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Zobi M, Abrokwa SK, Dordoye E, Phuti A. A mixed method study on the impact of COVID-19 on mental healthcare in Ghana: rethinking mental health service delivery. Int J Equity Health 2024; 23:56. [PMID: 38486258 PMCID: PMC10941419 DOI: 10.1186/s12939-024-02138-y] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since its emergence, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused severe health, social and economic challenges. Mental healthcare has been significantly affected globally, and even worse in developing countries. An emerging economy like Ghana in West Africa was not spared its disruptive effects. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic (caused by SARS-CoV-2), on Ghana's mental healthcare system. METHODS This is a mixed-method study using an emergent sequential exploratory design. A total of 15 front-line healthcare professionals were recruited from the three psychiatric hospitals, including the mental health department of a new teaching hospital in Ghana. Purposive sampling techniques and a semi-structured interview approach were used for recruitment and data collection. Quantitative data from hospital registries were collected and analysed to triangulate qualitative findings. RESULTS Fifteen mental health workers were enrolled in the study. The mean age of participants was (34.47 ± 4.07) years, average work experience of (6.23 ± 3.64) years and the majority as males (60%). This study found an average decline of 23% in hospital attendance and a 35% decline in admissions in all four facilities compared to the previous year, 2019. The lived experiences shared by mental healthcare providers were grouped under 3 main themes: Adjustments to workplace regulations, accessibility to mental healthcare, and psychological wellbeing of mental healthcare workers. The fear of contracting SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers, medication shortages, and logistical challenges were also reported to affect Mental Health services during the pandemic. CONCLUSION This study highlights the challenges in mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ghana. The experiences encountered present an opportunity to gain insights into future pandemic preparedness and establish a framework for optimal mental healthcare delivery in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Zobi
- Institute of International Health, Global Health Centre, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Seth Kofi Abrokwa
- Institute of International Health, Global Health Centre, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
| | - Eugene Dordoye
- Psychological Medicine & Mental Health Department, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Angel Phuti
- Institute of International Health, Global Health Centre, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 13353, Berlin, Germany
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Moustakopoulou L, Adamakidou T, Plakas S, Drakopoulou M, Apostolara P, Mantoudi A, Mastrogiannis D, Zartaloudi A, Parissopoulos S, Koreli A, Mantzorou M. Exploring Loneliness, Fear and Depression among Older Adults during the COVID-19 Era: A Cross-Sectional Study in Greek Provincial Towns. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11091234. [PMID: 37174782 PMCID: PMC10178736 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11091234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, life changed abruptly for older adults in Greece. Social isolation, lockdowns, the fear of serious illness and death, all contributed to an increased risk of developing depression. OBJECTIVE To explore the presence and severity of depression in older adults in Greek provincial towns during the pandemic and to explore any possible relationships with loneliness and fear. METHODS A convenience sample of 200 participants aged >65, completed a socio-demographic form, the Revised UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Geriatric Depression-15 Scale (GDS-15) and the COVID-19 Fear Scale (FCV-19S). Data were collected from April to May 2022. RESULTS The average age of participants was 76.6 years and 35.5% of the participants presented depressive symptoms (mean prevalenceof depression 5 ± 3.7). A moderate to low level of loneliness (mean value 39 ± 11.3) and a moderate level of COVID-19 fear (mean value 18.9 ± 6.5) were also experienced. Higher levels of loneliness were found among participants with lower perceived health status and among those participants registered in Primary Health and Social Care (PHSC) services. Loneliness was positively correlated with depression (r = 0.7, p < 0.001), and increased loneliness and depression were associated with an increase in fear of COVID-19 (r = 0.2, p = 0.01 for both). CONCLUSIONS During the pandemic, older adults experienced loneliness, fear of COVID-19 and depression which were positively associated with each other. It is imperative to develop PHSC policies that are aimed at addressing the mental health problems of the older population, which have been caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, through developing their resilience, offering psychological support and promoting social connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamprini Moustakopoulou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoula Adamakidou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Sotirios Plakas
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Drakopoulou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Apostolara
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Mantoudi
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimos Mastrogiannis
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Afroditi Zartaloudi
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Stelios Parissopoulos
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Koreli
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
| | - Marianna Mantzorou
- MSc Program in Community and Public Health Nursing, Nursing Department, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece
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Cuijpers P, Heim E, Ramia JA, Burchert S, Carswell K, Cornelisz I, Knaevelsrud C, Noun P, van Klaveren C, van’t Hof E, Zoghbi E, van Ommeren M, El Chammay R. Guided digital health intervention for depression in Lebanon: randomised trial. EVIDENCE-BASED MENTAL HEALTH 2022; 25:e34-e40. [PMID: 35577536 PMCID: PMC9811068 DOI: 10.1136/ebmental-2021-300416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most people with mental disorders in communities exposed to adversity in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) do not receive effective care. Digital mental health interventions are scalable when digital access is adequate, and can be safely delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVE To examine the effects of a new WHO-guided digital mental health intervention, Step-by-Step, supported by a non-specialist helper in Lebanon, in the context of concurring economic, humanitarian and political crises, a large industrial disaster and the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a single-blind, two-arm pragmatic randomised trial, comparing guided Step-by-Step with enhanced care as usual (ECAU) among people suffering from depression and impaired functioning. Primary outcomes were depression (Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9)) and impaired functioning (WHO Disability Assessment Schedule-12 (WHODAS)) at post-treatment. FINDINGS 680 people with depression (PHQ-9>10) and impaired functioning (WHODAS>16) were randomised to Step-by-Step or ECAU. Intention-to-treat analyses showed effects on depression (standardised mean differences, SMD: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.45 to 0.97), impaired functioning (SMD: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.21 to 0.65), post-traumatic stress (SMD: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.79), anxiety (SMD: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.49 to 0.99), subjective well-being (SMD: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.62) and self-identified personal problems (SMD: 0.56; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.83). Significant effects on all outcomes were retained at 3-month follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Guided digital mental health interventions can be effective in the treatment of depression in communities exposed to adversities in LMICs, although some uncertainty remains because of high attrition. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Guided digital mental health interventions should be considered for implementation in LMICs. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03720769.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,Babeș-Bolyai University, International Institute for Psychotherapy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Eva Heim
- Institute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland,Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jinane Abi Ramia
- Department of Clinical, Neuro and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands,National Mental Health Programme, Ministry of Public Health of Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sebastian Burchert
- Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Ilja Cornelisz
- Department of Educational, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Philip Noun
- Department of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Chris van Klaveren
- Department of Educational, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Edith van’t Hof
- Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Rabih El Chammay
- National Mental Health Programme, Ministry of Public Health of Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon,Psychiatry Department, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon
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Hachem S, Ali S, Al-Omari S, Abi Chahine M, Fahme SA, Mehio Sibai A. "Older people tend to be invisible": a qualitative study exploring the needs and inclusion of older Syrian refugees in the context of compounding crises in host country, Lebanon. Confl Health 2022; 16:61. [PMID: 36403023 PMCID: PMC9675970 DOI: 10.1186/s13031-022-00496-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older Syrian refugees in Lebanon are a marginalized population with under-recognized health needs. The inclusivity of this population within the humanitarian response is poorly understood. This study aims to identify the unique needs of older Syrian refugees in the context of recent concurrent crises in Lebanon, and explore the extent to which they are being met and prioritized by local and international aid agencies. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with a snowball sample of 26 stakeholders from 11 organizations operating in the health, nutrition, and water, sanitation, and hygiene sectors. Data analysis followed principles of thematic analysis. RESULTS Concurrent political, economic, and public health crises in host country promoted income insecurity among older refugees and increased dependency on younger relatives, leading to food insecurity, neglect, and poor health outcomes, including the sequelae of untreated non-communicable diseases. Mental illness was perceived to be exacerbated by Covid-19 related challenges, including social isolation, uncertainty about the future, and additionally due to feelings of guilt related to economic dependence and fundamental exclusion from labor force participation. Despite their vulnerability, older refugees are overlooked by the humanitarian response, which may be related to a lack of data. Pervasive medication shortages in the setting of the economic collapse, as well as inaccessible physical environments and competing interests were all identified as major barriers to care. CONCLUSIONS Older Syrian refugees in Lebanon experience dual vulnerability that is acutely exacerbated in the setting of concurrent crises. Sociopolitical, economic, and cultural barriers promote social exclusion and may confer an increased risk of income and food insecurity in this population, with significant implications for health. Humanitarian aid agencies operating in the context of fragmented, under-resourced health systems are currently unable to sufficiently address multi-faceted needs of this community. We recommend moving away from a donor-dependent model of aid by allocating resources toward strengthening inclusive national health systems that emphasize preventative care. We further call for age-disaggregation of routine data and normalization of data sharing among stakeholders in the academic and public health sectors in order to develop evidence-based initiatives that can meet the needs of this under-served community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hachem
- Department of Health Promotion and Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souad Ali
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sarah Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Maya Abi Chahine
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sasha Abdallah Fahme
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Abla Mehio Sibai
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
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El Frenn Y, Hallit S, Obeid S, Soufia M. Association of the time spent on social media news with depression and suicidal ideation among a sample of Lebanese adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Lebanese economic crisis. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-13. [PMID: 35582433 PMCID: PMC9099267 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The main objectives were to associate between social media news consumption during these unstable times and depression, as well as suicidal ideation among a sample of Lebanese adults, in addition to associate between fear of Covid-19, depression and suicidal ideation. Secondary objectives aimed to check the mediating effect of depression in the association between time spent on social media to get the news and the presence of suicidal ideation. This is a cross-sectional study executed between April and May 2021. It involved 402 Lebanese citizens aged 18 years and above, selected randomly from all Lebanese districts. Having cancer (Beta = 0.20) or lung disease (Beta = 0.27), more fear of COVID-19 (Beta = 0.16), a higher time spent on social media for news (Beta = 0.13) and a higher household crowding index (Beta = 0.29) were significantly associated with more depression, whereas having a pet in the house (Beta = -0.13) and working in the medical field (Beta = -0.17) were significantly associated with less depression. Higher depression (aOR = 1.19) was significantly associated with higher odds of having suicidal ideation, whereas more fear of COVID-19 (aOR = 0.84) and older age (aOR = 0.96) were significantly associated with less odds of having suicidal ideation. Depression did not mediate the association between time spent on social media to get the news and suicidal ideation. This study showed that more time spent on social media reading the news is associated with higher depression but not suicidal ideation. Fear of Covid-19 is associated with more depression, but less suicidal ideation. Further studies are needed to identify the causality between social media news consumption, depression and suicidal ideation. Moreover, awareness campaigns should be organized to teach people how to consume social media news in a responsible way, without letting it affect their emotions directly, which may cause psychological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara El Frenn
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Psychology Department, College of Humanities, Effat University, Jeddah, 21478 Saudi Arabia
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon
| | - Michel Soufia
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, P.O. Box 446, Jounieh, Lebanon
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Aragona M, Tumiati MC, Ferrari F, Viale S, Nicolella G, Barbato A, Cavani A, Costanzo G, Mirisola C. Psychopathological effects of the Coronavirus (Sars-CoV-2) imposed lockdown on vulnerable patients in treatment in a mental health outpatient department for migrants and individuals in poor socioeconomic conditions. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 68:203-209. [PMID: 33438510 DOI: 10.1177/0020764020988572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of Sars-Cov-2 pandemic may increase vulnerability of migrants. AIMS To investigate the effects of the governmental lockdown on the mental health of vulnerable migrants in treatment at an outpatient department. METHOD In a telephone survey post-migration living difficulties and psychopathological symptoms were investigated, particularly post-traumatic thoughts and nightmares, anxiety, depression, feelings of tension and irritability, other sleep problems, as well as COVID-19 related fears. Psychopathological changes during the lockdown were detected and rated by clinicians. Rates of treatment discontinuation and reasons why were also recorded. RESULTS Of 103 eligible patients, 81 answered the phone call and were included in the study. Mental symptoms were frequent but not as severe as expected. About 32% of patients in psychopharmacological treatment and almost 52% of patients in psychotherapy had discontinued treatment. Patients who were globally considered to have worsened if compared to their pre-coronavirus mental health conditions had in fact higher scores on several mental symptoms but mild specific fears about coronavirus issues, similar to those of patients improved or stable. Worsening was significantly associated with unemployment, lack of VISA, and treatment discontinuation. Shifting the way of providing psychotherapy into a web-based modality was significantly more frequent in stable/improved patients. CONCLUSION Findings suggest that concrete life problems and treatment discontinuation more than the coronavirus fear, have predominantly affected the mental health conditions of our patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Federica Ferrari
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
| | - Sonia Viale
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Nicolella
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
| | - Angelo Barbato
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Cavani
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Concetta Mirisola
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty (INMP), Rome, Italy
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Gül İ, Yeşiltaş A. Mental wellbeing and perception of health in the era of COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in the general population. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2022; 58:97-107. [PMID: 33931871 PMCID: PMC8242898 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was aimed at evaluating mental wellbeing and health perception in the general population during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and at highlighting the correlation between them and selected variables. DESIGN AND METHODS This descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out in 374 individuals, who were remotely administered two scales ("Perception of Health Scale [PHS]" and "Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale [WEMWBS]") and a demographic and clinical questionnaire. FINDINGS PHS mean score was 53.24 ± 7.69 and the total WEMWBS score was 52.95 ± 10.75. A positive statistically significant correlation was found between PHS and WEMWBS (p < 0.05). Gender, marital status, and education levels conditioned mental well-being in a statistically significant. Suffering from a chronic disorder, COVID-19 symptoms, or having a family member affected by COVID-19 infection influenced the health perception. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Exposing the factors affecting the health and mental wellbeing perceptions of individuals, especially during the pandemic period, can guide policymakers.
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Affiliation(s)
- İsa Gül
- Department of Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey
| | - Aysun Yeşiltaş
- Department of Health Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
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Are older adults of Rohingya community (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals or FDMNs) in Bangladesh fearful of COVID-19? Findings from a cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253648. [PMID: 34161389 PMCID: PMC8221477 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to assess the fear of COVID-19 and its associates among older Rohingya (Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals or FDMNs) in Bangladesh. Method We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 416 older FDMNs aged 60 years and above living in camps of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on participants’ socio-demographic and lifestyle characteristics, pre-existing non-communicable chronic conditions, and COVID-19 related information. Level of fear was measured using the seven-item Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) with the cumulative score ranged from 7 to 35. A multiple linear regression examined the factors associated with fear. Results Among 416 participants aged 60 years or above, the mean fear score was 14.8 (range 8–28) and 88.9% of the participants had low fear score. Participants who were concerned about COVID-19 (β: 0.63, 95% CI: -0.26 to 1.53) and overwhelmed by COVID-19 (β: 3.54, 95% CI: 2.54 to 4.55) were significantly more likely to be fearful of COVID-19. Other factors significantly associated with higher level of fear were lesser frequency of communication during COVID-19, difficulty in obtaining food during COVID-19, perception that older adults are at highest risk of COVID-19 and receiving COVID-19 related information from Radio/television and friends/family/neighbours. Conclusions Our study highlighted that currently there little fear of COVID-19 among the older Rohingya FDMNs. This is probably due to lack of awareness of the severity of the disease in. Dissemination of public health information relevant to COVID-19 and provision of mental health services should be intensified particularly focusing on the individual who were concerned, overwhelmed or fearful of COVID-19. However, further qualitative research is advised to find out the reasons behind this.
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Javaid SF, Al-Zahmi A, Abbas M. Carer Empowerment Is Key to Reduce Dementia Care Inequalities in the Middle East. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18084378. [PMID: 33924161 PMCID: PMC8074373 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18084378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Dementia represents a significant problem in the Middle East. Sociocultural and political factors that shape conceptions of health and care tend to stifle research and the dissemination of knowledge throughout the Middle East. These socio-political challenges concerning engagement with individuals living with dementia and their carers include language barriers, stigmatization, logistical constraints, lack of informal support outside of hospitals, and over-dependence on clinicians for dementia information. There is an urgent need in the Middle East to increase care and support for adults with dementia and their carers, enhance research efforts and improve the dissemination of information related to dementia in the region. One possible way to do so is to begin to promote a knowledge-based culture throughout the Middle East. This can be achieved by aligning traditional deterministic and spiritual perspectives of mental health with more Western, scientific, and evidence-based models. We suggest employing practical, multidimensional approaches to deal with the stated challenges, both at individual and societal levels. Doing so will improve knowledge of dementia and allow health and social care systems in the Middle East to begin to address a growing problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Fahad Javaid
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain P.O. Box 17666, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +971-50-397-9565
| | - Aishah Al-Zahmi
- Behavioral Sciences Institute, Al-Ain Hospital, Al-Ain P.O. Box 1006, United Arab Emirates; (A.A.-Z.); (M.A.)
| | - Munir Abbas
- Behavioral Sciences Institute, Al-Ain Hospital, Al-Ain P.O. Box 1006, United Arab Emirates; (A.A.-Z.); (M.A.)
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McCartan C, Adell T, Cameron J, Davidson G, Knifton L, McDaid S, Mulholland C. A scoping review of international policy responses to mental health recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Res Policy Syst 2021; 19:58. [PMID: 33823855 PMCID: PMC8022299 DOI: 10.1186/s12961-020-00652-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected people's physical and mental health. Quarantine and other lockdown measures have altered people's daily lives; levels of anxiety, depression, substance use, self-harm and suicide ideation have increased. This commentary assesses how international governments, agencies and organisations are responding to the challenge of the mental health impact of COVID-19 with the aim of informing the ongoing policy and service responses needed in the immediate and longer term. It identifies some of the key themes emerging from the literature, recognises at-risk populations and highlights opportunities for innovation within mental health services, focusing on the published academic literature, international health ministry websites and other relevant international organisations beyond the United Kingdom and Ireland. COVID-19 has challenged, and may have permanently changed, mental health services. It has highlighted and exacerbated pre-existing pressures and inequities. Many decision-makers consider this an opportunity to transform mental health care, and tackling the social determinants of mental health and engaging in prevention will be a necessary part of such transformation. Better data collection, modelling and sharing will enhance policy and service development. The crisis provides opportunities to build on positive innovations: the adaptability and flexibility of community-based care; drawing on lived experience in the design, development and monitoring of services; interagency collaboration; accelerating digital healthcare; and connecting physical and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire McCartan
- Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Tomas Adell
- Department of Health Northern Ireland, Mental Health Capacity Unit, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | | | - Gavin Davidson
- Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Lee Knifton
- Mental Health Foundation, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Shari McDaid
- Mental Health Foundation, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ciaran Mulholland
- Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
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11
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Alabdulkarim N, Altwaijri N, Alsultan F, Albaradie RS, Bashir S. Perspective of Covid-19 pandemic in Middle East countries. J Family Med Prim Care 2021; 10:1534-1539. [PMID: 34123888 PMCID: PMC8144794 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_2025_20] [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: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has emerged as the world's biggest challenge that has not only threatened human lives but also had an immense impact on the economy, safety and religious practices. The situation has worsened due to the lack of proper guidelines for fighting the sudden unexpected outbreaks. The world was not prepared for this situation. This review highlights some important steps the Middle East countries is taking and their impact on controlling the COVID-19 outbreak. We also discuss some hypothetical predictions for the coming months.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nouf Altwaijri
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Alsultan
- Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raidah S. Albaradie
- Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital-Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shahid Bashir
- Neuroscience Center, King Fahad Specialist Hospital-Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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12
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El Hayek S, Cheaito MA, Nofal M, Abdelrahman D, Adra A, Al Shamli S, AlHarthi M, AlNuaimi N, Aroui C, Bensid L, Emberish AM, Larnaout A, Radwan A, Slaih M, Al Sinawi H. Geriatric Mental Health and COVID-19: An Eye-Opener to the Situation of the Arab Countries in the Middle East and North Africa Region. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2020; 28:1058-1069. [PMID: 32425474 PMCID: PMC7233242 DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
While the detrimental ramifications of the COVID-19 outbreak on the mental wellbeing of the general public continue to unravel, older adults seem to be at high risk. As the geriatric population continues to grow in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, it is essential to explore the influence of this outbreak on geriatric mental health, a topic often neglected. In this review, we depict the status of geriatric psychiatry in the Arab countries of the MENA region, exploring the variations from one nation to another. While some have a null exposure to the field, resources and expertise in other countries range from very limited to extensive. Furthermore, we highlight the measures implemented in the Arab region to address mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak; these tend to be insufficient when targeting the geriatric population. Finally, we provide short- and long-term recommendations to stakeholders that aim at enhancing the mental healthcare of older adults in the Arab countries of the MENA region, particularly during this pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samer El Hayek
- Department of Psychiatry, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Mohamad Ali Cheaito
- Department of Emergency Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Ali Adra
- Department of Psychiatry, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | | | - Mansour AlHarthi
- Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Chaimaa Aroui
- Ibn Rushd Psychiatry University Center, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Lynda Bensid
- University of Algiers, Drid Hocine Hospital specialized in Psychiatry, Department A, Algiers, Algeria
| | | | - Amine Larnaout
- Razi Hospital, Faculty of medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Cite Romana, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ahmed Radwan
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Mental Health Service, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad Slaih
- National Center for Mental Health, Ministry of Health, Jordan
| | - Hamed Al Sinawi
- Department of Behavioural Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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13
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Peprah P. Ageing out of place in COVID-19 pandemic era: How does the situation look like for older refugees in camps? Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2020; 90:104149. [PMID: 32593091 PMCID: PMC7305710 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2020.104149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Prince Peprah
- Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.
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