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Li G, Shi W, Gao X, Shi X, Feng X, Liang D, Li C, Phillips MR, Hall BJ. Mental health and psychosocial interventions to limit the adverse psychological effects of disasters and emergencies in China: a scoping review. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2024; 45:100580. [PMID: 38699294 PMCID: PMC11064723 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Exposure to disasters and public health emergencies negatively affects mental health. Research documenting the psychosocial responses to these calamities in China increased dramatically after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. However, there is no comprehensive assessment of the available literature on China's mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) responses to these events. This scoping review systematically maps existing published research and grey literature sources regarding MHPSS to disasters and emergencies in China. We examined relevant literature in English and Chinese from six databases and official websites from Jan 1, 2000, to Aug 13, 2021, and included 77 full-text records in this review. The main types of interventions reported included a) stepped care intervention models, b) individual structured psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, c) mental health education, d) psychological counselling, and e) government-based policy interventions. Most interventions were evaluated using quantitative methods that assessed the treatment of common mental disorders. The review found that rapid national mobilization, emphasis on resilience-strengthening interventions, and the widespread use of step-care models were essential components of reducing the adverse psychosocial effects of disasters. The review also identified remaining gaps, including a) a lack of integration of disaster-related services with the pre-existing health care system, b) inadequate supervision of MHPSS providers, and c) limited monitoring and evaluation of the services provided. These results show where additional research is needed in China to improve mental health services. It also provides a framework that other countries can adapt when developing and evaluating MHPSS policies and plans in response to disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Li
- Center for Global Health Equity, New York University Shanghai, 1555 Century Avenue, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Shi
- The Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, China
| | - Xing Gao
- The Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinyi Shi
- The Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Feng
- The Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University, No.24 South Section 1, Yihuan Road, Chengdu, China
| | - Di Liang
- School of Public Health, Fudan University, 220 Handan Rd., Shanghai, China
| | - Chunbo Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wanping Nan Rd., Shanghai, China
- Institute of Psychology and Behavioral Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Michael R. Phillips
- Suicide Research and Prevention Center, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 600 Wanping Nan Rd., Shanghai, China
- Departments of Psychiatry and Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian J. Hall
- Center for Global Health Equity, New York University Shanghai, 1555 Century Avenue, Shanghai, China
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Elliott M, Khallouf C, Hirsch J, de Camps Meschino D, Zamir O, Ravitz P. Novel Web-Based Drop-In Mindfulness Sessions (Pause-4-Providers) to Enhance Well-Being Among Health Care Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Descriptive and Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e43875. [PMID: 38180869 PMCID: PMC10941832 DOI: 10.2196/43875] [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: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic exerted extraordinary pressure on health care workers (HCWs), imperiling their well-being and mental health. In response to the urgent demand to provide barrier-free support for the health care workforce, Pause-4-Providers implemented 30-minute live web-based drop-in mindfulness sessions for HCWs. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate the use, feasibility, satisfaction, and acceptability of a novel mindfulness program aimed at enhancing the well-being of HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Accrual for the study continued throughout the first 3 pandemic waves, and attendees of ≥1 session were invited to participate. The evaluation framework included descriptive characteristics, including participant demographics, resilience at work, and single-item burnout scores; feedback questionnaires on reasons attended, benefits, and satisfaction; qualitative interviews to further understand participant experience, satisfaction, benefits, enablers, and barriers; and the number of participants in each session summarized according to the pandemic wave. RESULTS We collected descriptive statistics from 50 consenting HCWs. Approximately half of the participants (24/50, 48%) attended >1 session. The study participants were predominantly female individuals (40/50, 80%) and comprised physicians (17/50, 34%), nurses (9/50, 18%), and other HCWs (24/50, 48%), who were largely from Ontario (41/50, 82%). Of 50 attendees, 26 (52%) endorsed feeling burned out. The highest attendance was in May 2020 and January 2021, corresponding to the first and second pandemic waves. The participants endorsed high levels of satisfaction (43/47, 92%). The most cited reasons for attending the program were to relax (38/48, 79%), manage stress or anxiety (36/48, 75%), wish for loving kindness or self-compassion (30/48, 64%), learn mindfulness (30/48, 64%), and seek help with emotional reactivity (25/48, 53%). Qualitative interviews with 15 out of 50 (30%) participants identified positive personal and professional impacts. Personal impacts revealed that participation helped HCWs to relax, manage stress, care for themselves, sleep better, reduce isolation, and feel recognized. Professional impacts included having a toolbox of mindfulness techniques, using mindfulness moments, and being calmer at work. Some participants noted that they shared techniques with their colleagues. The reported barriers included participants' needing time to prioritize themselves, fatigue, forgetting to apply skills on the job, and finding a private place to participate. CONCLUSIONS The Pause-4-Providers participants reported that the web-based groups were accessible; appreciated the format, content, and faculty; and had high levels of satisfaction with the program. Both novel format (eg, drop-in, live, web-based, anonymous, brief, and shared activity with other HCWs) and content (eg, themed mindfulness practices including micropractices, with workplace applications) were enablers to participation. This study of HCW support sessions was limited by the low number of consenting participants and the rolling enrollment project design; however, the findings suggest that a drop-in web-based mindfulness program has the potential to support the well-being of HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Elliott
- Department of Supportive Care, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Camille Khallouf
- Department of Psychiatry, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jennifer Hirsch
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Diane de Camps Meschino
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Orit Zamir
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto Academic Pain Medicine Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paula Ravitz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Sun L. Social media usage and students' social anxiety, loneliness and well-being: does digital mindfulness-based intervention effectively work? BMC Psychol 2023; 11:362. [PMID: 37904182 PMCID: PMC10617103 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01398-7] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing integration of digital technologies into daily life has spurred a growing body of research in the field of digital psychology. This research has shed light on the potential benefits and drawbacks of digital technologies for mental health and well-being. However, the intricate relationship between technology and psychology remains largely unexplored. PURPOSE This study aimed to investigate the impact of mindfulness-based mobile apps on university students' anxiety, loneliness, and well-being. Additionally, it sought to explore participants' perceptions of the addictiveness of these apps. METHOD The research utilized a multi-phase approach, encompassing a correlational research method, a pretest-posttest randomized controlled trial, and a qualitative case study. Participants were segmented into three subsets: correlations (n = 300), treatment (n = 60), and qualitative (n = 20). Data were gathered from various sources, including the social anxiety scale, well-being scale, social media use integration scale, and an interview checklist. Quantitative data was analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and t-tests, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. RESULTS The study uncovered a significant correlation between social media use and the variables under investigation. Moreover, the treatment involving mindfulness-based mobile apps led to a reduction in students' anxiety and an enhancement of their well-being. Notably, participants held various positive perceptions regarding the use of these apps. IMPLICATIONS The findings of this research hold both theoretical and practical significance for the field of digital psychology. They provide insight into the potential of mindfulness-based mobile apps to positively impact university students' mental health and well-being. Additionally, the study underscores the need for further exploration of the intricate dynamics between technology and psychology in an increasingly digital world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Sun
- School of Marxism, Zhoukou Vocational and Technical College, Zhoukou, 466000, China.
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Jones G, Herrmann F, Nock MK. A Digital Music-Based Mindfulness Intervention for Black Americans With Elevated Race-Based Anxiety: A Multiple-Baseline Pilot Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e49284. [PMID: 37585252 PMCID: PMC10468709 DOI: 10.2196/49284] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Race-based anxiety is a substantial health issue for the Black community. Although mindfulness interventions have demonstrated efficacy for alleviating anxiety, three central barriers prevent Black Americans from accessing existing mindfulness treatments: high costs, excessive time commitments, and limited cultural relevance. There is a need for novel mindfulness interventions for the Black community that can overcome these barriers. OBJECTIVE The goal of this web-based study was to examine the preliminary efficacy, feasibility, and acceptability of a novel digital music-based mindfulness intervention for middle-to-low-income Black Americans with elevated race-based anxiety. METHODS This study used a nonconcurrent multiple-baseline design (n=5). The intervention featured contributions from Lama Rod Owens (a world-renowned meditation teacher and LA Times best-selling author) and Terry Edmonds (the former chief speechwriter for President Bill Clinton). We examined the effect of the intervention on state anxiety and assessed its feasibility and acceptability using quantitative and qualitative measures. RESULTS Results revealed that administration of the intervention led to significant decreases in state anxiety (Tau-U range -0.75 to -0.38; P values<.001). Virtually all feasibility and acceptability metrics were high (ie, the average likelihood of recommending the intervention was 98 out of 100). CONCLUSIONS This study offers preliminary evidence that a digital music-based mindfulness intervention can decrease race-based anxiety in Black Americans. Future research is needed to replicate these results, test whether the intervention can elicit lasting changes in anxiety, assess mechanisms of change, and explore the efficacy of the intervention in real-world contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant Jones
- Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
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5
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Reangsing C, Trakooltorwong P, Maneekunwong K, Thepsaw J, Oerther S. Effects of online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on anxiety symptoms in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Complement Med Ther 2023; 23:269. [PMID: 37507747 PMCID: PMC10386675 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-023-04102-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of studies have documented the effectiveness on various types of face-to-face and online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) in reducing anxiety among general population, but there is a scarcity of systematic reviews evaluating evidence of online MBIs on anxiety in adults. Therefore, we examined the effects of online mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) on anxiety symptoms in adults and explored the moderating effects of participant, methods, and intervention characteristics. METHODS We systematically searched nine databases through May 2022 without date restrictions. Inclusion criteria were primary studies evaluating online mindfulness-based interventions with adults with anxiety measured as an outcome, a comparison group, and written in English. We used random-effects model to compute effect sizes (ESs) using Hedges' g, a forest plot, and Q and I2 statistics as measures of heterogeneity; we also examined moderator analyses. RESULTS Twenty-six primary studies included 3,246 participants (39.9 ± 12.9 years old). Overall, online mindfulness-based interventions showed significantly improved anxiety (g = 0.35, 95%CI 0.09, 0.62, I2 = 92%) compared to controls. With regards to moderators, researchers reported higher attrition, they reported less beneficial effects on anxiety symptoms (β=-0.001, Qmodel=4.59, p = .032). No other quality indicators moderated the effects of online mindfulness-based interventions on anxiety. CONCLUSION Online mindfulness-based interventions improved anxiety symptoms in adult population. Thus, it might be used as adjunctive or alternative complementary treatment for adults. However, our findings must be interpreted with caution due to the low and unclear power of the sample in primary studies; hence, high-quality studies are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jintana Thepsaw
- School of Nursing, Mae Fah Laung University, Chiangrai, Thailand
| | - Sarah Oerther
- Trudy Busch Valentine, School of Nursing, Saint Louis University, Missouri, MO, USA
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Li H, Chen H, Ye Z, Li X, Yang L, Wang S, Yang S, Liu S, Chen S, Li R, Yang J, Li H, Bao Y, Shi Y, Wang J, He Y, Liu M. Effect of the Online Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on Anxiety and Depression Status of COVID-19 Patients Treated in Fangcang Hospitals: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:2735-2745. [PMID: 37485280 PMCID: PMC10362863 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s414553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background As the focal point of epidemic prevention and control, the mental health of COVID-19 patients cannot be ignored. Online Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) allows for the provision of conveniently accessible, effective and low-cost interventions on a large scale. We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of an online MBSR intervention in alleviating anxiety and depression among asymptomatic/mild patients limited by COVID-19-related restrictions. Methods Fifty-eight patients treated in Sanya Fangcang hospital were randomly allocated to either to the experimental group (n = 29) following daily, for 5 days, an online-based mindfulness intervention or to the control group (n = 29). Patients from both groups underwent online questionnaires including assessment of anxiety and depression status at pre- and post-tests using Self-rating Anxiety Scale and Self-Rating Depression Scale. Results After the online-based MBSR program, the anxiety and depression scores of the patients in the MBSR group decreased significantly in comparison to the scores of those in the control group (respectively η2 = 0.175, η2 = 0.215, p < 0.001). And the proportion of severe anxiety and depression patients in the MBSR group decreased to 0% which lower than the control group, and the proportion of light anxiety and depression patients was significantly more than that in the control group after the MBSR intervention. Conclusion The online-based MBSR intervention appears to be an effective way of alleviating anxiety and depression symptoms among COVID-19 patients with associated quarantine in Fangcang hospital. Given the seriousness of mental health threat that could be posed by this ongoing pandemic, our study provides a new idea and method for cost-effective and time-efficient interventions in the future of epidemic prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowei Li
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Chen
- Healthcare Office of Medical Service Department, Hainan Hospital, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya, Hainan, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zifeng Ye
- Department of Medical Psychology of Hainan Hospital, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Sanya, Hainan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuehang Li
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lei Yang
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Healthcare Office of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, 100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengshu Wang
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, First Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaohua Liu
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shimin Chen
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rongrong Li
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junhan Yang
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huaihao Li
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yinghui Bao
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yueting Shi
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianhua Wang
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yao He
- Institute of Geriatrics, Beijing Key Laboratory of Aging and Geriatrics, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics Diseases, Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Graduate School of PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Tseng AA. Effectiveness of Meditation-based Interventions on Health Problems Caused by COVID-19 Pandemic: Narrative Review. Int J Yoga 2023; 16:72-78. [PMID: 38204779 PMCID: PMC10775841 DOI: 10.4103/ijoy.ijoy_112_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This article provides a quantitative review of the potential applications of meditation-based interventions (MBIs) in addressing the major health issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. The review assesses the effectiveness of MBIs on five prevalent disorders during the pandemic, namely depression, anxiety, stress, insomnia, and long COVID. This is achieved by selecting and scrutinizing seven studies that involve various types of online randomized controlled trials and utilize control group outcomes for effectiveness evaluation. The findings reveal a significant impact of MBIs on overall distress disorder, encompassing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, with effectiveness ranging from 20.5% to 68.8%. The interventions also show moderate effectiveness on insomnia disorder with improvements between 5.2% and 38.5%. However, the effectiveness on long COVID disorder presents a mixed picture, with improvements varying from 0.0% to 71.2% across 13 related symptoms or qualities examined. This review offers compelling evidence supporting the effectiveness of MBIs in alleviating these five prevalent disorders resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ampere A. Tseng
- Manufacturing Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
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Wang A, Wu F, Lin C, Wu M, Jia S, Guo Y, Zhang W, Huang F. An online 5-week professional identity program for nursing student in clinical rotation practice during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic: A two-arm randomized trial. Nurse Educ Pract 2023; 68:103598. [PMID: 36906948 PMCID: PMC9996458 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2023.103598] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM Development and evaluation of the effectiveness of an online 5-week professional identity program among nursing students in clinical internship practice during the COVID-19 restrictions. BACKGROUND Nurse professional identity is a strong predictor of career commitment. Clinical internship practice is a key stage when nursing students build and rebuild their professional identity. Meanwhile, the COVID-19 restrictions has strongly influenced the professional identity of nursing students as well as nursing education. A well-designed online professional identity program may contribute to nursing students who are in clinical internship practice developing positive professional identity during the COVID-19 restrictions. DESIGN The study was a two-armed, randomised, controlled trial conducted and reported based on Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) 2010 guidelines. METHODS A total of 111 nursing students undergoing clinical internship were randomised into an intervention group and a control group. The five-weekly session intervention was developed based on social identity theory and career self-efficacy theory. The primary outcomes were professional identity and professional self-efficacy and the second outcome was stress. Qualitative feedback was analysed by thematic analysis. Outcomes were assessed before and after the intervention and analysed using an intention-to-treat principle. RESULTS The generalised linear model showed that group-by-time effects were significant for the total score of professional identity and three factors of professional self-image, social comparison and self-reflection and independence of career choice, with small effect sizes (Cohen's d from 0.38 to 0.48). Only one factor of the capacity of information collection and planning in professional self-efficacy was significant (Wald χ2 =0.4.82, P < 0.01) with a medium effect size (Cohen d=0.73). The group effect, time effect and group-by-time effect of stress were not significant. Three themes were: 'Gaining in professional identity, self-recognition and peer belonging'; 'Content, self-motivation and intervenor as participation facilitators'; and 'Combining offline and courses, setting group rules and building mutual trust as recommendations'. CONCLUSIONS The online 5-week professional identity program effectively promoted the development of professional identity and the capacity for information collection and career planning but did not significantly relieve pressure during the internship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anni Wang
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fulei Wu
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Cen Lin
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ming Wu
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Shoumei Jia
- School of Nursing, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yufang Guo
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Feifei Huang
- School of Nursing, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China.
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Fostering collective climate action and leadership: Insights from a pilot experiment involving mindfulness and compassion. iScience 2023; 26:106191. [PMID: 36994186 PMCID: PMC10040966 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research suggests that mindfulness, compassion, and self-compassion relate to inner transformative qualities/capacities and intermediary factors that can support increased pro-environmental behavior and attitudes across individual, collective, organizational, and system levels. However, current insights focus on the individual level, are restricted to certain sustainability fields, and wider experimental evidence is scarce and contradictory. Our pilot study addresses this gap and tests the aforementioned proposition in the context of an intervention: an EU Climate Leadership Program for high-level decision-makers. The intervention was found to have significant effects on transformative qualities/capacities, intermediary factors, and pro-environmental behaviors and engagement across all levels. The picture is, however, more complex for pro-environmental attitudes. With due limitations (e.g., small sample size), this preliminary evidence confirms the feasibility and potential of mindfulness- and compassion-based interventions to foster inner-outer transformation for sustainability and climate action. Aspects that should be taken into account in larger confirmatory trials are discussed.
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10
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Khader Y, Yang X, Pan Z, Fan Y, Chen Y, Yu X, Zhou L. The Usability, Feasibility, Acceptability, and Efficacy of Digital Mental Health Services in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Scoping Review, Systematic Review, and Meta-analysis. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e43730. [PMID: 36634261 PMCID: PMC9930923 DOI: 10.2196/43730] [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: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND After the rapid spread of the novel SARS-CoV-2, the short-term and long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic on the public, in particular on susceptible individuals, have been reported worldwide. Although digital mental health services expand accessibility while removing many barriers to in-person therapy, their usability, feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy require continued monitoring during the initial phase of the pandemic and its aftermath. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to understand what mental health services are offered, whether they are practical or acceptable, and to what extent digital mental health services are effective in response to the COVID-19 pandemic across high-income and low- and middle-income countries. METHODS This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guideline. We implemented searches in PubMed (MEDLINE), Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane databases for studies that were published between December 2019 and November 2021 and that involved the use of digital mental health services. Two review authors screened, assessed, and extracted studies independently. The protocol was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. RESULTS This review identified 7506 articles through database searching. In total, 65 (0.9%) studies from 18 countries with 67,884 participants were eligible for the scoping review. Of the 65 studies, 16 (24.6%) were included in the meta-analysis. A total of 15 (23.1%) studies measured the usability; 31 (47.7%) studies evaluated the feasibility; 29 (44.6%) studies assessed the acceptability; and 51 (78.5%) studies assessed the efficacy. Web-based programs (21/65, 32.3%), videoconferencing platforms (16/65, 24.6%), smartphone apps (14/65, 21.5%), and SMS text messaging (5/65, 7.7%) were the main techniques. Psychotherapy (44/65, 67.7%) followed by psychoeducation (6/65, 9.2%) and psychological support (5/65, 7.7%) were commonly used. The results of the meta-analysis showed that digital mental health interventions were associated with a small reduction in depressive symptoms (standardized mean difference=-0.49; 95% CI -0.74 to -0.24; P<.001) and a moderate reduction in anxiety symptoms (standardized mean difference=-0.66; 95% CI -1.23 to -1.0; P=.02) significantly. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that digital mental health interventions may be practical and helpful for the general population, at-risk individuals, and patients with preexisting mental disorders across high-income and middle-income countries. An expanded research agenda is needed to apply different strategies for addressing diverse psychological needs and develop integrated mental health services in the post-COVID-19 era. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42022307695; https://tinyurl.com/2jcuwjym.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Khader
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xinhu Yang
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zihua Pan
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Fan
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanan Chen
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Yu
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Margherita G, Muzii B, Caffieri A, Di Francia A, Somma B. 'Isolated together': online group treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic. A systematic review. RESEARCH IN PSYCHOTHERAPY (MILANO) 2022; 25:639. [PMID: 36373389 PMCID: PMC9893046 DOI: 10.4081/ripppo.2022.639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Considering the emerging need to face the negative impact of the pandemic on mental health, social support, and access to health services, it became a critical issue to adapt to online group settings and create new group interventions to face the developing distress during this time. The aim of the current study is to investigate the main findings on OPGI conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 2020 until March 2022, with a particular focus on: i) the therapeutic group factors; ii) what kind of OPGI works and for whom; iii) settings and emerging dimensions. In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic review on scientific databases (PsychINFO, PubMed, Web of Science and EBSCO) searching for studies published between March 2020 and March 2022. 'Group intervention' or 'group therapy' or 'group treatment' crossed with 'COVID-19' and synonymous, were used as keywords. Internet based intervention was used as an eligibility criteria during the full-text screening. A total of 1326 articles were identified, of which 24 met the inclusion criteria. Among all studies, with different participants and different orientations, data extracted supported psychological online group interventions as an effective approach to reducing psychological distress and increasing psychological resources in the interpersonal field. Our findings also showed that COVID-19 has led to new needs and issues, that require the investigation of new dimensions for online psychological interventions. Methodological and clinical implications will be discussed through a descriptive table related to setting characteristics. Recommendations are made for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Margherita
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy,I.I.P.G., Italian Institute of Group Psychoanalysis and European Federation for Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy in the Public Sector, Rome, Italy,Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Benedetta Muzii
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessia Caffieri
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Adriana Di Francia
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Brenda Somma
- Department of Humanistic Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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12
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Ye Z, Li W, Zhu R. Online psychosocial interventions for improving mental health in people during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 316:120-131. [PMID: 35970325 PMCID: PMC9373538 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, interventions for public mental health were mostly delivered through online modalities. Although many studies have explored the effectiveness of online psychosocial interventions through randomized controlled trials, there is a lack of quantitative synthesis of the effectiveness of online psychosocial interventions and an examination of their overall application. OBJECTIVE To understand the commonly used psychosocial interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic and the effectiveness of the interventions. METHODS Risk bias was assessed in the included studies according to the Cochrane Collaboration criteria, and data from post-test and follow-up were combined for standardized mean differences using Stata 16.0 software, and sources of heterogeneity were explored by subgroup analysis, and risk bias was assessed in the included studies using Review Manager 5.4 software. The study was written in strict accordance with PRISMA specifications, and registration was completed on the PROSPERO platform (CRD42022302917). RESULTS The online psychosocial intervention had an ameliorating effect on anxiety (SMD = -0.78), depression (SMD = -0.80), and insomnia (SMD = -0.19) in the public during the COVID-19 pandemic, was ineffective for the intervention on stress, and the effectiveness of the intervention on depression continued at follow-up. Subgroup analyses showed that the type of intervention, intervention form, Duration of intervention, and setting of the control group influenced the trial results to some extent, with cognitive behavioral therapy being the most effective intervention for anxiety and depressive symptoms, self-help interventions being more effective than interventions with therapist interventions, and 1-4 week interventions being more effective than 5-8 week interventions. Due to the limited number of studies included in the analysis and variability in quality, more randomized controlled trials are needed to test the findings. CONCLUSION Online psychosocial interventions can be effective in improving symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, and insomnia in the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, additional randomized controlled trial studies are needed to determine which types of interventions are more appropriate for which populations and how they can be implemented to achieve better intervention outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Ye
- School of Education Research, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China; Research Center for Psychological and Health Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Wentian Li
- School of Education Research, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, China; Wuhan Mental Health Centre, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ruizi Zhu
- Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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13
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Bremer B, Wu Q, Mora Álvarez MG, Hölzel BK, Wilhelm M, Hell E, Tavacioglu EE, Torske A, Koch K. Mindfulness meditation increases default mode, salience, and central executive network connectivity. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13219. [PMID: 35918449 PMCID: PMC9346127 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17325-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research has begun to identify the neural mechanisms underlying the beneficial impact of mindfulness meditation training (MMT) on health and cognition. However, little is known about the effects of MMT on the global interplay of large-scale networks (LSNs) in the brain. In the present study, healthy, meditation-naïve adults (N = 46) underwent resting state fMRI prior to and upon completing 31 days of MMT or an active control intervention. Independent component analysis, sliding time window, and seed-based correlation analyses were performed to assess training-related changes in functional connectivity (FC) within and between networks with relevance to mindfulness meditation. Across sliding time window analyses and seed-based correlation analyses, we found increased FC between nodes of the default mode network (DMN) and nodes of the salience network (SN) in participants of the MMT. Seed-based correlation analyses revealed further connectivity increases between the SN and key regions of the central executive network (CEN). These results indicate, that, among multiple LSNs, one month of mindfulness meditation effectively increases interconnectivity between networks of the triple network model (DMN, SN, CEN), hereby introducing a potential mechanistic concept underlying the beneficial impact of MMT. Clinical trial registration: This study is listed as a clinical trial on the ISRCTN registry with trial ID ISRCTN95197731 (date of first registration: 15/02/2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Benno Bremer
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany. .,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Qiong Wu
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Medical Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - María Guadalupe Mora Álvarez
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Britta Karen Hölzel
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Maximilian Wilhelm
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elena Hell
- Department of Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ebru Ecem Tavacioglu
- TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Department of Psychology, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Alyssa Torske
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Kathrin Koch
- Department of Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, Munich, Germany.,TUM-Neuroimaging Center (TUM-NIC), Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Martinsried, Germany
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14
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Lekagul A, Piancharoen P, Chattong A, Suradom C, Tangcharoensathien V. Living through the psychological consequences of COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review of effective mitigating interventions. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060804. [PMID: 35882462 PMCID: PMC9329730 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review assesses interventions and their effectiveness in mitigating psychological consequences from pandemic. METHOD Published English literatures were searched from four databases (Medline, PubMed, Embase and PsycINFO) from January 2020 and September 2021. A total of 27 papers with 29 studies (one paper reported three studies) met inclusion criteria. Cochrane risk-of-bias tool is applied to assess the quality of all randomised controlled trials (RCT). RESULTS All studies were recently conducted in 2020. Publications were from high-income (13, 44.8%), upper middle-income (12, 41.4%) and lower middle-income countries (3, 10.3%) and global (1, 3.5%). Half of the studies conducted for general population (51.7%). One-third of studies (8, 27.6%) provided interventions to patients with COVID-19 and 20.7% to healthcare workers. Of the 29 studies, 14 (48.3%) were RCT. All RCTs were assessed for risk of biases; five studies (15, 35.7%) had low risk as measured against all six dimensions reflecting high-quality study.Of these 29 studies, 26 diagnostic or screening measures were applied; 8 (30.9%) for anxiety, 7 (26.9%) for depression, 5 (19.2%) for stress, 5 (19.2%) for insomnia and 1 (3.8%) for suicide. Measures used to assess the baseline and outcomes of interventions were standardised and widely applied by other studies with high level of reliability and validity. Of 11 RCT studies, 10 (90.9%) showed that anxiety interventions significantly lowered anxiety in intervention groups. Five of the six RCT studies (83.3%) had significantly reduced the level of depression. Most interventions for anxiety and stress were mindfulness and meditation based. CONCLUSIONS Results from RCT studies (11%, 78.6%) were effective in mitigating psychological consequences from COVID-19 pandemic when applied to healthcare workers, patients with COVID-19 and general population. These effective interventions can be applied and scaled up in other country settings through adaptation of modes of delivery suitable to country resources, pandemic and health system context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angkana Lekagul
- International Health Policy Program, Amphur Muang, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | | | - Anamika Chattong
- International Health Policy Program, Amphur Muang, Nonthaburi, Thailand
| | - Chawisa Suradom
- Psychiatry, Chiang Mai University Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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15
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Devillers-Réolon L, Mascret N, Sleimen-Malkoun R. Online Mindfulness Intervention, Mental Health and Attentional Abilities: A Randomized Controlled Trial in University Students During COVID-19 Lockdown. Front Psychol 2022; 13:889807. [PMID: 35874414 PMCID: PMC9301203 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.889807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to worldwide restrictive measures, raising concerns about mental health in young adults who were not particularly vulnerable to the virus itself. This study investigated the impact of these restrictions on mental and cognitive health of university students, and tested the efficacy of a brief online mindfulness meditation intervention in countering psychological distress and improving attentional abilities. Ninety-six university students forced into remote learning due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions and with no experience in meditation were randomly assigned to either a passive control group (n = 48) or to an experimental group (n = 48) following daily, for 17 days, an online mindfulness intervention (10–20 min per day). Due to drop-out, 38 participants in each group were finally analyzed. Pre- and post-tests assessed participants’ mental health (psychological well-being, depression, anxiety, stress) and attentional abilities. The analysis of baseline data in comparison with normative scores and pre-pandemic statistics confirmed the expected psychological distress, but it did not reveal any attentional deficits in our participants. Pre-post change scores analyses showed a reduction in stress (p = 0.006, ηp2 = 0.10), anxiety (p = 0.002, ηp2 = 0.13), and depression (p = 0.025, ηp2 = 0.07), and an improvement in well-being (p = 0.013, ηp2 = 0.12) in the experimental group, but not in the control group. In both groups, no significant effect was found on attentional abilities. Our results confirmed the psychological vulnerability of higher education students in the midst of the remote learning period during the second COVID-19 lockdown in France, while suggesting preservation of attentional functioning. Although the tested mindfulness intervention did not enhance the attentional abilities in already good performing students, it did promote their mental health. This study offers additional evidence on the feasibility and efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions in students during psychologically straining periods, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
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16
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Hoover EB, Butaney B, Bernard K, Coplan B, LeLacheur S, Straker H, Carr C, Blesse-Hampton L, Naidu A, LaRue A. Comparing the Effectiveness of Virtual and In-Person Delivery of Mindfulness-Based Skills Within Healthcare Curriculums. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2022; 32:627-640. [PMID: 35493985 PMCID: PMC9043883 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-022-01554-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To promote well-being, healthcare education programs have incorporated mindfulness-based skills and principles into existing curriculums. Pandemic-related restrictions have compelled programs to deliver content virtually. Study objectives were to determine (1) whether teaching mindfulness-based skills within physician assistant (PA) programs can promote well-being and (2) whether delivery type (virtual vs. in-person) can impact the effectiveness. METHODS During this 2-year study, a brief mindfulness-based curriculum was delivered to incoming first-year students at six PA programs, while students at two programs served as controls. The curriculum was delivered in-person in year one and virtually in year two. Validated pre- and post-test survey items assessed mindfulness (decentering ability, present moment attention and awareness, and psychological flexibility) and well-being (perceived stress and life satisfaction). RESULTS As expected, coping abilities and well-being were adversely impacted by educational demands. The mindfulness-based curriculum intervention was effective in increasing mindfulness and life satisfaction, while decreasing perceived stress when delivered in-person. Virtual curricular delivery was effective in decreasing perceived stress but not improving life satisfaction. Over half of the participants receiving the curriculum reported positive changes on mindfulness measures with approximately 14-38% reporting a change of greater than one standard deviation. Changes on mindfulness measures explained 30-38% of the reported changes in perceived stress and 22-26% of the changes in life satisfaction. Therefore, the mindfulness curriculum demonstrated statistically significant improvements in measures of mindfulness and mitigated declines in life satisfaction and perceived stress. CONCLUSION Mindfulness-based skills effectively taught in-person or virtually within PA programs successfully promote well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve B. Hoover
- Physician Assistant Program, Midwestern University, 19555 North 59th Avenue, Glendale, AZ 85308 USA
| | - Bhupin Butaney
- Clinical Psychology Program, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ USA
| | - Kari Bernard
- Research and Capstone Activities, Arizona School of Health Sciences Doctor of Medical Science Program, AT Still University, Mesa, AZ USA
- Orion Behavioral Health Network, Anchorage, AK USA
| | - Bettie Coplan
- Physician Assistant Program, Northern Arizona University, Phoenix, AZ USA
| | - Susan LeLacheur
- Physician Assistant Program, George Washington School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Washington, DC USA
| | - Howard Straker
- Physician Assistant Program, George Washington School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Washington, DC USA
| | - Candra Carr
- Physician Assistant Program, California State University Monterey Bay, Seaside, CA USA
| | | | - Amee Naidu
- MEDEX Northwest, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
| | - Audrey LaRue
- MEDEX Northwest, University of Washington, Seattle, WA USA
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17
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Marotta M, Gorini F, Parlanti A, Berti S, Vassalle C. Effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction on the Well-Being, Burnout and Stress of Italian Healthcare Professionals during the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113136. [PMID: 35683520 PMCID: PMC9180958 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has overwhelmed healthcare systems and increased workload and distress in healthcare professionals (HCPs). The objective of this study was to evaluate baseline distress before and after the pandemic, and the effect of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) training on well-being (PGWBI), stress (PSS) and burnout (MBI) in Italian HCPs. Moreover, the “fear of COVID-19” (FCV-19S) questionnaire was administered to HCPs participating in the post-emergency MBSR program. Baseline distress results were moderate in all groups. No differences between baseline distress were observed between the groups of HCPs beginning the MBSR courses in the pre or post pandemic period. Total PGWBI lowered with aging. Additionally, FCV-19S positively correlated with age. MBSR was able to lower distress levels, except for depersonalization, which increased, while emotional exhaustion decreased in the group enrolled in the last post-pandemic MBSR course. Levels of fear of COVID-19 in HCPs significantly decreased after MBSR training. The lack of change in baseline distress over time indicates that it is more influenced by work-related distress than by the pandemic in our HCPs. In view of its beneficial effects on psycho-emotional status, MBSR training may represent an effective strategy to reduce distress in emergency periods as well as an essential part of HCPs’ general training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Marotta
- Fondazione CNR-Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Francesca Gorini
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council, 56124 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Parlanti
- Fondazione CNR-Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Sergio Berti
- Fondazione CNR-Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy; (M.M.); (A.P.); (S.B.)
| | - Cristina Vassalle
- Fondazione CNR-Regione Toscana G. Monasterio, Via Moruzzi 1, 56124 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Did Mindful People Do Better during the COVID-19 Pandemic? Mindfulness Is Associated with Well-Being and Compliance with Prophylactic Measures. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095051. [PMID: 35564450 PMCID: PMC9105751 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper investigates the relationship between mindfulness and well-being within the context of compliance with prophylactic measures in the time of COVID-19. We conducted a large-scale survey among a representative sample of the French population. We measured mindfulness, using the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale, and the extent to which respondents were impacted by COVID-19 in terms of their mood and quality of sleep, as well as how they complied with prophylactic measures. Our results suggest that more mindful individuals were less negatively impacted by COVID-19 with regard to their sleep and mood. Concerning the prophylactic measures, we obtained mixed results: more mindful participants were more likely to respect lockdowns, physical distancing and to cough in their sleeves, but did not wash their hands, wear masks or avoid touching their face more often than less mindful individuals.
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19
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Li I, Chen AZ, Newby JM, Kladnitski N, Haskelberg H, Millard M, Mahoney A. The uptake and outcomes of an online self-help mindfulness programme during COVID-19. CLIN PSYCHOL-UK 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/13284207.2022.2045866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Li
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Aileen Z. Chen
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jill M. Newby
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie Kladnitski
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hila Haskelberg
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Millard
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Alison Mahoney
- Clinical Research Unit for Anxiety and Depression, St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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20
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Yeun YR, Kim SD. Psychological Effects of Online-Based Mindfulness Programs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031624. [PMID: 35162646 PMCID: PMC8835139 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has caused psychological problems worldwide. This review explored the psychological effects of online-based mindfulness programs during the COVID-19 pandemic. (2) Methods: This systematic review was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Randomized controlled trials that were published in the English language from 1 January 2020 to 31 May 2021 on online-based mindfulness programs for psychological problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic were searched in electronic databases. Quality assessment was conducted on the retrieved RCTs using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for RCTs. (3) Results: Six RCTs were included in this review. Quality appraisal of included RCTs ranged from 1 for low risk of bias to 5 for high risk of bias. There is evidence from the six RCTs that online-based mindfulness interventions may have favorable effects for reducing the levels of psychological problems, such as anxiety, depression, and stress. (4) Conclusions: Online-based mindfulness programs may be used as complementary interventions for clinical populations, healthy individuals, and healthcare workers with psychological problems due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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21
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Sanilevici M, Reuveni O, Lev-Ari S, Golland Y, Levit-Binnun N. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Increases Mental Wellbeing and Emotion Regulation During the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Synchronous Online Intervention Study. Front Psychol 2021; 12:720965. [PMID: 34858260 PMCID: PMC8631924 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.720965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic imposed extreme living conditions of social distancing, which triggered negative mental health problems and created challenges in seeking mental health support. Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) have been found to enhance wellbeing and mental health by reducing stress and anxiety and improving emotion regulation. Preliminary evidence suggests that online, synchronous MBIs may produce beneficial effects similar to face-to-face programs. However, the effectiveness of such online-MBIs to support mental health in highly stressful times, such as a global pandemic, requires further study. To this end, we investigated the effect of an online 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program on aspects of mental health during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (N=92) who expressed interest in discounted online-MBSR programs were recruited for the study. The division into experimental and control groups was based on actual enrollment to the courses. Those who enrolled in a program were assigned to the experimental condition and those who decided not to enroll served as controls. Participants were assessed pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 1-month post-intervention for levels of mindfulness, perceived stress, anxiety, emotion regulation, and intolerance of uncertainty. Differences between the groups were tested using the general linear mixed effects model (GLMM) and Individual Growth Curve Models (IGCM) in intent to treat analysis. The findings indicated that, relative to the control group, MBSR improved mindfulness abilities (p <0.001), decreased anxiety (p <0.001), and stress (p <0.001) and increased emotion regulation (p <0.001). These effects were found to persist 1 month after the end of the program, despite the increased governmental public-health restrictions due to COVID-19 at that time. The ability to tolerate uncertainty, a central characteristic of the pandemic, was not found to be affected by the program. A mediation analysis revealed that the effect of the intervention on mental health improvement was partially mediated by the improvement in emotion regulation. Overall, the findings provide positive evidence for the feasibility of an online-MBSR program to support the mental health of individuals from the general population through the mediation of emotion regulation in challenging times, such as a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Sanilevici
- Sagol Center for Brain and Mind, Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC), Herzliya, Israel
| | - Omer Reuveni
- Sagol Center for Brain and Mind, Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC), Herzliya, Israel
| | - Shahar Lev-Ari
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Yulia Golland
- Sagol Center for Brain and Mind, Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC), Herzliya, Israel
| | - Nava Levit-Binnun
- Sagol Center for Brain and Mind, Baruch Ivcher School of Psychology, Interdisciplinary Center Herzliya (IDC), Herzliya, Israel
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Simonsson O, Bazin O, Fisher SD, Goldberg SB. Effects of an eight-week, online mindfulness program on anxiety and depression in university students during COVID-19: A randomized controlled trial. Psychiatry Res 2021; 305:114222. [PMID: 34601450 PMCID: PMC8459547 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.114222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had adverse mental health effects for many groups in British society, especially young adults and university students. The present study reports secondary outcomes (i.e., symptoms of anxiety and depression) from a randomized waitlist controlled trial, with a one-month post-intervention follow-up, on the effects of a guided, eight-week mindfulness program delivered online during the COVID-19 pandemic among students at the University of Oxford. Longitudinal multilevel models showed greater reductions in anxiety but not depression symptoms for participants in the mindfulness condition relative to participants in the waitlist control condition (time X group B=-0.36, p=.025).
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Affiliation(s)
- Otto Simonsson
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Center for Psychiatry Research, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institute, Sweden; Department of Sociology, University of Oxford, UK.
| | | | | | - Simon B. Goldberg
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, WI, USA,Department of Counseling Psychology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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23
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Hosseinzadeh Asl NR. A randomized controlled trial of a mindfulness-based intervention in social workers working during the COVID-19 crisis. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 41:8192-8199. [PMID: 34393464 PMCID: PMC8352152 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02150-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
As one of the frontline professionals during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, social workers can face tremendous pressure, which can lead to mental health problems. The objective of this study was to investigate whether a brief mindfulness-based intervention had short- and middle-term effects on social workers working during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a randomized controlled trial, 49 social workers were assigned to an experimental group (n = 28) or a waitlist control group (n = 21). The intervention was a four-week mindfulness-based program. The outcome variables were measured at pre- and post-test, and at one-month follow-up test. At post-test and follow-up, the workers in the experimental group reported higher mean scores in psychological flexibility and self-compassion and lower mean scores in depression compared to the workers in the waitlist control group. Although the experimental group also showed lower mean scores than the waitlist control group in anxiety and stress at both post-test and follow, the differences were not statistically significant. The findings suggest that a brief mindfulness-based intervention can improve psychological flexibility, self-compassion, and depression in social workers working during the COVID-19 crisis, leading to protected mental health, adding support to continuing development of such efficient mindfulness-based programs. Future studies should use larger samples and examine brief interventions’ working mechanisms.
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