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Alemu WG, Mwanri L, Due C, Azale T, Ziersch A. Quality of life among people with mental illness attending a psychiatric outpatient clinic in Ethiopia: a structural equation model. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1407588. [PMID: 39188522 PMCID: PMC11345643 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1407588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Mental illness is one of the most severe, chronic, and disabling public health problems that affects patients' Quality of life (QoL). Improving the QoL for people with mental illness is one of the most critical steps in stopping disease progression and avoiding complications of mental illness. Therefore, we aimed to assess the QoL and its determinants in patients with mental illness in outpatient clinics in Northwest Ethiopia in 2023. Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among people with mental illness in an outpatient clinic in Ethiopia. The sampling interval was decided by dividing the total study participants who had a follow-up appointment during the data collection period (2400), by the total sample size 638, with the starting point selected by lottery method. The interviewer-administered WHOQOL BREF-26 tool was used to measure the quality of life (QoL) of people with mental illness. The domains of QoL were identified, and indirect and direct effects of variables were calculated using structural equation modelling with SPSS-28 and Amos-28 software. A p-value of < 0.05 and a 95% CI were used to evaluate statistical significance. Results A total of 636 (99.7%) participants agreed to participate and completed the data collection. The mean score of overall QoL of people with mental illness in the outpatient clinic was 49.6 ± 10 Sd. The highest QoL was found in the physical health domain (50.67 ± 9.5 Sd), and the lowest mean QoL was found in the psychological health domain (48.41 ± 10 Sd). Rural residence, drug nonadherence, suicidal ideation, not getting counselling, moderate or severe subjective severity, family does not participate in patient care and a family history of mental illness had an indirect negative effect on QoL. Alcohol use and psychological health domain had direct positive effect on QoL. Furthermore, objective severity of illness, having low self-esteem, and having history of mental illness in the family had both direct and indirect effect on QoL. Furthermore, sociodemographic factors (rural residence, illiterate educational status, not married marital status), social support-related factors (poor self-esteem, family not participating in patient care), substance use factors (alcohol use, tobacco use) and clinical factors (high objective and subjective severity of illness, not getting counselling, suicidal ideation, higher number of episodes, comorbid illness, family history of mental illness, poor drug adherence) directly and indirectly affected QoL. Conclusions In this study, the QoL of people with mental illness was poor, with the psychological health domain the most affected. Sociodemographic factors, social support-related factors, drug use factors, and clinical factors, directly and indirectly affected QoL through the mediator variables of physical health domains, psychological health domains, social relation health domains, and environmental health domains. In order to improve the QoL of people with mental illnesses, we recommend that emphasis be given to addressing the QoL of those with mental illness, including the development of policy and practice responses that address the above identified factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wondale Getinet Alemu
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Lillian Mwanri
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity, and Human Flourishing, Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Clemence Due
- School of Psychology, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Telake Azale
- Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Anna Ziersch
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Beard D, Cottam C, Painter J. Evaluation of the Perceived Benefits of a Peer Support Group for People with Mental Health Problems. NURSING REPORTS 2024; 14:1661-1675. [PMID: 39051360 PMCID: PMC11270277 DOI: 10.3390/nursrep14030124] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper reports on a service evaluation of PeerTalk, a nationwide charity that organises and facilitates peer support groups for individuals with depression. Therefore, the aim was to gather and synthesise benefits perceived by support group attendees. Thematic analysis was undertaken following the collection of data from two group interviews comprising PeerTalk support group attendees. Once those data were analysed, five key themes emerged: (1) talking/listening, (2) socialising, (3) contrast with other services, (4) personal benefits, and (5) structure and accessibility. Two further minor themes were also identified: (6) wider benefits and (7) areas for development that could lead to overall improvements to the service. PeerTalk's support groups provide multiple opportunities for attendees to meet others who have similar experiences within an environment that does not require formal engagement or commitment. Those that attend find benefit from supporting others and socialising within the group. These benefits are complementary to mainstream services that they may concurrently be involved with, rather than replacing or hindering them. Peer support groups can therefore provide a resource for healthcare professionals to which they can direct individuals who may feel benefit from engaging with other individuals with similar experiences. Sheffield Hallam University granted ethics approval for the study (ER:59716880) prior to its commencement (16 February 2024).
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Affiliation(s)
- David Beard
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield S10 2BP, UK; (C.C.); (J.P.)
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Armoon B, Grenier G, Fleury MJ. Perceived Higher Unmet Care Needs among Adults in Permanent Supportive Housing. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2024:10.1007/s10488-024-01390-2. [PMID: 38819494 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-024-01390-2] [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] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
This study is original in that it assesses various types of care needs, barriers to care, and factors associated with higher unmet needs among 308 permanent supportive housing (PSH) residents in Quebec (Canada). Data from structured interviews that featured the Perceived Need for Care Questionnaire were collected from 2020 to 2022, controlling for the COVID-19 pandemic period. Eight types of care (e.g., information, counseling) were accounted for. Based on the Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations, predisposing, need, and enabling factors associated with higher unmet care needs were assessed using a negative binomial regression model. The study found that 56% of adult PSH residents, even those who had lived in PSH for 5 + years, had unmet care needs. Twice as many unmet needs were due to structural (e.g., care access) rather than motivational barriers. Living in single-site PSH, in healthier neighborhoods, having better quality of life and self-esteem, and being more satisfied with housing and outpatient care were associated with fewer unmet care needs. PSH residents with co-occurring mental disorders (MD) and substance use disorders (SUD), and with moderate or severe psychological distress were likely to have more unmet needs. Better access to care, counseling and integrated treatment for co-occurring MD-SUD might be improved, as well as access to information on user rights, health and available support. Welfare benefits could be increased, with more peer support and meaningful activities, especially in single-site PSH. The quality of the neighborhoods where PSH are located might also be better monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Guy Grenier
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Research Centre, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
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Batool SS, Tanveer S, Chatrath SK, Batool SA. Biopsychosocial determinant of quality of life of older adults in Pakistan and Canada. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1364443. [PMID: 38528977 PMCID: PMC10961405 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1364443] [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: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The rapidly rising average age of the older adults has brought various global healthcare challenges. A core challenge is how to enhance their quality of life (QoL). Objective The objective of the current study was to test the significance of biopsychosocial determinants of quality of life of older adults in Pakistan and Canada. Methodology A cross-sectional survey was carried out on a conveniently approached purposive sample of 1,005 older adults (Pakistani = 557 and Canadian = 448) of age range between 60 years and 80 years. The data were collected via demographic datasheet, World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Scale, Health and Lifestyle Questionnaire, General Self-Efficacy Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and Berlin Social Support Scale. Results The results of hierarchical regression analysis showed that biopsychosocial factors (viz., health and lifestyle, chronic illness, self-efficacy, self-esteem, and social support) significantly predicted (R 2 = .27, and.68) quality of life of older adults in Pakistan and Canada, respectively, after controlling the demographic variables. Significant differences were found between Pakistani and Canadian older adults on biopsychosocial factors: Canadian older adults scored significantly higher on health and lifestyle, self-efficacy, and quality of life, and older adults in Pakistan scored significantly higher on self-esteem and social support. Conclusion A significant amount of better QoL of older adults can be achieved through enhancing the biopsychosocial correlates of their QoL, both in Pakistan and Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samra Tanveer
- Department of Psychology, Government College University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Syeda Azra Batool
- School of Economics, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
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Beratto L, Bressy L, Agostino S, Malandrone F, Brichetto G, Ponzano M. The effect of exercise on mental health and health-related quality of life in individuals with multiple sclerosis: A Systematic review and meta-analysis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2024; 83:105473. [PMID: 38320418 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2024.105473] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large body of evidence has tested the effect of exercise interventions on mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in individuals with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of exercise interventions on mental health and HRQoL in PwMS. METHODS We searched four databases up to April 2023, and included randomized controlled trials that: 1) involved PwMS ≥18 years old; 2) delivered an exercise intervention; 3) measured subjective well-being, psychological well-being, social well-being, or HRQoL as outcomes. We reported standardized differences in means (d) with a 95 % confidence interval (CI), for continuous outcomes and an incidence rate ratio (IRR) with a 95 % CI for dichotomous outcomes. RESULTS Forty-nine studies (n = 2,057 participants) were included. Exercise improved overall well-being (d = 0.78; 95 % CI 0.483, 1.077; moderate certainty evidence), subjective well-being (d = 0.666; 95 % CI 0.405, 0.928; moderate certainty evidence), social well-being (d = 1.046; 95 % CI 0.569, 1.523; low certainty evidence), and HRQoL (d = 0.568; 95 % CI 0.396, 0.74; moderate certainty evidence). CONCLUSION Exercise interventions can improve well-being and HRQoL in PwMS. Future studies should focus on PwMS ≥ 65 years or with higher level of impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Beratto
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy; School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Lara Bressy
- School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Samuel Agostino
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | | | | | - Matteo Ponzano
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, BC, Canada; International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries (ICORD), Blusson Spinal Cord Centre (BSCC), The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Armoon B, L'Espérance N, Fleury MJ. Variables Associated with Quality of Life Among Individuals Living in Permanent Supportive Housing. Community Ment Health J 2024; 60:259-271. [PMID: 37462796 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-023-01167-1] [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: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
This study identified individual sociodemographic and clinical characteristics and service use patterns associated with quality of life (QoL) among 308 individuals living in permanent supportive housing (PSH) in Québec (Canada). Data were collected between 2020 and 2022, and linear multivariate analyses produced. Results demonstrated that better individual psychosocial conditions were positively associated with higher QoL. As well, living in PSH located in good neighborhoods for at least 5 years, higher self-esteem and community integration were positively associated with greater QoL. Met needs, satisfaction with housing support services, and no use of acute care were also linked with positive QoL. Comprehensive efforts to improve treatment for mental health disabilities responsive to the needs of PSH residents, and sustained long-term housing may reinforce QoL. Encouraging active participation in community-based activities, incorporating biophilic design into the neighborhoods around PSH, and promoting satisfaction with care may also enhance QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Nadia L'Espérance
- Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux de la Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du-Québec, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Research Centre, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 LaSalle Boulevard, Montréal, QC, H4H 1R3, Canada.
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Ji P, Zhang L, Gao Z, Ji Q, Xu J, Chen Y, Song M, Guo L. Relationship between self-esteem and quality of life in middle-aged and older patients with chronic diseases: mediating effects of death anxiety. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:7. [PMID: 38166844 PMCID: PMC10763298 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-05459-4] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many studies have explored the relationship between self-esteem and quality of life. However, few studies have elucidated the mechanisms underlying the relationship between self-esteem and quality of life in middle-aged and older patients with chronic diseases. The present study aimed to explore the mediating role of death anxiety in this relationship. METHODS Middle-old-aged patients with chronic diseases were selected as the respondents by using a multi-stage sampling method, random number table method from October 2021 to February 2022 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine. The Cumulative Disease Rating Scale, the Self-Esteem Scale (SES), the Chinese version of the Death Anxiety Scale (CT-DAS), and the Simplified version of the Quality of Life Scale (SF-12) were used as the researching tools to conduct the survey. SPSS26.0 was used to analysis data. AMOS 23.0 software was used to construct structural equation modeling. RESULTS 294 valid questionnaires were collected. There were significant differences in quality of life among middle-aged and elderly patients with chronic diseases who have different physical activities, socialization, and chronic pain (P < 0.01); Self-esteem was positively associated with quality of life (r = 0.330, P < 0.01), self-esteem was negatively associated with death anxiety (r = -0.222, P < 0.01), and death anxiety was negatively associated with quality of life (r = -0.263, P < 0.01); Death anxiety partially mediated the relationship between self-esteem and quality of life, with the mediating effect accounting for 18.40% of the total effect. CONCLUSION Death anxiety partially mediates the relationship between self-esteem and quality of life. Interventions to improve self-esteem and reduce death anxiety should be used to improve the quality of life of middle-aged and senior patients with chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengjuan Ji
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, School of Nursing, Wannan Medical College, 22 Wenchang West Road, Higher Education Park, Wuhu City, An Hui Province, P.R. China
| | - Ziyun Gao
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Qiqi Ji
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Jiashuang Xu
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Yian Chen
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Miaojing Song
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China
| | - Leilei Guo
- School of Nursing, Jinzhou Medical University, No.40, Section 3, Songpo Road, Linghe District, Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, P.R. China.
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Kumar S, Kesari PK, Dixit V, Kumar R, Chaudhury S. Gender differences in quality of life of vitiligo patients attending a tertiary care center. Ind Psychiatry J 2024; 33:147-153. [PMID: 38853817 PMCID: PMC11155653 DOI: 10.4103/ipj.ipj_74_23] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Vitiligo is a common depigmenting dermatosis characterized by milky-white macules or patches. Any pathological discoloration of the skin has been linked to an impact on the body image of an individual, and vitiligo has been linked to decreased self-esteem and poor socialization of the affected people. In Indian society, vitiligo is labeled as Shweta-Kushta (i.e., white-colored leprosy) and is compared to leprosy-a more stigmatizing skin condition. Aim This study aims to study gender-related differences in the quality of life of Indian vitiligo patients. Methodology In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, a total of 55 vitiligo patients (females 25 and males 30) were enrolled using the purposive sampling technique. The sample was assessed on Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSS), and General Health Questionnaire-12 (GHQ-12) to assess their quality of life, self-esteem, and psychological well-being, respectively. The gender differences in sociodemographic and clinical details as well as their relationship with the quality of life of the patients were sought with the help of appropriate statistical measures. Results The patients of both genders were comparable in terms of all sociodemographic and clinical variables except the females being less educated and employed than the males. There was a statistically significant trend of higher mean DLQI total score in females than males (6.6 ± 3.55 vs 4.8 ± 2.71, Mann-Whitney U = 263.5, P =0.058). Significantly, the average DLQI score in female vitiligo patients was negatively related to family income (r s = -.659, P <.001) and it was significantly higher for the patients from a rural background than those from an urban background (8.55 ± 3.30 vs 5.07 ± 3.03, Mann-Whitney U = 33.5, P <.05). The average DLQI score was negatively correlated to RSS score but positively correlated to GHQ-12 score in patients of both genders. Conclusion The quality of life of female patients with vitiligo is poorer than the same in male patients. The poor financial condition of families and rural living are two factors related to the poorer quality of life of female patients. A poorer quality of life in vitiligo patients of both genders is linked with decreased self-esteem and decreased psychological well-being. Gender-related issues in the quality of life and the overall well-being of such patients are important in their management and policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santosh Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Pravin Kumar Kesari
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Vidhata Dixit
- Department of Psychology, J D Womens College, Patna, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, India
| | - Suprakash Chaudhury
- Department of Psychiatry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Hofer A, Biedermann F, Kaufmann A, Kemmler G, Pfaffenberger NM, Yalcin-Siedentopf N. Self-esteem in stabilized individuals with chronic schizophrenia: association with residual symptoms and cognitive functioning. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2023; 273:1737-1746. [PMID: 36602648 PMCID: PMC10713693 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-022-01538-x] [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: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Low self-esteem is regarded as a barrier to recovery from schizophrenia and the identification of factors affecting this psychological characteristic may help to implement effective therapeutic interventions. To this end, the present study aimed to assess whether residual symptoms of the disorder and performance on a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery might differently impact self-esteem among 70 stabilized outpatients with chronic schizophrenia from public outpatient mental health services. Self-esteem inter-correlated with the severity of overall symptomatology, affective and negative symptoms, with premorbid intelligence, and with performance in the domains of verbal learning and memory, visual memory, working memory, and verbal fluency. Residual affective symptoms, premorbid intelligence, and female sex predicted poorer self-esteem in multiple linear regression analysis. The findings of this study implicate that next to psychological interventions therapeutic strategies that specifically target affective symptoms of schizophrenia may have a beneficial impact on patients' self-esteem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Hofer
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Falko Biedermann
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Alexandra Kaufmann
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Georg Kemmler
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nicole M Pfaffenberger
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Nursen Yalcin-Siedentopf
- Division of Psychiatry I, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
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Prizeman K, Weinstein N, McCabe C. Effects of mental health stigma on loneliness, social isolation, and relationships in young people with depression symptoms. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:527. [PMID: 37479975 PMCID: PMC10362624 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04991-7] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most prevalent affective disorder and the leading cause of illness and disability among young people worldwide. Besides being more susceptible to the onset of depression, young people have a higher risk of loneliness, and their personal and social development is impacted by social relationships during this time. It is thought that mental health stigma can undermine both help-seeking and longer-term outcomes for disorders like depression in young people. However, how stigma (i.e., related to depression) might affect young people's feelings of loneliness, social isolation, and relationships is unclear. Using qualitative research methods, this study aimed to explore the subjective experiences of public and internalized stigma and its effects on loneliness, social isolation, and relationship quality in young people with depression symptoms. METHODS We carried out in-depth, semi-structured interviews with N = 22 young people aged 17-25 (Mage = 22 years) who reported high symptoms of depression (Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (MFQ) score > 27) (i.e., community sample, N = 9) or had been previously diagnosed with depression by a medical professional (i.e., clinical sample, N = 13). Data were analysed using thematic analysis. We explored the subjective effects of depression stigma on loneliness, social isolation, and relationships. RESULTS Participants described both public stigma (i.e., initiated by others) and internalized stigma (i.e., self-imposed) as disrupting social relationships and eliciting loneliness, isolation, and depressive symptomology. Four main themes about young people's subjective experiences of stigma were identified: 1) Others' Misunderstanding of Mental Health Disorders and the Impact Misunderstanding has on Relationships; 2) Effects of Stigma on the Self and Wellbeing; 3) Stigma Fosters Secrecy Versus Disclosure; and 4) Stigma Increases Loneliness Driven by Avoidance of Social Contexts. CONCLUSIONS Young people's accounts revealed a wide range of consequences beyond their depression diagnosis. Participants often felt discriminated against, misunderstood, and judged by others as a result of public stigma; they discussed internalizing these attitudes. They suggested that a lack of understanding from others, for example from their partners, family, and peers, and unreliable and/or absent support systems resulted in increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation and reduced the quality and quantity of relationship formation, social bonds, and interactions. Stigma also reduced their self-esteem and confidence, which in turn fostered secrecy and a reluctance to disclose their depression. Despite depression's stigma, most participants reported having long-term goals and aspirations to reconnect with others. These goals stood in contrast to feeling hopeless and unmotivated during periods of depression. Overall, we reveal how stigma can impact feelings of loneliness, social isolation, and relationships among young people with depression, which could lead to targeted interventions to lessen the impact of stigma in this population.
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