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Wang S, Barrett E, Hicks MHR, Martsenkovskyi D, Holovanova I, Marchak O, Ishchenko L, Haque U, Fiedler N. Associations between mental health symptoms, trauma, quality of life and coping in adults living in Ukraine: A cross-sectional study a year after the 2022 Russian invasion. Psychiatry Res 2024; 339:116056. [PMID: 38968918 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024]
Abstract
We aimed to assess the mental health of adults living in Ukraine one year after onset of the Russo-Ukrainian war, along with quality of life and coping strategies. Quota sampling was used to collect online survey data from 2364 adults aged 18-79 years living in Ukraine from April 5, 2023 to May 15, 2023. Among adults living in Ukraine, 14.4 % had probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), another 8.9 % had complex PTSD (CPTSD), 44.2 % had probable depressive disorder, 23.1 % had anxiety disorder and 38.6 % showed significant loneliness. In adjusted models, the number of trauma events experienced during the war showed a dose-response association with PTSD/CPTSD and was associated with depressive disorder and anxiety disorder. Quality of life domains, particularly physical quality of life, were negatively associated with PTSD/CPTSD, depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and number of trauma events. Maladaptive coping was positively associated with depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, PTSD/CPTSD and loneliness. All quality of life domains were positively associated with using adaptive coping strategies. Mental health disorders are highly prevalent in adults living in Ukraine one year into the war. Policy and services can promote adaptive coping strategies to improve mental health and quality of life for increased resilience during war.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Wang
- Department of Population & Community Health, School of Public Health, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
| | - Emily Barrett
- Environmental and Occupational Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA; Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | | | - Dmytro Martsenkovskyi
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | | | - Olga Marchak
- Overseas Council - United World Mission, Rivne, Ukraine
| | - Liudmyla Ishchenko
- Ukrainian Laboratory of Quality and Safety of Agricultural Products, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Ubydul Haque
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Rutgers Global Health Institute, Rutgers School of Public Health, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Nancy Fiedler
- Environmental and Occupational Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, 170 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA; Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, Rutgers School of Public Health, Piscataway, NJ. USA
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Rapisarda F, Guay S, Ouellet-Morin I, Bond S, Geoffrion S. Longitudinal assessment of psychological distress and its determinants in a sample of firefighters based in Montreal, Canada. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1303063. [PMID: 38425559 PMCID: PMC10902061 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1303063] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Firefighters face elevated risks of common mental health issues, with distress rates estimated at around 30%, surpassing those of many other occupational groups. While exposure to potentially traumatic events (PTEs) is a well-recognized risk factor, existing research acknowledges the need for a broader perspective encompassing multidimensional factors within the realm of occupational stress. Furthermore, this body of evidence heavily relies on cross-sectional studies. This study adopts an intensive longitudinal approach to assess psychological distress and its determinants among firefighters. Methods Participants were recruited from 67 fire stations in Montreal, Canada, meeting specific criteria: full-time employment, smartphone ownership, and recent exposure to at least one PTE, or first responder status. Subjects underwent a telephone interview and were directed to use an app to report depressive, post-traumatic, and generalized anxiety symptoms every 2 weeks, along with work-related stressors, social support, and coping styles. Analyses involved 274 participants, distinguishing between those exceeding clinical thresholds in at least one distress measure (the "distressed" subgroup) and those deemed "resilient." The duration and onset of distress were computed for the distressed group, and linear mixed models were employed to evaluate determinants for each psychological distress variable. Results Clinical psychological distress was observed in 20.7% of participants, marked by depressive, post-traumatic, and anxiety symptoms, often within the first 4-week reference period. Contextual factors (operational climate, social support, solitude) and individual factors (coping style, solitude and lifetime traumatic events in private life) exhibited more significant impacts on psychological distress than professional pressures within the firefighters' work environment. Discussion This study reports lower rates of psychological distress than previous research, possibly attributable to sample differences. It highlights that reported symptoms often represent a combined and transient layer of distress rather than diagnosable mental disorders. Additionally, determinants analysis underscores the importance of interpersonal relationships and coping mechanisms for mental health prevention interventions within this worker group. The findings carry implications for the development of prevention and support programs for firefighters and similar emergency workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Rapisarda
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Stéphane Guay
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Département de Psychiatrie et d’Addictologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- École de Criminologie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Ouellet-Morin
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
- École de Criminologie, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, ON, Canada
| | - Suzie Bond
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Département de Sciences Humaines, Lettres et Communications, Université TÉLUQ, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Steve Geoffrion
- Research Center, Montreal University Institute of Mental Health, Montreal, QC, Canada
- École de Psychoéducation, Faculté des Arts et des Sciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Korpela S, Nordquist H. Supporting emergency service workers to cope with critical incidents that can lead to psychological burden at work - developing skills in the Post Critical Incident Seminar: a qualitative interview study. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:44. [PMID: 38254237 PMCID: PMC10804621 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01534-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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency service workers face critical incidents causing psychological burden. This qualitative study investigates how attending a Post Critical Incident Seminar could affect the skills of emergency service workers to overcome incidents that can cause psychological burden at work and their consequences with the following research questions: (1) How did attending the Post Critical Incident Seminar impact the skills to overcome work incidents that can lead to psychological burden? and (2) How have these skills been manifested since attending the Post Critical Incident Seminar? METHODS The data consists of individual interviews with fifteen emergency services workers who attended a Post Critical Incident Seminar in April 2021 in Finland. The interviews were conducted six months after the Post Critical Incident Seminar and analysed using inductive content analysis. RESULTS The results of the first research question formed two main categories: improved performance abilities and improved self-regulation abilities. From the results of the second research question two main categories were created: new kind(s) of well-being and readiness to help. Several upper categories and sub-categories were discovered. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results, attending a Post Critical Incident Seminar may be effective in developing skills to overcome critical incidents that can lead to psychological burden. Further follow-up studies should investigate how acquired skills from the Post Critical Incident Seminar practically affect emergency service workers and their well-being in the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanna Korpela
- South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, Pääskysentie 1, Kotka, 48220, Finland
| | - Hilla Nordquist
- South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences, Pääskysentie 1, Kotka, 48220, Finland.
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Tanrıkulu AB, Kaya H, Örüm MH, Akyıldırım S. Prevalence and determinants of post-traumatic stress disorder in patients with schizophrenia 2 years after an earthquake in Turkey. Int J Psychiatry Med 2024; 59:65-82. [PMID: 37272858 DOI: 10.1177/00912174231180467] [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: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES High rates of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have been observed in earthquake survivors many years after the event. However, its prevalence among patients with schizophrenia is largely unknown. This study, which was conducted two years after the 2020 Elazığ earthquake, sought to identify risk factors for earthquake-related PTSD among patients with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. METHODS Adult patients with schizophrenia (N = 103) and healthy subjects (N = 103) who had survived the earthquake were recruited from affected areas in the Eastern Anatolian Region of Turkey, Elazığ. A detailed questionnaire of earthquake-related risk factors, the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief COPE), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Clinician-Administered PTSD scale for DSM-V (CAPS-5) scale were administered to participants. RESULTS Twelve percent of the patients with schizophrenia and 25% of the healthy subjects had earthquake-related PTSD diagnoses two years after the 2020 Elazığ earthquake. Healthy subjects had a significantly higher rate of earthquake-related PTSD when compared to patients with schizophrenia. Religious coping, self-blaming, less emotional support seeking, and going to a safer place on the night of the earthquake were found to be associated with PTSD in patients with schizophrenia. History of traumatic events, self-blaming, and less social support from family were found to be associated with a PTSD diagnosis in healthy subjects. CONCLUSIONS The earthquake in Turkey created a situation such that significant symptoms of PTSD remained present at two years following the event in both patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and healthy subjects. Patients with schizophrenia have different risk factors for the development of PTSD when compared with healthy subjects. Clinical interventions should consider risk factors, coping strategies, and perceived social support when seeking to prevent earthquake-related PTSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Baran Tanrıkulu
- Department of Psychiatry, Elazığ Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Hilal Kaya
- Department of Psychiatry, Elazığ Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Hamdi Örüm
- Department of Psychiatry, Elazığ Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, Elazığ, Turkey
| | - Sümeyya Akyıldırım
- Department of Psychiatry, Elazığ Mental Health and Diseases Hospital, Elazığ, Turkey
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Serrano-Ibáñez ER, Corrás T, Del Prado M, Diz J, Varela C. Psychological Variables Associated With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Firefighters: A Systematic Review. TRAUMA, VIOLENCE & ABUSE 2023; 24:2049-2066. [PMID: 35521996 PMCID: PMC10486174 DOI: 10.1177/15248380221082944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Firefighters are repeatedly exposed to work-related potential traumatic events and have an increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the mechanisms implicated in this relationship are not clear. The aim of this study was to analyse the risk and protective factors related to the development of PTSD in firefighters. According to PRISMA, a systematic review of scientific literature was conducted in Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, PubMed and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Quality in Prognosis Studies (QUIPS) was used as the methodological quality indicator of the selected articles (PROSPERO reference CRD42020213009). Prognostic studies involving active firefighters with presence of post-traumatic symptomatology, presenting original findings, and written in Spanish or English were included. A total of 1768 potentially eligible articles were identified. According to the inclusion criteria, 87 articles were selected to evaluate the full text. Finally, 19 articles were included, comprising 12,298 active firefighters. There is high heterogeneity in the variables evaluated in the different studies. Taking the data for which this review has found more evidence (moderate support), operational stress, job duration, burnout, expressive suppression and rumination could be risk factors of PTSD, and belongingness and dispositional mindfulness could be protective factors. Other variables with weak support (e.g. resilience) were analysed. This review analyses the available literature, highlighting its scarcity for future research on the subject. Due to repeated trauma exposure, it is important to continue investigations and bear these variables in mind for the prevention of PTSD in firefighters.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tania Corrás
- Área de Psicología, Universidad Isabel I, Burgos, España
| | | | - Javier Diz
- Área de Psicología, Universidad Isabel I, Burgos, España
| | - Carmen Varela
- Área de Psicología, Universidad Isabel I, Burgos, España
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Rivera-Picón C, Benavente-Cuesta MH, Quevedo-Aguado MP, Juárez-Vela R, Martinez-Tofe J, Sánchez-González JL, Rodríguez-Muñoz PM. Influence of state of health and personality factors of resilience and coping in healthy subjects and those with diabetes. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1074613. [PMID: 36935663 PMCID: PMC10017435 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1074613] [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: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Currently, the most common chronic metabolic disease in our society is Diabetes Mellitus. The diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus supposes an impact for the patient, since it requires a modification in the lifestyle, which demands a great capacity for adaptation and modification of habits. The aim of the study was to determine whether personality factors and health status influence resilience and coping strategies in a sample of healthy and diabetic subjects. Methodology The sample included a total of 401 subjects (201 patients with Diabetes and 200 without pathology). The instruments applied for data collection were: Sociodemographic data questionnaire, the Resilience Scale, the Coping Strategies Questionnaire and The "Big Five" factor taxonomy. The data collection period was approximately 2 years (between February 2018 and January 2020). Results Certain personality factors, such as Emotional Stability, Integrity, Conscientiousness and Extraversion, were positively related to Resilience. Additionally, Emotional Stability, Integrity, and Extraversion were positively associated with Rational Coping. On the other hand, emotional stability, agreeableness and extraversion were negatively related to emotional coping. In relation to health status, the absence of pathology is related to the use of rational strategies more than to the diagnosis of diabetes. Therefore, the participants in this study present different psychological patterns depending on personality and health status. Conclusions The present study shows that the subjects of the sample present different psychological patterns depending on Personality and health status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Rivera-Picón
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Nursing, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | | | | | - Raúl Juárez-Vela
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Research Group GRUPAC, University of La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - Jesús Martinez-Tofe
- Nursing Department, Faculty of Health Sciences, Research Group GRUPAC, University of La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | | | - Pedro Manuel Rodríguez-Muñoz
- Faculty of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Nursing, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córboda, Córdona, Spain
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Salameh B, Daibes AG, Qaddumi J. Assessing the Prevalence, Predictors, and Consequences of Secondary Traumatic Stress Among Emergency Nurses in Palestine During the COVID-19 Pandemic. SAGE Open Nurs 2023; 9:23779608231207224. [PMID: 37830081 PMCID: PMC10566272 DOI: 10.1177/23779608231207224] [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: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Emergency nurses who are working in direct contact with COVID-19 patients are at an increased risk of developing secondary traumatic stress disorder. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, predictors, and consequences of secondary traumatic stress among emergency nurses in Palestine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study utilized a cross-sectional design and recruited a total of 189 emergency nurses from multiple healthcare centers in Palestine. Data collected from January 21, 2021, to March 31, 2021. Results The study revealed that emergency nurses had a high degree of secondary traumatic stress with the prevalence of high to severe symptoms of secondary traumatic stress being 61% of the total participants. In terms of predictors, the results showed that years of experience, level of education, burnout, and organizational support were significantly correlated with secondary traumatic stress and thus that years of experience and burnout are predictors of secondary traumatic stress. Conclusion Based on our findings, nurses in emergency departments in Palestine have a high degree of secondary traumatic stress disorder which impacts their lives on a personal and professional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basma Salameh
- Department of Nursing, Arab American University of Jenin, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Abdalla Ghassen Daibes
- ICU Department, Palestinian Ministry of Health-Jenin Hospital, ICU department, Jenin, Palestine
| | - Jamal Qaddumi
- Nursing Department, An-Najah National University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Nablus, Palestine
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Coping Strategies for Exposure to Trauma Situations in First Responders: A Systematic Review. Prehosp Disaster Med 2022; 37:810-818. [DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x22001479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objective:
The objective of the present work was to characterize the coping strategies used by first responders to emergencies in the face of exposure to traumatic events.
Methods:
A systematic search was performed in the databases MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE, LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences), and the Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Clinical Trials (CENTRAL) from their inception through February 2022. First responders to emergencies with training in the prehospital area and who used validated measurement instruments for coping strategies were included.
Results:
First responders to emergencies frequently used nonadaptive coping strategies, with avoidance or disconnection being one of the main strategies, as a tool to avoid confronting difficult situations and to downplay the perceived stressful event. The nonadaptive coping strategies used by these personnel showed a strong relationship with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, burnout syndrome, psychiatric morbidity, and chronic stress. As part of the adaptive strategies, active coping was found, which includes acceptance, positive reinterpretation, focusing on the problem, self-efficacy, and emotional support, either social or instrumental, as protective strategies for these personnel.
Conclusions:
Developing adaptive coping strategies, whether focused on problems or seeking emotional support, can benefit emergency personnel in coping with stressful situations. These coping strategies should be strengthened to help prevent people from experiencing long-term negative effects that could arise from the traumatic events to which they are exposed. Active coping strategies instead of avoidance strategies should be promoted.
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Yuan H, Ren L, Ma Z, Li F, Liu J, Jin Y, Chen C, Li X, Wu Z, Cheng S, Song L, Wang C, Liu X, Yang Q. Network structure of PTSD symptoms in Chinese male firefighters. Asian J Psychiatr 2022; 72:103062. [PMID: 35339873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The network perspective of mental disorder offers a novel way of understanding the psychopathology of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this framework, PTSD may arise from direct interactions between its symptoms. In the present study, we used the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-civilian Version (PCL-C) to investigate the network structure of PTSD symptoms in 994 Chinese male firefighters. We also calculated the micro (i.e., edges weight and node expected influence) and middle (i.e., community) indicators of the final network. Nine strongest edges existed in the final network were from the same dimension of PCL-C, like "avoidance of thoughts" and "avoidance of reminders". Symptoms "emotional reactivity", "avoidance of reminders" and "exaggerated startle response" had the highest expected influence. As for the results of community detection, the spinglass and walktrap algorithm detected the same three communities which are slightly different from the original dimensions of PCL-C (i.e., symptoms "avoidance of thoughts", "avoidance of reminders" and "trauma-related amnesia" of avoidance dimension of PCL-C were added to the intrusion dimension of PCL-C). The present study explored the network structure of PTSD symptoms in Chinese male firefighters and provided several implications for clinical prevention and intervention to address the mental health needs in this special group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiling Yuan
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Lei Ren
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Zhujing Ma
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Fengzhan Li
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Jianjun Liu
- Tenth Policlinic, Air Force 986 Hospital, 710054 Xi'an, China
| | - Yinchuan Jin
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao Li
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Zhongying Wu
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Sizhe Cheng
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Lei Song
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Chaoxian Wang
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China
| | - Xufeng Liu
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China.
| | - Qun Yang
- Department of Military Medical Psychology, Air Force Medical University, 710032 Xi'an, China.
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Yuan Y, Wang Z, Shao Y, Xu X, Lu F, Xie F, Sun W. Dispositional Mindfulness and Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms in Emergency Nurses: Multiple Mediating Roles of Coping Styles and Emotional Exhaustion. Front Psychol 2022; 13:787100. [PMID: 35391967 PMCID: PMC8982862 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.787100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To explore the relationships between dispositional mindfulness (DM) and their post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) of emergency nurses, and the mediating effects of coping styles and emotional exhaustion (EE). Methods A cross-sectional survey study was conducted to collect data on DM, coping styles, EE, and PTSS among 571 emergency nurses from 20 hospitals in Chongqing, China. Correlation and structural equation models (SEMs) were used to evaluate the relationship among variables. Results Emergency nurses with lower dispositional mindfulness, higher emotional exhaustion and preference for negative coping (NC) revealed more PTSS. The effect of NC on PTSS was partially mediated by emotional exhaustion. Negative coping and emotional exhaustion played concurrent and sequential mediating roles between dispositional mindfulness and PTSS. Conclusion This study has made a significant contribution to existing literature. It was suggested to develop interventions aimed at enhancing mindfulness, reducing negative coping strategies, and alleviating emotional exhaustion, which may be effective at reducing or alleviating post-traumatic stress symptoms of emergency nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zonghua Wang
- School of Nursing, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanxia Shao
- First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xia Xu
- Department of Nursing, Army Medical Center of PLA, Chongqing, China
| | - Fang Lu
- School of Nursing, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Xie
- School of Nursing, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Sun
- First Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Koopmans E, Cornish K, Fyfe TM, Bailey K, Pelletier CA. Health risks and mitigation strategies from occupational exposure to wildland fire: a scoping review. J Occup Med Toxicol 2022; 17:2. [PMID: 34983565 PMCID: PMC8725416 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-021-00328-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Due to accelerating wildland fire activity, there is mounting urgency to understand, prevent, and mitigate the occupational health impacts associated with wildland fire suppression. The objectives of this review of academic and grey literature were to: 1. Identify the impact of occupational exposure to wildland fires on physical, mental, and emotional health; and 2. Examine the characteristics and effectiveness of prevention, mitigation, or management strategies studied to reduce negative health outcomes associated with occupational exposure to wildland fire. METHODS Following established scoping review methods, academic literature as well as government and industry reports were identified by searching seven academic databases and through a targeted grey literature search. 4679 articles were screened using pre-determined eligibility criteria. Data on study characteristics, health outcomes assessed, prevention or mitigation strategies studied, and main findings were extracted from each included document. The results of this scoping review are presented using descriptive tables and a narrative summary to organize key findings. RESULTS The final sample was comprised of 100 articles: 76 research articles and 24 grey literature reports. Grey literature focused on acute injuries and fatalities. Health outcomes reported in academic studies focused on respiratory health (n = 14), mental health (n = 16), and inflammation and oxidative stress (n = 12). The identified studies evaluated short-term outcomes measuring changes across a single shift or wildland fire season. Most research was conducted with wildland firefighters and excluded personnel such as aviation crews, contract crews, and incident management teams. Five articles reported direct study of mitigation strategies, focusing on the potential usage of masks, advanced hygiene protocols to reduce exposure, fluid intake to manage hydration and core temperature, and glutamine supplementation to reduce fatigue. CONCLUSIONS While broad in scope, the evidence base linking wildland fire exposure to any one health outcome is limited. The lack of long-term evidence on changes in health status or morbidity is a clear evidence gap and there is a need to prioritize research on the mental and physical health impact of occupational exposure to wildland fire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Koopmans
- Health Research Institute, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Katie Cornish
- Health Research Institute, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Trina M Fyfe
- Northern Medical Program, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Katherine Bailey
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada
| | - Chelsea A Pelletier
- School of Health Sciences, University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9, Canada.
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Yi X, Yang J, Gao X, Li F. The relationship between occupational stress, mental health and work ability of coal chemical workers in Xinjiang. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:903534. [PMID: 36061289 PMCID: PMC9433925 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.903534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the current working ability of coal chemical workers in Xinjiang, and analyze the impact of occupational stress, mental disorders, and their interaction on work ability. To provide a scientific basis for improving the working ability and quality of life of coal chemical workers. METHODS In this study, a stratified random sampling method was used to conduct a questionnaire survey of 1,400 workers in six coal mining enterprises from June to December 2019. The Effort-Reward Imbalance Questionnaire (ERI), the Symptoms Checklist 90 (SCL-90), and the Work Ability Index Scale (WAI) were used to evaluate the level of occupational stress, mental disorders, and the ability to work as coal chemical workers. RESULTS The results showed that WAI scores had statistically significant differences between gender, age, length of service, shift, education, marital status, and monthly income (P < 0.05). The ability to work and its dimensions were inversely correlated with occupational stress, and mental disorders (P < 0.001). Occupational stress and mental disorders are risk factors affecting the ability to work. Workers with high occupational stress* mental disorders (OR = 10.666, 95% CI: 6.443-17.658) are 10.666 times more likely to be at risk for developing poor work ability than low occupational stress* no mental disorders. Structural equation models show that occupational stress and mental health conditions had a direct impact on work ability, and mental health conditions were the mediators of the relationship between occupational stress and work ability. CONCLUSION Occupational stress, mental disorders, and their interaction are risk factors affecting the ability of coal chemical workers to work. Occupational stress can indirectly affect the ability to work through mental health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Yi
- Department of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China
| | - Xiaoyan Gao
- Department of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China
| | - Fuye Li
- Department of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Ürümqi, China
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Morais KCPD, Silva RMD, Beck CLC, Camponogara S, Dalmolin GDL, Tavares JP. Correlation between quality of life and sleep quality of military firefighters. ABCS HEALTH SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.7322/abcshs.2020105.1559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Among the professions that are impacted by the work context, the military firefighter is mentioned, who carries out activities with danger, physical and emotional exhaustion, which can have an impact on quality of life. Objective: To analyze the relation between quality of sleep and quality of life of Brazilian Military Firefighters. Methods: Research with a quantitative, transversal, correlational and analytical approach, carried out with 129 military firefighters working in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, that had been performing operational and administrative assistance for more than six months. Questionnaires containing socio-occupational and lifestyle data, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the World Health Organization Quality of Life to assess quality of life were used. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used. Results: The analysis of quality of life shows a higher average in the physical domain (77.52), a direct correlation between the physical domain and the other quality of life domains, and inverse correlations between global sleep quality and the domains of quality of life. Regarding sleep quality, a higher percentage of poor classification (71.3%) is observed in military firefighters. Conclusion: There was a predominance of workers with poor sleep quality and good perception of general quality of life. An inverse correlation was identified between sleep quality and the domains of quality of life. When comparing quality of life with sleep quality domains, a significant difference was identified.
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Erkin Ö, Konakçı G, Duran S. Secondary traumatic stress in nurses working with patients with suspected/confirmed COVID-19 in Turkey. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2021; 57:1664-1672. [PMID: 33522626 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to determine the level of secondary traumatic stress in nurses (n = 205) working with patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 in Turkey. DESIGN AND METHODS Data were collected using the personal information form and Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale. FINDINGS Of the total sample, 62% were female and 52% of nurses were in the 20- to 30-years age range. 67.8% of the nurses experienced high and severe secondary traumatic stress symptoms, the mean score was 49.66 ± 0.86. At the level of secondary traumatic stress subscales, the highest average score was avoidance symptom (20.09 ± 5.06). PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS More than half of the nurses experienced high and severe secondary traumatic stress where the highest symptom "avoidance." The nurses may need psychosocial support during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özüm Erkin
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, İzmir Democracy University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Gülbin Konakçı
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, İzmir Democracy University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Songül Duran
- Department of Elderly Care, Vocational School of Health Services, İzmir Democracy University, İzmir, Turkey
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Quiroga-Garza A, Cepeda-Lopez AC, Villarreal Zambrano S, Villalobos-Daniel VE, Carreno DF, Eisenbeck N. How Having a Clear Why Can Help Us Cope With Almost Anything: Meaningful Well-Being and the COVID-19 Pandemic in México. Front Psychol 2021; 12:648069. [PMID: 34093332 PMCID: PMC8175781 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.648069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in an increase in known risk factors for mental health problems. Mexico adopted lockdown and physical distancing as a containment strategy with potential consequences on day to day life, such as social isolation, loss of income and loneliness that can have important consequences in terms of mental health. Objective: We aimed to examine the effect of the initial phases of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychological distress, well-being and perceived physical health among Mexican-base respondents and to examine whether coping strategies would play a potential intermediating role in relation to these variables. Under the Existential Positive Psychology perspective, an emphasis was made on meaning-centered coping. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April 30 and June 16th 2020 among 604 Mexicans-base respondents of which 471 were women and 132 men. Data was collected by using online questionnaires. Psychological distress was measured using the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The Brief COPE Inventory was used to assess problem-focused and emotion-focused coping strategies. We also used the Meaning-Centered Coping Scale (MCCS). PERMA-Profiler was used to assess well-being, perceived physical health, and loneliness. Profiler and Descriptive analyses and bivariate linear regression were performed to examine the association of variables. Results: 45.9% of the participants reported moderate to extremely severe psychological distress. Our results demonstrate that problem-focused and emotion-focused coping were positively related to psychological distress, whereas meaning-centered coping was negatively associated with distress. Furthermore, psychological distress played a potential negative role in the perceived physical health, while meaning-centered coping and well-being buffered the negative influence of psychological distress on perceived physical health (completely standardized indirect effect = -0.01, SE: 0.012, 95% CI [-0.065; -0.017]. Conclusion: Meaning-centered coping was found to suppress the negative influence of psychological distress on sensation of decreased physical health corroborating the critical role of meaning in life in promoting well-being. Future studies can further examine the value of the critical role of meaning in life in promoting well-being as a protective factor against severe distress during traumatic events. Findings of this study can be used to orient policies and interventions aimed to alleviate suffering in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana C. Cepeda-Lopez
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidad de Monterrey, Monterrey, Mexico
| | | | | | - David F. Carreno
- Department of Psychology, Universidad de Almería, Almería, Spain
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COVID-19: Risk Factors and Protective Role of Resilience and Coping Strategies for Emergency Stress and Secondary Trauma in Medical Staff and Emergency Workers—An Online-Based Inquiry. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12219004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis has placed a heavy burden on medical staff and emergency workers, who may be at risk of developing psychological distress and secondary trauma. Coping and resilience to stress during a pandemic are protective factors that can mitigate the potential adverse psychological effects. Here, we investigated the direct and mediated effects of coping strategies and hardiness on secondary trauma among Italian medical staff (physicians and nurses, n = 140) and emergency workers (firefighters, civil protection, and ambulance personnel, n = 100) involved in the first phase of the pandemic. For this purpose, we collected data from participants through online questionnaires to measure emergency stress, coping strategies, hardiness, and secondary trauma. Other variables analyzed were age, sex, direct contact with COVID-19 patients, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). We performed a correlational analysis, regressions, and a mediation analysis. The results show that nurses and physicians experienced higher levels of emergency stress than emergency workers. Direct contact with COVID-19 patients, female sex, unexpected events, and lack of PPE were risk factors for emergency stress, while resilience and coping strategies played a protective role. Mediation analysis shows that coping strategies and hardiness are protective factors and reduce the effect of stress on secondary trauma.
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Hardiness and Coping Strategies as Mediators of Stress and Secondary Trauma in Emergency Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12187561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The work environment of emergency workers is an important factor related to stress. Coping with the COVID-19 emergency is a factor that is highly related to stress, and severe stress is a risk factor for developing secondary trauma. Coping and resilience can help rescue workers to better respond in emergency situations and could protect them from secondary trauma. We aimed to explore the relationship of emergency stress, hardiness, coping strategies, and secondary trauma among emergency workers and the mediating roles of coping strategies and hardiness on the effect of stress in producing secondary trauma. The study involved 513 emergency workers from the Red Cross Committee in Veneto, one of the Italian regions most affected by the COVID-19. Participants completed questionnaires online to measure emergency stress (physical, emotional, cognitive, organizational‒relational, COVID-19, and inefficacy decisional), hardiness, coping strategies, and secondary trauma. Other variables analyzed were age, gender, weekly hours of service, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE). We performed t-tests, a correlational analysis, regressions, and a mediation analysis. Hardiness and coping strategies, in particular, which stop unpleasant emotions and thoughts and problem-focused, emerged as mediators in reducing the predicted effect of stress on secondary trauma. The mediating effects of hardiness and coping strategies were found to reduce the effect of stress on arousal by 15% and the effect on avoidance by 25%.
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Vagni M, Maiorano T, Giostra V, Pajardi D. Coping With COVID-19: Emergency Stress, Secondary Trauma and Self-Efficacy in Healthcare and Emergency Workers in Italy. Front Psychol 2020; 11:566912. [PMID: 33013603 PMCID: PMC7494735 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.566912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Coping with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a significant risk factor for the psychological distress of health workers. Hence, this study explores the relationship between coping strategies used by healthcare and emergency workers in Italy to manage the stress factors related to the COVID-19 emergency, which may result in the risk of developing secondary trauma. We study differences between healthcare (n = 121) and emergency workers (n = 89) in terms of their coping strategies, emergency stress, and secondary trauma, as well as the relationships of these differences to demographic variables and other stress factors (Instructions and Equipment). For this purpose, we collected data from participants through the following questionnaires online: Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale - Italian Version, The Coping Self-Efficacy Scale - Short Form, an original questionnaire on stressors, and the Emergency Stress Questionnaire (to assess organizational-relational, physical, decisional inefficacy, emotional, cognitive, and COVID-19 stress). We performed a t-test, correlational analysis, and hierarchical regression. The analyses reveal that compared with the emergency worker group, the health worker group has greater levels of emergency stress and arousal and is more willing to use problem-focused coping. Healthcare workers involved in the treatment of COVID-19 are exposed to a large degree of stress and could experience secondary trauma; hence, it is essential to plan prevention strategies for future pandemic situations. Moreover, individual efficacy in stopping negative emotions and thoughts could be a protective strategy against stress and secondary trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Vagni
- Department of Humanities, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Giostra
- Department of Humanities, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
| | - Daniela Pajardi
- Department of Humanities, University of Urbino, Urbino, Italy
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