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Swamy AM. Obesity: Post-Pandemic Weight Management. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:645-652. [PMID: 39003007 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2024.04.007] [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] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Societal changes secondary to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic led to increased prevalence of adolescents with obesity and heightened awareness of weight stigma and size bias. During this time the American Academy of Pediatrics published its first clinical practice guidelines, and the Food and Drug Administration approved new weight loss drugs for adolescents, but insurance coverage is largely unavailable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie McCartney Swamy
- Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Charleston Area Medical Center, 830 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 401, Charleston, WV 25302, USA; West Virginia University.
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2
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Downs J, Baker S, Carnegie A. Eating disorders: meeting the need for a data driven and coproduced response to pandemic disruption. BMJ 2024; 385:q1403. [PMID: 38918013 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.q1403] [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: 06/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- James Downs
- Eating Disorders Clinical Research Network, King's College London, UK
| | - Suzanne Baker
- Eating Disorders Clinical Research Network, King's College London, UK
| | - Anna Carnegie
- Eating Disorders Clinical Research Network, King's College London, UK
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Downs J. Care pathways for longstanding eating disorders must offer paths to recovery, not managed decline. BJPsych Bull 2024; 48:177-181. [PMID: 37287111 PMCID: PMC11134004 DOI: 10.1192/bjb.2023.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Eating disorders are historically underserved in healthcare, but are increasingly prevalent and recognised for their high costs regarding mortality, quality of life and the economy. Those with longstanding eating disorders are commonly labelled 'severe and enduring' (SEED), which has been challenged for its conceptual vagueness and potential to discourage patients. Attempts to define individuals from this cohort as having 'terminal' illness have also gained traction in recent years. This paper is grounded in lived/living experience and relevant research. It challenges the logical coherence and utility of SEED, arguing that the word 'enduring' unhelpfully situates intractability of longstanding illness within patients themselves and the nature of their illness. This risks a sense of inevitability and overlooks the important role of contextual factors such as lacking resources and insufficient evidence for withholding active treatment. Recommendations suggest approaches to dismantling unhelpful binaries between early intervention and intensive support, recovery and decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Downs
- Patient Representative, Faculty of Eating Disorders, Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK
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4
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Dalle Grave R, Chimini M, Cattaneo G, Dalle Grave A, Ferretti L, Parolini S, Calugi S. Intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa Outcomes before, during and after the COVID-19 Crisis. Nutrients 2024; 16:1411. [PMID: 38794649 PMCID: PMC11124178 DOI: 10.3390/nu16101411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies comparing treatment outcomes in patients with eating disorders before and during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic have yielded conflicting results. Furthermore, no study has yet evaluated treatment outcomes in adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa before, during and after the crisis. Hence, this study investigated the outcomes of an intensive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-Enhanced (CBT-E) program on adolescents with anorexia nervosa consecutively treated before (n = 64), during (n = 37) and after (n = 31) the period of emergency spanning 8 March 2020 to 31 March 2022. Results show consistent and similar improvements in eating disorder psychopathology, general psychopathology and body mass index-for-age percentiles across all three periods, with approximately 60% of patients maintaining a full response at the 20-week follow-up, suggesting that treatment efficacy remained robust. Overall, the study underscores the effectiveness of intensive CBT-E as a viable treatment option for adolescents with anorexia nervosa, even during and after unprecedented challenges such as those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Dalle Grave
- Department of Eating and Weight Disorders, Villa Garda Hospital, 37016 Verona, Italy; (M.C.); (G.C.); (A.D.G.); (L.F.); (S.P.); (S.C.)
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5
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Obeid N, Silva-Roy P, Booij L, Coelho JS, Dimitropoulos G, Katzman DK. The financial and social impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth with eating disorders, their families, clinicians and the mental health system: a mixed methods cost analysis. J Eat Disord 2024; 12:43. [PMID: 38553730 PMCID: PMC10979568 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-024-00986-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has had an adverse impact on children, youth, and families with eating disorders (EDs). The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated pre-existing personal and financial costs to youth, caregivers, and health professionals accessing or delivering ED services. The objectives of this mixed methods study were to (1) understand the indirect, direct medical and non-medical costs reported by youth, caregivers, and clinicians; (2) understand how the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted these costs, and (3) explore implications of these costs with regards to barriers and resources to inform future decisions for the ED system of care. METHODS Youth (aged 16-25 years) with lived/living experience, primary caregivers, clinicians, and decision-makers were recruited with support from various partners across Canada to complete group specific surveys. A total of 117 participants responded to the survey. From those respondents, 21 individuals volunteered to further participate in either a discussion group or individual interview to provide additional insights on costs. RESULTS Youth and primary caregivers reported costs relating to private services, transportation and impacts of not attending school or work. Additionally, primary caregivers reported the top direct medical cost being special food or nutritional supplements (82.8%). In discussion groups, youth and caregivers elaborated further on the challenges with long waitlists and cancelled services, impact on siblings and effect on family dynamics. Clinicians and decision-makers reported increased work expectations (64.3%) and fear/isolation due to COVID-19 in the workplace (58.9%). Through discussion groups, clinicians expanded further on the toll these expectations took on their personal life. Approximately 1 in 3 health professionals reported contemplating leaving their position in 1-2 years, with greater than 60% of this group stating this is directly related to working during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate the need for increased support for youth and caregivers when accessing ED services both during crisis and non-crisis times. Additionally, attention must be given to acknowledging the experience of health professionals to support better retention and resource management as they continue to navigate challenges in the health care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Obeid
- Eating Disorders Research Lab, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Rd, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L1, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | - Patricia Silva-Roy
- Eating Disorders Research Lab, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute, 401 Smyth Rd, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L1, Canada
| | - Linda Booij
- Eating Disorders Continuum, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jennifer S Coelho
- Provincial Specialized Eating Disorders Program for Children and Adolescents, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Gina Dimitropoulos
- Calgary Eating Disorder Program, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Debra K Katzman
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Papsdorf R, Genuneit J, White LO, Radeloff DM. [Suicides among children, adolescents, and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic - An analysis of police data from three German federal states]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2024; 51:79-83. [PMID: 37813365 DOI: 10.1055/a-2171-4889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected young people, resulting in increased psychological distress and rising prevalence rates for mental disorders. There is concern that completed suicides have increased in addition to the observed increase in suicide attempts. METHOD The study is based on the police crime statistics (01/2017 to 12/2022) of three federal states in Germany, representing 13% of Germany's overall population. Suicide counts and rates for the child, teenage, adolescent, and young adult age groups were compared between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods using chi-squared tests. RESULTS 860 people under age 30 died from suicide. Suicide rates did not differ between the pre-pandemic and pandemic periods in any of the age groups studied. CONCLUSION So far, there has been no discernible increase in suicides among young Germans. Ongoing suicide monitoring is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rainer Papsdorf
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universität, Leipzig
| | - Jon Genuneit
- Pädiatrische Epidemiologie, Universitätsklinikum Leipzig
| | - Lars Otto White
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universität, Leipzig
| | - Daniel Matthias Radeloff
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik des Kindes- und Jugendalters, Universität, Leipzig
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Bracké K, Steegers C, van der Harst T, Pons R, Legerstee J, Dierckx B, de Nijs P, Bax-van Berkel M, van Elburg A, Hekkelaan M, Hokke J, de Jong-Zuidema H, Korthals Altes L, Lengton-van der Spil F, Luijkx J, Schuurmans F, Smeets C, van Wijk L, Woltering C, Vernooij M, Hillegers M, White T, Dieleman G. The implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating disorder features and comorbid psychopathology among adolescents with anorexia nervosa and matched controls: a comparative cohort design study. Eat Weight Disord 2024; 29:13. [PMID: 38347293 PMCID: PMC10861646 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-024-01640-0] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on eating disorder (ED) features and psychopathology in female adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN). METHOD In total 79 females with first-onset AN (aged 12-22 years) were included and were followed up across a period of 1 year. We assessed AN participants recruited pre-pandemic (n = 49) to those recruited peri-pandemic (n = 30). Pre- (n = 37) and peri-pandemic (n = 38) age-, and education-matched typically developing (TD) girls (n = 75) were used as a reference cohort. ED features and psychopathology were assessed at baseline. After 1 year of follow-up the association between pandemic timing and clinical course was assessed. Analyses of covariance were used to examine differences in ED features and psychopathology. RESULTS Peri-pandemic AN participants experienced less ED symptoms at baseline compared to pre-pandemic AN participants. In particular, they were less dissatisfied with their body shape, and experienced less interpersonal insecurity. In addition, the peri-pandemic AN group met fewer DSM-IV criteria for comorbid disorders, especially anxiety disorders. In contrast, peri-pandemic AN participants had a smaller BMI increase over time. In TD girls, there were no differences at baseline in ED features and psychopathology between the pre- and peri-pandemic group. CONCLUSION Overall, peri-pandemic AN participants were less severely ill, compared to pre-pandemic AN participants, which may be explained by less social pressure and peer contact, and a more protective parenting style during the pandemic. Conversely, peri-pandemic AN participants had a less favorable clinical course, which may be explained by reduced access to health care facilities during the pandemic. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrien Bracké
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cathelijne Steegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tess van der Harst
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rozemarijn Pons
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Legerstee
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bram Dierckx
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pieter de Nijs
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Annemarie van Elburg
- Altrecht-Rintveld, Mental Health Care Organisation for Eating Disorders, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Hekkelaan
- Department of Pediatrics, Het Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Joke Hokke
- Emergis-Ithaka, Mental Health Care Organisation for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kloetinge, The Netherlands
| | - Hetty de Jong-Zuidema
- GGZ Delfland, Mental Health Care Organisation for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Lucas Korthals Altes
- LUMC-Curium, Mental Health Care Organisation for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Farida Lengton-van der Spil
- Department for Eating Disorders, Emergis, Organisation for Mental Health and Well-Being, Goes, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Luijkx
- GGZ Westelijk Noord Brabant, Mental Health Care Organisation for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Roosendaal and Bergen Op Zoom, Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands
| | - Femke Schuurmans
- Department of Pediatrics, The Bravis Hospital, Bergen Op Zoom, The Netherlands
| | - Carien Smeets
- Department of Pediatrics, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Lia van Wijk
- Department of Pediatrics, Franciscus Gasthuis en Vlietland, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claire Woltering
- Department of Pediatrics, Het Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Meike Vernooij
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Manon Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tonya White
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Section on Social and Cognitive Developmental Neuroscience, National Institutes of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gwen Dieleman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, P.O. Box 2060, 3015 GD, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Coret A, Newhook D, Harrison ME. Adolescents on an inpatient unit and their healthcare providers: what's working and what's not. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2024; 36:45-53. [PMID: 38252927 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2023-0151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Adolescents admitted to hospital can face unique medical and psychosocial challenges, and may be treated by healthcare providers who do not recognize or adequately address these needs. Our goal was to better understand the experiences of both patients and providers at a local level. METHODS We designed a cross-sectional survey-based study of two participant groups: (1) adolescent patients (aged 10-19) admitted to general medical wards at a tertiary pediatric hospital and (2) pediatric healthcare providers representing multiple disciplines. RESULTS A total of 65 individuals participated: 25 adolescents (mean age 14.6; range 11-17) and 40 multidisciplinary healthcare providers. Most adolescents reported being treated respectfully (88 %) and taken seriously (92 %) by their providers. Several identified structure and routine, a break from daily stressors, and quality time with loved ones as positive aspects to hospitalization, while the use of correct gender pronouns, privacy, and age-appropriate leisure activities were cited areas for improvement. The majority of providers reported enjoying caring for adolescents (82 %) and forging therapeutic connections with them (87 %). Several areas of discomfort were noted, including gender and sexuality, substance use, and suicidality. Identified care gaps included inadequate training/education, suboptimal ward environments, and lack of community resources. CONCLUSIONS Hospitals should recognize adolescent patients' needs for privacy, youth-centered communication, and developmentally-appropriate spaces. Pediatric healthcare professionals generally enjoy providing care to adolescents in the in-patient setting, however, often have insufficient training in addressing adolescent-specific health and psychosocial issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alon Coret
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Dennis Newhook
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Megan E Harrison
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Murray F, Houghton S, Murphy F, Clancy E, Fortune D, McNicholas F. A Qualitative Exploration of Prominent Factors Contributing to the Aetiology of Child and Adolescent Eating Disorder Presentations during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Perspectives of Patients, Parents and Clinicians. J Clin Med 2024; 13:615. [PMID: 38276121 PMCID: PMC10816259 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study was to explore the prominent factors that contributed to the development of child and adolescent eating disorder presentations during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS This was achieved through a qualitative analysis of interviews gathered from (1) adolescent patients diagnosed with an eating disorder (ED) during the COVID-19 pandemic (aged 13-18) (n = 4), (2) parents of patients attending an ED service (n = 7) and (3) clinicians working within a specialist child and adolescent ED support service (n = 7). Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data and establish the most prominent aetiological factors reported. RESULTS The most prominent aetiological factors reported were (1) the accumulation of risk factors; (2) seeking control amid increased anxiety, stress and uncertainty; (3) social isolation; (4) an increased focus on exercise and "healthy eating"; (5) increased social media use promoting unhelpful attention towards ED triggers; and (6) a lack of both awareness and support services. CONCLUSION During the COVID-19 pandemic, the quantity and severity of ED presentations increased. The current study uncovered six themes perceived by patients, parents and clinical staff that contributed to the aetiology of ED presentations during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is hoped that the insight gained through this research study into ED aetiology may act as a basis for further research and support ED awareness, prevention and intervention in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Finán Murray
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Sharon Houghton
- Clinical Psychology Programme, Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland;
| | - Fay Murphy
- Lucena Clinic Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services, 59 Orwell Road, Rathgar, D06 HX93 Dublin, Ireland; (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Emma Clancy
- Lucena Clinic Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services, 59 Orwell Road, Rathgar, D06 HX93 Dublin, Ireland; (F.M.); (F.M.)
| | - Dónal Fortune
- Department of Psychology, University of Limerick, V94 T9PX Limerick, Ireland
| | - Fiona McNicholas
- Lucena Clinic Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services, 59 Orwell Road, Rathgar, D06 HX93 Dublin, Ireland; (F.M.); (F.M.)
- Children’s Health Ireland Crumlin, D12 N512 Dublin, Ireland
- School Medicine & Medical Sciences, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
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Meneguzzo P, Ajello A, Consolati MD, Ceccato E, Vita A, Sala A, Santonastaso P. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth mental health: a cross-sectional study on eating disorder patients and their unaffected siblings. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2024; 18:6. [PMID: 38184616 PMCID: PMC10771694 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00698-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescence has emerged as a particularly vulnerable phase during the COVID-19 pandemic, with eating disorders (EDs) representing a prominent psychopathological challenge linked to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Emerging evidence suggests that not only individuals with EDs but also their healthy siblings (HS) may experience unique psychological effects in this context. However, the existing literature on this topic remains limited. This study seeks to examine and compare the effects of the pandemic on adolescents and adults, with a specific focus on the impact of containment measures, disruptions in daily routines, and alterations in life trajectories, for both individuals with EDs and their HS. METHODS We enrolled 273 individuals, including those diagnosed with EDs and their HS. Among the participants, 120 were under the age of 19. Multiple self-report questionnaires were administered to assess the psychological impact of 1 year of the COVID-19 pandemic. These assessments covered a range of psychological constructs, including posttraumatic symptoms, general psychopathology, and eating-related concerns. RESULTS Notably, adolescent patients with EDs demonstrated the highest psychopathological scores within our sample. They were the sole subgroup to surpass clinical cutoffs, exhibiting more pronounced issues concerning eating-related concerns and general psychological well-being. Our findings also shed light on the unique experiences of HS during the pandemic. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the specific psychological burden endured by adolescents with EDs throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the vulnerability of this demographic. Moreover, the experiences of HS, often overlooked in the literature, warrant increased attention in future health programs and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Meneguzzo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy.
- Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Alessio Ajello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mauro Domenico Consolati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Enrico Ceccato
- Mental Health Department, Vicenza Eating Disorders Center, Azienda ULSS8 "Berica", Vicenza, Italy
| | - Antonio Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sala
- Mental Health Department, Vicenza Eating Disorders Center, Azienda ULSS8 "Berica", Vicenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Santonastaso
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
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Luginaah NA, Batung ES, Ziegler BR, Amoak D, Trudell JP, Arku G, Luginaah I. The Parallel Pandemic: A Systematic Review on the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on OCD among Children and Adolescents. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:7095. [PMID: 38063525 PMCID: PMC10706205 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20237095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying social changes severely impacted mental health globally. Children and adolescents may have been vulnerable to adverse mental health outcomes, especially obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), due to their underdeveloped resilience and coping skills stemming from their progressing physical and psychological development. Few studies have explored the parallels between the pandemic and OCD trends in this population. This systematic review aims to identify the impacts of COVID-19 on OCD among children and adolescents. Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search of eight databases for studies that assessed OCD outcomes independently or as part of other psychiatric diagnoses during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted. The search was limited to studies on humans and those written in English and published between January 2020 and May 2023. We identified 788 articles, out of which 71 were selected for a full-text review. Twenty-two papers were synthesized from 10 countries for the final analysis. We found that 77% of our studies suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on OCD among children and adolescents. We also found a complex interplay of individual, household, and socio-structural factors associated with the aggravation of OCD. Conversely, a few studies revealed that the pandemic strengthened relationships and resilience. The findings of this study emphasize the need for mental health screening and support for this population, especially during pandemic periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasong A. Luginaah
- Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
| | - Evans S. Batung
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada (I.L.)
| | - Bianca R. Ziegler
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street W, Hamilton, ON L8P 1H6, Canada
| | - Daniel Amoak
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada (I.L.)
| | - John Paul Trudell
- Department of Family Medicine, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street W, Hamilton, ON L8P 1H6, Canada
| | - Godwin Arku
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada (I.L.)
| | - Isaac Luginaah
- Department of Geography and Environment, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada (I.L.)
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Hesseling A. Has the COVID-19 pandemic had an effect on the incidence and severity of anorexia nervosa referrals in young people? Future Healthc J 2023; 10:135. [PMID: 38406699 PMCID: PMC10884681 DOI: 10.7861/fhj.10-3-s135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
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13
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Carey EG, Ridler I, Ford TJ, Stringaris A. Editorial Perspective: When is a 'small effect' actually large and impactful? J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2023; 64:1643-1647. [PMID: 37226639 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Reporting of effect sizes is standard practice in psychology and psychiatry research. However, interpretation of these effect sizes can be meaningless or misleading - in particular, the evaluation of specific effect sizes as 'small', 'medium' and 'large' can be inaccurate depending on the research context. A real-world example of this is research into the mental health of children and young people during the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence suggests that clinicians and services are struggling with increased demand, yet population studies looking at the difference in mental health before and during the pandemic report effect sizes that are deemed 'small'. In this short review, we utilise simulations to demonstrate that a relatively small shift in mean scores on mental health measures can indicate a large shift in the number of cases of anxiety and depression when scaled up to an entire population. This shows that 'small' effect sizes can in some contexts be large and impactful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Grace Carey
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Isobel Ridler
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Tamsin Jane Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Argyris Stringaris
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
- First Dept of Psychiatry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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14
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Hughes AM, McArthur D. Weight stigma, welfare stigma, and political values: Evidence from a representative British survey. Soc Sci Med 2023; 334:116172. [PMID: 37696238 PMCID: PMC7615479 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Obesity-related stigma is increasingly recognised as a public health issue, with serious implications for mental and physical health. However, very little is known about what drives inter-individual differences in obesity-stigmatizing views, and how they are distributed in the population. If views about obesity are not independent of a person's wider beliefs and values, this must be understood so that obesity stigma can be effectively tackled. In a representative sample of British adults aged 18-97 (N = 2186), we explore predictors of weight-stigmatizing attitudes. We consider demographics, socioeconomic position, factors related to one's own weight and health, and beliefs about the causes and consequences of obesity. We explore the role of core political values which predict views about other stigmatized groups, and views about welfare recipients, who are frequently linked with obesity in public and political discourse. Finally, we assess to what extent demographic differences in weight-stigmatizing attitudes are explained by individual body mass index (BMI), attitudes, and beliefs. Consistent with previous studies, women were less weight-stigmatizing than men. People in late middle-age were less weight-stigmatizing than younger or older adults. Adjusted for age and gender, an index of weight-stigmatizing views was positively associated with income, and highest in intermediate categories of education and occupational social class. Weight-stigmatizing attitudes were associated with more right-wing values, more authoritarian values, and more stigmatizing views about welfare recipients. Factors including own BMI, beliefs about causes of obesity, welfare-stigmatizing attitudes and authoritarian values contributed to socioeconomic differences. Weight-stigmatizing attitudes show clear differences between demographic groups, but also vary according to wider social attitudes, beliefs, and a person's core political values. Efforts to reduce weight stigma, and other kinds of stigma, may be more effective if they recognise these links.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Hughes
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, UK.
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15
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FitzPatrick P, Antczak K, Lynch F, Lynch S, McNicholas F. General Practitioner referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services: Did they differ during Covid-19? Ir J Psychol Med 2023; 40:457-459. [PMID: 36855804 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2023.13] [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] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID pandemic has been associated with poorer mental health in youth. This study aimed to evaluate any change in General Practitioner (GP) referral pattern to Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMH) services during the first 10 months of Covid-19 and compare with a similar time frame in 2019. METHODS All accepted referrals to a CAMH Service in Dublin during the study time frame were reviewed. Referral letters were batch anonymised and clinical data extracted using a study specific proforma for analysis. RESULTS Referral numbers between the two time periods did not statistically differ. Proportionally more females were referred during the pandemic, increasing to 56.9%, n = 99, compared to 43.1%, n = 75 in 2019 (p = 0.01). Referrals were more often designated by the clinician as urgent during the pandemic (61.3%, n = 98) than before (39%, n = 62, p < 0.001). Referrals outlining self-harm or suicidal ideation increased significantly, from 42.1% (n = 67) to 55.9% (n = 90) (p = 0.014). Referrals for externalising problems fell from 2019 rates; ADHD (21.4%, n = 34 vs 11.1%, n = 18; p = 0.013), ASD (26.4%, n = 42 vs 16.1%, n = 26; p = 0.038) and conduct problems (23.3%, n = 37 vs 7.4%, n = 12; p < 0.001). Although numbers for psychosis in 2019 were low (10.7%, n = 17), these also fell significantly in 2020 (2.5%, n = 4; p < 0.001). DISCUSSION The finding of reduced referrals for ADHD and ASD has not previously been reported. With concerns regarding educational loss linked to online learning, it is crucial that these youth are not doubly disadvantaged by delayed referral and education decline.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - K Antczak
- Department of Psychiatry, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin, Ireland
| | - F Lynch
- Lucena Clinic Tallaght, Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland
| | - S Lynch
- SMMS, UCD, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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16
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Peebles I, Cronje JL, Clark L, Sharpe H, Duffy F. Experiences of inpatient eating disorder admissions: A systematic review and meta-synthesis. Eat Behav 2023; 50:101753. [PMID: 37329771 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2023.101753] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There has been a significant increase in the number of inpatient admissions for individuals with eating disorders and, with the most critical cases requiring inpatient treatment, it is essential that we continue to improve associated outcomes. The aim of the study was to synthesise the available qualitative literature on the experiences of inpatient admissions for eating disorders to understand individuals' experiences and identify areas that may require further research and/or service development. METHOD Searches were performed on the following online databases: PsycINFO, PsycArticles, PsycTherapy MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, ASSIA, Scopus and Proquest Open Access Theses. Only papers with qualitative data regarding individuals' experiences of inpatient eating disorder treatment were considered. The CASP qualitative checklist was used to assess studies and relevant data items were extracted. Thematic synthesis was used to integrate the findings in the identified studies. GRADE-CERQual was used to rate the confidence in the findings. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies were identified which the CASP assessment considered to be adequate. The synthesis produced 5 main themes; 'Care and control', 'Inpatient bubble', 'Being supported and understood', 'Challenges of living with others' eating disorders' and finally 'Relationship to eating disorder'. The GRADE CERQual framework rated findings with high or moderate confidence. CONCLUSIONS Findings reaffirmed the importance of patient-centred care and the significant impact of being separated from normal life with others also experiencing an eating disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Peebles
- University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; CAMHS NHS Lothian, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Jamie-Lee Cronje
- CAMHS NHS Lothian, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Lilli Clark
- University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Helen Sharpe
- University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Fiona Duffy
- University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; CAMHS NHS Lothian, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
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17
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Wong JWS, Skeldon S, Gill E, Taylor E, Billingham W, Stevenson PG, Shipton N, Ferguson G, Collins R, Newton R, Newell A, Martin AC. The increase in medical admissions with anorexia nervosa during the COVID-19 pandemic in Western Australia. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:1661-1666. [PMID: 37134198 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A comparative study to describe the increase in medical admissions of children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) in Western Australia in 2019 (pre-pandemic) and 2020 (peri-pandemic). METHOD Patient demographics, physiological parameters, length of stay, time to assessment by the Eating Disorder Service (EDS), and commencement of specialist eating disorder (ED) outpatient treatment was collected for adolescents admitted with AN between 1st January 2019 and 31st December 2020. RESULTS The number of admissions doubled from 126 in 2019 to 268 in 2020. The number of children admitted increased by 52%. The median length of hospital stay was shorter in 2020 (12 vs. 17 days; p < .001), but the 28-day readmission rate was greater (39.9% vs. 22.2%; p < .001). At the time of hospital discharge in 2020, only 60% of patients were able to step-down into specialist ED outpatient treatment, compared to 93% in 2019. The mean number of admissions per child before completing EDS assessment increased significantly in 2020 (2.75 vs. 0, p < .001). DISCUSSION Shorter inpatient stays and delays in the commencement of specialist ED outpatient treatment may have contributed to the increased readmission rate seen in 2020. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE This research is important as it explores the reasons for increased medical presentations and admissions of youth with AN during the COVID-19 pandemic in Western Australia. We hope that our lessons learned may be helpful to others trying to balance similar clinical workloads.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica W S Wong
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sarah Skeldon
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Emma Gill
- Eating Disorder Service, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ellen Taylor
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Wesley Billingham
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Paul Geoffrey Stevenson
- Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nicolene Shipton
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Grant Ferguson
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel Collins
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Rachel Newton
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Amanda Newell
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew C Martin
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
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18
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Schlissel AC, Richmond TK, Eliasziw M, Leonberg K, Skeer MR. Anorexia nervosa and the COVID-19 pandemic among young people: a scoping review. J Eat Disord 2023; 11:122. [PMID: 37474976 PMCID: PMC10360262 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-023-00843-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The extent to which the recent global COVID-19 Pandemic has impacted young people with restrictive eating disorders [i.e., anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN)] is unclear. We conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify how the pandemic has impacted this population and to identify gaps in the current literature to inform future research efforts. MAIN BODY We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, PsycInfo, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global, LitCovid, Google Scholar, and relevant agency websites from 2019 to 2022. We included studies that focused on young people with AN/AAN globally. Of the 916 unduplicated articles screened, 17 articles met the inclusion criteria, reporting on 17 unique studies including 4,379 individuals. Three key findings were identified. First, an increase in hospitalizations related to eating disorders was found during COVID-19 among young people with AN and AAN. Multiple studies cited increased medical instability, even though the overall duration of disease was shorter compared to pre-pandemic levels. Second, changes in eating disorder-related symptomology during the pandemic were reported in this population, as well as poorer overall behavioral and mental health. Suggested reasons behind changes included boredom or minimal distraction from pathological thoughts, increased social isolation, increased social media and online use (e.g., reading blogs or watching YouTube), gym and school closures, changes in routines due to lockdowns and quarantines, and worries over gaining the "Quarantine 15". Third, there was an increase in the use of telemedicine as a treatment modality for the treatment of AN. Challenges were reported by both clinicians and patients regardless of past experience using telemedicine. When compared to no treatment, telemedicine was recognized as the best option during COVID-19 lockdowns; however some individuals expressed the preference for in-person treatment and planned to return to it once it became available. CONCLUSION The pandemic significantly impacted young people with restrictive eating disorders as seen by increased hospitalizations and requests for outpatient care. A primary driver of the changes in eating disorder symptomatology may be lockdowns and quarantines. Further research investigating how the series of lockdowns and re-openings impacted individuals with AN/AAN is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Schlissel
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111 USA
| | - Tracy K. Richmond
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, 6th Floor, 333 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 USA
- Harvard Medical School, Pediatrics, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Misha Eliasziw
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111 USA
| | - Kristin Leonberg
- Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Jaharis Family Center for Biomedical and Nutrition Sciences, Tufts University, 150 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111 USA
| | - Margie R. Skeer
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, 136 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02111 USA
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19
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Trafford AM, Carr MJ, Ashcroft DM, Chew-Graham CA, Cockcroft E, Cybulski L, Garavini E, Garg S, Kabir T, Kapur N, Temple RK, Webb RT, Mok PLH. Temporal trends in eating disorder and self-harm incidence rates among adolescents and young adults in the UK in the 2 years since onset of the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based study. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2023:S2352-4642(23)00126-8. [PMID: 37352883 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(23)00126-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-harm and eating disorders share multiple risk factors, with onset typically during adolescence or early adulthood. We aimed to examine the incidence rates of these psychopathologies among young people in the UK in the 2 years following onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a population-based study using the primary care electronic health records of patients aged 10-24 years in the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD). The observation period was from Jan 1, 2010, to March 31, 2022. We calculated the monthly incidence rates of eating disorders and self-harm according to the first record of each outcome. On the basis of antecedent trends between January, 2010, and February, 2020, negative binomial regression models were fitted to predict monthly incidence rates after the pandemic began in March, 2020. Percentage differences between observed and expected incidence were calculated to indicate changes since the onset of the pandemic, with stratification by sex, age, and deprivation quintile. FINDINGS The primary care health records of 9 184 712 patients aged 10-24 years (4 836 226 [52·7%] female patients and 4 348 486 [47·3%] male patients; n=1881 general practices) were included for analysis. The incidence rates of eating disorders and self-harm among girls were higher than expected between March 1, 2020, and March 31, 2022. The observed incidence of eating disorders was 42·4% (95% CI 25·7-61·3) higher than expected for girls aged 13-16 years, and 32·0% (13·3-53·8) higher than expected for girls aged 17-19 years, whereas other age groups showed little difference between observed and expected incidence. Similarly, the increase in self-harm incidence was driven by girls aged 13-16 years, for whom the observed incidence was 38·4% (20·7-58·5) higher than expected. By contrast, among boys in all age groups, the incidence rates of eating disorders and self-harm were lower than, or close to, the expected rates. Among boys, the observed incidence of eating disorders was 22·8% (9·2-34·4) lower than expected, and the observed incidence of self-harm was 11·5% (3·6-18·7) lower than expected. The estimated increases in eating disorder and self-harm incidence among girls aged 13-16 years were largely attributable to increases within less deprived communities. INTERPRETATION Although causes are uncertain, increased incidence of eating disorder diagnoses and self-harm among teenage girls in the UK during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic highlight an urgent need for intervention. Early identification of mental health difficulties by primary care clinicians is necessary. Timely access to treatments and sufficient support from general practitioners and mental health services needs to be available to manage presenting problems and to prevent exacerbations of conditions. FUNDING National Institute for Health and Care Research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex M Trafford
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthew J Carr
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Darren M Ashcroft
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Carolyn A Chew-Graham
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Emma Cockcroft
- College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Lukasz Cybulski
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Shruti Garg
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Nav Kapur
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Roger T Webb
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Pearl L H Mok
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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20
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Napp AK, Kaman A, Erhart M, Westenhöfer J, Ravens-Sieberer U. Eating disorder symptoms among children and adolescents in Germany before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1157402. [PMID: 37304440 PMCID: PMC10254422 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1157402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Disordered eating is highly prevalent among children and adolescents. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitalizations due to eating disorders have peaked and overweight has risen. The aim of this study was to determine differences in the prevalence of eating disorder symptoms among children and adolescents in Germany before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify associated factors. Materials and methods Eating disorder symptoms and associated factors were examined in a sample of n = 1,001 participants of the nationwide population-based COPSY study in autumn 2021. Standardized and validated instruments were used to survey 11-17-year-olds along with a respective parent. To identify differences in prevalence rates, logistic regression was used to compare results with data from n = 997 participants of the prepandemic BELLA study. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to examine associations with relevant factors in the pandemic COPSY sample. Results Eating disorder symptoms were reported by 17.18% of females and 15.08% of males in the COPSY study. Prevalence rates were lower overall in the COPSY sample compared to before the pandemic. Male gender, anxiety, and depressive symptoms were associated with increased odds for eating disorder symptoms in the pandemic. Conclusion The pandemic underscores the importance of further research, but also prevention and intervention programs that address disordered eating in children and adolescents, with a focus on age - and gender-specific differences and developments. In addition, screening instruments for eating disorder symptoms in youths need to be adapted and validated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Kathrin Napp
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Competence Center Health, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Kaman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael Erhart
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Public Health, Alice Salomon University of Applied Sciences, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Apollon University of Applied Sciences, Bremen, Germany
| | - Joachim Westenhöfer
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Competence Center Health, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ulrike Ravens-Sieberer
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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21
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López-Gil JF, Jiménez-López E, Fernández-Rodríguez R, Garrido-Miguel M, Victoria-Montesinos D, Gutiérrez-Espinoza H, Tárraga-López PJ, Mesas AE. Prevalence of Disordered Eating and Its Associated Factors From a Socioecological Approach Among a Sample of Spanish Adolescents: The EHDLA Study. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605820. [PMID: 37051310 PMCID: PMC10084851 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was twofold: a) to establish the prevalence of adolescents with disordered eating and b) to determine the factors associated with this prevalence in a sample of Spanish adolescents from the Valle de Ricote (Region of Murcia, Spain).Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 730 adolescents (56.2% girls) from the EHDLA study. To determine the prevalence of disordered eating, the Sick, Control, One stone, Fat, Food (SCOFF) questionnaire was used. A socioecological approach was used to identify individual-, interpersonal-, or organizational-level factors associated with disordered eating.Results: The prevalence of disordered eating was 30.1%. This condition was associated with female sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.60; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.81–3.73), immigrant status (OR = 2.22; 95% CI, 1.51–3.25), or excess weight (OR = 2.74; 95% CI, 1.93–3.89). Furthermore, for each additional hour slept, lower odds of having disordered eating were found (OR = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.67–0.98).Discussion: Almost one-third of the sample of Spanish adolescents analyzed reported disordered eating. Female sex, immigrant status and excess weight are individual aspects that seem to be related to disordered eating among Spanish adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Francisco López-Gil
- Navarrabiomed, Hospital Universitario de Navarra (HUN), Universidad Pública de Navarra (UPNA), IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
- One Health Research Group, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Estela Jiménez-López
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
| | | | - Miram Garrido-Miguel
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Department of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
| | - Desirée Victoria-Montesinos
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition, UCAM Universidad Católica San Antonio de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Héctor Gutiérrez-Espinoza, ; Desirée Victoria-Montesinos,
| | - Héctor Gutiérrez-Espinoza
- Escuela de Fisioterapia, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
- *Correspondence: Héctor Gutiérrez-Espinoza, ; Desirée Victoria-Montesinos,
| | - Pedro J. Tárraga-López
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Arthur Eumann Mesas
- Health and Social Research Center, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Cuenca, Spain
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
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22
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Hopkinson E, Petty J. Why eating disorders in children and young people are increasing: implications for practice. Nurs Child Young People 2023; 35:24-28. [PMID: 36468171 DOI: 10.7748/ncyp.2022.e1445] [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: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
According to data collected by NHS England in 2022 1,721 children and young people were awaiting treatment for eating disorders compared with 603 patients in 2016. This reveals an increase of 185% in eating disorders among children and young people and suggests that this increase will continue to occur even with the government pledging £79 million ( GOV UK 2021 ) to expand children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) and early intervention services ( NHS England 2022a ). This is due to the already extensive CAMHS waiting list managing the sizeable accumulation of referrals combined with the consistent increase of new referrals. This article outlines the most common types of eating disorders, the importance of the school nurse and factors that have affected the prevalence of eating disorders in young people, highlighting that early intervention and prevention is vital. The authors argue that this can be achieved through increased funding for services such as CAMHS and the First Episode and Rapid Early Intervention for Eating Disorders service, stricter legislation surrounding social media and greater mental health education in schools for teachers, young people and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmie Hopkinson
- Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education, Kingston University, Kingston Upon Thames, Surrey, England
| | - Julia Petty
- Department of Nursing, Health and Wellbeing, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, England
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Vyver E, Han AX, Dimitropoulos G, Patten SB, Devoe DJ, Marcoux-Louie G, Katzman DK. The COVID-19 Pandemic and Canadian Pediatric Tertiary Care Hospitalizations for Anorexia Nervosa. J Adolesc Health 2023; 72:344-351. [PMID: 36202680 PMCID: PMC9529357 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Global studies show an increase in hospitalizations for pediatric eating disorders (EDs). No published Canadian studies have confirmed these findings in pediatric ED programs for one-year post onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary objective was to examine health administrative data from two pediatric tertiary care ED programs: Alberta Children's Hospital (ACH) and Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) to determine the number of pediatric hospitalizations with the most responsible discharge diagnosis of anorexia nervosa (AN). METHODS This hospital-based design explored monthly pediatric hospitalizations in seven-year-olds to 18-year-olds between March 11, 2014 and March 11, 2021 using the Discharge Abstract databases. The analysis used negative binomial regression with robust standard errors to compare hospitalization counts in the months preceding and following the World Health Organization pandemic declaration (March 11, 2020). RESULTS Hospitalizations due to pediatric AN increased by 63% and 132% at SickKids (p < .001) and ACH (p < .001), respectively, in the first year of the pandemic compared to the previous six years. The total number of non-ED hospitalizations decreased by 29.3% and 2.4% at SickKids and ACH, respectively. DISCUSSION This is the first Canadian study to show a rise in pediatric hospitalizations over one year due to AN in two tertiary care hospitals following the onset of the pandemic, confirming the impact that the pandemic has had on children and adolescents with AN in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellie Vyver
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Adolescent Medicine, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Calgary Eating Disorder Program, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Angela X. Han
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gina Dimitropoulos
- Department of Pediatrics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Calgary Eating Disorder Program, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Scott B. Patten
- Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, Cuthbertson and Fischer Chair in Pediatric Mental Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel J. Devoe
- Mathison Centre for Mental Health Research & Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Psychology, Mount Royal University, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gisele Marcoux-Louie
- Calgary Eating Disorder Program, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, Alberta, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Debra K. Katzman
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Li TH, Kamin L, George J, Saiz FS, Meyer P. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on treatment for mental health needs: a perspective on service use patterns and expenditures from commercial medical claims data. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:163. [PMID: 36797739 PMCID: PMC9932413 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09080-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine changes in use patterns, cost of healthcare services before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and their impacts on expenditures for patients receiving treatment for depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance use. METHODS This cross-sectional study employed statistical tests to analyze claims in MarketScan® Commercial Database in March 2020-February 2021 and quarterly from March 2020 to August 2021, compared to respective pre-pandemic periods. The analysis is based on medical episodes created by the Merative™ Medical Episode Grouper (MEG). MEG is a methodology that groups medical and prescription drug claims to create clinically relevant episodes of care. RESULTS Comparing year-over-year changes, proportion of patients receiving anxiety treatment among all individuals obtaining healthcare services grew 13.7% in the first year of the pandemic (3/2020-2/2021) versus 10.0% in the year before the pandemic (3/2019-2/2020). This, along with a higher growth in price per episode (5.5% versus 4.3%) resulted in a greater increase in per claimant expenditure ($0.61 versus $0.41 per month). In the same periods, proportion of patients receiving treatment for depression grew 3.7% versus 6.9%, but per claimant expenditure grew by same amount due to an increase in price per episode (4.8%). Proportion of patients receiving treatment for anorexia started to increase 21.1% or more in the fall of 2020. Patient proportion of alcohol use in age group 18-34 decreased 17.9% during the pandemic but price per episode increased 26.3%. Patient proportion of opioid use increased 11.5% in March-May 2020 but decreased or had no significant changes in subsequent periods. CONCLUSIONS We investigated the changes in use patterns and expenditures of mental health patients before and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic using claims data in MarketScan®. We found that the changes and their financial impacts vary across mental health conditions, age groups, and periods of the pandemic. Some changes are unexpected from previously reported prevalence increases among the general population and could underlie unmet treatment needs. Therefore, mental health providers should anticipate the use pattern changes in services with similar COVID-19 pandemic disruptions and payers should anticipate cost increases due, in part, to increased price and/or service use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ta-Hsin Li
- IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center, Yorktown Heights, NY, 10598-0218, USA.
| | - Leah Kamin
- grid.481554.90000 0001 2111 841XIBM Watson Health, Cambridge, MA 02142 USA
| | - Judy George
- grid.481554.90000 0001 2111 841XIBM Watson Health, Cambridge, MA 02142 USA
| | | | - Pablo Meyer
- grid.481554.90000 0001 2111 841XIBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598-0218 USA
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25
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Stewart SE, Best J, Selles R, Naqqash Z, Lin B, Lu C, Au A, Snell G, Westwell-Roper C, Vallani T, Ewing E, Dogra K, Doan Q, Samji H. Age-specific determinants of psychiatric outcomes after the first COVID-19 wave: baseline findings from a Canadian online cohort study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2023; 17:20. [PMID: 36747252 PMCID: PMC9901839 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-023-00560-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Canadians endured unprecedented mental health (MH) and support access challenges during the first COVID-19 wave. Identifying groups of individuals who remain at risk beyond the acute pandemic phase is key to guiding systemic intervention efforts and policy. We hypothesized that determinants of three complementary, clinically actionable psychiatric outcomes would differ across Canadian age groups. METHODS The Personal Impacts of COVID-19 Survey (PICS) was iteratively developed with stakeholder feedback, incorporating validated, age-appropriate measures. Baseline, cross-sectional online data collected between November 2020-July 2021 was used in analyses. Age group-specific determinants were sought for three key baseline MH outcomes: (1) current probable depression, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and/or suicide attempt during COVID-19, (2) increased severity of any lifetime psychiatric diagnosis, and (3) inadequate MH support access during COVID-19. Multivariable logistic regression models were constructed for children, youth (self- and parent-report), young adults (19-29 years) and adults over 29 years, using survey type as a covariate. Statistical significance was defined by 95% confidence interval excluding an odds ratio of one. RESULTS Data from 3140 baseline surveys were analyzed. Late adolescence and early adulthood were identified as life phases with the worst MH outcomes. Poverty, limited education, home maker/caregiver roles, female and non-binary gender, LGBTQ2S + status and special educational, psychiatric and medical conditions were differentially identified as determinants across age groups. INTERPRETATION Negative psychiatric impacts of COVID-19 on Canadians that include poor access to MH support clearly persisted beyond the first wave, widening pre-existing inequity gaps. This should guide policy makers and clinicians in current and future prioritization efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Evelyn Stewart
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - John Best
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Robert Selles
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Zainab Naqqash
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Boyee Lin
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Cynthia Lu
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Antony Au
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Gaelen Snell
- grid.61971.380000 0004 1936 7494Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Clara Westwell-Roper
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Tanisha Vallani
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Elise Ewing
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Kashish Dogra
- grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Quynh Doan
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.17091.3e0000 0001 2288 9830Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Hasina Samji
- grid.414137.40000 0001 0684 7788British Columbia Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC Canada ,grid.418246.d0000 0001 0352 641XBritish Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC Canada
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Downs J, Ayton A, Collins L, Baker S, Missen H, Ibrahim A. Untreatable or unable to treat? Creating more effective and accessible treatment for long-standing and severe eating disorders. Lancet Psychiatry 2023; 10:146-154. [PMID: 36697122 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(22)00400-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The evidence base for the treatment of severe eating disorders is limited. In addition to improving access to early intervention, there is a need to develop more effective treatments for complex presentations of eating disorders. For patients with long-standing and severe illnesses, particular difficulties might exist with their engagement with treatment and achieving treatment outcomes. Alarmingly, there is an emerging international discourse about a concept labelled as terminal anorexia and about the withdrawal of treatment for people with severe eating disorders, resulting in the death of patients, as a legitimate option. This concept has arisen in the context of vastly overstretched specialist services and insufficient research and funding for new treatments. This Personal View combines multiple perspectives from carers, patients, and mental health professionals based in the UK, highlighting how the risks of current service provision are best alleviated by increasing resources, capacity, and training, and not by a narrowing of the criteria according to which patients with eating disorders are offered the care and support they need.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Downs
- Royal College of Psychiatrists, London, UK; Faculty of Wellbeing, Education, and Language Studies, Open University, Milton Keynes, UK.
| | - Agnes Ayton
- Department of Psychiatry, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
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27
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Cortese S, Sabe M, Solmi M. Editorial Perspective: COVID-19-related publications on young people's mental health - what have been the key trends so far and what should come next? J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2022; 63:1671-1673. [PMID: 35438193 PMCID: PMC9114924 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
In this Editorial Perspective, we take a systematic look at the overall nature of the Covid-19 related research on mental health in children and young people, to gain insight into the major trends in this area of research and inform future lines of investigation, clinical practices, and policies. By means of state-of-the-art scientometric approaches, we identified 3,692 relevant research outputs, mainly clustering around the following themes: (a) mental health consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic in children and young people; (b) impact of the pandemic on pre-existing psychiatric disorders; (c) family outcomes (i.e., family violence and parental mental health); and (d) link between physical and mental conditions. Only 23% of the retrieved publications reported new data, the remaining ones being reviews, editorials, opinion papers, and other nonempirical reports. The majority of the empirical studies used a cross-sectional design. We suggest that future research efforts should prioritise: (a) longitudinal follow-up of existing cohorts; (b) quasi-experimental studies to gain insight into causal mechanisms underlying pandemic-related psychopathology in children and young people; (c) pragmatic randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to test evidence-based intervention strategies; and (d) evidence-based guidelines for clinicians and policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuele Cortese
- Centre for Innovation in Mental HealthSchool of PsychologyFaculty of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences (CNS and Psychiatry)Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Solent NHS TrustSouthamptonUK
- Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU LangoneNew York University Child Study CenterNew York CityNYUSA
- Division of Psychiatry and Applied PsychologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Michel Sabe
- Division of Adult PsychiatryDepartment of PsychiatryUniversity Hospitals of GenevaThonexSwitzerland
| | - Marco Solmi
- Centre for Innovation in Mental HealthSchool of PsychologyFaculty of Environmental and Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Department of PsychiatryUniversity of OttawaOttawaONCanada
- Department of Mental HealthThe Ottawa HospitalOttawaONCanada
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Clinical Epidemiology ProgramUniversity of OttawaOttawaONCanada
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28
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Spina G, Clemente A, Roversi M, Marchili MR, Silvestri P, Mascolo C, Zanna V, Diamanti A, Reale A, Villani A, Raucci U, Ammirati A. Early echocardiographic evaluation of children admitted to the emergency department for anorexia nervosa during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:3409-3417. [PMID: 36053460 PMCID: PMC9438386 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01474-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Anorexia nervosa (AN) is the most frequent eating disorder (ED), whose cardiac complications may have life-threatening consequences for both the physical and psychological health of affected children. In this study, we reported and analysed the echocardiographic anomalies found in pediatric patients diagnosed with AN. METHODS We reported the demographic and clinical characteristics of children aged 8 to 18 years, who were diagnosed with AN and underwent a complete cardiological evaluation at the Emergency Department of the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome between the 1st January 2021 and the 30th June 2021. Furthermore, we compared the patients according to the presence of pericardial effusion and a BMI (body mass index) cut-off 14.5 kg/m2. RESULTS Forty-nine patients were included in the study. The mean age was 15.1 years. Most patients were female (89.8%). The mean length of hospitalization was 18 days. The mean BMI at admission was 14.8 kg/m2, with a median weight loss of 9 kg in the last year. Eleven patients (22.4%) presented with cardiovascular signs or symptoms at admission. Most patients had pericardial effusion on heart ultrasound, with a mean thickness of 6 mm (SD ± 4). The LV (left ventricle) thickness over age was significantly higher in patients with pericardial effusion, with a Z score of -2.0 vs -1.4 (p = 0.014). The administration of psychiatric drugs was significantly more frequent in patients with a lower BMI (37.5% vs 12%, p = 0.038). CONCLUSION Our study suggests that a non-urgent baseline echocardiographic evaluation with focus on left-ventricular wall thickness and mass in children with anorexia nervosa is advisable. LEVEL III Evidence obtained from cohort or case-control analytic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Spina
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Clemente
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Roversi
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Marchili
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Silvestri
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Mascolo
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Zanna
- Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders Unit, Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Diamanti
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Reale
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Villani
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Systems Medicine Department, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Umberto Raucci
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Antonio Ammirati
- Consultant Cardiologist at Pediatric Emergency Unit, Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Pediatric Emergency Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Meier K, van Hoeken D, Hoek HW. Review of the unprecedented impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the occurrence of eating disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2022; 35:353-361. [PMID: 35903873 PMCID: PMC9594124 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the recent literature on the impact of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on incidence and severity of symptoms of eating disorders (EDs). RECENT FINDINGS A worrying increase of EDs in- and outpatients has been reported since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2019/2020. Restrictions implemented during the pandemic to protect populations against COVID-19 increased the risk for onset and for worsening of EDs by disrupting eating and exercise routines, social isolation, lack of support, and limited access to healthcare. Substantial increases since the start of the pandemic have been reported for overall incidence (15%), hospital admissions (48%) and emergency department visits (11%) for EDs, with even higher increases among women and children or adolescents with an ED. During the pandemic, ED patients reported increased severity of ED-specific symptoms and increased anxiety, depression and suicidal ideations and -attempts. Treatments shifted largely toward online methods for continuity of care, despite concerns about the quality of care provided and difficulties in self-monitoring. Our review provides preliminary evidence for a similar effectiveness of online treatment to prepandemic face-to-face treatment. In-person assessment remains essential for detecting EDs and for those requiring medical admission. SUMMARY Although the ongoing COVID-2019 pandemic affected mental health globally, research shows that it particularly affected individuals with an ED diagnosis or at risk for an ED, especially women, children and adolescents, and those with anorexia nervosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karien Meier
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Hans W. Hoek
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Psychiatry, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, New York, New York, USA
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30
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Kolar DR, Mebarak M. An update on the epidemiology of eating disorders in Latin America: current findings and future challenges. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2022; 35:385-389. [PMID: 35855501 DOI: 10.1097/yco.0000000000000813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We systematically reviewed the recent literature on the epidemiology of eating disorders in Latin America. RECENT FINDINGS Most screened articles only investigated risk for eating disorders or disordered eating behaviors. Four studies reported prevalence for eating disorders. One study reported age-standardized prevalence ranging from 0.04% [95% confidence interval, CI (0.03, 0.06)] to 0.09% [95% CI (0.07, 0.13)] for anorexia nervosa and from 0.13% [95% CI (0.08, 0.17)] to 0.27% [95% CI (0.18, 0.37)] for bulimia nervosa. Three additional studies conducted in Brazil identified a general eating disorder point-prevalence of 0.40% in children aged 6--14 years and a point-prevalence of 0.7 % [95% CI (0.34, 1.55)] for bulimia nervosa, 1.4% [95% CI (0.81, 2.43)] for binge-eating disorder and 6.2% [95% CI (3.10, 5.27)] for recurrent binge eating. SUMMARY Since 2020, only few studies were published on the epidemiology of full-threshold eating disorders in Latin America. Prevalence was in a comparable range to previous findings. No studies regarding new DSM-5 eating disorder diagnoses were identified, and studies investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on prevalence or incidence of eating disorders in these countries are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David R Kolar
- Department of Psychology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
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Giacomini G, Elhadidy HSMA, Paladini G, Onorati R, Sciurpa E, Gianino MM, Borraccino A. Eating Disorders in Hospitalized School-Aged Children and Adolescents during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of Discharge Records in Developmental Ages in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192012988. [PMID: 36293569 PMCID: PMC9602016 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192012988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by behavioral and cognitive aspects that result in a significant impairment of an individual's well-being. COVID-19 pandemic consequences negatively impacted healthcare services and people's mental health. Particularly, in developmental ages, difficulties in coping with the situation could have had an impact on eating behaviors. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess EDs' hospitalization trend before, during and after the pandemic peak to evaluate whether it has been influenced. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on the hospital discharge forms of patients from 5 to 19 years old in Piedmont, which is a region in northern Italy. Overall, hospitalization, age, and gender-specific rates due to EDs that occurred in 2020 and 2021 were compared to those that occurred in 2018-2019. Since 2020, there has been a 55% reduction in overall hospitalizations, while the total proportion of EDs admissions has doubled from 2020 to 2021 (from 13.9‱ to 22.2‱). Significant hospitalization rate increases were observed both in 15-19 and in 10-14 females' age groups in 2021. Non-significant increases were observed in all males' age groups. The increase in hospitalizations for EDs should be further investigated, as it might be the tip of an iceberg not yet acknowledged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianmarco Giacomini
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Università di Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Paladini
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Università di Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Roberta Onorati
- Regional Public Health Observatory, Epidemiology Unit, Local Health Board TO3, Piedmont Region, 10195 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Elena Sciurpa
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Università di Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Michela Gianino
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Università di Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Alberto Borraccino
- Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, Università di Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
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32
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Spina G, Roversi M, Marchili MR, Raucci U, Fini F, Mirra G, Testa G, Guarnieri B, Clemente A, Diamanti A, Zanna V, Castiglioni MC, Vicari S, Reale A, Villani A. Psychiatric comorbidities and dehydration are more common in children admitted to the emergency department for eating disorders in the COVID-19 era. Eat Weight Disord 2022; 27:2473-2480. [PMID: 35294772 PMCID: PMC8925290 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-022-01386-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Since the beginning of COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing and home confinement had a significant impact on children, especially on those with eating disorders (ED). The primary objective of this retrospective study was to describe and analyze the demographic and clinical profiles of children presenting with ED during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a retrospective review of clinical charts of patients with ED younger than 18 years who accessed the emergency department of the Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, between March 2019 and March 2021. Of these, we reported and compared the demographic, clinical and laboratory data before and after the COVID-19 pandemic and looked for predictors of ED severity. RESULTS A total of 211 admissions for ED were recorded. The patients, mostly females (86.3%) were on average 14.1 years old. The mean weight loss on admission was 11 kg. Bradycardia was observed in 31.3% of the study sample. 16.6% of patients had an associated psychiatric disorder and 60.2% required psychotropic drugs. 68.7% of the patients required hospitalization. Respectively, 96 and 115 patients were admitted before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The latter were hospitalized more (78.3 vs 57.3%; p = 0.001), yet for less time (19 vs 26 days; p = 0.004), had a higher mean serum creatinine (0.68 vs 0.47; p < 0.001) and were more frequently diagnosed with an associated psychiatric disorder (23.5 vs 8.3%; p = 0.003). CONCLUSION Our study shows a significant increase of hospitalizations of children with ED during the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a shorter length of stay, more psychiatric comorbidities, and some distinctive features at the laboratory work-up, such as an increase of serum creatinine and/or a reduction of serum albumin. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III, evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Spina
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Roversi
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Marchili
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
| | - Umberto Raucci
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Fini
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Mirra
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Testa
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Benedetta Guarnieri
- University Hospital Pediatric Department, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Clemente
- Department of Maternal Infantile and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Diamanti
- Hepatology, Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Zanna
- Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders Unit, Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Castiglioni
- Anorexia Nervosa and Eating Disorders Unit, Child Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Head Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Bambino Gesù" Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Child Neuropsychiatry Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Reale
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Villani
- Department of Emergency, Acceptance and General Pediatrics, Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Chauvet-Gelinier JC, Roussot A, Vergès B, Petit JM, Jollant F, Quantin C. Hospitalizations for Anorexia Nervosa during the COVID-19 Pandemic in France: A Nationwide Population-Based Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11164787. [PMID: 36013026 PMCID: PMC9409983 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11164787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on mental health, including on food-related behaviors. However, little is known about the effect of the pandemic on anorexia nervosa (AN). We sought to assess an association between the COVID-19 pandemic and a potential increase in hospitalizations for AN in France. We compared the number of hospitalizations with a diagnosis of AN during the 21-month period following the onset of the pandemic with the 21-month period before the pandemic using Poisson regression models. We identified a significant increase in hospitalizations for girls aged 10 to 19 years (+45.9%, RR = 1.46[1.43−1.49]; p < 0.0001), and for young women aged 20 to 29 (+7.0%; RR = 1.07[1.04−1.11]; p < 0.0001). Regarding markers of severity, there was an increase in hospitalizations for AN associated with a self-harm diagnosis between the two periods. Multivariate analysis revealed that the risk of being admitted for self-harm with AN increased significantly during the pandemic period among patients aged 20−29 years (aOR = 1.39[1.06−1.81]; p < 0.05 vs. aOR = 1.15[0.87−1.53]; NS), whereas it remained high in patients aged 10 to 19 years (aOR = 2.40[1.89−3.05]; p < 0.0001 vs. aOR = 3.12[2.48−3.98]; p < 0.0001). Furthermore, our results suggest that the pandemic may have had a particular effect on the mental health of young women with AN, with both a sharp increase in hospitalizations and a high risk of self-harming behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Christophe Chauvet-Gelinier
- Department of Psychiatry, Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
- INSERM, LNC-UMR 1231, University of Burgundy, 21078 Dijon, France
| | - Adrien Roussot
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (DIM), Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Bruno Vergès
- INSERM, LNC-UMR 1231, University of Burgundy, 21078 Dijon, France
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Jean-Michel Petit
- INSERM, LNC-UMR 1231, University of Burgundy, 21078 Dijon, France
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Fabrice Jollant
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Jena University Hospital, 07743 Jena, Germany
- GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Hôpital Sainte-Anne, CMME, 75014 Paris, France
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
- Nîmes Academic Hospital (CHU), 30900 Nîmes, France
- Moods Team, INSERM, UMR-1178, CESP, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Catherine Quantin
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics (DIM), Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
- INSERM, CIC 1432, Clinical Investigation Center, Clinical Epidemiology/Clinical Trials Unit, Dijon University Hospital, 21000 Dijon, France
- INSERM, CESP, UVSQ, Université Paris-Saclay, 94807 Villejuif, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-38029-3629
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An 8-month longitudinal exploration of body image and disordered eating in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eat Behav 2022; 46:101660. [PMID: 35933925 PMCID: PMC9343067 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2022.101660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Research suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic is negatively impacting mental health, with rates of eating disorder referrals in particular rising steeply during the pandemic. This study aimed to examine 8-month changes in body image and disordered eating during the COVID-19 pandemic, and explore whether any changes were moderated by gender, age, or eating disorder history. This study used a longitudinal survey design in which 587 adults living in the UK (85 % women; mean age = 32.87 years) completed assessments every two months over five timepoints from May/June 2020 to January/February 2021. Measures included body esteem, disordered eating, and psychological distress. Mixed effect models showed small but significant improvements in body esteem and disordered eating symptoms from May/June 2020 to January/February 2021. These improvements were independent of changes in psychological distress, and did not vary by gender, age or eating disorder history. Whilst poor body image and disordered eating may have been elevated in the early period of the pandemic, this study suggests improvements, rather than worsening, of these outcomes over time. This may reflect adaptation to this changing context.
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Hamadi L, Hilson R, Lunn A, Ralph E, Rodrigues E, Sohail R. Can CBT-E be delivered in an online group format? A pilot study of the Body Image module in a child and adolescent eating disorder service. Eat Disord 2022; 31:225-241. [PMID: 35862613 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2022.2099606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The increased prevalence of eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic has led to long waiting lists in child and adolescent services. A pilot study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of providing the Body Image module, from the enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT-E), in a virtual group setting. Primary outcomes were acceptance rates, completion rates, qualitative feedback and quantitative data from routine questionnaires. From 22 eligible referrals, 12 participants accepted and enrolled in therapy. Eight completed all six sessions. Qualitative feedback was positive, with both the content and group nature of the intervention being described as helpful. There was an reduction in scores in the Clinical Impairment Assessment and all subscales of the Eating Disorder Examination for Adolescents, suggesting this was a feasible method of providing psychological therapy within the service. A larger trial is recommended to robustly test the effectiveness of the intervention compared to one-to-one in-person CBT-E, and whether the full CBT-E protocol can be effectively delivered in the same format.
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Affiliation(s)
- Layla Hamadi
- CAMHS Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Reece Hilson
- CAMHS Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Amy Lunn
- CAMHS Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Emily Ralph
- CAMHS Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Rabeeah Sohail
- CAMHS Community Services, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
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Virtual prevention of eating disorders in children, adolescents, and emerging adults: a scoping review. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:94. [PMID: 35794629 PMCID: PMC9258006 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00616-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a necessity for eating disorder (ED) outpatient treatment to be delivered virtually. Given this transition, and the surge in new ED cases, there was an urgent need to investigate virtually delivered ED prevention programs. This review aimed to identify the available evidence on virtual ED prevention programs for children, adolescents, and emerging adults. METHOD Using scoping review methodology, seven databases were searched for studies published from January 2000 to April 2021 reporting on virtually delivered ED prevention interventions for children and adolescents (< 18 years) and emerging adults (18-25 years). Studies were excluded if they contained adults (> 25 years) and individuals with clinical ED diagnoses. Abstracts and full-text papers were reviewed independently by two reviewers. Data was extracted on study type, methodology, age, sample size, virtual intervention, outcomes, and results. In April 2022, we used a forward citation chaining process to identify any relevant articles from April 2021 to April 2022. RESULTS Of 5129 unique studies identified, 67 met eligibility criteria, which included asynchronous (n = 35) and synchronous (n = 18) internet-based programs, other e-technology including mobile apps (n = 3) and text messaging interventions (n = 1), computer-based programs (n = 6), and online caregiver interventions focused on child outcomes (n = 4). Few studies mainly included children and adolescents (n = 18), whereas the vast majority included emerging adults (n = 49). For children and adolescents, the most widely researched programs were Student Bodies and its adapted versions (n = 4), eBody Project (n = 2), and Parents Act Now (n = 2). For emerging adults, the most widely researched programs were Student Bodies and its adapted versions (n = 16), eBody Project (n = 6) and Expand Your Horizon (n = 4). These interventions were effective at reducing various symptoms and ED risk. Some studies demonstrated that virtual prevention intervention efficacy resembled in-person delivery. CONCLUSION Virtual prevention interventions for EDs can be effective, however more research is needed studying their impact on children and adolescents and on improving access for vulnerable groups. Additional efficacy studies are required, such as for text messaging and mobile app ED prevention interventions. Evidence-based recommendations for virtual ED prevention for children, adolescents, and emerging adults at-risk for EDs should be prioritized.
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Wauters A, Tiete J, Reis J, Lambotte I, Marchini S, Delvenne V. Child, adolescent, and parent mental health in general population during a year of COVID-19 pandemic in belgium: a cross-sectional study. DISCOVER MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 2:16. [PMID: 37861820 PMCID: PMC10501023 DOI: 10.1007/s44192-022-00019-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate the mental health status of children, adolescents and their parents during the first year of COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium. METHOD Analysis compared results before and during the second national lockdown, which started on November 2nd 2020. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between May 2020 and April 2021. RESULTS Two hundred and eighteen adults and 273 children fully completed the survey. Almost one in five children (17.9%) presented moderate-to-severe scores of depression. Adolescents presented a higher level of depression than children (p = 0.007). The rate of moderate-to-severe depression scores (10.8% to 21%, p = 0.007) and internalized symptoms increased during the second lockdown (p < 0.001). Parents' depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety (p = 0.027) levels also increased during the second lockdown. Logistic regression showed that the use of psychotropic medication in parents and parents' depression scores were risk factors for children to have worse depression scores. CONCLUSION The second lockdown appears to worsen the effects of the pandemic on children's and parents' mental health. There is a need to implement specific interventions targeting both children/adolescents and their parents to support them during lockdown periods and improve mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélyne Wauters
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Julien Tiete
- Psychology Department, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joana Reis
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Lambotte
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Simone Marchini
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Erasme Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Véronique Delvenne
- Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Department, Queen Fabiola Children's University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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38
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Dalle Grave R, Dalle Grave A, Bani E, Oliosi A, Conti M, Dametti L, Calugi S. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intensive cognitive behavioral therapy outcomes in patients with anorexia nervosa-A cohort study. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 56:216-224. [PMID: 35751430 PMCID: PMC9349485 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the efficacy of an intensive treatment based on enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-E) in patients with anorexia nervosa. METHODS This cohort study analyzed 57 patients with anorexia nervosa who experienced the COVID-19 pandemic during intensive CBT-E, comparing their outcomes (body mass index [BMI], eating-disorder and general psychopathology, and clinical impairment) with those of patients with anorexia nervosa matched by gender, age, and BMI given the same treatment before the COVID-19 outbreak as controls. Patients were assessed at baseline, at the end of treatment and after 20 weeks of follow-up. RESULTS More than 75% of patients during the pandemic versus 85% of controls completed the treatment, a difference that was not significant. BMI, eating disorder and general psychopathology and clinical impairment scores improved significantly from baseline to 20-week follow-up in both groups. However, the improvement was more marked in controls than in those treated during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION Patients with anorexia nervosa given intensive CBT-E during the COVID-19 pandemic had significantly improved psychopathology, albeit to a lesser extent than patients given the same treatment before the COVID-19 pandemic. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In this study, the outcome of 57 patients with anorexia treated with intensive enhanced cognitive behavior therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic was compared with a matched group treated before the pandemic hit. The rate of remission from anorexia nervosa was similar between the two groups. However, patients exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic showed lesser improvement than those not exposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Dalle Grave
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
| | - Elena Bani
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
| | - Alessandra Oliosi
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
| | - Maddalena Conti
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
| | - Laura Dametti
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
| | - Simona Calugi
- Department of Eating and Weight DisordersVilla Garda HospitalGardaItaly
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Allison S, Wade T, Schmidt U, Treasure J, Bastiampillai T, Looi JC. Setting a youth-focused research agenda for eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aust N Z J Psychiatry 2022; 56:591-593. [PMID: 34702094 DOI: 10.1177/00048674211054743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Allison
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Consortium of Australian-Academic Psychiatrists for Independent Policy and Research Analysis (CAPIPRA), Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Tracey Wade
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Janet Treasure
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Tarun Bastiampillai
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Consortium of Australian-Academic Psychiatrists for Independent Policy and Research Analysis (CAPIPRA), Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Cl Looi
- Consortium of Australian-Academic Psychiatrists for Independent Policy and Research Analysis (CAPIPRA), Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, The Australian National University Medical School, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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40
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Ioannidis K, Hook RW, Wiedemann A, Bhatti J, Czabanowska K, Roman-Urrestarazu A, Grant JE, Goodyer IM, Fonagy P, Bullmore ET, Jones PB, Chamberlain SR. Associations between COVID-19 pandemic impact, dimensions of behavior and eating disorders: A longitudinal UK-based study. Compr Psychiatry 2022; 115:152304. [PMID: 35306448 PMCID: PMC8916988 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2022.152304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is growing concern about how people with eating disorders are impacted by the widespread societal restructuring during the COVID-19 crisis. AIMS We aimed to examine how factors relating to the impact of the pandemic associate with eating disorders and quantify this relationship while adjusting for concurrent and longitudinal parameters of risk. METHODS We gathered demographic, behavioral and clinical data pre- and mid-pandemic as well as childhood trauma history from a longitudinal online survey of 489 adults (mean age 23.4 years) recruited from the Neuroscience in Psychiatry Network (NSPN). Using pre-pandemic (T1) and concurrent (T2) data we aimed to predict eating disorders at mid-pandemic (T2). We deployed hierarchical generalized logistic regression to ascertain the strength of longitudinal and concurrent associations. RESULTS Pre-pandemic eating disorder scores strongly associated with concurrent eating disorder (z = 5.93). More conflict at home mid-pandemic (z = 2.03), pre- (lower sensation seeking z = -2.58) and mid-pandemic (higher lack of perseverance z = 2.33) impulsivity traits also associated with mid-pandemic eating disorder. CONCLUSION Conflict at home mid-pandemic and specific aspects of impulsiveness significantly associated with concurrent eating disorder when adjusted for pre-pandemic eating disorder symptoms, baseline demographics, behavioral traits, history of traumatic experiences and concurrent psychopathology. These results provide insight into the struggles of those suffering with eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight the importance of impulsiveness traits and the immediate family environment in their experience of illness during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Ioannidis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK; Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK; Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands.
| | | | - Anna Wiedemann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Junaid Bhatti
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Katarzyna Czabanowska
- Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands,Institute of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Andres Roman-Urrestarazu
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK,Department of International Health, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jon E. Grant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ian M. Goodyer
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter Fonagy
- Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Edward T. Bullmore
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Peter B. Jones
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Cambridge and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Samuel R. Chamberlain
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK,Department of Psychiatry, University of Southampton, UK,Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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Abstract
Eating disorders can have serious consequences for adolescent patients. Early detection and coordination of treatment can improve outcomes. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has negatively affected mental health, and eating disorders are no exception. The reported increase in eating disorder behaviors and referrals for treatment, combined with the shortage of treatment options, has underscored the role of the outpatient pediatrician. Detection of eating disorders in the primary care setting starts with analyzing vitals and weight trends. If suspecting an eating disorder, one should complete a thorough history with pertinent review of systems, physical examination, and an initial laboratory evaluation. Upon confirming a diagnosis, it is important for a pediatrician to decide on the level of care needed. Given long wait times for treatment centers, utilization of local resources is helpful for coordinating a multidisciplinary approach. Increased funding for eating disorder treatment initiatives could help alleviate the current strain on our health care system. [Pediatr Ann. 2022;51(4):e150-e153.].
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Chadi N, Ryan NC, Geoffroy MC. COVID-19 and the impacts on youth mental health: emerging evidence from longitudinal studies. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2022; 113:44-52. [PMID: 35089589 PMCID: PMC8796598 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-021-00567-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Several experts have warned that the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and associated confinement measures may have taken a devastating toll on youth mental health. While the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly created important challenges for children and youth, these claims vastly rely on cross-sectional data collected during the pandemic, from which it is difficult to draw firm conclusions. In this commentary, we offer a critical appraisal of the evidence from emerging longitudinal studies spanning the pre- and intra-pandemic period with a focus on internalizing and externalizing disorders, suicidality, eating disorders and substance use. We also discuss important research considerations in the monitoring of the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth mental health as well as promising interventions to help mitigate potential long-lasting consequences of this unprecedented public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Chadi
- CHU Ste-Justine Research Center, 3175 Ch de La Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada.
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
| | - Natalie Castellanos Ryan
- CHU Ste-Justine Research Center, 3175 Ch de La Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montreal, QC, H3T 1C5, Canada
- School of Psychoeducation, Université de Montréal, 90, Av. Vincent-d'Indy, Montreal, QC, H2V 2S9, Canada
| | - Marie-Claude Geoffroy
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Education and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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43
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Toulany A, Kurdyak P, Guttmann A, Stukel TA, Fu L, Strauss R, Fiksenbaum L, Saunders NR. Acute Care Visits for Eating Disorders Among Children and Adolescents After the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Adolesc Health 2022; 70:42-47. [PMID: 34690054 PMCID: PMC8530790 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anecdotal reports suggest a significant increase in acute presentations of eating disorders among children and adolescents. Our objective was to compare the rates of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for pediatric eating disorders before and during the first 10 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Using linked health administrative databases, we conducted a population-based repeated cross-sectional study of emergency department visits and hospitalizations for eating disorders among all children and adolescents aged 3-17 years, residing in Ontario, Canada. We defined the pre-COVID period from January 1, 2017, to February 29, 2020, and the post-COVID period from March 1, 2020, to December 26, 2020. Poisson generalized estimating equations were used to model 3-year pre-COVID trends to predict expected post-COVID trends and estimate the relative change from expected rates. RESULTS In our population of almost 2.5 million children and adolescents, acute care visits for eating disorders increased immediately after the onset of the pandemic, reaching a 4-week peak annualized rate of 34.6 (emergency department visits) and 43.2 per 100,000 population (hospitalizations) in October 2020. Overall, we observed a 66% (adjusted relative rate: 1.66, 95% confidence interval: 1.41-1.96) and 37% (adjusted relative rate: 1.37, 95% confidence interval: 1.25-1.50) increase in risk for emergency department visit and hospitalization, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Acute care visits for pediatric eating disorders increased significantly in Ontario after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic and remained well above expected levels during the first 10 months of the pandemic. Further research is needed to understand the social and neurobiological mechanisms underlying the observed changes in health system utilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alène Toulany
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Child Health Evaluative Sciences, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Paul Kurdyak
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Astrid Guttmann
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Child Health Evaluative Sciences, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for Healthy Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thérèse A. Stukel
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Lisa Fiksenbaum
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Child Health Evaluative Sciences, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Natasha R. Saunders
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Child Health Evaluative Sciences, SickKids Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada,Edwin S.H. Leong Centre for Healthy Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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44
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee D Hudson
- Clinical Associate Professor, GOS UCL Institute of Child Health, UK
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45
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The role of leptin in patients recovering from Anorexia Nervosa. CURRENT PROBLEMS OF PSYCHIATRY 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/cpp-2021-0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental disorder with the highest death rate. The characteristic feature of AN is endocrine dysregulations, including changes in adipose-tissue secreted hormones, especially adipokines. The most widely studied of them is leptin whose role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of AN is confirmed in more and more studies. The aim of the study was to summarize the role of endocrine disruptions with particular emphasis on leptin in the pathophysiology of AN.
Material and methods: For the literature review, the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane and Google Scholar search were used with the following keywords: eating disorders, adipokines, leptin, metreleptin, satiety, hunger, anorexia, obesity, for studies listed from database inception to October 2021.
Results: Leptin, produced mainly by white adipose tissue, inhibits the hunger center in the hypothalamus by negative feedback with ghrelin secreted by the gastrointestinal tract. Leptin is involved in numerous biological functions, including body weight regulation, innate and adaptive immunity regulation, reproduction, and bone formation. Studies confirm decreased leptin levels in AN individuals. In recent years, extensive experience has been gained with leptin as a drug in clinical trials. The studies suggested that treatment can restore menstrual function and bone health and improve mood with unclear body weight effects.
Conclusions: Focusing on leptin-related changes is a promising approach to improve AN management. Assessment of leptin levels in AN patients could be a useful tool for therapy monitoring. Treatment with leptin could reverse unfavourable changes induced by diet restriction, including mood symptoms, loss of bone mass and menstrual function. However, the results of these studies need confirmation on larger groups of patients.
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Longhurst P. Incorporating positive body image in therapeutic practice: An overview of construct definitions, concepts and theoretical foundations. COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/capr.12494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Phaedra Longhurst
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) BACP Lutterworth UK
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Monteleone P. Eating Disorders in the Era of the COVID-19 Pandemic: What Have We Learned? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312381. [PMID: 34886107 PMCID: PMC8657195 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Palmiero Monteleone
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, 84081 Baronissi, Italy
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Hueniken K, Somé NH, Abdelhack M, Taylor G, Elton Marshall T, Wickens CM, Hamilton HA, Wells S, Felsky D. Machine Learning-Based Predictive Modeling of Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms During 8 Months of the COVID-19 Global Pandemic: Repeated Cross-sectional Survey Study. JMIR Ment Health 2021; 8:e32876. [PMID: 34705663 PMCID: PMC8601369 DOI: 10.2196/32876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 global pandemic has increased the burden of mental illness on Canadian adults. However, the complex combination of demographic, economic, and lifestyle factors and perceived health risks contributing to patterns of anxiety and depression has not been explored. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to harness flexible machine learning methods to identify constellations of factors related to symptoms of mental illness and to understand their changes over time during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Cross-sectional samples of Canadian adults (aged ≥18 years) completed web-based surveys in 6 waves from May to December 2020 (N=6021), and quota sampling strategies were used to match the English-speaking Canadian population in age, gender, and region. The surveys measured anxiety and depression symptoms, sociodemographic characteristics, substance use, and perceived COVID-19 risks and worries. First, principal component analysis was used to condense highly comorbid anxiety and depression symptoms into a single data-driven measure of emotional distress. Second, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), a machine learning algorithm that can model nonlinear and interactive relationships, was used to regress this measure on all included explanatory variables. Variable importance and effects across time were explored using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). RESULTS Principal component analysis of responses to 9 anxiety and depression questions on an ordinal scale revealed a primary latent factor, termed "emotional distress," that explained 76% of the variation in all 9 measures. Our XGBoost model explained a substantial proportion of variance in emotional distress (r2=0.39). The 3 most important items predicting elevated emotional distress were increased worries about finances (SHAP=0.17), worries about getting COVID-19 (SHAP=0.17), and younger age (SHAP=0.13). Hopefulness was associated with emotional distress and moderated the impacts of several other factors. Predicted emotional distress exhibited a nonlinear pattern over time, with the highest predicted symptoms in May and November and the lowest in June. CONCLUSIONS Our results highlight factors that may exacerbate emotional distress during the current pandemic and possible future pandemics, including a role of hopefulness in moderating distressing effects of other factors. The pandemic disproportionately affected emotional distress among younger adults and those economically impacted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Hueniken
- Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nibene Habib Somé
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mohamed Abdelhack
- Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Graham Taylor
- School of Engineering, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Vector Institute for Artificial Intelligence, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tara Elton Marshall
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Health Sciences, Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada
| | - Christine M Wickens
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hayley A Hamilton
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Samantha Wells
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Australia
| | - Daniel Felsky
- Krembil Centre for Neuroinformatics, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Biostatistics, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Santomauro DF, Mantilla Herrera AM, Shadid J, Zheng P, Ashbaugh C, Pigott DM, Abbafati C, Adolph C, Amlag JO, Aravkin AY, Bang-Jensen BL, Bertolacci GJ, Bloom SS, Castellano R, Castro E, Chakrabarti S, Chattopadhyay J, Cogen RM, Collins JK, Dai X, Dangel WJ, Dapper C, Deen A, Erickson M, Ewald SB, Flaxman AD, Frostad JJ, Fullman N, Giles JR, Giref AZ, Guo G, He J, Helak M, Hulland EN, Idrisov B, Lindstrom A, Linebarger E, Lotufo PA, Lozano R, Magistro B, Malta DC, Månsson JC, Marinho F, Mokdad AH, Monasta L, Naik P, Nomura S, O'Halloran JK, Ostroff SM, Pasovic M, Penberthy L, Reiner Jr RC, Reinke G, Ribeiro ALP, Sholokhov A, Sorensen RJD, Varavikova E, Vo AT, Walcott R, Watson S, Wiysonge CS, Zigler B, Hay SI, Vos T, Murray CJL, Whiteford HA, Ferrari AJ. Global prevalence and burden of depressive and anxiety disorders in 204 countries and territories in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lancet 2021; 398:1700-1712. [PMID: 34634250 PMCID: PMC8500697 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)02143-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1944] [Impact Index Per Article: 648.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Before 2020, mental disorders were leading causes of the global health-related burden, with depressive and anxiety disorders being leading contributors to this burden. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has created an environment where many determinants of poor mental health are exacerbated. The need for up-to-date information on the mental health impacts of COVID-19 in a way that informs health system responses is imperative. In this study, we aimed to quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence and burden of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders globally in 2020. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of data reporting the prevalence of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic and published between Jan 1, 2020, and Jan 29, 2021. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, preprint servers, grey literature sources, and consulted experts. Eligible studies reported prevalence of depressive or anxiety disorders that were representative of the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic and had a pre-pandemic baseline. We used the assembled data in a meta-regression to estimate change in the prevalence of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders between pre-pandemic and mid-pandemic (using periods as defined by each study) via COVID-19 impact indicators (human mobility, daily SARS-CoV-2 infection rate, and daily excess mortality rate). We then used this model to estimate the change from pre-pandemic prevalence (estimated using Disease Modelling Meta-Regression version 2.1 [known as DisMod-MR 2.1]) by age, sex, and location. We used final prevalence estimates and disability weights to estimate years lived with disability and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. FINDINGS We identified 5683 unique data sources, of which 48 met inclusion criteria (46 studies met criteria for major depressive disorder and 27 for anxiety disorders). Two COVID-19 impact indicators, specifically daily SARS-CoV-2 infection rates and reductions in human mobility, were associated with increased prevalence of major depressive disorder (regression coefficient [B] 0·9 [95% uncertainty interval 0·1 to 1·8; p=0·029] for human mobility, 18·1 [7·9 to 28·3; p=0·0005] for daily SARS-CoV-2 infection) and anxiety disorders (0·9 [0·1 to 1·7; p=0·022] and 13·8 [10·7 to 17·0; p<0·0001]. Females were affected more by the pandemic than males (B 0·1 [0·1 to 0·2; p=0·0001] for major depressive disorder, 0·1 [0·1 to 0·2; p=0·0001] for anxiety disorders) and younger age groups were more affected than older age groups (-0·007 [-0·009 to -0·006; p=0·0001] for major depressive disorder, -0·003 [-0·005 to -0·002; p=0·0001] for anxiety disorders). We estimated that the locations hit hardest by the pandemic in 2020, as measured with decreased human mobility and daily SARS-CoV-2 infection rate, had the greatest increases in prevalence of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders. We estimated an additional 53·2 million (44·8 to 62·9) cases of major depressive disorder globally (an increase of 27·6% [25·1 to 30·3]) due to the COVID-19 pandemic, such that the total prevalence was 3152·9 cases (2722·5 to 3654·5) per 100 000 population. We also estimated an additional 76·2 million (64·3 to 90·6) cases of anxiety disorders globally (an increase of 25·6% [23·2 to 28·0]), such that the total prevalence was 4802·4 cases (4108·2 to 5588·6) per 100 000 population. Altogether, major depressive disorder caused 49·4 million (33·6 to 68·7) DALYs and anxiety disorders caused 44·5 million (30·2 to 62·5) DALYs globally in 2020. INTERPRETATION This pandemic has created an increased urgency to strengthen mental health systems in most countries. Mitigation strategies could incorporate ways to promote mental wellbeing and target determinants of poor mental health and interventions to treat those with a mental disorder. Taking no action to address the burden of major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders should not be an option. FUNDING Queensland Health, National Health and Medical Research Council, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Gorny M, Blackstock S, Bhaskaran A, Layther I, Qoba M, Vassar C, Ellis J, Begent J, Forrester J, Goldin J, Hallet Z, Read T, Hodges S, Groszmann M, Hudson LD. Working together better for mental health in children and young people during a pandemic: experiences from North Central London during the first wave of COVID-19. BMJ Paediatr Open 2021; 5:e001116. [PMID: 34660912 PMCID: PMC8507403 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2021-001116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct risk from infection from COVID-19 for children and young people (CYP) is low, but impact on services, education and mental health (so-called collateral damage) appears to have been more significant. In North Central London (NCL) during the first wave of the pandemic, in response to the needs and demands for adults with COVID-19, general paediatric wards in acute hospitals and some paediatric emergency departments were closed. Paediatric mental health services in NCL mental health services were reconfigured. Here we describe process and lessons learnt from a collaboration between physical and mental health services to provide care for CYP presenting in mental health crisis. Two new 'hubs' were created to coordinate crisis presentations in the region and to link community mental health teams with emergency departments. All CYP requiring a paediatric admission in the first wave were diverted to Great Ormond Street Hospital, a specialist children's hospital in NCL, and a new ward for CYP mental health crisis admissions was created. This brought together a multidisciplinary team of mental health and physical health professionals. The most common reason for admission to the ward was following a suicide attempt (n=17, 43%). Patients were of higher acute mental health complexity than usually admitted to the hospital, with some CYP needing an extended period of assessment. In this review, we describe the challenges and key lessons learnt for the development of this new ward setting that involved such factors as leadership, training and also new governance processes. We also report some personal perspectives from the professionals involved. Our review provides perspective and experience that can inform how CYP with mental health admissions can be managed in paediatric medical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Arun Bhaskaran
- University College London Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Mimoza Qoba
- Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
- Royal Free Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Carly Vassar
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Jacob Ellis
- University College London Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Joanna Begent
- University College London Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Jon Goldin
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Zoe Hallet
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK
| | - Tina Read
- Barnet Enfield and Haringey CAMHS, Enfield, London, UK
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