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Ku B, Ghim S. Poor Physical Health in Caregivers of Children with ADHD or ASD and its Association with Health Risk Behaviours: NHIS 2016-2018. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-023-10253-3. [PMID: 38172453 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-023-10253-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a dearth of evidence regarding physical health problems and health risk behaviours (e.g., drinking, physical inactivity, smoking, and suboptimal sleep behaviour) in caregivers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autism spectrum disorder (CCAA). The purposes of the current study were to examine differences in physical health problems between CCAA and caregivers of children without attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder (CCWAA) and to explore health risk behaviours associated with those problems. METHOD Data from the 2016-2018 National Health Interview Survey were used in the current study. 10 common physical health problems were compared between CCAA and CCWAA by using multivariable logistic regressions. In addition, in order to detect associated health risk behaviours, decision tree analysis was performed for physical health problems in CCAA. RESULTS Of the 10 physical health problems, caregivers of children with ADHD showed significantly higher likelihood of experiencing nine (arthritis, asthma, back pain, high cholesterol, diabetes, heart problems, hypertension, neck pain, obesity), compared to CCWAA. Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) showed significantly higher likelihoods of experiencing two physical health problems compared to CCWAA. The decision tree analysis revealed that age (> 42 years), and suboptimal sleep behaviour (not 7-8 hours), and smoking (current smoker) were the frequent predictors for physical health problems in CCAA. CONCLUSION The results of the current study represent an important milestone in further investigating physical health problems in CCAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byungmo Ku
- Department of Special Physical Education, Sports Sciecne Buliding 8405, 134 Yongindaehak-ro, Samga-dong, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Seungbeen Ghim
- Health Management and Policy, College of Health, Oregon State University, 97333, Corvallis, OR, USA.
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2
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Larson E, Jeglum N, Shmays C. Mixed-method evaluation of fidelity of motivational interviewing-based coaching in 5Minutes4Myself Wellness Program for caregivers of children with autism. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 2:100149. [PMID: 37214523 PMCID: PMC10194175 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Objective This mixed method analysis examined fidelity of the motivational interviewing (MI) delivered during the 5Minutes4Myself wellness program for caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Methods Coaches used a manualized MI-approach to collaboratively design participants' individualized wellness programs, and then used it in monthly coaching sessions to support goal pursuit. Audio-recorded consultations and post-participation focus groups were transcribed verbatim. Consultation transcripts were rated for MI adherence using Motivational Interviewing Treatment Integrity Code. Focus group data was coded by the team to identify conceptual categories. Results Eighty-seven percent of consultations achieved a beginning (competent) level expert-derived MI standard. Caregivers noted that coaches' MI approach evoked deep emotions and understandings about their lives related to wellness goals, allowed for a permissive flexibility in goal pursuit, and fostered supportive accountability. Conclusion MI was used with high levels of fidelity. Participants described the MI approach as more productive, precise, and useful in addressing their needs compared to other available interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Larson
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | - Chloe Shmays
- Providence Child Development Institute, Portland, OR, USA
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3
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Huth K, Frankel H, Cook S, Samuels RC. Caring for a Child with Chronic Illness: Effect on Families and Siblings. Pediatr Rev 2023; 44:393-402. [PMID: 37391635 DOI: 10.1542/pir.2022-005649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Huth
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Hilary Frankel
- Children's Hospital at Montefiore and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
| | - Stacey Cook
- Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Ronald C Samuels
- Children's Hospital at Montefiore and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY
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4
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Fecteau SM, Trudel M, Champagne N, Picard F. Are all parental experiences equal?: Cluster analysis of salivary cortisol and perception of parental stress in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2023; 139:104550. [PMID: 37327575 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2023.104550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Many parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) report high stress levels related to their parenting role. The experience of stress is reflected in physical symptoms and well-being, as observed by abnormal patterns of cortisol regulation. However, it may be a mistake to conceive parenthood as unilaterally stressful as diverse experiences are possible. Mothers of children with ASD provided salivary cortisol samples and self-rated parental stress. The area under the curve with respect to ground was calculated in regard to three daily collection time points. As a group, mothers reported average levels of parenting stress and flat daily cortisol output. The current age of the child and age at the time of diagnosis moderately predicted overall daily cortisol. Hierarchical clusters analysis identified four distinct profiles of stress regulation based on daily cortisol regulation and perception of parental stress. Groups did not differ based on the severity of symptoms related to autism or demographic information. We suggest that other variables, such as stress mediators and secondary stressors, may explain variability in stress regulation. Future research and intervention should perceive the parental experience as heterogeneous and focus on individualizing the support offered in light of diverse experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie-M Fecteau
- Département de psychoéducation et de psychologie, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Canada.
| | - Marcel Trudel
- Département de psychoéducation, Faculté d'éducation, Université de Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Noël Champagne
- Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec, Canada
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Abeasi DA, Nkosi NG, Suglo JN. Well-being focused interventions for caregivers of children with developmental disabilities: a scoping review protocol. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e066179. [PMID: 37080621 PMCID: PMC10124195 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066179] [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: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children with developmental disability (DD) may depend on their family caregivers to fulfil their complex health needs. Family caregivers are generally described as persons providing unpaid for services for the child with DD at home who need to be supported in a manner that supports and promotes his/her well-being. This review aims to identify and map the range of interventions available for caregivers of children between the ages of 5-16 with DD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The methodological framework for conducting scoping review as published by Arksey and O'Malley and the Joanna Briggs Institute's guidelines will used in this study. Primary research articles will be obtained through a systematic search of CINAHL, Psych INFO, PubMed, ERIC and COCHRANE Library. Further grey literature will be obtained from Google Scholar search. Study selection process will be done by two independent researchers based on a predetermined inclusion criteria. Review findings comprising interventions, intervention components and outcomes will be presented using tables and narrative text. DISCUSSION The proposed scoping review will give an extensive review of interventions aimed at improving the well-being of caregivers of children with DD. This scoping review would provide recommendations on interventions that have significantly improved the well-being caregivers of children with DD. Additionally, the review would guide future work on intervention development and primary research in this field. REGISTRATION This scoping review protocol has been registered with the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/tkbrh).
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Asantewa Abeasi
- Nursing Science Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Presbyterian University, Abetifi, Ghana
| | - Nokuthula Gloria Nkosi
- Nursing Science Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
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6
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Lee J, Schwichtenberg A, Bliwise D, Ali SZ, Hayat MJ, Clark PC, Spratling R. Simultaneous Recording of Objective Sleep in Mothers and School-aged Children with Developmental Disabilities: A Pilot Study of Actigraphy and Videosomnography. JOURNAL OF DEVELOPMENTAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES 2023:1-23. [PMID: 37361457 PMCID: PMC10088614 DOI: 10.1007/s10882-023-09896-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Mothers of school-aged children ages 3 to 17 years with developmental disabilities (DDs) commonly report sleep problems in their children associated with impaired maternal sleep. However, existing research relies heavily on mothers' self-reported sleep. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of objectively measuring child and mother sleep-wake patterns using actigraphy and videosomnography. This was an observational pilot study. Mothers wore actigraphy watches and video-recorded their child's sleep for 7 nights. Mothers also completed a 7-day sleep diary and questionnaires on sleep quality, depressive symptoms, stress, and child sleep problems. Ten mothers (32-49 years) and ten children with DDs (8-12 years) completed this study. Half of the children were boys with autism spectrum disorders. We successfully recruited 77% of eligible mothers for the study during the pandemic. Eight mothers successfully wore the actigraphy, and nine successfully video-recorded their child's sleep. Mothers rated their participation positively and considered the data collection protocol acceptable. While mothers' sleep patterns from actigraphy were mostly within recommendations, self-reported sleep quality was poor. Child's sleep estimates from videosomnography showed children slept substantially less than recommended sleep hours. Mothers also reported a high frequency of child sleep problems. Consistent with this pattern, mothers also endorsed elevated stress and depression. The use of actigraphy and videosomnography is feasible. Objective sleep measurement for mothers' and children's sleep is needed with self-report to measure multidimensional aspects of sleep and discrepancies between objective and self-report sleep measures. Future studies can use multi-methods sleep measures and work toward interventions that can improve family sleep and reduce mothers' stress and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiwon Lee
- School of Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur Stress Urban Life Building Room 911, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
| | - A.J. Schwichtenberg
- Department of Human Development & Family Studies, College of Health and Human Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | - Donald Bliwise
- Sleep Center, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Syeda Zahra Ali
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Matthew J. Hayat
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA USA
| | - Patricia C. Clark
- School of Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur Stress Urban Life Building Room 911, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
| | - Regena Spratling
- School of Nursing, Byrdine F. Lewis College of Nursing and Health Professions, Georgia State University, 140 Decatur Stress Urban Life Building Room 911, Atlanta, GA 30303 USA
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7
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Mountcastle L, Zajdel M, Robinson T, Keller KR, Gelles S, Livinski AA, Kikani B, Lea DE, Koehly LM. The impact of caregiving for children with chronic conditions on the HPA axis: A scoping review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 69:101062. [PMID: 36773674 PMCID: PMC10182255 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Caregiving has been robustly linked to caregiver health through the dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the context of caregiving for an adult with a chronic illness. However, little research examines the physiological impact of caregiving for a child with a chronic illness despite high burden and unique stressors. In this review, we explore the links of caregiving for a child with a congenital, chromosomal, or genetic disorder to the regulation or dysregulation of the HPA axis. A search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science and 15 studies met inclusion criteria. Overall, there were inconsistent links of caregiving to HPA axis functioning, perhaps due to the heterogeneity across disease contexts, study designs, and biomarker measurement. Future research should standardize measurement and study designs, increase participant diversity, and examine moderators of the links of caregiving to the HPA axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey Mountcastle
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Melissa Zajdel
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute.
| | - Taylor Robinson
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Krystyna R Keller
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Shani Gelles
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Alicia A Livinski
- National Institutes of Health Library, Office of Research Services, Office of the Director, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Bijal Kikani
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Dawn E Lea
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
| | - Laura M Koehly
- Social Network Methods Section, Social and Behavioral Research Branch, National Human Genome Research Institute
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8
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Caldwell W, MacNeil S, Wrosch C, McGrath JJ, Dang-Vu TT, Morin AJS, Gouin JP. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia moderates the interpersonal consequences of brooding rumination. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL AND PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS 2023; 40:624-653. [PMID: 36844897 PMCID: PMC9941653 DOI: 10.1177/02654075221122059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Brooding rumination is an intrapersonal emotion regulation strategy associated with negative interpersonal consequences. Resting respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), a psychophysiological marker of self-regulatory capacity, may buffer the association between maladaptive emotion regulation and negative interpersonal behaviors. The current work examines the moderating effect of RSA on the association between brooding rumination and different negative interpersonal consequences. Across three convenience samples, individuals with lower RSA showed a stronger association between brooding rumination and more negative interpersonal behaviors as well as less perception of received instrumental social support (Study 1; n = 154), higher levels of interviewer-rated interpersonal stress (Study 2; n = 42) and a stronger indirect association between brooding rumination and depressive symptoms via daily interpersonal stress (Study 3; n = 222). These findings highlight the negative interpersonal consequences of brooding rumination, particularly among individuals with lower RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren Caldwell
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sasha MacNeil
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Carsten Wrosch
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
| | | | - Thanh T. Dang-Vu
- Department of Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
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9
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Smiley CE, Wood SK. Stress- and drug-induced neuroimmune signaling as a therapeutic target for comorbid anxiety and substance use disorders. Pharmacol Ther 2022; 239:108212. [PMID: 35580690 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2022.108212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Stress and substance use disorders remain two of the most highly prevalent psychiatric conditions and are often comorbid. While individually these conditions have a debilitating impact on the patient and a high cost to society, the symptomology and treatment outcomes are further exacerbated when they occur together. As such, there are few effective treatment options for these patients, and recent investigation has sought to determine the neural processes underlying the co-occurrence of these disorders to identify novel treatment targets. One such mechanism that has been linked to stress- and addiction-related conditions is neuroimmune signaling. Increases in inflammatory factors across the brain have been heavily implicated in the etiology of these disorders, and this review seeks to determine the nature of this relationship. According to the "dual-hit" hypothesis, also referred to as neuroimmune priming, prior exposure to either stress or drugs of abuse can sensitize the neuroimmune system to be hyperresponsive when exposed to these insults in the future. This review completes an examination of the literature surrounding stress-induced increases in inflammation across clinical and preclinical studies along with a summarization of the evidence regarding drug-induced alterations in inflammatory factors. These changes in neuroimmune profiles are also discussed within the context of their impact on the neural circuitry responsible for stress responsiveness and addictive behaviors. Further, this review explores the connection between neuroimmune signaling and susceptibility to these conditions and highlights the anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapies that may be used for the treatment of stress and substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cora E Smiley
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience; University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America; WJB Dorn Veterans Administration Medical Center, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America.
| | - Susan K Wood
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology, and Neuroscience; University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America; WJB Dorn Veterans Administration Medical Center, Columbia, SC 29209, United States of America.
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10
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Thomas SR, Woods KE, Mazursky-Horowitz H, Novick DR, Dougherty LR, Glasper ER, Chronis-Tuscano A. Cortisol Reactivity and Observed Parenting among Mothers of Children with and without ADHD. J Atten Disord 2022; 26:1605-1621. [PMID: 35416075 DOI: 10.1177/10870547221089025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurobiological models suggest links between maternal cortisol reactivity and parenting; however, no studies have examined cortisol reactivity and parenting in mothers of school-age children with ADHD. METHOD We examined the relationship between observed parenting and maternal cortisol reactivity in two laboratory contexts: the Trier Social Stress Task (TSST) and parenting-child interaction (PCI). Mothers of children with (N = 24) and without (N = 36) ADHD participated. RESULTS During the TSST, greater cortisol output and increase were associated with decreased positive and increased negative parenting. However, during the PCI, cortisol output was associated with increased self-reported and observed positive parenting, and decreased observed negative parenting. Cortisol change during the PCI was associated with decreased observed positive parenting and increased self-reported negative parenting. Among mothers of children with ADHD, cortisol output during the PCI was negatively associated with negative, inconsistent parenting. Change in cortisol predicted more inconsistent discipline and corporal punishment. CONCLUSION Findings contribute to an integrative biological, psychological, and cognitive process model of parenting in families of children with ADHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon R Thomas
- University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,The Ross Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kelsey E Woods
- University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.,Waypoint Wellness Center, Annapolis, MD, USA
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11
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A Personalized Multidisciplinary Approach to Evaluating and Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12030464. [PMID: 35330464 PMCID: PMC8949394 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12030464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder without a known cure. Current standard-of-care treatments focus on addressing core symptoms directly but have provided limited benefits. In many cases, individuals with ASD have abnormalities in multiple organs, including the brain, immune and gastrointestinal system, and multiple physiological systems including redox and metabolic systems. Additionally, multiple aspects of the environment can adversely affect children with ASD including the sensory environment, psychosocial stress, dietary limitations and exposures to allergens and toxicants. Although it is not clear whether these medical abnormalities and environmental factors are related to the etiology of ASD, there is evidence that many of these factors can modulate ASD symptoms, making them a potential treatment target for improving core and associated ASD-related symptoms and improving functional limitation. Additionally, addressing underlying biological disturbances that drive pathophysiology has the potential to be disease modifying. This article describes a systematic approach using clinical history and biomarkers to personalize medical treatment for children with ASD. This approach is medically comprehensive, making it attractive for a multidisciplinary approach. By concentrating on treatable conditions in ASD, it is possible to improve functional ability and quality of life, thus providing optimal outcomes.
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12
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“The stress can be unbearable, but the good times are like finding gold”: A phase one modelling survey to inform the development of a self-help positive reappraisal coping intervention for caregivers of those with autism spectrum disorder. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264837. [PMID: 35239745 PMCID: PMC8893638 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Caregivers of individuals with ASD can experience various practical, psychological, and social demands and need effective ways of coping to ameliorate the negative effects of caregiving. Numerous coping strategies are available, but the literature shows that caregivers can still struggle to cope, suggesting that interventions to support coping efforts could be beneficial. The MRC framework advocates the systematic development and evaluation of interventions, and this study was conducted to inform the future development of a self-help Positive Reappraisal Coping Intervention (PRCI) for these caregivers. The aim was to establish whether positive reappraisal coping strategies were used and associated with greater psychological wellbeing, prior to developing such an intervention. Method. Caregivers of individuals with ASD (N = 112) responded to items from an existing PRCI (Lancastle, 2006; Lancastle & Boivin, 2008), by writing about aspects of caregiving that reflected the meaning of each item. They also completed questionnaires assessing resilience, caregiving burden, and positive and negative emotions. Results. Participants provided significantly more positive responses than negative responses to PRCI items, demonstrating their use of positive reappraisal coping. Thematic analyses showed that positive responses focused on factors such as their loved one’s personality and achievements, the contributions caregivers had made to this person’s progress, the support received, and their own personal development. Positive reappraisal coping was associated with greater resilience, more positive and less negative emotions, and a lesser sense of caregiver burden. Conclusion. This modelling study suggests that positive reappraisal strategies were used by caregivers and associated with greater psychological wellbeing. The findings will inform the development of a self-help PRCI for the caregivers of those with ASD. Future studies will systematically evaluate that PRCI to determine the nature of intervention effects and mediators and moderators of effects.
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Kuhlthau KA, Ames SG, Ware A, Hoover CG, Wells N, Shelton C. Research on Family Health and Children and Youth With Special Health Care Needs. Acad Pediatr 2022; 22:S22-S27. [PMID: 35248244 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) can face challenges with regard to health and well-being. Health systems are designed to support CYSHCN but do not often consider the health and well-being of their family. Despite a growing body of literature, substantial gaps remain in our understanding of the impact of caregiving on family health and well-being and mechanisms of supporting families. In order to better understand and address these gaps, a national CYSHCN network developed a national research agenda to prioritize key areas of insufficient understanding of health and well-being for families of CYSHCN. Questions identified by the research agenda include: 1) How can family resiliency and adaptability be measured and improved? 2) How can we better assess family mental health needs and implement appropriate interventions? 3) What is the impact of family health on CYSHCN health outcomes? This paper describes a review of what is currently known regarding health for families of CYSHCN, gaps in the literature focused on the research agenda questions, and recommendations for future research. Based on the research agenda and current state of research for family health of CYSHCN, the authors recommend focusing on resiliency and adaptability as outcomes, using implementation science to address mental health concerns of family members and to further assess the impact of family health on health outcomes of CYSHCN. In addition, research should have a special focus on diverse populations of families and consider these questions in the context of different family structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen A Kuhlthau
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital (KA Kuhlthau), Boston, Mass.
| | - Stefanie G Ames
- Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine (SG Ames), Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Allysa Ware
- Family Voices (A Ware, CG Hoover, and N Wells), Lexington, Mass
| | | | - Nora Wells
- Family Voices (A Ware, CG Hoover, and N Wells), Lexington, Mass
| | - Charlene Shelton
- Department of Pediatrics, ACCORDS, University of Colorado School of Medicine (C Shelton), Aurora, Colo
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14
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Increased hair cortisol in mothers of children with ADHD symptoms and psychosocial adversity background. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:353-360. [PMID: 35122542 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02463-y] [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: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have shown high perceived parenting stress. Hence, physiological adjustment processes, involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, seem possible. We hypothesized that (1) ADHD symptoms of the child predict an increase of maternal hair cortisol concentration (HCC), and (2) presence of psychosocial adversity amplifies the prediction. We analyzed a preschool-aged sample using a longitudinal design (T1, at the children's age of 4 years; T2, 12 months later). 128 mothers and their children participated in the study. To determine HCC of the previous 3 months, the first scalp-near 3 cm hair segment was used. ADHD symptoms of the child were measured using teacher- and parent-report questionnaires and a clinical interview with the mother. The T1 teacher-reported ADHD symptoms score of the child was significantly positively associated with the mother`s T1 and T2 HCC score. In families with high psychosocial adversity, the prediction of an increase in maternal HCC by the teacher-reported ADHD symptoms of child was significantly stronger than in low-adversity families. In presence of psychosocial family adversity, ADHD symptoms of the child predicted an increase in the mother's HCC. As a continuously high cortisol level implicates health risks and might in turn affect parenting resources, the identifying of caregivers at risk through biological markers of stress could be helpful for planning targeted interventions. As our study is the first on this issue, cross-validation is needed.
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15
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Lindsay EK, Inagaki TK, Walsh CP, Messay B, Ewing LJ, Marsland AL. Stress-Related Inflammation and Social Withdrawal in Mothers of a Child With Cancer: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study. Psychosom Med 2022; 84:141-150. [PMID: 34935760 DOI: 10.1097/psy.0000000000001037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Acute inflammation-induced sickness behavior involves changes in social behavior that are believed to promote recovery. Whether chronic inflammation can influence social behaviors in ways that promote recovery is unknown. In a sample of mothers of a child with cancer, this report explores the relationship between inflammation that accompanies the stress of diagnosis and changes in social network, cancer-related stress, and inflammation across 1 year. Three hypotheses tested whether a) initial levels of stress associate with initial levels of inflammation, b) initial levels of inflammation predict social network changes over time, and c) social network changes over time buffer changes in stress and inflammation over time. METHODS Cancer-related stress (Impact of Events Scale), social network (social roles and contacts from the Social Network Inventory), and systemic inflammation (circulating interleukin [IL]-6) were assessed in 120 mothers three times after their child's cancer diagnosis: after diagnosis (T1), 6-month follow-up (T2), and 12-month follow-up (T3). RESULTS Consistent with predictions, greater cancer-related stress after diagnosis (T1) was associated with higher IL-6 after diagnosis (T1; b = 0.014, standard error [SE] = 0.01, p = .008). In turn, higher IL-6 after diagnosis (T1) was associated with a decrease in social roles over time (T1 ➔ T3; B = -0.030, SE = 0.01, p = .041). Finally, dropping social roles over time (T1 ➔ T3) was associated with decreases in cancer-related stress (B = 25.44, SE = 12.31, p = .039) and slower increases in IL-6 (B = 1.06, SE = 0.52, p = .040) over time. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a first indication that chronic stress-related systemic inflammation may predict changes in social behavior that associate with stress recovery and slower increases in inflammation in the year after a major life stressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Lindsay
- From the University of Pittsburgh (Lindsay, Walsh, Ewing, Marsland), Pittsburgh, Pennslvania; San Diego State University (Inagaki), San Diego, California; and Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Center (Messay), Whitehall, Ohio
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16
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Flores-Buils R, Andrés-Roqueta C. Factors influencing resilience of parents with children with neurodevelopmental disorders: The role of structural language, social cognition, and social support. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:886590. [PMID: 36159927 PMCID: PMC9493182 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.886590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resilience allows a more positive coping and improves parents' wellbeing when they face a difficult situation like having a child with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD). We aim to analyze the development of resilience in parents of children with different NDD (ASD, DLD and ADHD) with different levels of structural language and social cognition, as well as the social support available for their families, and compare it to children with typical development (TD). METHOD We analyzed the level of resilience of 156 parents, 73 with children with TD and 73 with three different NDD, taking into account variables such as age, structural language (receptive grammar) and social cognition (emotional understanding) of the children, and also the type of social support available to them. RESULTS Children with DLD and ASD showed lower receptive grammar and emotional comprehension skills, although only parents of children with ASD obtained better resilience scores. Moreover, age of children and formal support variables predicted the resilience of the parents according to the type of NDD. DISCUSSION The severity of social cognition and structural language difficulties of children with NDD and the fact of having support from professionals and family associations have a significant influence on the development of parental resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Flores-Buils
- Department of Developmental, Educational Social and Methodological Psychology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Clara Andrés-Roqueta
- Department of Developmental, Educational Social and Methodological Psychology, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón de la Plana, Spain
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Ahn S, Logan JG. Perceived role overload and physical symptom experience among caregivers of older adults: The moderating effect of social support. Geriatr Nurs 2021; 43:197-205. [PMID: 34922280 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2021.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the association between perceived role overload and physical symptom experience, and the potential moderating effect of social support among caregivers of older adults. We analyzed data of 1,471 caregivers obtained from the 2017 National Study of Caregiving. In the survey, participants were assessed for physical symptoms (pain, limited leg strength, and low energy), symptom-related activity limitations, perceived role overload, and informal/formal support sources. We performed multiple logistic regression analyses with interaction terms. Caregivers who perceived higher role overload were more likely to experience the physical symptoms and frequent limited activities due to the symptoms. The associations of perceived role overload with pain and low energy, respectively, were attenuated among caregivers with high informal support. The moderating effect of formal support appeared to be the opposite in relation to pain. Caregivers who perceived high burden may benefit from their informal support to prevent detrimental effects of caregiving on physical health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soojung Ahn
- Doctoral Student, School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
| | - Jeongok G Logan
- Associate Professor, School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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18
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Allen EG, Charen K, Hipp HS, Shubeck L, Amin A, He W, Hunter JE, Shelly KE, Sherman SL. Predictors of Comorbid Conditions in Women Who Carry an FMR1 Premutation. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:715922. [PMID: 34658954 PMCID: PMC8517131 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.715922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Women who carry an FMR1 premutation (PM) can experience two well-established PM-associated disorders: fragile X-associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI, affects ~20-30% carriers) and fragile X-associated tremor-ataxia syndrome (FXTAS, affects ~6-15% carriers); however, emerging evidence indicates that some of these women experience complex health profiles beyond FXPOI and FXTAS. Methods: In an effort to better understand predictors for these comorbid conditions, we collected self-reported medical histories on 413 women who carry an FMR1 PM. Results: There were 22 health conditions reported by at least 9% of women. In an exploratory analysis, 12 variables were tested in logistic regression models for each comorbid condition, including demographic variables, environmental variables, PM-associated factors, and endorsement of depression and/or anxiety. More than half of the comorbid conditions studied were associated with women who self-reported having anxiety. Age, smoking, body mass index (BMI), and depression were also significant predictor variables for specific comorbid conditions. Conclusions: Age, smoking, and BMI were significantly associated with a subset of the comorbid conditions analyzed. Importantly, depression or anxiety were also significantly associated with many of the comorbid health conditions. This work highlights some of the modifiable factors associated with complex health profiles among women with an FMR1 PM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Graves Allen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Krista Charen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Heather S. Hipp
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Lisa Shubeck
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ashima Amin
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Weiya He
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jessica Ezzell Hunter
- Genomics, Ethics, and Translational Research Program, RTI International, Triangle Park, NC, United States
| | - Katharine E. Shelly
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Stephanie L. Sherman
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Lovell B, Elder GJ, Wetherell MA. Sleep disturbances and physical health problems in caregivers of children with ASD. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2021; 113:103932. [PMID: 33730686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2021.103932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder self-report more physical health problems than controls. Sleep disturbances are also more prevalent in caregivers, and are positively associated with physical health problems. The negative impact of caring for a child with ASD on physical health therefore, might occur indirectly via poorer sleep. METHODS Participants, of which n = 43 were caregivers and n = 17 were controls, completed self-report measures of physical health problems and, to capture objective measures of sleep, wore an actigraphy device. RESULTS Physical health problems were greater in caregivers, as were subjective reports of disturbed sleep. Objectively, waking after sleep onset (WASO) and average number of awakenings were higher, as was sleep latency, and sleep efficiency was poorer, in caregivers. Total sleep time however, was greater in caregivers, as was time in bed. Physical health problems, while unrelated to actigraphy measures, were positively associated with self-reported sleep disturbances. Caregivers' increased risk for physical health problems occurred indirectly via greater self-reports of disturbed sleep. CONCLUSIONS Interventions that help alleviate caregivers' sleep disturbances might be effective, by reducing physical health problems, for improving quality of provided care, and this might be explored in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Lovell
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, United Kingdom.
| | - Greg J Elder
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Wetherell
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, United Kingdom
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Jackson JL, Korth CX, Leslie CE, Cotto J, Mah ML, Hor K, Cripe L, Al-Zaidy S, Camino EM, Church K, Lehman KJ, Shay V, Mendell JR. Health-Related Quality of Life and Emotional Distress Among Mothers of Sons With Muscular Dystrophy as Compared to Sex- and Age Group-Matched Controls. J Child Neurol 2021; 36:177-185. [PMID: 33034535 PMCID: PMC7854939 DOI: 10.1177/0883073820962927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The health-related quality of life and emotional distress among mothers of sons with Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophies (n = 82) were compared to sex- and age group-matched controls (n = 26). Participants self-reported health-related quality of life for themselves and their son(s), emotional distress, and mood/anxiety-related medication. Mothers reported poorer health-related quality of life across all domains of their health-related quality of life, as well as higher levels of emotional distress. Clinically elevated symptoms of anxiety were reported by 39% of mothers. Mothers' report of poorer health-related quality of life for their son(s) was a significant predictor of worse health-related quality of life and emotional distress for themselves across most domains. Additionally, older age of mothers predicted greater energy/less fatigue and lower levels of anxiety. Results highlight the need for screening emotional distress among mothers, as well as consideration for accessible interventions to improve the psychosocial functioning among these families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie L. Jackson
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital,Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University
| | - Christina X. Korth
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Carine E. Leslie
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Jennifer Cotto
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - May Ling Mah
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Kan Hor
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Linda Cripe
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | | | - Eric M. Camino
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Kathleen Church
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | - Kelly J. Lehman
- Center for Gene Therapy, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
| | | | - Jerry R. Mendell
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University,Center for Gene Therapy, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
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21
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Gözgen H, Belgen Kaygısız B. Analysis of physical activity level and body awareness of mothers of children with special needs. Health Care Women Int 2021; 43:583-595. [PMID: 33600290 DOI: 10.1080/07399332.2020.1869976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to analyze physical activity level and body awareness of mothers of children with physical disability and to compare with mothers without a disabled child. A total of 102 participants including 51 mothers with a disabled child and 51 mothers without a disabled child were included (average age 38.59 ± 5.98). Body Awareness Questionnaire (BAQ) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) were used as data collection tools. It was found that physical activity levels and body awareness of the mothers with a disabled child were lower than mothers without a disabled child. In conclusion, during rehabilitation of children with physical disability, mothers should become a part of the treatment, their participation in physical activity programs and body awareness training should be encouraged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Havva Gözgen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department, European University of Lefke, Mersin, Turkey
| | - Beliz Belgen Kaygısız
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Department, European University of Lefke, Mersin, Turkey
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Greater negative affect has been associated with an increased risk of the metabolic syndrome (METs). However, all studies to date have examined this association using explicit affect measures based on subjective ratings of emotional experiences. Prior studies suggest that implicit affect, representing the automatic, prereflective appraisal process involved in conscious emotional experiences, is associated with physiological stress responses independent of explicit affect. Furthermore, low resting heart rate variability (HRV) may increase the risk of stress-related diseases. The goals of this study were to evaluate the associations between implicit and explicit affect and METs and to assess whether these associations were amplified by lower HRV. METHODS This secondary analysis of a larger study included 217 middle-aged women who completed measures of implicit affect, explicit affect, high-frequency HRV, and the different components of METs. RESULTS There was a significant interaction between implicit negative affect and HRV predicting METs (odds ratio = 0.57, 95% confidence interval = 0.35-0.92), such that the combination of higher implicit affect and lower HRV was associated with a greater likelihood of METs. Similarly, there was a main effect of implicit negative affect as well as an interaction between implicit negative affect and HRV on the lipid accumulation product (b (standard error) = -0.06 (0.02), 95% confidence interval = -0.11 to -0.02), a combination of waist circumference and triglycerides. CONCLUSIONS Higher implicit negative affect in the context of lower HRV may be related to a greater risk of METs. The present findings highlight the relevance of including implicit affect measures in psychosomatic medicine research.
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Merlo EM, Stoian AP, Motofei IG, Settineri S. Clinical Psychological Figures in Healthcare Professionals: Resilience and Maladjustment as the "Cost of Care". Front Psychol 2020; 11:607783. [PMID: 33335503 PMCID: PMC7736062 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.607783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The health professionals are involved in the paths of care for patients with different medical conditions. Their life is frequently characterized by psychopathological outcomes so that it is possible to identify consistent burdens. Besides the possibility to develop pathological outcomes, some protective factors such as resilience play a fundamental role in facilitating the adaptation process and the management of maladaptive patterns. Personal characteristics and specific indexes such as burdens and resilience are essential variables useful to study in-depth ongoing conditions and possible interventions. The study was aimed at highlighting the presence and the relations among factors as personal variables, burdens, and resilience, to understand health professionals' specific structure and functions. Methods: The observation group was composed of 210 participants, 55 males (26.2%), and 155 females (73.8%), aged from 18 to 30 years old with a mean age of 25.92 years old (SD = 3.33). The study considered personal characteristics of the subjects, such as age, gender, years of study, days of work per week, hours of work per week, and years of work. Our study had been conducted with the use of measures related to burdens (Caregivers Burden Inventory) and resilience (Resilience Scale for Adults). Results: The performed analyses consisted of descriptive statistics, correlations, and regressions among the considered variables. Several significant correlations emerged among personal characteristics, CBI, and RSA variables. Specifically, age and work commitment indexes appeared to be significantly related to the development of burdens, differently from the years of study. Significant correlations emerged among personal and RSA variables, indicating precise directions for both domains. Age and gender were identified as predictors to perform multivariate regression analyses concerning CBI factors. Significant dependence relations emerged with reference to all CBI variables. Conclusion: Pathological outcomes and resilience factors represent two sides of the health professionals' experiences, also known as “invisible patients.” Greater knowledge about present conditions and future possibilities is a well-known need in literature so that the current analyses considered fundamental factors. In line with state of the art, future studies are needed in order to deepen elusive phenomena underlying maladjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Maria Merlo
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, Psychology, Educational and Cultural Studies (COSPECS), University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,CRISCAT (International Research Center for Theoretical and Applied Cognitive Sciences), University of Messina and Universitary Consortium of Eastern Mediterranean, Noto (CUMO), Noto, Italy
| | - Anca Pantea Stoian
- Faculty of General Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania.,National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases "N. C. Paulescu," Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ion G Motofei
- Faculty of General Medicine, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Salvatore Settineri
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Sandrini L, Ieraci A, Amadio P, Zarà M, Barbieri SS. Impact of Acute and Chronic Stress on Thrombosis in Healthy Individuals and Cardiovascular Disease Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217818. [PMID: 33105629 PMCID: PMC7659944 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological stress induces different alterations in the organism in order to maintain homeostasis, including changes in hematopoiesis and hemostasis. In particular, stress-induced hyper activation of the autonomic nervous system and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis can trigger cellular and molecular alterations in platelets, coagulation factors, endothelial function, redox balance, and sterile inflammatory response. For this reason, mental stress is reported to enhance the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, contrasting results are often found in the literature considering differences in the response to acute or chronic stress and the health condition of the population analyzed. Since thrombosis is the most common underlying pathology of CVDs, the comprehension of the mechanisms at the basis of the association between stress and this pathology is highly valuable. The aim of this work is to give a comprehensive review of the studies focused on the role of acute and chronic stress in both healthy individuals and CVD patients, focusing on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between stress and thrombosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Sandrini
- Unit of Brain-Heart Axis: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (M.Z.)
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (S.S.B.); Tel.: +39-02-58002021 (L.S. & S.S.B.)
| | - Alessandro Ieraci
- Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology and Functional Neurogenomics, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmaceutiche, Sezione di Fisiologia e Farmacologia, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Amadio
- Unit of Brain-Heart Axis: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (M.Z.)
| | - Marta Zarà
- Unit of Brain-Heart Axis: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (M.Z.)
| | - Silvia Stella Barbieri
- Unit of Brain-Heart Axis: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (P.A.); (M.Z.)
- Correspondence: (L.S.); (S.S.B.); Tel.: +39-02-58002021 (L.S. & S.S.B.)
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Hutchinson M, Hurley J. The impact of caregiving on the health status of regional carers in Australia: Findings from a mixed-method study. Aust J Rural Health 2020; 28:376-384. [PMID: 32744383 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
While it is known that informal carers provide the majority of caregiving in Australia, there remains limited understanding of the challenges that regional carers face in their caring role and the impact of the caregiving role on carer well-being. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to better understand the health status of caregivers as the person they care for was entering the National Disability Support Scheme. DESIGN This is a mixed-methods study. SETTING The study was undertaken in regional New South Wales, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Seventy-five carers were enrolled into the study. All lived in regional New South Wales. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The World Health Organization Well-being Index was used for quantitative data collection, and semi-structured interviews were undertaken for the collection of qualitative data. RESULT Quantitative data indicated that carers from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander backgrounds and those from low socio-economic status had significantly lower scores on the well-being index. Two key qualitative categories were evident describing carer's journey to resilience by (a) adjusting to reality predominantly through cognitive reframing strategies and (b) carers accessing external supports. CONCLUSION The health status of regional carers who are predominantly women is experiencing low levels of well-being. While many of these carers have initiated successful coping responses to the challenges of caring, there is an urgent need to increase the supports available to this population. As the recent National Disability Support Scheme is embedded, it is of importance to monitor if there are improvements in the health status of carers over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Hutchinson
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
| | - John Hurley
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia
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Ahn S, Romo RD, Campbell CL. A systematic review of interventions for family caregivers who care for patients with advanced cancer at home. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2020; 103:1518-1530. [PMID: 32201172 PMCID: PMC7311285 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2020.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the characteristics of interventions to support family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer. METHODS Five databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) were searched for English language articles of intervention studies utilizing randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental designs, reporting caregiver-related outcomes of interventions for family caregivers caring for patients with advanced cancer at home. RESULTS A total of 11 studies met the inclusion criteria. Based on these studies, the types of interventions were categorized into psychosocial, educational, or both. The characteristics of interventions varied. Most interventions demonstrated statistically significant results of reducing psychological distress and caregiving burden and improving quality of life, self-efficacy, and competence for caregiving. However, there was inconsistency in the use of measures. CONCLUSIONS Most studies showed positive effects of the interventions on caregiver-specific outcomes, yet direct comparisons of the effectiveness were limited. There is a lack of research aimed to support family caregivers' physical health. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Given caregivers' needs to maintain their wellbeing and the positive effects of support for them, research examining long-term efficacy of interventions and measuring objective health outcomes with rigorous quality of studies is still needed for better outcomes for family caregivers of patients with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soojung Ahn
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA.
| | - Rafael D Romo
- School of Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA; Department of Nursing, Dominican University of California, San Rafael, USA
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Dijkstra-de Neijs L, Leenen PJM, Hays JP, van der Valk ES, Kraaij R, van Rossum EFC, Ester WA. Biological Consequences of Psychological Distress in Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and its Potential Relevance to Other Chronic Diseases Including Cancer. CURR EPIDEMIOL REP 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40471-020-00237-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose of Review
Caregivers of children with a chronic illness are a neglected group in medical research and patient care, and are frequently confronted with chronic psychological distress. The biological consequences of this chronic distress are unclear but highly relevant, as these caregivers have a lifelong task in caring for their child. In this review, the authors specifically describe caregiver distress related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but the review may be relevant to other chronic diseases, including cancer.
Recent Findings
Epidemiological evidence illustrates the increased mortality risk in caregivers of children with ASD although some individual factors appear to diminish these risks. Biological studies demonstrate that caregiver distress can lead to dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-axis, a pro-inflammatory state of the immune and central nervous system, and gut microbiome imbalance.
Summary
Caregivers of children with a chronic illness like ASD deserve more health-related attention with respect to their psychological and physical well-being. Such attention would benefit individual caregivers, as well as their children, as both are highly interconnected. Structural psychological and physical screening of caregivers can be considered.
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Ljubičić M, Baković L, Ćoza M, Pribisalić A, Kolčić I. Awakening cortisol indicators, advanced glycation end products, stress perception, depression and anxiety in parents of children with chronic conditions. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 117:104709. [PMID: 32450487 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2020.104709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
This cross-sectional study aims to investigate awakening cortisol indicators and to explore their association with stress perception, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), depression and anxiety in parents of children with chronic conditions. We included five parental groups according to children's diagnoses: Down syndrome (DS; N = 31), autistic spectrum disorder (ASD; N = 29), cerebral palsy (CP; N = 15), diabetes mellitus type 1 (DMT1; N = 38), and a control group of heathy children (CG; N = 33). Salivary cortisol and AGEs were measured, alongside with psychological indices. Partial correlation and multiple linear regression were used in the analysis to identify parental characteristics associated with total awakening cortisol output (area under the curve with respect to the ground, AUCG), cortisol awakening response (area under the curve with respect to the increase, AUCI), perceived stress, and health outcomes (AGEs, depression and anxiety). There was no difference between groups for AUCG, while DS and DMT1 groups showed reduced AUCI (β = -0.241, p = 0.040; β = -0.249, p = 0.028, respectively), and ASD parents had a borderline insignificant result (β = -0.205, p = 0.081). Non-smokers had higher AUCG, and parental sedentary activity and sleep duration were associated with AUCI. AUCG was positively associated with AGEs (β = 0.218, p = 0.013), anxiety (β = 0.207, p = 0.004), and with depression (β = 0.156, p = 0.034), unlike the AUCI. DS parental group showed lower general stress perception (β = -0.260, p = 0.005). Parents of children with DMT1 had more pronounced depressive symptoms (β = 0.183, p = 0.039), while CP parents had a borderline insignificant result for depression (β = 0.143, p = 0.058). Based on these results, parents of children with chronic conditions have altered awaking cortisol response and are under increased risk of adverse health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Ljubičić
- Department of Health Studies, University of Zadar, Splitska 1, 23000 Zadar, Croatia; Department of Pediatrics, General Hospital Zadar, Boze Pericica 5, 23000 Zadar, Croatia.
| | - Lada Baković
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, General Hospital Zadar, Boze Pericica 5, 23000 Zadar, Croatia
| | - Martina Ćoza
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, General Hospital Zadar, Boze Pericica 5, 23000 Zadar, Croatia
| | - Ajka Pribisalić
- University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Ivana Kolčić
- Department of Public Health, University of Split School of Medicine, Soltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia
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Gouin JP, Wrosch C, McGrath J, Booij L. Interpersonal capitalization moderates the associations of chronic caregiving stress and depression with inflammation. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 112:104509. [PMID: 31744782 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Chronic stress and depression can enhance chronic low-grade inflammation. Interpersonal factors may buffer the impact of stress and depression on inflammation. Interpersonal capitalization is a social support process in which one discloses positive personal events and experiences to close others. Greater capitalization may attenuate the deleterious impact of chronic stress and depression. The goal of the current study was to assess whether interpersonal capitalization is associated with inflammation and whether it moderates the association of chronic stress and depression with inflammation. In this cross-sectional study of chronic caregiving stress, 222 caregiving mothers of adolescents with developmental disabilities or comparison mothers of typically developing adolescents completed a self-reported daily diary assessment of capitalization, the Center for Epidemiological Study-Depression scale, and provided blood samples to assess interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C-reactive protein, three circulating inflammatory markers. Regression analysis indicated that there was no main effect of capitalization on inflammation, p = .24, R2 = .006. However, there was a significant three-way interaction among capitalization, chronic caregiving stress, and depressive symptoms, p = .01, R2 = .02. Among participants with lower capitalization, greater depressive symptoms were associated with higher inflammation in the caregiving group, but not in the comparison group. Among participants with higher capitalization, greater depressive symptoms were no longer significantly associated with higher inflammation among caregivers, but were marginally related to inflammation in the comparison group. Capitalization may thus be an interpersonal process mitigating the effects of chronic stress and depression on inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Gouin
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada.
| | - C Wrosch
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
| | - J McGrath
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
| | - L Booij
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Canada
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Clustering of comorbid conditions among women who carry an FMR1 premutation. Genet Med 2020; 22:758-766. [PMID: 31896764 PMCID: PMC7118023 DOI: 10.1038/s41436-019-0733-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Emerging evidence indicates that women who carry an FMR1 premutation can experience complex health profiles beyond the two well-established premutation-associated disorders: fragile X–associated primary ovarian insufficiency (FXPOI, affects ~20–30% carriers) and fragile X–associated tremor–ataxia syndrome (FXTAS, affects ~6–15% carriers). Methods To better understand premutation-associated health profiles, we collected self-reported medical histories on 355 carrier women. Results Twenty-two health conditions were reported by at least 10% of women. Anxiety, depression, and headaches were reported by more than 30%. The number of comorbid conditions was significantly associated with body mass index (BMI) and history of smoking, but not age. Survival analysis indicated that women with FXPOI had an earlier age at onset for anxiety and osteoporosis than women without FXPOI. Cluster analysis identified eight clusters of women who reported similar patterns of comorbid conditions. The majority of carriers (63%) fell into three categories primarily defined by the presence of only a few conditions. Interestingly, a single cluster defined women with symptoms of FXTAS, and none of these women had FXPOI. Conclusion Although some women with a premutation experience complex health outcomes, most carriers report only minimal comorbid conditions. Further, women with symptoms of FXTAS appear to be distinct from women with symptoms of FXPOI.
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Kostiukow A, Strzelecki W, Poniewierski P, Samborski W. The estimation of the functioning of families with ASD children. AIMS Public Health 2019; 6:587-599. [PMID: 31909078 PMCID: PMC6940582 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2019.4.587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a disease described as a neurodevelopmental disorder as the impairment of social and communication functions. Life of the people with ASD depends on the early introduction of intensive therapeutic programmes, modifying the undesirable behaviours, and aimed at teaching social and communication skills. AIMS The goal of the present work is to estimation the functioning of families with an ASD child and compare it to the functioning of families with children not diagnosed with ASD. METHODS The study was performed using Flexibility and Cohesion Evaluation Scales. The study included 70 parents of ASD children, and 70 parents with children without diagnosed ASD, as the control group. RESULTS The parents of children with autism achieve lower results in the Balanced Cohesion sub-scale than the control group. Also, the parents of ASD children obtained higher scores in the Disengaged sub-scale than the control group. CONCLUSIONS The results of this papers can suggesting the risk of the appearance of a disturbed family system, functioning in families with children with ASD, which should be a trigger for providing these families with early family functioning diagnosis and consequent support and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kostiukow
- Department and Clinic of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznań, 28 Czerwca 1956 r Street 135/147
| | - Wojciech Strzelecki
- Department and Clinic of Clinical Psychology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Collegium Stomatologicum, Bukowska 70 Street, 60-812 Poznań
| | - Piotr Poniewierski
- Department and Clinic of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznań, 28 Czerwca 1956 r Street 135/147
| | - Włodzimierz Samborski
- Department and Clinic of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-545 Poznań, 28 Czerwca 1956 r Street 135/147
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Stress and inflammation - The need to address the gap in the transition between acute and chronic stress effects. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 105:164-171. [PMID: 30826163 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Stress responses help us navigate our environment and respond appropriately to threats. Stress systems communicate threats to the entire organism, and as such, also stimulate inflammatory mechanisms. This modulation might serve protective functions in the short term, but sustained low-grade inflammation has severe long-term health consequences. While we have reached a reasonable level of understanding of acute, as well as chronic stress effects on inflammatory mechanisms, there is a significant gap in our understanding of the transitional phase between acute and chronic stress. The purpose of this review is to first summarize current knowledge of our understanding of acute stress effects on inflammation, as well as of chronic stress effects on inflammation, and to then analyze the state of knowledge about the transitional phase between acute and chronic stress. Research discussed here shows that we are beginning to understand the early phase of repeated acute stress, but lack information on longer term exposure to repeated acute stress experiences. More research is needed to bridge this important gap und our conceptualization and understanding of the stress and health relationship.
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Hunter JE, Jenkins CL, Grim V, Leung S, Charen KH, Hamilton DR, Allen EG, Sherman SL. Feasibility of an app-based mindfulness intervention among women with an FMR1 premutation experiencing maternal stress. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2019; 89:76-82. [PMID: 30959430 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 02/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women who carry an FMR1 premutation (PM) allele and are mothers of children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) experience elevated maternal stress. In-person mindfulness sessions have been shown to be effective in alleviating maternal stress-related outcomes among mothers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our prior studies indicate women with a PM are at risk of social anxiety, a potential barrier to in-person mindfulness sessions. AIM The main goals of this pilot study were to assess feasibility and adherence of an app-based mindfulness training program among mothers of children with FXS and to explore stress, social outcomes, and potential barriers to social support. METHODS Participants (n = 18) completed questionnaires to assess stress and social anxiety, an app-based mindfulness program, and a semi-structured follow-up interview. RESULTS Thirteen out of 18 (72%) participants completed the mindfulness program; of those, 10 (77%) found it helpful. Eight out of 18 (44%) participants met criteria for social anxiety and 11 (61%) reported having difficulties reaching out for help when needed. Women with social anxiety and those experiencing barriers to social support were more likely to find the program helpful. CONCLUSIONS This study provides guidance for future mindfulness-based interventions to alleviate maternal stress in mothers of children with FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Ezzell Hunter
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, 97227, United States.
| | - Charisma L Jenkins
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, 97227, United States
| | - Valerie Grim
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, 97227, United States
| | - Sue Leung
- Center for Health Research, Kaiser Permanente Northwest, Portland, OR, 97227, United States
| | - Krista H Charen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States
| | - Debra R Hamilton
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States
| | - Emily G Allen
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States
| | - Stephanie L Sherman
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, United States
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Abstract
Psychological adjustment to having one's child diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder has important implications for a parent's mental health. In a longitudinal study, we examined the association between maternal adjustment to the diagnosis and measures of distress and well-being in 90 mothers of children with autism (baseline and 18 months). We used a novel 30-item scale "Adjustment to the Diagnosis of Autism." Factor analysis identified three dimensions of adjustment: acceptance, self-blame, and despair. Acceptance appeared to be a protective response, as it was associated with lower depressive symptoms, cross-sectionally and over time. Conversely, caregivers with increasing levels of self-blame and despair about the diagnosis over 18 months had worsening of mental health and satisfaction with life during this period.
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Understanding the Family Impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Sample: Findings from the National Survey of Children with Special Health Care Needs. Matern Child Health J 2019; 23:951-960. [DOI: 10.1007/s10995-018-02724-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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El-Beshbishi SN, El-Tantawy NL, Elzeky SM, Abdalaziz KF, Atia RA. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in children with central nervous system disorders in Mansoura, Egypt: a case-control study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 112:555-560. [PMID: 30265366 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is a global infection with a crucial role in the development of neurological diseases. Data concerning the association between T. gondii and neurological illnesses in Egyptian children is scarce. Methods A case-control study was conducted on 60 patients divided into children suffering from central nervous system manifestations without apparent chromosomal anomalies (n=30) and children with Down syndrome (n=30) recruited from Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. A total of 30 healthy children were included as controls. Demographics and clinical data were collected from all cases and Toxoplasma immunoglobulin (Ig) M and G antibodies were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Anti-T. gondii IgG was the most frequent antibody detected and the highest seropositivity rates were ranked for the neurologically disabled non-syndromic children, followed by Down syndrome, compared with controls (p≤0.001). Statistically significant (p=0.05) associations were found between Toxoplasma IgG seropositivity and hydrocephalus and between Toxoplasma IgM and a history of contact with farm animals, soil and cats in children with Down syndrome. Conclusions The association between Toxoplasma infection and neurological disorders in children should be kept in mind by paediatricians and assessment of T. gondii antibodies in early childhood is needed for timely management of afflicted patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar N El-Beshbishi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sara M Elzeky
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Raefa A Atia
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Healthy Mothers Healthy Families Workshop Intervention: A Preliminary Investigation of Healthy Lifestyle Changes for Mothers of a Child with a Disability. J Autism Dev Disord 2018; 49:935-949. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3789-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Stacey AF, Gill TK, Price K, Taylor AW. Differences in risk factors and chronic conditions between informal (family) carers and non-carers using a population-based cross-sectional survey in South Australia. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020173. [PMID: 30037861 PMCID: PMC6059288 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing discussion on the impact of informal caregiving on the health status and morbidity of family carers. Evidence suggests a proportion of carers may be at risk of poor health outcomes. However, there are limited population-based studies that provide representative data on specific risk factors among carers (eg, blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking status, activity and body mass index) and major chronic conditions (eg, asthma, diabetes and arthritis). This study aimed to redress that imbalance. METHOD Self-reported data were from the South Australian Monitoring and Surveillance System (SAMSS), a representative cross-sectional state-wide population-based survey of 600 randomly selected persons per month. SAMSS uses computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) to monitor chronic health-related problems and risk factors and to assess health outcomes. In total, 2247 family carers were identified from 35 195 participants aged 16 years and older for the 5-year period from 2010 to 2015. Logistic regression analyses examined associations of being a carer with self-reported chronic diseases and health risk factors. In addition, the population attributable risk (PAR) of being a carer was examined for selected chronic conditions. RESULTS The prevalence of carers was 6.4%, and peak age group for carers was 50-59 years. Adjusted ORs for chronic conditions in carers were significant for all chronic conditions examined. Although there is a high prevalence of self-reported risk factors and chronic conditions among carers compared with non-carers at the population level, PAR findings suggest that caregiving is associated with a small to moderate increased risk of having these chronic conditions. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring of carer health and morbidity particularly 'at risk' individuals such as female carers with asthma or diabetes remains important and provides an ongoing baseline for future surveys. To achieve this, caregiver-based studies need to become part of mainstream biomedical research at both epidemiological and clinical levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne F Stacey
- Population Research & Outcome Studies, Discipline of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tiffany K Gill
- Population Research & Outcome Studies, Discipline of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Kay Price
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anne W Taylor
- Population Research & Outcome Studies, Discipline of Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Hawken T, Turner-Cobb J, Barnett J. Coping and adjustment in caregivers: A systematic review. Health Psychol Open 2018; 5:2055102918810659. [PMID: 30450216 PMCID: PMC6236498 DOI: 10.1177/2055102918810659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic review assessed coping and adjustment in caregivers of all ages to provide a synthesis of existing literature in the context of methodological approaches and underlying theory. Four databases were searched. Reference lists, citations and experts were consulted. In total, 27 studies (13 quantitative and 14 qualitative) were included. Coping factors associated with adjustment (problem- versus emotion-focussed coping and cognitive strategies) and psychosocial factors associated with physiological adjustment (trait anxiety, coping style and social support) were identified. Results raised methodological issues. Future research requires physiological adjustment measures and longitudinal assessment of the long-term impact of childhood caregiving. Findings inform future caregiver research and interventions.
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Walsh CP, Ewing LJ, Cleary JL, Vaisleib AD, Farrell CH, Wright AGC, Gray K, Marsland AL. Development of glucocorticoid resistance over one year among mothers of children newly diagnosed with cancer. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 69:364-373. [PMID: 29269321 PMCID: PMC5857426 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2017.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic distress associates with peripheral release of cortisol and a parallel upregulation of innate inflammation. Typically, cortisol functions to down-regulate inflammatory processes. However, in the context of chronic stress, it is hypothesized that glucocorticoid receptors within immune cells become less sensitive to the anti-inflammatory effects of cortisol, resulting in increased systemic inflammation. Caring for a child newly diagnosed with cancer is a particularly provocative chronic stressor. Here, we examine evidence for the development of cellular resistance to glucocorticoids among 120 mothers (Aged 18-56 years; 86% Caucasian) across the 12 months following their child's new diagnosis with cancer. Measures of psychological distress, interleukin (IL)-6, and glucocorticoid resistance (GCR) were assessed 1, 6, and 12 months after the diagnosis. A latent factor for distress was derived from the covariation among symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress. Latent change score models revealed a significant positive association between change in distress and change in GCR from 0 to 6 months, and 6 months-1 year. This finding provides initial evidence for a longitudinal association between change in maternal distress and change in GCR from the onset of a chronic stressor through one year. Although levels of IL-6 increased during the first six months after the child's diagnosis, the magnitude of this change was not related to change in distress or change in GCR. Given the possible health consequences of reduced immune sensitivity to glucocorticoids, future work should further explore this stress response and its clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Linda J Ewing
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | | | - Alina D Vaisleib
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Chelsea H Farrell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, United States
| | - Aidan G C Wright
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Katarina Gray
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Anna L Marsland
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, United States
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Mental Health Interventions for Parent Carers of Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder: Practice Guidelines from a Critical Interpretive Synthesis (CIS) Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:ijerph15020341. [PMID: 29443933 PMCID: PMC5858410 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15020341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Parent carers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often report increased levels of stress, depression, and anxiety. Unmet parent carer mental health needs pose a significant risk to the psychological, physical, and social well-being of the parents of the child affected by ASD and jeopardize the adaptive functioning of the family as well as the potential of the child affected by ASD. This systematic review identifies key qualities of interventions supporting the mental health of parent carers and proposes practitioner-parent carer support guidelines. A search of four databases (Medline, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Social Science Data) was conducted to identify studies that met the following criteria: (1) an intervention was delivered to parent carers of a child with ASD under the age of 18 years; (2) the research design allowed for a comparison on outcomes across groups; and (3) outcome measures of the parent carers’ mental health were used. A total of 23 studies met the inclusion criteria. A critical interpretive synthesis approach was used to produce an integrated conceptualization of the evidence. Findings suggest practitioner guidelines to support the mental health and wellbeing of parent carers should include addressing the parent’s self-perspective taking and skill for real time problem-solving.
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Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) requires total caregiver attention and leads to potential difficulties throughout life. The Caregiver Burden Inventory, designed for Alzheimer disease, was modified to a RTT Caregiver Inventory Assessment (RTT CIA). Reliability and face, construct, and concurrent validity were assessed in caregivers of individuals with RTT. Chi square or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables and t tests or Wilcoxon two-sample tests for continuous variables were utilized. Survey completed by 198 caregivers; 70 caregivers completed follow-up assessment. Exploratory factor analysis revealed good agreement for physical burden, emotional burden, and social burden. Internal reliability was high (Cronbach's alpha 0.898). RTT CIA represents a reliable and valid measure, providing a needed metric of caregiver burden in this disorder.
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Pilapil M, Coletti DJ, Rabey C, DeLaet D. Caring for the Caregiver: Supporting Families of Youth With Special Health Care Needs. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2017; 47:190-199. [PMID: 28803827 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Caregivers of youth with special health care needs (YSHCN) are a critical part of the health care team. It is important for pediatric providers to be cognizant of the burden and strain caregiving can create. This article will discuss the health, psychological, social, and financial effects of caregiving, as well as strategies to screen for caregiver strain among families of YSHCN. Caregivers of YSHCN, for example, are more likely to report poor health status and demonstrate higher rates of depression and anxiety. Numerous validated screens for caregiver strain have been developed to address the multi-faceted effects of caregiving. Finally, we will discuss strategies to alleviate caregiver strain among this vulnerable population. We will describe services pediatric providers can encourage caregivers to utilize, including financial support through Supplemental Security Income (SSI), benefits available through the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and options for respite care. Addressing caregiver strain is an important aspect of maintaining a family centered approach to the care of YSHCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariecel Pilapil
- Division of General Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY
| | - Daniel J Coletti
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine, Hempstead, NY
| | - Cindy Rabey
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Cohen Children's Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY
| | - David DeLaet
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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Chen VCH, Hsu TC, Chen LJ, Chou HC, Weng JC, Tzang BS. Effects of taurine on resting-state fMRI activity in spontaneously hypertensive rats. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181122. [PMID: 28700674 PMCID: PMC5507323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a global behavior illness among children and adults. To investigate the effects of taurine on resting-state fMRI activity in ADHD, a spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) animal model was adopted. Significantly decreased serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was detected in rats of Wistar Kyoto (WKY) high-taurine group and significantly decreased interleukin (IL)-1β and CRP were detected in rats of SHR low-taurine and high-taurine groups. Moreover, significantly higher horizontal locomotion was detected in rats of WKY low-taurine and SHR low-taurine groups than in those of controls. In contrast, significantly lower horizontal locomotion was detected in rats of the SHR high-taurine group than in those of the SHR control group. Additionally, significantly lower functional connectivity (FC) and mean amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (mALFF) in the bilateral hippocampus in rats of WKY high-taurine and SHR high-taurine groups was detected. Notably, the mALFF in rats of the SHR low-taurine and high-taurine groups was significantly lower than in those of the SHR control group. These findings suggest that the administration of a high-dose taurine probably improves hyperactive behavior in SHR rats by ameliorating the inflammatory cytokines and modulating brain functional signals in SHR rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Chin-Hung Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Tsai-Ching Hsu
- Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Jeng Chen
- Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Chun Chou
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jun-Cheng Weng
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Imaging and Radiological Sciences, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (JCW); (BST)
| | - Bor-Show Tzang
- Institute of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (JCW); (BST)
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Bekhet AK, Matel-Anderson D. Risk and Protective Factors in the Lives of Caregivers of Persons With Autism: Caregivers' Perspectives. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2017; 53:199-207. [PMID: 27306504 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this descriptive exploratory study is to understand the experience of being a caregiver of a person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the light of the resilience theory. METHODS Qualitative data were collected as a part of a larger quantitative study. Ninety-three caregivers completed this qualitative study and responded to the two open-ended questions. In the parent study, subjects were recruited by convenience sampling from the Interactive ASD Network (IAN). FINDINGS The identified categories appeared to reflect three distinct categories consistent with the resilience theory, labeled as follows: risk factors, protective factors, and overlapping factors. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS These findings help to inform the planning of tailored interventions to enhance caregivers' resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abir K Bekhet
- Abir K. Bekhet, PhD, RN, HSMI, is Associate Professor of Mental Health Nursing, Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; and
| | - Denise Matel-Anderson
- Denise Matel-Anderson, APNP, RN, is Nursing Doctoral Student, Marquette University College of Nursing, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
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Lee MH, Park C, Matthews AK, Hsieh K. Differences in physical health, and health behaviors between family caregivers of children with and without disabilities. Disabil Health J 2017; 10:565-570. [PMID: 28347641 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2017.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing care for children with disabilities can negatively influence the physical health and health behaviors of family caregivers. OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS The study purposes were to compare the prevalence of chronic conditions and health risk behaviors of family caregivers of children with and without disabilities and to examine associations between disability status of children and family caregivers' chronic conditions and health risk behaviors. METHODS This study compared chronic conditions and health risk behaviors across adult family caregivers of children with a disability (FCG-D) and family caregivers of children without a disability (FCG) living in a U.S. household using 2015 National Health Interview Survey data. Health risk behaviors were defined as heavy drinking, current smoking, physical inactivity, and unhealthy sleep. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to compare chronic conditions and health risk behaviors between FCG-D and FCG with adjustments for demographic and healthcare coverage covariates. RESULTS FCG-D showed significantly greater likelihoods of chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, back pain, chronic bronchitis, heart conditions, migraine, and obesity) than FCG. FCG-D also exhibited significantly more smoking and unhealthy sleep. CONCLUSIONS Family caregivers of children with a disability reported significantly greater likelihoods of various chronic conditions and were more likely to engage in health risk behaviors (smoking and unhealthy sleep). Further study is needed to develop intervention programs for encouraging effective health-promoting behaviors among family caregivers of children with a disability as well as health policies for decreasing health disparities experienced by this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meen Hye Lee
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, 845 S. Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Chang Park
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, 845 S. Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Alicia K Matthews
- College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, 845 S. Damen Ave Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | - Kelly Hsieh
- Department of Disability and Human Development, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1640 W Roosevelt Rd, Chicago, IL 60608, USA.
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Fecteau SM, Boivin L, Trudel M, Corbett BA, Harrell FE, Viau R, Champagne N, Picard F. Parenting stress and salivary cortisol in parents of children with autism spectrum disorder: Longitudinal variations in the context of a service dog’s presence in the family. Biol Psychol 2017; 123:187-195. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2016.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Improving mental health in families with autistic children: benefits of using video feedback in parent counselling sessions offered alongside music therapy. HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY REPORT 2017. [DOI: 10.5114/hpr.2017.63558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Corwin EJ, Ferranti EP. Integration of biomarkers to advance precision nursing interventions for family research across the life span. Nurs Outlook 2016; 64:292-298. [DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 04/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pilot Study of Parent Psychophysiologic Outcomes in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Cancer Nurs 2016; 40:E48-E57. [PMID: 27257801 DOI: 10.1097/ncc.0000000000000394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are at risk for psychological distress. This distress may result in aberrant immune, inflammatory, or endocrine effects. These physiologic outcomes have not been reported previously. MAIN OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to examine the feasibility of longitudinal testing of psychophysiological parameters of stress in parents of children undergoing HSCT. METHODS This pilot study was conducted at a large children's hospital in the Midwest and included parents of children who received autologous or allogeneic HSCT. Time points included before the start of HSCT conditioning and day +30, +60, and +100. Outcome variables included parent-perceived stress, lymphocyte subsets, C-reactive protein (CRP), proinflammatory cytokines, salivary cortisol, and salivary amylase. Effect sizes were calculated for each outcome. RESULTS Twelve parent-child dyads were enrolled (10 mothers, 2 fathers). Missing data were minimal. Parent-perceived stress significantly increased from pre-HSCT through day +100, and parent CD3+ T-lymphocyte counts decreased from pre-HSCT through day +100. No significant effects were observed for salivary studies, CRP, or proinflammatory cytokines. Effect sizes ranged from 1.23 (perceived stress) to 0.07 (CRP). CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that it is feasible longitudinally measure parent psychophysiologic outcomes in the pediatric HSCT setting. In addition, parent-perceived stress increased linearly from start of conditioning through day +100, whereas parent T-lymphocyte counts decreased concurrently. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Routine psychological and physical health screening of parents of children undergoing HSCT is needed. Multidisciplinary psychosocial support services should be offered to parents at regular intervals during their child's HSCT.
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