1
|
Nijborg LC, Kunst MJ, Westerhof GJ, de Keijser J, Lenferink LI. Grief and delivering a statement in court: a longitudinal mixed-method study among homicidally bereaved people. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2297541. [PMID: 38285899 PMCID: PMC10826785 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2297541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Participating in a criminal trial may increase the likelihood of developing psychopathology. In 2021, people bereaved by a plane disaster (flight MH17) had the opportunity to deliver a victim personal statement (VPS) in Dutch court.Objective: This longitudinal mixed-method study examined different aspects of 84 bereaved people's experiences with VPS delivery.Method: Motivations to deliver, or not deliver, an oral VPS were examined qualitatively using thematic content analysis. Whether background and loss-related variables were related to the decision to deliver a VPS was examined using binary logistic regression analyses. Between-group (delivered VPS vs. did not) and within-group (pre- vs. post-VPS) comparisons were made regarding prolonged grief disorder (PGD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression levels using t-tests and paired t-tests.Results: Bereaved people were most frequently motivated to deliver an oral VPS to describe the impact of the incident, while those who did not deliver an oral VPS commonly wanted to protect themselves from the perceived emotional burden. None of the correlates - i.e. biological sex, age, level of education, number of losses, and (closest) relationship to the deceased - were related to the decision to deliver a VPS. Lastly, significantly higher PGD, PTSD, and depression levels were reported by people who delivered a VPS than those who did not, before and after the court hearing. No significant within-group differences were found over time.Conclusions: Professionals may provide emotional support to bereaved people who want to deliver a VPS and manage their expectations if they want to deliver a VPS for the purpose of symptom reduction. Future research may benefit from examining other ways in which VPS delivery might have beneficial or detrimental effects for specific individuals. Overall, implementing VPS delivery in court on the basis of emotional restoration remains empirically unsupported, if defined as a reduction in psychopathological levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lieke C.J. Nijborg
- Department of Psychology, Health, and Technology, Faculty of Behavioural, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Maarten J.J. Kunst
- Institute for Criminal Law and Criminology, Faculty of Law, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Gerben J. Westerhof
- Department of Psychology, Health, and Technology, Faculty of Behavioural, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Jos de Keijser
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Behavioural, and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Lonneke I.M. Lenferink
- Department of Psychology, Health, and Technology, Faculty of Behavioural, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Behavioural, and Social Sciences, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Walg M, Khatib A, Laufer A, Böttche M, Maoz-Dotan C, Hassan H, Hapfelmeier G, Finkelstein M. Post-migration stress, quality of life, and mental health among accompanied and unaccompanied young refugees in Germany: How do adolescents feel after fleeing? Stress Health 2024:e3378. [PMID: 38279696 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3378] [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] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
This study examines the impact of post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs) and quality of life (QoL) on the mental health of 55 young refugees who arrived in Germany either accompanied or unaccompanied. The results reveal that nearly 62% of the participants exhibited clinically significant symptoms of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Regression analyses indicate that psychopathology was associated with being unaccompanied and experiencing lower QoL, while QoL was associated with higher economic status and lower PMLDs. Mediation analysis further demonstrates that higher economic status and reduced PMLDs were associated with higher QoL, which, in turn, correlated with lower levels of psychopathology. These findings emphasise the importance of considering PMLDs and QoL, as well as economic status and being accompanied/unaccompanied, in the assessment and treatment of young refugees in the host country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Walg
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, SANA-Klinikum, Remscheid, Germany
| | - Anwar Khatib
- Department of Social Work, Zefat Academic College, Zefat, Israel
- Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Avital Laufer
- Behavioral Science, Netanya Academic College, Netanya, Israel
| | - Maria Böttche
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Hiam Hassan
- Department of Social Work, Zefat Academic College, Zefat, Israel
| | - Gerhard Hapfelmeier
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, SANA-Klinikum, Remscheid, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sadeh Y, Graham L, Curtis M, Janson M, Kim J, Schwartz A, Undset A, Denejkina A. Posttraumatic stress and depression symptom classes in parents of trauma-exposed children: a transdiagnostic perspective using pooled individual participant data. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2299194. [PMID: 38197328 PMCID: PMC10783838 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2299194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: In the aftermath of child trauma, post-traumatic stress (PTS) and depression symptoms often co-occur among trauma exposed children and their parents. Studies have used latent class analysis (LCA) to examine PTS and depression symptoms and identify homogeneous subgroups among trauma exposed children. However, little is known about subgroups or classes of PTS and depression reactions of parents of traumatised children.Objectives: (1) Determine PTS and depression symptom classes at 2-9 months post-trauma, and (2) to examine sociodemographic covariates among parents of trauma exposed children.Methods: Using harmonised individual participant data (n = 702) from eight studies (Australia, UK, US) included in the Prospective studies of Acute Child Trauma and Recovery Data Archive (PACT/R), we modelled these phenomena at the symptom level using LCA.Results: Our LCA yielded three solutions: 'high internalizing symptom' class (11%); 'low PTS-high depression' class (17%); and 'low internalizing symptom' class (72%). Parents of children in the 'low PTS-high depression' class were more likely to have children of older age and be part of an ethnic minority, compared to the 'low internalizing symptoms' class. Mothers were more likely to be in the 'high internalizing symptom' class compared to the 'low internalizing symptoms' class.Conclusions: These findings reveal a qualitative structure and relationship between depression and PTS symptoms that highlights the importance of assessing and targeting a broad range of internalising symptoms in post-trauma psychological treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaara Sadeh
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Leila Graham
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Michael Curtis
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Melissa Janson
- Gevirtz Graduate School of Education, Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Jeeeun Kim
- Soro Orot Institute, Inc. (Soro Orot Institute – Counselor Group for Counseling and Education of Multicultural and Social Justice Issues), Seoul, Korea
| | - Ashlyn Schwartz
- Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Public Health, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Andrea Undset
- Norwegian Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna Denejkina
- Translational Health Research Institute; YouthInsight, Sydney, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Braule Pinto ALDC, Serpa ALDO, Guatimosim RF, Costa DS, de Paula JJ, da Silva AG, Diaz AP, de Miranda DM, Malloy-Diniz LF. Longitudinal profile of post-traumatic symptoms in HealthCare Workers during COVID-19 pandemic: A latent transition model. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 168:230-239. [PMID: 37922597 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pandemics have the potential to be considered traumatic event, increasing the risk of developing post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in HealthCare Workers (HCW). However, few longitudinal studies have evaluated the impact of prolonged exposure to the risk imposed by COVID-19. Our aim was to identify subgroups of HCW with profiles of PTSS, how this profile changed during the pandemic and which variables were related to these changes. METHODS We evaluated the levels of PTSS and psychological distress in a Brazilian HealthCare Workers' sample (n = 1398) in three waves of assessment: from May to June 2020 (Wave 1), December 2020 to February 2021 (Wave 2) and May to August 2021 (Wave 3), using Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) to identify subgroups with different profiles of symptms, and then, Latent Transition Analysis (LTA) was applied to examine changes in symptom profiles over time, including gender, psychiatric diagnosis history, and pandemic-related fears as covariates. RESULTS two profiles were identified: high-PTSS profile (Wave 1-23%; Wave 2-64% and Wave 3-73%) and a low-PTSS (Wave 1-77%; Wave 2-36% and Wave 3-27%). Being female, fear of contamination, and fearing financial problems were strong predictors of changes in the profile. In addition, the participants had a high probability of being in the high-PTSS in the long run. CONCLUSION These results suggests that targeted interventions can mitigate the impact of pandemic. Providing financial support, and psychological support can be beneficial for those with psychiatric diagnoses and experiencing bereavement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- André Luiz de Carvalho Braule Pinto
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Post Graduation Department in Molecular Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Departamento de Ensino e Pesquisa (DENPE), Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil; Clinical Neuroscience Lab (LINC), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Alexandre Luiz de Oliveira Serpa
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; SCNLab, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde e do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Distúrbios do Desenvolvimento, Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Rafaela Ferreira Guatimosim
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Clinical Neuroscience Lab (LINC), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Danielle Souza Costa
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Clinical Neuroscience Lab (LINC), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Jonas Jardim de Paula
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Antônio Geraldo da Silva
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Associação Brasileira de Psiquiatria (ABP), Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto, Portugal.
| | - Alexandre Paim Diaz
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Associação Brasileira de Psiquiatria (ABP), Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Center for the Study and Prevention of Suicide, Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester, New York, USA.
| | - Débora Marques de Miranda
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Post Graduation Department in Molecular Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Pediatrics, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Leandro Fernandes Malloy-Diniz
- SAMBE-Instituto de Saúde Mental Baseada em Evidências, Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil; Post Graduation Department in Molecular Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Clinical Neuroscience Lab (LINC), Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Mental Health, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang X, Zhen R, Liu Z, Wu X, Xu Y, Ma R, Zhou X. Bullying Victimization and Comorbid Patterns of PTSD and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents: Random Intercept Latent Transition Analysis. J Youth Adolesc 2023; 52:2314-2327. [PMID: 37468821 DOI: 10.1007/s10964-023-01826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Many studies have examined post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depressive symptoms in adolescents under the background of school bullying, but not their comorbidities and changes over time. This study used random intercept latent transition analysis (RI-LTA) to examine the transitions in comorbid patterns of PTSD and depressive symptoms among 815 adolescents (45.0% boys; Mage-baseline = 13.69, SD = 1.60), who reported their symptoms in a 3-year longitudinal study. Three comorbid patterns were found: low symptoms, predominantly PTSD symptoms, and symptoms of comorbidity. Among these patterns, five trends were found through 3 years: stable low symptoms, stable PTSD symptoms, improving symptoms, worsening symptoms, and an inverted-U pattern. Age, time that parents spend with their child, being an only child, family income and experiencing relational bullying were predictors of these transitions. These suggest that patterns of PTSD and depressive symptoms are heterogeneous and may change over time since trauma events. Developing targeted interventions based on underlying factors through distinct patterns and transitions may help us better optimize and utilize intervention resources to alleviate symptoms from bullying victims.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xima Yang
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Rui Zhen
- Jing Hengyi School of Education, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Zhengyi Liu
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xinyue Wu
- Faculty of Psychology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Yongyong Xu
- Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rong Ma
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiao Zhou
- Department of Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rofo S, Gelyana L, Moramarco S, Alhanabadi LHH, Basa FB, Dellagiulia A, Emberti Gialloreti L. Prevalence and risk factors of posttraumatic stress symptoms among Internally Displaced Christian couples in Erbil, Iraq. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1129031. [PMID: 37033064 PMCID: PMC10076725 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1129031] [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: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Research about the impact of war and displacement experiences on the mental health of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) has recently grown. However, a limited number of studies focus on minorities. The objective of the present preliminary study was to estimate the prevalence of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSSs) among IDPs who live outside camps and belong to the Christian minority in Iraq, and to identify possible predictors. Methods Overall, 108 internally displaced Christians (54 married couples) participated in the study. Traumatic events and PTSSs were assessed using the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire. Multivariable linear regression models were used to investigate possible predictors of PTSSs. Multivariable logistic regression models have been developed to estimate the odds of presenting PTSSs. Results Results demonstrated high rates of trauma exposure, with all participants having experienced at least three traumatic events. The estimated prevalence of PTSSs was 20.3%. A low economic status, the number of traumatic events, and a second experience of displacement were associated with increased PTSSs. Five traumatic events were identified as the main predictors of PTSSs. Conclusion Findings from the current preliminary study indicated the impact of war-related traumatic events on IDPs' mental health and the negative effects of post-displacement experiences. These findings may have important implications for setting up psychosocial interventions, as well as for further promoting physical and mental health services among these populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sana Rofo
- Department of Psychology, Salesian University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Lina Gelyana
- Department of Psychology, Salesian University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Moramarco
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Luma H. H. Alhanabadi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Primary Health Care, Preventive Health Affairs Directorate, Duhok, Iraq
| | - Faiq B. Basa
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Internal Medicine Department, Rizgary Teaching Hospital, Erbil, Iraq
| | | | - Leonardo Emberti Gialloreti
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Leonardo Emberti Gialloreti
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mahmood HN, Ibrahim H, Ismail AA, Neuner F. Does Time Heal Trauma? 18 Month Follow-Up Study of Syrian Refugees' Mental Health in Iraq's Kurdistan Region. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14910. [PMID: 36429629 PMCID: PMC9690495 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214910] [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: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The findings of longitudinal studies on traumatized refugees have shown that factors related to premigration, migration, and post-migration experiences determine changes in mental health over time. The primary aim of this follow-up study was to examine the potential change in the prevalence rates of probable PTSD and depression among Syrian refugees in Iraq. An unselected group of N = 92 Syrian adult refugees was recruited from Arbat camps in Sulaymaniyah Governorate in Iraq's Kurdistan Region, and then interviewed at two different time points between July 2017 and January 2019. Locally validated instruments were used to assess traumatic events and mental health symptoms. The primary results showed no significant change in the mean scores of PTSD and depression symptoms from the first measurement to the second measurement over the course of 18 months. On the individual level, no reliable change was found for either PTSD or depression symptoms in more than three-quarters of the participants (78.3% and 77.2%, respectively). New adversities and traumatic events that occurred over the 18 months between the interviews were a significant predictor of increasing trauma-related symptoms. After the flight from conflict settings, trauma-related disorders seem to be chronic for the majority of Syrian refugees. Further longitudinal studies are needed in order to identify specific risk factors that lead to maintaining or worsening mental health symptoms over time, and to explore effective therapeutic intervention methods for this traumatized population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harem Nareeman Mahmood
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Science and Health, Koya University, Koy Sanjaq 46017, Iraq
| | - Hawkar Ibrahim
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- vivo International, 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Azad Ali Ismail
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Science and Health, Koya University, Koy Sanjaq 46017, Iraq
| | - Frank Neuner
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
- vivo International, 78430 Konstanz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
KOLLY-SHAMNE ANZHELIKA. Socio-Psychological Online Survey of Ukrainian Forced Migrants in the First Months of the War in 2022: General Characteristics of the Study and Methodological Aspects of Data Collection on Facebook. SCIENTIFIC BULLETIN OF MUKACHEVO STATE UNIVERSITY SERIES “PEDAGOGY AND PSYCHOLOGY” 2022. [DOI: 10.52534/msu-pp.8(3).2022.53-66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The unprecedented scale of Ukrainian military migration in 2022 raises the issue of creating effective programs of social and psychological assistance and facilitating the integration of forced migrants into host communities. This is impossible without knowledge of the specifics of modern Ukrainian migration and its features. Therefore, the author presents the organization of a multi-stage program of social and psychological research of Ukrainian refugees. The article presents the results of the first stage of this program. Its purpose was to describe the procedure of social and psychological online survey and to present a portrait of a Ukrainian refugee in the first months of the struggle against Russian aggression. The features of the socio-psychological online survey as a research method of data collection, as well as the advantages and limitations of its application in modern research are considered. The methodology and organization of the online survey in the social network Facebook are described. The process of development and content of the online questionnaire for the survey of Ukrainian refugees in the social network Facebook is presented. Based on the results of the analysis of the answers of 2049 respondents (women - 95.8%), the socio-demographic characteristics of the sample, the geographical distribution of Ukrainians by country of residence, their gender and social status, as well as the age and professional structure of respondents are determined. It was found that in the first months of the war, typical Ukrainian refugees were women of working age with higher education who went abroad with minor children. Most of the respondents went abroad from Kyiv and eastern regions of Ukraine to Germany, Poland, France. A problematic analysis of the peculiarities of Ukrainian migration in comparison with other military migration movements of recent years (its feminization, a significant proportion of children and able-bodied people with high career potential) is provided. The possible socio-psychological consequences for Ukraine and host countries and the related needs for the creation of socio-psychological support programs are also analyzed. The findings will be useful for organizations and professionals who provide assistance to Ukrainian refugees, as well as state institutions that develop short-term and long-term policy programs for Ukrainian refugees.
Collapse
|
9
|
Grasser LR. Addressing Mental Health Concerns in Refugees and Displaced Populations: Is Enough Being Done? Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:909-922. [PMID: 35573980 PMCID: PMC9094640 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s270233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
There are over 82.4 million forcibly displaced people worldwide, about a quarter of whom are resettling as refugees. In the wake of the global refugee crisis spurred by conflict, religious and political persecution, human rights violations, and climate disasters, a mental health has crisis followed. Not only does trauma experienced in home countries and as part of forced migration affect mental health, so too do post-migration traumatic events, discrimination, lack of access to quality and affordable healthcare and housing, and acculturation. To address mental health concerns in refugees and displaced populations, collective action is needed not only from health care providers but also from mental health researchers, funders, journals, resettlement agencies, government entities, and humanitarian organizations. The present review highlights the work of numerous scholars and organizations with the goal of understanding the mental health concerns of forcibly displaced persons within and across ecological systems. The present review seeks to bring attention to the experiences of forcibly displaced persons, summarize the growing body of research understanding the acute and chronic effects of forced displacement and possible interventions, and give a call to action for all members of the global community at every level to engage in joint efforts to improve mental health in refugees and displaced persons. Notably, there is a need for more interventions at the familial and community level that serve not only as treatment but also as prevention. Smartphone-based interventions, mind-body modalities, and interventions delivered by lay and non-clinician community members hold promise. Numerous strides could be made in refugee mental health and treatment when funding agencies include these goals in their research priorities. Despite the challenges they have faced, persons who resettle as refugees are incredibly resilient and deserve to be afforded every right, opportunity, dignity, and respect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lana Ruvolo Grasser
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
- Correspondence: Lana Ruvolo Grasser, 3901 Chrysler Dr., Suite 2C Room 273, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA, Tel +1 248 535 6371, Email
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lenferink L, Mouthaan J, Fritz AM, Soydas S, Eidhof M, van Hoof MJ, Groen S, Mooren T. Predicting transitions between longitudinal classes of post-traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic: protocol of a latent transition model in a general Dutch sample. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055696. [PMID: 34996798 PMCID: PMC8743835 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing body of literature shows profound effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, among which increased rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and adjustment disorder (AD). However, current research efforts have largely been unilateral, focusing on psychopathology and not including well-being, and are dominated by examining average psychopathology levels or on disorder absence/presence, thereby ignoring individual differences in mental health. Knowledge on individual differences, as depicted by latent subgroups, in the full spectrum of mental health may provide valuable insights in how individuals transition between health states and factors that predict transitioning from resilient to symptomatic classes. Our aim is to (1) identify longitudinal classes (ie, subgroups of individuals) based on indicators of PTSD, AD and well-being in response to the pandemic and (2) examine predictors of transitioning between these subgroups. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will conduct a three-wave longitudinal online survey study of n≥2000 adults from the general Dutch population. The first measurement occasion takes place 6 months after the start of the pandemic, followed by two follow-up measurements with 6 months of intervals. Latent transition analysis will be used for data analysis. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from four Dutch universities. Longitudinal study designs are vital to monitor mental health (and predictors thereof) in the pandemic to develop preventive and curative mental health interventions. This study is carried out by researchers who are board members of the Dutch Society for Traumatic Stress Studies and is part of a pan-European study (initiated by the European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies) examining the impact of the pandemic in 11 countries. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated at conferences, via newsletters, and media appearance among (psychotrauma) professionals and the general public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lonneke Lenferink
- Psychology, Health, and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Joanne Mouthaan
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anna M Fritz
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Suzan Soydas
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes Eidhof
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud Universiteit, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Reinier van Arkel Psychotraumacenter South Netherlands, Den Bosch, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-José van Hoof
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, locatie Meibergdreef, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Curium-LUMC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Simon Groen
- GGZ Drenthe Mental Health Care, De Evenaar Centrum Transculturele Psychiatrie, Beilen, The Netherlands
| | - Trudy Mooren
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- ARQ National Psychotrauma Centre, Diemen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kim D, Park S, An JH, Kim MH, Chang H, Hong JP. Exploring trajectories of depressive symptoms in North Korean defectors: A latent class mixed analysis. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:943803. [PMID: 36111307 PMCID: PMC9468327 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.943803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND North Korean defectors (NKDs) are known to be vulnerable to depression due to the influence of various psychosocial factors during their settlement process. Therefore, this study aimed to explore different trajectories of depressive symptoms in NKDs and identify predictors of the worsening of depressive symptoms. In particular, the focus was on whether posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) functions as a significant predictor. METHODS Participants consisted of 300 NKDs who settled in South Korea within 3 years of entering in the country. Five waves of longitudinal data collected from 2016 to 2019 were used. In this study, the North Korean Composite International Diagnostic Interview (NK-CIDI), a diagnostic interview tool, was conducted at baseline and depressive symptoms were measured at each wave. Trajectory identification was based on latent class mixed modeling. Logistic regression was used to extract the significant factors predicting a high/increasing depressive symptom trajectory. RESULTS Two trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified: "low/stable symptom" (76.7% of participants) and "high/increasing symptom" (23.3% of participants). Predictors of the high/increasing symptom group were being female and a low use of mental health services. Generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, and alcohol dependence acted as significant predictors. Although PTSD was not a significant predictor, self-reported PTSD symptom scores were high in the high/increasing symptom group. CONCLUSIONS Identifying the trajectories of depressive symptoms in NKDs helps identify the risk factors of clinically vulnerable groups. In the process of establishing government-level interventions, it may be helpful to create a therapeutic environment. In addition, when evaluating initial psychiatric problems, it is important to primarily consider NKDs' anxiety levels and alcohol problems. There should also be an appropriate consideration of PTSD symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dahae Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sohee Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ji Hyun An
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Myung Hyun Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyein Chang
- Department of Psychology, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin Pyo Hong
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Purgato M, Tedeschi F, Turrini G, Acartürk C, Anttila M, Augustinavicious J, Baumgartner J, Bryant R, Churchill R, Ilkkursun Z, Karyotaki E, Klein T, Koesters M, Lantta T, Leku MR, Nosè M, Ostuzzi G, Popa M, Prina E, Sijbrandij M, Uygun E, Välimäki M, Walker L, Wancata J, White RG, Cuijpers P, Tol W, Barbui C. Trajectories of psychosocial symptoms and wellbeing in asylum seekers and refugees exposed to traumatic events and resettled in Western Europe, Turkey, and Uganda. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2128270. [PMID: 36237827 PMCID: PMC9553137 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2022.2128270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Longitudinal studies examining mental health trajectories in refugees and asylum seekers are scarce. Objectives: To investigate trajectories of psychological symptoms and wellbeing in refugees and asylum seekers, and identify factors associated with these trajectories. Method: 912 asylum seekers and refugees from the control arm of three trials in Europe (n = 229), Turkey (n = 320), and Uganda (n = 363) were included. We described trajectories of psychological symptoms and wellbeing, and used trauma exposure, age, marital status, education, and individual trial as predictors. Then, we assessed the bidirectional interactions between wellbeing and psychological symptoms, and the effect of each predictor on each outcome controlling for baseline values. Results: Symptom improvement was identified in all trials, and for wellbeing in 64.7% of participants in Europe and Turkey, versus 31.5% in Uganda. In Europe and Turkey domestic violence predicted increased symptoms at post-intervention (ß = 1.36, 95% CI 0.17-2.56), whilst murder of family members at 6-month follow-up (ß = 1.23, 95% CI 0.27-2.19). Lower wellbeing was predicted by murder of family member (ß = -1.69, 95% CI -3.06 to -0.32), having been kidnapped (ß = -1.67, 95% CI -3.19 to -0.15), close to death (ß = -1.38, 95% CI -2.70 to -0.06), and being in the host country ≥2 years (ß = -1.60, 95% CI -3.05 to -0.14). In Uganda at post-intervention, having been kidnapped predicted increased symptoms (ß = 2.11, 95% CI 0.58-3.65), and lack of shelter (ß = -2.51, 95% CI -4.44 to -0.58) and domestic violence predicted lower wellbeing (ß = -1.36, 95% CI -2.67 to -0.05). Conclusion: Many participants adapt to adversity, but contextual factors play a critical role in determining mental health trajectories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Tedeschi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Turrini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ceren Acartürk
- Department of Psychology, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Minna Anttila
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Josef Baumgartner
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Bryant
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rachel Churchill
- Centre for Reviews and Dissemination, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Eirini Karyotaki
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Klein
- Department of Psychiatry II, Ulm University, Günzburg, Germany
| | - Markus Koesters
- Department of Psychiatry II, Ulm University, Günzburg, Germany
| | - Tella Lantta
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | | | - Michela Nosè
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Mariana Popa
- Department of Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Eleonora Prina
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ersin Uygun
- Trauma and Disaster, Mental Health, Bilgi University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Maritta Välimäki
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.,Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Lauren Walker
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Johannes Wancata
- Clinical Division of Social Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ross G White
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro, and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute, and WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wietse Tol
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.,Cochrane Global Mental Health, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| |
Collapse
|