Baraa Sami Quronfulah
- Department of Health Promotion and Health Education, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mona Talal Rajeh
- Department of Dental Public Health, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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27
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Sanci L, Williams I, Russell M, Chondros P, Duncan AM, Tarzia L, Peter D, Lim MSY, Tomyn A, Minas H. Towards a health promoting university: descriptive findings on health, wellbeing and academic performance amongst university students in Australia. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2430. [PMID: 36575509 PMCID: PMC9792939 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14690-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Universities are increasingly recognised as institutions where health and wellbeing can be promoted to maximise academic outcomes, career transitions, and lifelong positive health behaviours. There is concern about the mental health of university students and other factors which affect academic outcomes particularly for subgroups such as international students. There are few cohort studies of the breadth of issues that can impact on mental health and academic outcomes for both local and international students. We conducted a baseline prevalence survey of students at a large Australian university covering health, academic, and social determinants of wellbeing. The purpose was to inform the university's new student health and wellbeing framework with a view to follow-up to determine predictors of mental ill-health and academic outcomes in the subsequent year. In this paper we present the baseline prevalence data and report on selected mental health and health care access issues for local and international students. METHODS The entire university population as of April 2019 of over 56,375 students aged 18 or above were invited to complete the online survey. Questions explored eight domains: demographic characteristics, general health and wellbeing, mental health, risk taking behaviours, psychosocial stressors, learning and academic factors, social and cultural environment, and awareness of and access to health and wellbeing services. Records of academic results were also accessed and matched with survey data for a large subset of students providing consent. RESULTS Fourteen thousand eight hundred eighty (26.4%) students commenced our survey and were representative of the entire student population on demographic characteristics. Three quarters were aged between 18 to 25 years and one third were international students. Eighty-five percent consented to access of their academic records. Similar proportions of local and international students experienced symptoms of a depression or anxiety disorder, however international students were less aware of and less likely to access available health services both inside and external to the university. We also reported on the prevalence of: general lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, amount of daily sleep); risk-taking behaviours (including alcohol, tobacco and other drug use; unprotected sexual activity); psychosocial stressors (financial, intimate partner violence, discrimination, academic stressors, acculturative stress); subjects failed; resilience; social supports; social media use; and health services accessed online. CONCLUSIONS This rigorous and comprehensive examination of the health status of local and international students in an Australian university student population establishes the prevalence of mental health issues and other psychosocial determinants of health and wellbeing, along with academic performance. This study will inform a university-wide student wellbeing framework to guide health and wellbeing promotion and is a baseline for a 12-month follow-up of the cohort in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Sanci
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ian Williams
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Melissa Russell
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XCentre of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Patty Chondros
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ann-Maree Duncan
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Laura Tarzia
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Divya Peter
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Madeleine S. Y. Lim
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of General Practice, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adrian Tomyn
- grid.1021.20000 0001 0526 7079School of Psychology, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Harry Minas
- grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XMelbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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28
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Tindle R, Castillo P, Doring N, Grant L, Willis R. Developing and validating a university needs instrument to measure the psychosocial needs of university students. BRITISH JOURNAL OF EDUCATIONAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 92:1550-1570. [PMID: 35586948 PMCID: PMC9790289 DOI: 10.1111/bjep.12515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND University students are four times more likely to experience elevated levels of psychological distress compared to their peers. The psychosocial needs of university students are associated with high psychological distress, stressful life events, and academic performance. Our study focuses on developing a measure to help universities identify these psychosocial needs. AIMS The study aimed to develop and validate the factor structure of the University Needs Instrument and identify the relationship between psychosocial needs, psychological distress and academic performance among university students. SAMPLE Undergraduate university students (N = 511) currently studying at university. METHOD Participants completed demographic questions, the University Needs Instrument and the Kessler-10 Psychological Distress scale. The University Needs Instrument comprises 30 items within six psychosocial factors (academic support, financial support, support from family, support from friends, practical support and emotional support), each consisting of five items. RESULTS Confirmatory factor analysis showed that all items significantly loaded on the six hypothesized factors. The hypothesized model was supported by the data displaying excellent model fit and psychometric properties. Our analysis determined that the UNI has strong internal consistency. The results also confirmed that university students' high levels of psychological distress and their academic performance may be affected by their psychosocial needs. CONCLUSIONS Our findings have provided an initial validation of the UNI to help screen and identify the psychosocial needs of university students. This scale can be used to identify the appropriate psychosocial support that can be offered to students and in turn could help reduce their psychological distress, improve their psychosocial well-being and increase academic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Tindle
- School of Health and Behavioural SciencesUniversity of the Sunshine CoastGympieQLDAustralia
| | - Paola Castillo
- Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, School of PsychologyCharles Sturt UniversityPort MacquarieNSWAustralia
| | - Natalie Doring
- Kirby InstituteUniversity of New South WalesSydneyNSWAustralia
| | - Leigh Grant
- Faculty of Business, Justice and Behavioural Sciences, School of PsychologyCharles Sturt UniversityPort MacquarieNSWAustralia
| | - Royce Willis
- Faculty of HealthSouthern Cross UniversityCoffs HarbourNSWAustralia
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29
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Gilbert W, Bureau JS, Poellhuber B, Guay F. Educational contexts that nurture students' psychological needs predict low distress and healthy lifestyle through facilitated self-control. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-21. [PMID: 36468166 PMCID: PMC9684939 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-04019-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Psychological distress and unhealthy lifestyle behaviors are highly prevalent among undergraduate students. Importantly, numerous longitudinal studies show that these phenomena rise significantly during the first months of college and remain high thereafter. However, research identifying theory-driven mechanisms to explain these phenomena is lacking. Using two complementary statistical approaches (person- and variable-centered), this study assesses basic psychological needs (BPNs) and self-control as possible explanatory factors underlying the association between student's educational experience and multiple health-related outcomes. A total of 2450 Canadian undergraduates participated in this study study involving two time points (12 months apart; NTime1 = 1783; NTime2 = 1053), of which 386 participated at both measurement occasions. First, results from person-centered analyses (i.e., latent profile and transition analyses) revealed three profiles of need-satisfaction and frustration in students that were replicated at both time points. Need-supportive conditions within college generally predicted membership in the most adaptive profile. In turn, more adaptive profiles predicted higher self-control, lower levels of psychological distress (anxiety, depression), and healthier lifestyle behaviors (physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption). Second, results from variable-centered analyses (i.e., structural equation modeling) showed that the association between students' BPNs and health-related outcomes was mediated by self-control. In other words, high need satisfaction and low need frustration were associated with higher self-regulatory performance at Time 1, which in turn predicted a more adaptive functioning at Time 2. Overall, these findings help clarify the mechanisms underlying the association between college educational climate and students' health-related functioning. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12144-022-04019-5.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julien S. Bureau
- Department of Educational Fundamentals and Practices, Université Laval, 2320 Rue Des Bibliothèques, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6 Canada
| | - Bruno Poellhuber
- Department of Psychopedagogy and Andragogy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC Canada
| | - Frédéric Guay
- Department of Educational Fundamentals and Practices, Université Laval, 2320 Rue Des Bibliothèques, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6 Canada
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Edwards-Bailey L, Cartwright T, Smyth N, Mackenzie JM. A qualitative exploration of student self-harm and experiences of support-seeking within a UK university setting. COUNSELLING PSYCHOLOGY QUARTERLY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/09515070.2022.2146054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Edwards-Bailey
- School of Social Sciences - Unit of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Tina Cartwright
- School of Social Sciences - Unit of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Nina Smyth
- School of Social Sciences - Unit of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Jay-Marie Mackenzie
- School of Social Sciences - Unit of Psychology, University of Westminster, London, UK
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The Consequences of the Pandemic on Medical Students’ Depressive Symptoms and Perceived Stress: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Survey with a Nested Longitudinal Subsample. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11195896. [PMID: 36233763 PMCID: PMC9572955 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11195896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the impact of the pandemic on medical students’ mental health in Italy using a repeated cross-sectional survey with a nested longitudinal subsample (first timepoint: 2018; second: 2020/2021). Three research questions (RQs) were investigated. Study 1 (longitudinal sub-sample) explored whether medical students had higher levels of depressive symptoms and stress during the pandemic compared with a pre-pandemic period (RQ1) and what variables were associated with these conditions during the pandemic adjusting for baseline levels (RQ2). Study 2 (repeated cross-sectional data) aimed to examine whether medical students had higher levels of these conditions during the pandemic compared with their same-year peers during a pre-pandemic period (RQ3). In Study 1, higher levels of depressive symptoms and stress were shown during the pandemic (RQ1). Multivariable models highlighted associations between poor mental health and worsening of the judgment of medical school choice, worsened psychological condition due to the pandemic, economic repercussions due to the pandemic, and baseline levels of symptoms (RQ2). In Study 2, our findings reported higher levels of depressive symptoms and stress during the pandemic, also adjusting for other variables (RQ3). In conclusion, depressive symptoms and stress were greater during the pandemic. The most relevant variables were pandemic-related items and medical school choice judgment.
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Development and Evaluation: A Behavioral Activation Mobile Application for Self-Management of Stress for College Students. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10101880. [PMID: 36292327 PMCID: PMC9601954 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10101880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
College students are at a high risk of mental health problems due to continuous exposure to considerable stress as they transition into adulthood. It is necessary to reflect on young people’s needs and provide brief, personalized support interventions via mobile applications. This study aimed to (1) describe the co-design development process of a behavioral activation (BA) mobile health application called MEndorphins to help youth manage stress; and (2) evaluate the ease of use and quality of the application and its effects on psychological distress. College students aged 18–25 in South Korea participated as co-designers throughout the MEndorphins development process, which involved prototyping workshops. Thirty-five students also evaluated the application’s ease of use and quality, as well as its effects on psychological distress, using a self-reported online questionnaire. In the pilot evaluation, ease of use scored 74.21 out of 100 and quality 3.72 out of 5. There were statistically significant decreases in depression, anxiety, and stress after using MEndorphins (p ≤ 0.001 for depression and anxiety, p = 0.001 for stress) for 7 days. In this developed BA based mobile application, participants could monitor their mood, plan stress self-management strategies, and gain motivation by sharing experiences.
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Chen G, Zhong Y, Yu W, Yan J. Mental Health Study from the Perspective of Behavior Preference under the Environment of Internet Media: Based on China's Data Analysis. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2022:2523093. [PMID: 36203505 PMCID: PMC9532114 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2523093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
To prevent the mental health problems of college preference students effectively, this paper analyzes the influence of college students' internet media use behaviors on their mental health in the information age. We make an empirical study on the above problems by using metrology models under the condition of controlling individual factors. The result shows that the mental health of college students is significantly affected by different internet media use behaviors and shows obvious heterogeneity. Preference for games and soap operas or films has a significant negative relationship with the mental health of college students, while the preference for science, education programs, and the preference to obtain current political news comments through official media have a positive impact on the psychological security of college students. Meanwhile, the mental health of college students is also significantly influenced by individual factors. The education level, family income, and social satisfaction show a significant positive correlation with the mental health of college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangjun Chen
- Xingcheng Teaching Base, Jilin University, Huludao, Liaoning 125000, China
| | - Yubo Zhong
- Jilin University College of New Energy and Environment, Changchun, Jilin 130012, China
| | - Wangyang Yu
- Office of the CPC Committee, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Jin Yan
- Foreign Languages College Changchun University, Changchun, Jilin 130022, China
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Chai W, Li X, Shek DTL. The Effectiveness of a Leadership Subject Using a Hybrid Teaching Mode during the Pandemic: Objective Outcome and Subjective Outcome Evaluation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:9809. [PMID: 36011436 PMCID: PMC9408400 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Positive youth development (PYD) is an innovative approach to protect students from mental health problems and promote their positive and holistic development. Although there are many studies on the beneficial effects of PYD programs on youth in high school and community contexts, it is not clear whether subjects adopting PYD principles can promote positive development for university students. Moreover, it is unclear whether such subjects are effective under COVID-19, where subjects are commonly taught via the "hybrid" mode (i.e., face-to-face plus online teaching). The present study examined students' changes in the PYD, wellbeing, and desired graduate attributes after they had taken a leadership subject utilizing PYD principles taught by the "hybrid" mode (N = 630). Adopting the one-group pre-test and post-test design (i.e., objective outcome evaluation), we found that students showed significant positive improvement in PYD indicators, wellbeing, as well as desired graduate attributes. Additionally, students had high satisfaction with the course design and teaching staff, and perceived many benefits from this subject based on the subjective outcome evaluation conducted at the end of the subject. Results also showed that students' satisfaction with the curriculum significantly and positively predicted their positive change in PYD indicators, indicating the convergence of subjective outcome evaluation and objective outcome evaluation. The results highlight the positive impacts of the hybrid mode leadership subject with PYD principles in higher education.
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Buizza C, Bazzoli L, Ghilardi A. Changes in College Students Mental Health and Lifestyle During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. ADOLESCENT RESEARCH REVIEW 2022; 7:537-550. [PMID: 35966832 PMCID: PMC9362152 DOI: 10.1007/s40894-022-00192-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED College students have poorer mental health than their peers. Their poorer health conditions seem to be caused by the greater number of stressors to which they are exposed, which can increase the risk of the onset of mental disorders. The pandemic has been an additional stressor that may have further compromised the mental health of college students and changed their lifestyles with important consequences for their well-being. Although research has recognized the impact of COVID-19 on college students, only longitudinal studies can improve knowledge on this topic. This review summarizes the data from 17 longitudinal studies examining changes in mental health and lifestyle among college students during the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to improve understanding of the effects of the outbreak on this population. Following PRISMA statements, the following databases were searched PubMed, EBSCO, SCOPUS and Web of Science. The overall sample included 20,108 students. The results show an increase in anxiety, mood disorders, alcohol use, sedentary behavior, and Internet use and a decrease in physical activity. Female students and sexual and gender minority youth reported poorer mental health conditions. Further research is needed to clarify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vulnerable subgroups of college students. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40894-022-00192-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Buizza
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Luciano Bazzoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Ghilardi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Viale Europa 11, 25123 Brescia, Italy
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36
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Zhu X, Chai W, Shek DTL, Lin L. Promotion of Meaning in Life and Wellbeing Among University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic via a Service-Learning Subject. Front Public Health 2022; 10:924711. [PMID: 35801238 PMCID: PMC9253398 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.924711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Utilizing the principle of “learning by doing,” service-learning (SL) course provides a platform for university students to apply academic knowledge in serving the community, reflecting on the serving experiences, deepening their understanding of the knowledge, and further improving their competence, responsibility, wellbeing, and meaning in life (MIL). This study reported university students' changes in psychological wellbeing (positive youth development attributes), subjective wellbeing (life satisfaction), and MIL after taking a SL subject during the COVID-19 pandemic through a one-group pretest-posttest design. Based on the data collected from 229 students (mean age = 20.86 ± 1.56 years, 48.0% females), repeated-measures multivariate general linear model (GLM) analyses revealed that students showed significant positive changes in wellbeing and MIL. In addition, pretest MIL scores positively predicted posttest scores of the two wellbeing measures but not vice versa. As predicted, improvement in MIL among students was closely associated with the positive changes in both psychological and subjective wellbeing measures. These findings suggest that SL participation during the pandemic may promote students' life meaning and foster their wellbeing. Furthermore, MIL and wellbeing may improve simultaneously, and MIL enhancement may further contribute to improvement in psychological and subjective wellbeing. The findings further prove that SL is an effective pedagogy in higher education settings in promoting youth positive development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqin Zhu
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wenyu Chai
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Daniel T. L. Shek
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- *Correspondence: Daniel T. L. Shek
| | - Li Lin
- Department of Applied Psychology, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China
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Belonging to the World through Body, Trust, and Trinity: Climate Change and Pastoral Care with University Students. RELIGIONS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rel13060527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
This article explores how pastoral care is performed in an age of climate change. University students suffer from a wide range of stresses, reducing their well-being. Climate change compounds these stress reactions, even where students are not directly affected. As climate change affects concrete, material matters, human reactions to it may no longer be viewed and treated as purely inner psychic states. Thus, climate change disrupts usual divisions of material, social, and mental features as separate categories, underscoring instead the close-knit relations between them. Given the far-reaching ways climate change affects mental health, the article presents an ethnographical-theologically-driven model for basic conversation in pastoral care with students in the midst of escalating climate events. Making use of theories from anthropology, psychology, and theology, this article builds on in-depth interviews with Danish university chaplains about their pastoral care with students. The model extrapolates from these theories how pastoral care may support students in the era of climate change through a triad of organizing themes that come to the fore in the interviews: “Mothering the Content”, “Loving Vital Force”, and “Befriending the Environment”.
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38
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Di Consiglio M, Merola S, Satta C, Pascucci T, Violani C, Couyoumdjian A. NoiBene, a Group Intervention for Promoting Mental Health Among University Students: A Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychol 2022; 13:877340. [PMID: 35602731 PMCID: PMC9120589 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.877340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
University students’ mental health has become a public health issue since increasingly students report high levels of psychological distress. Mental health difficulties influence students’ lives, such as academic performance, relationships satisfaction, and quality of life. Moreover, different kinds of obstacles often hinder help-seeking behavior. Such evidence strongly suggests the need to implement prevention and promotion strategies to increase health and well-being in educational contexts. This article presents a study protocol for implementing and evaluating NoiBene, an evidence-based group intervention that aims to promote mental health and well-being, improve a series of transversal competencies (e.g., emotional awareness, commitment to values, assertiveness, goal setting), and decrease dysfunctional transdiagnostic mechanisms (i.e., perfectionism, repetitive thinking, experiential avoidance). A randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate the protocol’s efficacy. Participants will be assigned to one of the three conditions: the NoiBene Group condition (NB-G), the NoiBene guided web-based condition (NB-WB), or the waiting list condition (WLC). The NB-G intervention consists of six face-to-face group meetings, each dedicated to specific issues related to well-being or vulnerabilities. Every meeting includes an explanation of the theoretical contents, individual and group exercises, and role-plays. The NB-WB intervention covers the same topic addressed in the NB-G intervention. In this case, participants carry out a series of online modules, including theoretical explanations, practical exercises, useful activities, and self-monitoring tools. Students will individually meet the Tutor once every 2 weeks. The primary outcome will include an increase in mental health and well-being. Secondary outcomes will include changes in emotional awareness, assertiveness, perfectionism, rumination, worry, self-criticism, experiential avoidance, and academic performance and satisfaction. We expect that participants in both NoiBene conditions will show these outcomes. However, we hypothesized that the NB-G conditions will be more effective than the NB-WB in improving assertiveness. Besides treatment efficacy, we expect that students can benefit from the NB-G or NB-WB differently based on their specific behavioral and motivational patterns. Outcomes will be assessed at pre-, post-intervention and 6-months follow-up. In conclusion, we believe that NoiBene is a promising tool that can improve students’ well-being, and it could have positive implications for preventing mental health disorders among students.
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Quarta S, Levante A, García-Conesa MT, Lecciso F, Scoditti E, Carluccio MA, Calabriso N, Damiano F, Santarpino G, Verri T, Pinto P, Siculella L, Massaro M. Assessment of Subjective Well-Being in a Cohort of University Students and Staff Members: Association with Physical Activity and Outdoor Leisure Time during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084787. [PMID: 35457652 PMCID: PMC9025284 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Time spent outdoors and physical activity (PA) promote mental health. To confirm this relationship in the aftermath of COVID-19 lockdowns, we explored individual levels of anxiety, depression, stress and subjective well-being (SWB) in a cohort of academic students and staff members and tested their association with sport practice, PA at leisure time and time spent outdoors. Our cross-sectional study collected data during the COVID-19 outbreak (April−May 2021) on 939 students and on 238 employees, who completed an online survey on sociodemographic and lifestyle features, depression, anxiety, stress, and SWB. Results showed that the students exhibited higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress, and lower levels of SWB (p < 0.001 for all domains) compared to the staff members. Correlation analysis confirmed that PA and time spent in nature were associated to high mental health scores among staff and, more consistently, among students. Finally, mediation analyses indicated that the time spent in nature, social relationships, and levels of energy play a mediator role in the relationship between sport practice and SWB. Our evidence reinforces the protective role of time spent in nature in improving mental health, and provides support for policymakers to make appropriate choices for a better management of COVID-19 pandemic consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Quarta
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.Q.); (F.D.); (T.V.)
| | - Annalisa Levante
- Department of History, Society, and Human Studies, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (A.L.); (F.L.)
- Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Department of History, Society, and Human Studies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - María-Teresa García-Conesa
- Research Group on Quality, Safety and Bioactivity of Plant Foods, Centro de Edafología y Biología Aplicada 40 del Segura-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CEBAS-CSIC), Campus de Espinardo, P.O. Box 164, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Flavia Lecciso
- Department of History, Society, and Human Studies, University of Salento, Via di Valesio, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (A.L.); (F.L.)
- Laboratory of Applied Psychology, Department of History, Society, and Human Studies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
| | - Egeria Scoditti
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.S.); (M.A.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Maria Annunziata Carluccio
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.S.); (M.A.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Nadia Calabriso
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.S.); (M.A.C.); (N.C.)
| | - Fabrizio Damiano
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.Q.); (F.D.); (T.V.)
| | - Giuseppe Santarpino
- Cardiovascular Center, Paracelsus Medical University, 90471 Nuremberg, Germany;
- GVM Care and Research, Città di Lecce Hospital, 73100 Lecce, Italy
- Cardiac Surgery Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University “Magna Graecia”, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Tiziano Verri
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.Q.); (F.D.); (T.V.)
| | - Paula Pinto
- Instituto Politécnico de Santarém, Escola Superior Agraria, 2001-904 Santarem, Portugal;
- Life Quality Research Centre (CIEQV), IPSantarém/IPLeiria, 2040-413 Rio Maior, Portugal
| | - Luisa Siculella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies (DISTEBA), University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.Q.); (F.D.); (T.V.)
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-083-229-8860 (M.M.)
| | - Marika Massaro
- Institute of Clinical Physiology (IFC), National Research Council (CNR), 73100 Lecce, Italy; (E.S.); (M.A.C.); (N.C.)
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (M.M.); Tel.: +39-083-229-8860 (M.M.)
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40
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Tholen R, Ponnet K, Van Hal G, De Bruyn S, Buffel V, Van de Velde S, Bracke P, Wouters E. Substance Use among Belgian Higher Education Students before and during the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19074348. [PMID: 35410029 PMCID: PMC8998911 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted many countries to issue far-reaching policy measures that may have led to increased substance use. Higher education students may have been disproportionally affected due to the rearrangement of educational life and their susceptibility to psychosocial distress and substance use. The current study examined associations between pandemic-related stressors, psychosocial distress, and self-reported alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis use before and during the first wave of the pandemic. Data were collected in Belgium as part of the COVID-19 International Student Well-being Study (C19 ISWS) and analyzed using multinomial logistic regression analyses. The sample contained 18,346 higher education students aged 17 to 24 (75% women). Overall use of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis as well as binge drinking decreased during the pandemic, perhaps due to limited social gatherings. Moving back to the parental home was associated with decreased substance use, while depressive symptoms were associated with increased substance use. Perceived threat and academic stress were associated with increased binge drinking among heavy bingers and increased tobacco use. Decreases among students who moved back to their parental home may be explained by increased informal social control. Increased substance use was associated with a number of stressors and psychosocial distress, which suggests that some students may have been self-medicating to manage their mental health amidst the pandemic. Public health policy concerning substance use may prove to be less effective if not tailored to particular subgroups within the student population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Tholen
- Center for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (S.D.B.); (V.B.); (S.V.d.V.); (E.W.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Koen Ponnet
- Department of Communication Studies, imec-mict, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Guido Van Hal
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Social Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium;
| | - Sara De Bruyn
- Center for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (S.D.B.); (V.B.); (S.V.d.V.); (E.W.)
| | - Veerle Buffel
- Center for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (S.D.B.); (V.B.); (S.V.d.V.); (E.W.)
| | - Sarah Van de Velde
- Center for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (S.D.B.); (V.B.); (S.V.d.V.); (E.W.)
| | - Piet Bracke
- Department of Sociology, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
| | - Edwin Wouters
- Center for Population, Family and Health, University of Antwerp, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium; (S.D.B.); (V.B.); (S.V.d.V.); (E.W.)
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Gębska M, Dalewski B, Pałka Ł, Kołodziej Ł, Sobolewska E. Chronotype Profile, Stress, Depression Level, and Temporomandibular Symptoms in Students with Type D Personality. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071886. [PMID: 35407492 PMCID: PMC8999628 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Despite a growing interest in the types of human circadian activity, different chronotypes and personality-related issues have been rarely studied. It has already been emphasized that ‘stress personality’ is considered a risk factor for certain psychosomatic diseases and may be a temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) predictor. Therefore, an attempt has been made to analyze the chronotypes, stress levels, stress factors, and the occurrence of depression and TMDs in students with type D personalities. People with this personality trait tend to experience negative emotions more—depression, anxiety, anger, or hostility—yet may have a negative image of themselves and report somatic complaints. Aim: The aim of this study was to analyze the importance of the chronotype profile for the level of stress perceived, as well as for the occurrence of depression and TMDs in people with type D personalities. Material and Methods: The study has been conducted on a group of 220 physical therapy students. The study group G1 consisted of 110 participants with type D personalities, the control group G2 consisted of the same number of participants without the stress personality. All participants have been analyzed for the chronotype (MEQ), stress perception (PSS10), the occurrence of depression (Beck scale-BDI), the occurrence of TMDs symptoms and have completed the stress factor assessment questionnaire during the study, followed by DS14 questionnaire—a tool for assessing the prevalence of type D personality. Results: In students with type D personalities (G1), the definitely evening and evening chronotypes have been significantly more predominant than in the control group (G2). A significantly higher number of stressors and TMDs symptoms have been observed in the respondents from the G1 group than in the control group (<0.001). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that type D personality was strongly associated with a more frequent occurrence of all TMD symptoms. Additionally, a significant influence of the evening chronotype on the occurrence of type D personality was observed. Among the potential confounding variables, female gender and a mild and moderate degree of depression have an impact on the occurrence of type D personality (p < 0.05). In the multivariate model, adjusted with the above-mentioned factors, an increased risk of the type D personality trait was found. Conclusion: The evening chronotype and type D personality may imply greater feelings of stress, greater depression, and more frequent symptoms of TMDs in young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Gębska
- Department of Rehabilitation Musculoskeletal System, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (M.G.); (Ł.K.)
| | - Bartosz Dalewski
- Department of Dental Prosthetics, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (B.D.); (E.S.)
| | - Łukasz Pałka
- Private Dental Practice, 68-200 Zary, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Łukasz Kołodziej
- Department of Rehabilitation Musculoskeletal System, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (M.G.); (Ł.K.)
| | - Ewa Sobolewska
- Department of Dental Prosthetics, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (B.D.); (E.S.)
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Teaching Staff and Student Perceptions of Staff Support for Student Mental Health: A University Case Study. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci12040237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Background: There are significant concerns for student mental health in higher education. New factors affect student mental health, and campus counselling services are overwhelmed. Struggling students turn to ideally placed familiar teaching staff for support. This qualitative study, conducted in an East of England university, aimed to explore student and staff perceptions of support offered by teaching staff to students grappling with their mental health. It is unique, combining both staff and student perceptions, many of which overlapped. Methods: A thematic analysis was conducted of in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a small number of self-selecting staff/students. Findings (results): Staff felt inadequate in several aspects, and students agreed to give useful suggestions for their preferred support. Conclusions: It was cautiously established that staff training in mental health literacy (knowledge, skills, attributes, and understanding) was required. Specific training was recommended in pastoral care for personal tutors and for staff pedagogy on health professional programmes. Finally, teaching staff needed support when supporting students with poor mental health. Such training and support can be integrated into a preventative, university-wide, holistic policy for student mental health commensurate with the University Mental Health Charter. Embedding such supportive practice into the curriculum is preferable to add-on services and/or interventions.
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Cerutti R, Fontana A, Ghezzi V, Menozzi F, Spensieri V, Tambelli R. Exploring psychopathological distress in Italian university students seeking help: A picture from a university counselling service. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-020-00665-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Vilca LW, Chávez BV, Fernández YS, Caycho-Rodríguez T. Spanish Version of the Revised Mental Health Inventory-5 (R-MHI-5): New Psychometric Evidence from the Classical Test Theory (CTT) and the Item Response Theory Perspective (IRT). TRENDS IN PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [PMCID: PMC8504561 DOI: 10.1007/s43076-021-00107-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
The study’s objective was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the revised version of the MHI-5, for which a sample of 1002 university students of both sexes (41.4% men and 58.6% women) between the ages of 17 to 35 years (M = 21.4; SD = 3.4) was collected. Along with the R-MHI-5, other instruments were applied to measure anxiety and depression. Regarding the results, it was evidenced that the model with two related factors presents better fit indices (CFI = .99; TLI = .99; RMSEA = .071) compared to a one-dimensional model (CFI = .74; TLI = .48; RMSEA = .422). Also, it was found that the factorial structure of the MHI-5 did not show evidence of being strictly invariant for the group of men and women. However, it did show evidence of partial invariance for the group of adolescents and adults. Furthermore, the latent relationships model showed that psychological well-being is negatively related to anxiety (− .25) and depression (− .37), and psychological distress is positively related to anxiety (.85) and depression (.87). From the IRT perspective, all items present adequate discrimination indices, with item 4 being the most accurate item to assess psychological well-being. Regarding psychological distress, items 3 and 5 are the most accurate to assess this dimension. It is concluded that the scale that the R-MHI-5 is an instrument with robust psychometric evidence from the perspective of CTT and IRT.
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Cullinan J, Walsh S, Flannery D, Kennelly B. A cross-sectional analysis of psychological distress among higher education students in Ireland. Ir J Psychol Med 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35177152 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2022.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine levels of psychological distress among higher education students in Ireland overall and across a range of personal, higher education, and socioeconomic characteristics, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey of college students in Ireland was undertaken in 2018. Data on 5201 students from 13 higher education institutions (HEIs) were analyzed. Stress, anxiety, and depression symptom scores based on the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were calculated and reported, with statistical testing used to compare across groups. RESULTS Overall, 29.6% and 19.1% of respondents were classified in the mild to moderate and severe to extremely severe range for depression respectively. The corresponding proportions were 25.9% and 20.7% for anxiety, and 24.5% and 14.8% for stress. Differences across groups included higher levels of psychological distress for transgender and female students compared to males (p < 0.01), for gay/lesbian/bisexual students compared to heterosexuals (p < 0.01), for undergraduates compared to postgraduates (p < 0.01), for students from intermediate/technical/service/unskilled social classes compared to professional/self-employed social classes (p < 0.01), and for those with financial difficulties compared to those without financial difficulties (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Rates of psychological distress were high amongst college students in Ireland prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, with substantial differences across groups. Due to study limitations, such as possible selection bias, the findings need replication. Further research is needed to determine the impact of the pandemic on the prevalence of mental illness in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cullinan
- School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - S Walsh
- School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - D Flannery
- Department of Economics, Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - B Kennelly
- School of Business & Economics, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Sun J. Exploring the Impact of Music Education on the Psychological and Academic Outcomes of Students: Mediating Role of Self-Efficacy and Self-Esteem. Front Psychol 2022; 13:841204. [PMID: 35211068 PMCID: PMC8863131 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.841204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in scholars and practitioners to explore the factors that lead to an improvement in Students' psychological wellbeing. Due to the tough challenges faced by students during their academic life, severe issues of stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues emerge, which affect their academic performance and have a long-lasting impact on their future careers. The pandemic accelerates the stress levels, anxiety, and mental issues of students. The main purpose of this study was to explore how music education impacts on Students' psychological wellbeing and academic performance. This study also investigates the mediating effect of self-esteem and self-efficacy. To the best of our knowledge, there has been little to no study exploring the relationship of music education on the psychological wellbeing and performance of students, especially from the perspective of Asian countries. This study was conducted in undergraduate and graduate institutions of China. This study was quantitative in nature and data were collected from 319 respondents. The structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was employed for data analysis. Results reveal that music education has a significant positive impact on psychological wellbeing, which improves Students' academic performance. Moreover, psychological wellbeing also has a significant and positive impact on Students' academic performance. Self-efficacy and self-esteem significantly mediate the relationship between music education and psychological wellbeing. The findings of this study open new avenues for future research in music education and psychological wellbeing. This study suggests that the policymakers and practitioners should make such policies that encourage educational institutes to adopt music education to improve the psychological wellbeing of students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Sun
- School of Music and Dance, Xihua University, Chengdu, China
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Terp U, Bisholt B, Hjärthag F. A feasibility study of a cognitive behavioral based stress management intervention for nursing students: results, challenges, and implications for research and practice. BMC Nurs 2022; 21:30. [PMID: 35062931 PMCID: PMC8780998 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-021-00761-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Stress related psychological problems are growing in nursing education and constitute an essential challenge for educators. This makes research about strategies and interventions to meet these problems important. Stress management interventions need to be tested for feasibility and acceptability, before conducting large scale RCTs. The objective of our study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a newly developed cognitive behavioral stress management intervention for nursing students. Methods Data were collected using a combination of standardized measurements and newly created questionnaires in combination with qualitative data. Our data included recruitment capability, sample characteristics, intervention acceptability and preliminary evaluation of participant psychological changes. Results Findings suggested that the feasibility of conducting a full-scale evaluation was confirmed for intervention acceptability, data collection procedures, and adherence. However, difficulties relating to recruitment capability and homework were identified. All aspects taken together, the intervention was found feasible and acceptable to nursing students, and thus a potential stress management intervention for the nurse education context. Conclusions Overall, this study provides an insight into the challenges and complexities of developing and evaluating a new brief cognitive behavioral based stress management training intervention in a nurse education setting. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12912-021-00761-6.
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Martínez-Rubio D, Navarrete J, Montero-Marin J. Feasibility, Effectiveness, and Mechanisms of a Brief Mindfulness- and Compassion-Based Program to Reduce Stress in University Students: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:154. [PMID: 35010414 PMCID: PMC8750204 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The mental health of university students is a public health concern, as psychopathology has significantly risen among this population. Mindfulness-based programs may support their mental health, though more research is needed. We used a two-armed pilot randomized controlled trial to study the feasibility, preliminary effectiveness, and potential mechanisms of a brief 6-week instructor-led mindfulness- and compassion-based program (MCBP for University Life) on perceived stress and psychological distress. Thirty undergraduate psychology students participated (15 in the intervention group, and 15 as wait-list controls). Those in the intervention arm engaged well with the course and formal at-home practice, attending at least five sessions and meditating between 4-6 days per week. Significant improvements in perceived stress, psychological distress, mindfulness skills, decentering, self-compassion, and experiential avoidance were found at the end of the intervention, while the wait-list group remained unchanged. There were significant differences between the two groups in those variables at post-test, favoring the intervention arm with major effects. Reductions in stress were mediated by improvements in mindfulness skills, decentering, and self-compassion; meanwhile reductions in psychological distress were mediated by improvements in decentering. These results suggest that this intervention might be feasible and effective for university students, but more high-quality research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Martínez-Rubio
- Psicoforma, Integral Psychology Center, C/Maestro Clavé, 3, 2°, 3a, 46001 Valencia, Spain;
- Excellence Research Network PROMOSAM (PSI2014-56303-REDT), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Jaime Navarrete
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
- Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, 08830 Sant Boi de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Jesus Montero-Marin
- Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7JX, UK;
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Relationship among Perceived Stress, Life Satisfaction and Academic Performance of Education Sciences Students of the University of Jaén after the COVID-19 Pandemic. EDUCATION SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/educsci11120802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The circumstances arising from the exceptional situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have affected all socioeconomic areas in the last two years. The field of Education has not been an exception, and the management of the situation seems to have caused an increase in the level of perceived stress of university students. On this basis, this research that aims, first, to analyze the student’s level of perceived stress during the de-escalation and return to normality period, secondly, to evaluate its relationship with life satisfaction and, finally, to detect the students’ needs in stress management, has been developed. An exploratory-descriptive study of quantitative and cross-sectional nature has been carried out. A total of 222 university students of the Childhood and Primary Education Degrees of the University of Jaén (Spain) have participated. The instruments, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) have been used. The results show a moderate and partial relationship among the dimensions of the used instruments. The obtained coefficients of determination are, Academic Performance (r² = 0.019) and Life Satisfaction (r² = 0.402), with a mean square error (SRMR) of 0.079. These findings show the need to develop actions within the university training program in effective stress management strategies.
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De Micheli G, Vergani L, Mazzoni D, Marton G. After the Pandemic: The Future of Italian Medicine. The Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Medical and Other Healthcare-Related Degrees Students. Front Psychol 2021; 12:648419. [PMID: 34803788 PMCID: PMC8600185 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.648419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: The study aimed to explore the psychological symptoms and the readiness to fight the pandemic of the new generation of healthcare professionals: medical and other healthcare degree students. Methods: We enrolled 509 medical and healthcare-related degree students during the second outbreak of COVID-19 in Italy. We have examined their psychological symptoms using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and their readiness to fight the pandemic together with their academic career status, their relationship with the university, and their emotional reactions to the pandemic with Visual Analog Scales. Results: We retrieved a GHQ mean of 21.65 (SD = 40.63) and readiness to fight the pandemic mean of 53.58 (SD = 31.49). Perceived control affects variables: a negative effect on psychological symptoms and a positive effect on the willingness to fight the pandemic. The other variables with an impact were stress, loneliness, and anger that had a significant and positive impact on psychological symptoms. Age and concern for patients had a significant positive impact on readiness to fight for the pandemic, while years of attendance had a significant but negative impact. Conclusion: Universities and Institutions should consider the impact of the pandemic on students, in particular, for its effect on their mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Laura Vergani
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Davide Mazzoni
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Marton
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, European Institute of Oncology (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
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