1
|
Koet LBM, Velek P, Bindels PJE, Bohnen AM, de Schepper EIT, Gerger H. Children and young people's consultation rates for psychosocial problems between 2016 and 2021 in the Netherlands. Eur J Gen Pract 2024; 30:2357780. [PMID: 38832626 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2024.2357780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, there are concerns about declining mental health of children and young people (CYP). OBJECTIVES To examine trends in GP consultation rates for psychosocial problems and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We performed a population-based cohort study using electronic GP records of CYP (0-24 years) living in the Rotterdam metropolitan area between 2016 and 2021. We calculated monthly consultation rates for psychosocial problems, stratified by age group and sex. We used negative binomial models to model the pre-COVID-19 trend, and estimate expected rates post-COVID-19 onset. We modelled the effect of COVID-19 infection rate and school closure on consultation rates per sex and age group. RESULTS The cohort increased from 64801 to 92093 CYP between January 2016 and December 2021. Median age was 12.5 years and 49.3% was female. Monthly consultation rates increased from 2,443 to 4,542 consultations per 100,000 patient months over the six years. This trend (RR 1.009, 95%CI 1.008-1.011) started well before the COVID-19 pandemic. Consultation rates of adolescent girls and young women increased most strongly. Between March and May 2020, there was a temporary reduction in consultation rates, whereupon these returned to expected levels. COVID-19 infection rate and school closures showed small but significant associations with consultation rates for psychosocial problems but this did not affect the overall trend. Although consultation rates for psychosocial problems increased, this increment was stable over the entire study period. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly increase consultation rates for psychosocial problems in CYP. The consultation rates increased, especially in adolescent girls and young women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lukas B M Koet
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Premysl Velek
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick J E Bindels
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur M Bohnen
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien I T de Schepper
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heike Gerger
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sundar TKB, Sargenius H, Kvarme LG, Sparboe-Nilsen B. Norwegian pre-service teacher students' and public health nursing students' views on health - a qualitative study of students' perceptions. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2322705. [PMID: 38431882 PMCID: PMC10911246 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2322705] [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: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In 2020, the Norwegian school curriculum was revised, introducing a new cross-curricular subject, Public Health, and Life Skills. The curriculum emphasizes collaboration between teachers and the school health service. Subsequently, a research project, Literacies for Health and Life Skills, was initiated at Oslo Metropolitan University. The aim was to develop a new approach to the subject. A part of the research was to explore perceptions about good and poor health among teacher students and public health nursing students. METHODS This study has a qualitative design using auto-photography, group discussions and photo-elicitation interviews as methods to explore the students' views on health. RESULTS A analysis revealed three themes about good health in both student groups: Relaxation and tranquillity, belonging and relations, and enjoyment as important to health. Three themes about poor health emerged in both student groups: The ideal body and self-perception, you are as healthy as you feel, and the best in life is also the worst. The students' statements were characterized by underlying assumptions about health in society, with a focus on "healthism". No major differences between the student groups were found. CONCLUSION This study serves as a step towards increased understanding of health perceptions among future professionals working with children and adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Turid Kristin Bigum Sundar
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hanna Sargenius
- Department of Psychology, section of cognition and neurosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lisbeth Gravdal Kvarme
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente Sparboe-Nilsen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Schlechter P, Hillmann M, Neufeld SAS. Gender, age, and longitudinal measurement invariance of child and adolescent depression scales: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 113:102481. [PMID: 39168055 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Understanding developmental trajectories and gender differences in depressive symptoms is clinically relevant. Discerning true differences across gender, age groups, and time is based on the often-neglected premise of measurement invariance (MI) of child and adolescent depression scales. In this systematic review, we assessed available evidence for MI across gender, age groups, and time for depression scales validated in children and adolescents, in studies with at least one assessment under age 18. A literature search using Medline, PsychInfo, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases identified 42 studies that examined MI. MI of eleven scales was tested in 1-9 studies per scale. Conclusions are hampered by different factor solutions tested within some scales. All included questionnaires showed preliminary evidence for MI across gender. Across some studies, crying had higher factor loadings in females compared to males, indicating that crying may be differently related to depression across gender. MI evidence was preliminary in just four scales across time, mostly confined to ages 13-17. One study showed developmental conclusions differed when non-invariance is not accounted for in observed scores. Overall, evidence for MI in child and adolescent depression scales is currently limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Schlechter
- Institute of Psychology, University of Münster, Germany; Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany; University of Cambridge, Department of Psychiatry, UK.
| | - Mona Hillmann
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Frøyland LR, Tokle R, Burdzovic Andreas J, Brunborg GS. Sexting and Mental Health in Adolescence: A Longitudinal Study. J Adolesc Health 2024; 75:584-590. [PMID: 38852090 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2024.04.018] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Research has shown that sexting-the practice of sending, receiving, and forwarding sexual messages on digital media services-is associated with poor mental health. However, few studies have moved beyond cross-sectional designs, demonstrating that individuals who engage in sexting differ in mental health from those who do not. The purpose of our study was to investigate whether sexting was associated with increases in depression symptoms and conduct problems over time. METHODS We analyzed data from three rounds of the longitudinal MyLife study among Norwegian adolescents (n = 3,000). The participants completed e-questionnaires containing instruments on sexting and mental health at three annual assessments. Random intercept cross-lagged panel models were estimated to examine the effect of sexting on within-person changes in mental health, measured one year later. We also examined the potential reverse order of the effects. RESULTS In accordance with findings from cross-sectional research, the analyses showed that boys who frequently engaged in sexting also reported more depression symptoms and conduct problems. For girls, we found only a significant between-person association for sexting and depression symptoms. However, sexting was not predictive of changes in depression symptoms or conduct problems over time. On the contrary, conduct problems predicted increased sexting scores but only for girls. DISCUSSION Our results suggest that efforts to reduce sexting may not prevent mental health problems among young people. Intervention efforts should thus redirect attention from sexting as a driver of individual mental health problems to educating adolescents on how to perform safe and responsible sexting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Roar Frøyland
- Norwegian Social Research (NOVA), Centre for Welfare and Labour Research, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Rikke Tokle
- Norwegian Social Research (NOVA), Centre for Welfare and Labour Research, OsloMet - Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jasmina Burdzovic Andreas
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir Scott Brunborg
- Department of Child Health and Development, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Noonan RJ. Extrinsic goals benefit capitalism but not well-being. Rethinking the economy's goal for a healthier future. Health Promot Int 2024; 39:daae090. [PMID: 39322425 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daae090] [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] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The dramatic rise in non-communicable diseases around the world but notably in high-income countries like the UK is a manifestation of a global economic system-capitalism-that prioritizes wealth over health. A decade ago, the former WHO Director-General, Margaret Chan highlighted how 'efforts to prevent non-communicable diseases go against the business interests of powerful economic operators' [United Nations. (2013) Take Action for the Sustainable Development Goals. https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/ (last accessed 16 February 2024)]. While there is a growing literature on how politics and economics influence population health-for better or worse-less attention has been given to exploring how economic systems like capitalism influence people's psychological well-being. To fill this gap, the following article examines how the continued pursuit of economic growth under capitalism (neoliberal free-market forms especially) impacts well-being through challenging basic psychological needs for security, autonomy, competence and relatedness. In doing so, I hope to shed important light on the sources and possible solutions to our growing health and social problems, and stimulate a conversation on how to achieve a healthier future for us all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Noonan
- Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, University of Bolton, Deane Road, Bolton BL3 5AB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li J, Sun W, Luo Z, Liu Y, Huang X, Jiang D, Li S, Meng J, Gu F, Zhang R, Song P. Dose-Response Associations of Internet Use Time and Internet Addiction With Depressive Symptoms Among Chinese Children and Adolescents: Cross-Sectional Study. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e53101. [PMID: 39311878 PMCID: PMC11423272 DOI: 10.2196/53101] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Children's lives are increasingly mediated by digital technologies, yet evidence regarding the associations between internet use and depression is far from comprehensive and remains unclear. Objective This study aimed to investigate the dose-response association between internet use, including use time and addiction behaviors, and depressive symptoms among children and adolescents in Zhejiang Province. Methods Data were collected from a school-based health survey China Common Disease and Risk Factor Surveillance Among Students, encompassing 21,336 students in Zhejiang Province. The daily internet use time, internet addiction (IA) behaviors, and depressive symptoms were assessed with questionnaires. Logistic regression models were used to explore the associations of internet use time and IA behaviors with depressive symptoms among children and adolescents. Restricted cubic spline curves were used to determine the dose-response associations. Results A total of 6225 (29.2%) students had depressive symptoms. Compared to those reporting no internet use, boys using the internet for >2 hours/day (odds ratio [OR] 1.53, 95% CI 1.34-1.74) and girls using internet for 1.1-2 hours/day (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.06-1.39) and >2 hours/day (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.50-1.93) were at higher risks of depressive symptoms. A significant J-shaped association was identified between internet use time and depressive symptoms among children and adolescents, especially in boys and primary school students (nonlinear P values were .006, .003, and <.001, respectively). Increased IA behaviors were associated with a higher odd of depressive symptoms (1 IA behavior: OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.83-2.21; 2 IA behaviors: 2.91, 95% CI 2.57-3.29; and ≥3 IA behaviors: 4.72, 95% CI 4.26-5.22). A positive nonlinear association between the number of IA behaviors and depressive symptoms was found in total population, girls, and primary school students (nonlinear P values were .02, .002, .007, respectively). Conclusions Findings suggested that excessive internet use time and IA behaviors were significantly associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms, highlighting the importance of interventions to regulate and educate about adequate internet use during childhood and adolescence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Li
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Weidi Sun
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zeyu Luo
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuanyin Huang
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Denan Jiang
- International School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shuting Li
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia Meng
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fang Gu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ronghua Zhang
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, Zhejiang Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peige Song
- Department of Big Data in Health Science, School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Doyle MA, Singh M, McNulty P, Slavin S, Smith M, Walker H, Khan W, Percy-Smith B. Developing a web-based app for non-mental health nurses to assess the mental health needs and risks of children and young people. Nurs Child Young People 2024; 36:36-42. [PMID: 38369906 DOI: 10.7748/ncyp.2024.e1503] [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] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
There is high demand for specialist mental health services for children and young people in the UK. Non-mental health nurses are well-placed to assess the mental health needs and risks of children and young people to maximise opportunities for early intervention and relieve the pressure on child and adolescent mental health services. This article provides an overview of a service development project to develop a web-based application (app) to support non-mental health nurses when assessing the mental health needs and risks of children and young people. The article describes the development, testing and evaluation process, which involved consultation with children and young people as well as interviews, focus groups and an online survey with a range of professionals working with children and young people. Overall, the findings suggest that the app is appropriate for use by non-mental health nurses in terms of quality, functionality and acceptability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Doyle
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, England
| | - Manisha Singh
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, England
| | - Phil McNulty
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Wakefield, England
| | | | - Mike Smith
- Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, Wales
| | | | - Wajid Khan
- South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Wakefield, England
| | - Barry Percy-Smith
- School of Human and Health Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, England
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Larsen J, Holland J, Kochhar P, Wolke D, Draper ES, Marlow N, Johnson S. Comparing the Prevalence of Psychiatric Disorders in Cohorts of Children Born Extremely Preterm in 1995 and 2006: The EPICure Studies. JAACAP OPEN 2024; 2:217-228. [PMID: 39239392 PMCID: PMC11372438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaacop.2024.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to identify the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in 2 population-based cohorts of children born extremely preterm (EP) 11 years apart to ascertain whether psychiatric outcomes have changed over time following improved survival of EP children. Method In the EPICure2 study, 200 children born EP (22-26 weeks' gestation) in England in 2006 were assessed at 11 years of age alongside 143 term-born children. Children were assessed using the Developmental and Wellbeing Assessment (DAWBA). DSM-IV diagnoses were assigned by clinical psychiatrists for 145 EP and 98 term-born children. Outcomes were compared between a subsample of children from the EPICure2 cohort (2006, n = 76) and the earlier-born EPICure (1995, n = 161) cohort born at 22 to 25 weeks' gestation in England. Results EP children in EPICure2 were significantly more likely than term-born children to have any psychiatric disorder (39.3% vs 3.1%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 15.1, 95% CI = 4.4-51.1), emotional disorders (14.6% vs 2.0%; OR = 7.3, 95% CI = 1.6-32.7), conduct disorders (6.3% vs 0.0%, p = .01), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, 21.9% vs 2.6%; OR = 7.2; 95% CI = 1.5-33.6), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD, 18.9%; vs 0.0%, p < .001). There was no significant difference in the rates of any psychiatric disorder between EP children in the EPICure2 and EPICure cohorts. Conclusion EP children remain at increased risk for psychiatric disorders at 11 years of age compared with term-born peers. Increased survival has not translated into improved psychiatric outcomes. Health care professionals need to be aware of this ongoing risk when caring for children born preterm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Puja Kochhar
- University of Nottingham Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Neil Marlow
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Finning K, Haeffner A, Patel S, Longdon B, Hayes R, Ukoumunne OC, Ford T. Is neighbourhood deprivation in primary school-aged children associated with their mental health and does this association change over 30 months? Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:3111-3121. [PMID: 38356042 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02385-y] [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: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
As both socioeconomic deprivation and the prevalence of childhood mental health difficulties continue to increase, exploring the relationship between them is important to guide policy. We aimed to replicate the finding of a mental health gap that widened with age between those living in the most and least deprived areas among primary school pupils. We used data from 2075 children aged 4-9 years in the South West of England recruited to the STARS (Supporting Teachers and childRen in Schools) trial, which collected teacher- and parent-reported Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at baseline, 18-month and 30-month follow-up. We fitted multilevel regression models to explore the relationship between Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) quintile and SDQ total difficulties score and an algorithm-generated "probable disorder" variable that combined SDQ data from teachers and parents. Teacher- and parent-reported SDQ total difficulties scores indicated worse mental health in children living in more deprived neighbourhoods, which was attenuated by controlling for special educational needs and disabilities but remained significant by parent report, and there was no interaction year group status (age) at baseline. We did not detect an association between probable disorder and IMD although an interaction with time was evident (p = 0.003). Analysis by study wave revealed associations at baseline (odds ratio 1.94, 95% confidence interval 0.97-3.89) and 18 months (1.96, 1.07-3.59) but not 30 months (0.94, 0.54-1.57). These findings augment the existing, highly compelling evidence demonstrating worse mental health in children exposed to socioeconomic deprivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Finning
- Public Policy Analysis, Office for National Statistics, Newport, UK
| | - Amy Haeffner
- Exeter Medical school, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Sohum Patel
- School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Bryony Longdon
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Rachel Hayes
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Obioha C Ukoumunne
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, College of Medicine and Health, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Tamsin Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Elgar FJ, Pförtner TK, Rothwell D. Socioeconomic differences and global trends in youth wellbeing and emotional distress in 165 countries and territories. Health Place 2024; 89:103322. [PMID: 39084116 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103322] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 07/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Social stratifications in youth wellbeing are a concern for social policy. Using data from the Gallup World Poll (2009-2022), we examined time trends and income differences in youth wellbeing and their associations with area-level income and income inequality. Results showed that a growing proportion of youth have experienced emotional distress in recent years, and this trend disproportionately affected youth at lower incomes. Higher income inequality relates to lower life satisfaction and larger income differences in life satisfaction. Socioeconomic inequality in youth wellbeing underscores the need for coordinated policy actions that reduce economic inequality and its impacts on youth wellbeing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank J Elgar
- School of Population and Global Health, McGill University, 2001 McGill College Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 1G1.
| | - Timo-Kolja Pförtner
- Research Methods Division, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, Gronewaldstraße 2, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - David Rothwell
- School of Human Development and Family Sciences, Oregon State University, 160 SW 26th Street, Corvallis, OR, USA, 97331
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li N, Du J, Yang Y, Zhao T, Wu D, Peng F, Wang D, Kong L, Zhou W, Hao A. Microglial PCGF1 alleviates neuroinflammation associated depressive behavior in adolescent mice. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02714-2. [PMID: 39215186 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02714-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Epigenetics plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression during adolescent brain maturation. In adolescents with depression, microglia-mediated chronic neuroinflammation may contribute to the activation of cellular signaling cascades and cause central synapse loss. However, the exact mechanisms underlying the epigenetic regulation of neuroinflammation leading to adolescent depression remain unclear. In this study, we found that the expression of polycomb group 1 (PCGF1), an important epigenetic regulator, was decreased both in the plasma of adolescent major depressive disorder (MDD) patients and in the microglia of adolescent mice in a mouse model of depression. We demonstrated that PCGF1 alleviates neuroinflammation mediated by microglia in vivo and in vitro, reducing neuronal damage and improving depression-like behavior in adolescent mice. Mechanistically, PCGF1 inhibits the transcription of MMP10 by upregulating RING1B/H2AK119ub and EZH2/H3K27me3 in the MMP10 promoter region, specifically inhibiting microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. These results provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of adolescent depression, highlighting potential links between histone modifications, neuroinflammation and nerve damage. Potential mechanisms of microglial PCGF1 regulates depression-like behavior in adolescent mice. Microglial PCGF1 inhibits NF-κB/MAPK pathway activation through regulation of RING1B/H2AK119ub and EZH2/H3K27me3 in the MMP10 promoter region, which attenuates neuroinflammation and ameliorates depression-like behaviors in adolescent mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naigang Li
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jingyi Du
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Childhood Psychiatry Unit, Shandong Mental Health Center, Jinan, China
| | - Tiantian Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dong Wu
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fan Peng
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dongshuang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Linghua Kong
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Wenjuan Zhou
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| | - Aijun Hao
- Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of Ministry of Education, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Department of Anatomy and Histoembryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Eriksson C, Stattin H. Mental health profiles of 15-year-old adolescents in the Nordic Countries from 2002 to 2022: person-oriented analyses. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2358. [PMID: 39215310 PMCID: PMC11363628 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19822-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies of time trends in Nordic adolescents' mental health have often relied on analyses of adolescents' psychosomatic symptoms. In this study, we examine adolescents' self-reports on mental health in the context of the dual factor model, which encompasses both overt manifestations of mental health symptoms and subjective perception of one's health status. METHOD The objective of this study was to employ a person-oriented approach utilizing cluster analysis to discern time trends in mental health profiles of Nordic adolescents, using their psychosomatic complaints and their perception of their overall health as cluster variables. The resulting health profiles were then subjected to a comparative analysis with regard to different measures of psychological and social adjustment. The mental health profiles were based on data from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey, which was conducted among almost 50000 15-year-olds in five Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) between 2002 and 2022. RESULTS Mental health profiles exhibiting comparable content were observed in all Nordic countries, including profiles indicating adequate health, perceived good health, perceived poor health, high psychosomatic complaints, and dual health problems (defined as both high psychosomatic complaints and perceived poor health). These health profiles showed similar trends over time in the Nordic countries. Significant gender differences were observed. In 2002, adequate health was the dominant profile for both sexes. After 20 years, however, the high psychosomatic profile became the most common profile among girls. Among the three risk profiles, namely perceived poor health, high psychosomatic complaints and dual health problems, adolescents in the dual problems profile had the most psychological and social adjustment problems. CONCLUSIONS The comparatively lower incidence of adjustment problems among adolescents in the high psychosomatic profile relative to the dual mental health group challenges the prevailing view that there has been a sharp increase in mental health problems among Nordic adolescents. This view was largely based on the observed rise in psychosomatic symptoms. Indeed, there was a doubling in the proportion of adolescents in the high psychosomatic complaints profile between 2002 and 2022. This increase was considerably more pronounced than that observed for the dual health problems profile which exhibited most problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charli Eriksson
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institute, SE-17177, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Håkan Stattin
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Box 1225, 75142, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Feng B, Luo F, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Wang P, Bao R. Exploring the sports participation, muscle-strengthening exercise and active commuting with comorbidity of depression and anxiety among Chinese children and adolescents: a cross-sectional study. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1338190. [PMID: 39257409 PMCID: PMC11385614 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1338190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Prior research has shown that physical activity (PA) is a crucial element for preserving and enhancing health, particularly among children and adolescents, and consistent engagement in PA offers numerous advantages for sustaining typical physical and mental well-being. Purpose Hence, the primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between sport participation, muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE), and active commuting (AC) in the co-occurrence of depression and anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents. Method This cross-sectional investigation occurred in various cities across the southeastern region of China between March 2021 and October 2021. A convenient sampling method was utilized. We invited children and adolescents to participate in the questionnaire survey. A total of 1,996 participants completed the questionnaires with the endorsement of their parents or guardians under the supervision of schoolteachers and headmasters. Girls comprised 47.5% of the participants, and the average age of participants was 14.8 ± 2.0 years. We conducted a logistic regression analysis, including 95% confidence intervals, to explore the association between sports participation, MSE, AC, and the co-occurrence of depression and anxiety. Results No significant association was observed between weekday active commuting for travelling to and from school and MSE and the comorbidity of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. A negative association was only detected for those who engaged in muscle-strengthening exercises 4 days a week (OR = 0.540, 95% CI = 0.345-0.845) compared to those who did not partake in such exercises. Conclusion The present study has provided evidence of the connection between sports participation and the co-occurrence of depression and anxiety among Chinese children and adolescents. Sports participation is more likely to help adolescents relieve anxiety and depression than AC, MSE. In forthcoming research, it is imperative to delve deeper into strategies that enhance the impact of sports on the mental well-being of children and young individuals. Furthermore, optimizing the magnitude of this effect may be achievable by focusing on neurobiological, behavioral, and psychosocial mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Feng
- Department of Physical Education, Tianjin College, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Fuchen Luo
- Department of Physical Education, Tianjin College, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Physical Education, Tianjin College, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhang Zhao
- Department of Physical Education, Beijing Zhengze School, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Wang
- Institute of Sports Science, Harbin Sport University, Harbin, China
- Department of History, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ran Bao
- Centre for Active Living and Learning, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- College of Human and Social Futures, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Alvarez CV, Mirza L, Das-Munshi J, Oswald TK. Social connection interventions and depression in young adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02722-1. [PMID: 39150513 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02722-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Early adulthood is a period which may increase vulnerability to loneliness and mental health difficulties among young adults. Social networks play an important role in buffering against adverse mental health, but there is a lack of evidence around whether social connection interventions could play a role in preventing mental health difficulties for young adults. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023395595). PubMed, PsycInfo, and Scopus were searched (01 January 2000-01 January 2023). Studies were eligible if they (i) were quantitative, (ii) included young adults (18-24 years) from the general population, (iii) tested a social intervention which aimed to increase the quantity or quality of social connections or reduce loneliness, (iv) had a comparison group, and (v) measured depression and loneliness/social connection as outcomes. Following study screening and selection, the data extraction and risk of bias assessments were independently conducted in duplicate. The Cochrane RoB-2 tool and ROBINS-I tool were used to assess risk of bias. Results were narratively synthesised and random effects meta-analysis with standardised mean differences was conducted. RESULTS Six studies were included; four in-person interventions with higher education students, one online intervention with higher education students, and one intervention for youth involved in street life. The studies were mostly rated as having some or moderate concerns with risk of bias. The interventions were associated with an overall mean reduction in depression for young adults (SMD = -0.19; 95% CI, -0.33 to -0.05; p = 0.008; 4 studies, excluding studies with serious risk of bias). All interventions had beneficial effects on a range of diverse social connection outcomes, but there was no overall statistically significant mean reduction in loneliness for young adults in pooled analyses (SMD = -0.10; 95% CI, -0.24 to 0.05; p = 0.188; 3 studies). CONCLUSION Social connection interventions show some promise in improving depression and social connection outcomes in young adults but more high-quality research, across diverse settings, is needed in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clotilde Vazquez Alvarez
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Luwaiza Mirza
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- University Hospitals Sussex, Sussex, UK
| | - Jayati Das-Munshi
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- ESRC Centre for Society and Mental Health, King's College London, London, UK
- South London & Maudsley NHS Trust, London, UK
- Population Health Improvement UK (PHI-UK), London, UK
| | - Tassia Kate Oswald
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
- Population Health Improvement UK (PHI-UK), London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Reaume SV, Dubin JA, Perlman C, Ferro MA. An Epidemiological Study of Physical-Mental Multimorbidity in Youth: Une étude épidémiologique de la morbidité physique-mentale chez les jeunes. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2024:7067437241271713. [PMID: 39149998 DOI: 10.1177/07067437241271713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This epidemiological study estimated the lifetime prevalence of chronic physical illness (i.e., an illness that lasted or was expected to last ≥6 months) and 6-month prevalence of mental disorder and multimorbidity (i.e., ≥1 physical illness and ≥1 mental disorder) in youth. Associations between physical illness and mental disorder were quantified, including the number of illnesses. Secondary objectives examined factors associated with mental disorder, after controlling for physical illness. METHODS Data come from 10,303 youth aged 4-17 years in the 2014 Ontario Child Health Study (OCHS). Physical illness was measured using a list of chronic conditions developed by Statistics Canada. Mental disorders were measured using the OCHS Emotional Behavioural Scales. The Health Utility Index Mark III assessed overall functional health. RESULTS Weighted prevalence estimates showed 550,090 (27.8%) youth had physical illness, 291,986 (14.8%) had mental disorder, and 108,435 (5.4%) had multimorbidity. Physical illness was not associated with mental disorder. However, youth with 2 physical illnesses, as compared to no physical illnesses, had increased odds of having any mental (OR = 1.75 [1.08, 2.85]), mood (OR = 2.50 [1.39, 4.48]) and anxiety disorders (OR = 2.40 [1.33, 4.31]). Mean functional health scores demonstrated a dose-response association across health status categories, with the highest scores among healthy youth and the lowest scores among multimorbid youth (all p < .05). CONCLUSION Chronic physical illness and mental disorders are prevalent in youth. Youths with 2 physical illnesses have a higher likelihood of mental disorders. Higher functional health scores protected against all mental disorders. Mental health interventions for youth should promote strong overall functional health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon V Reaume
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joel A Dubin
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Statistics and Actuarial Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher Perlman
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark A Ferro
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Mytton OT, Donaldson L, Goddings AL, Mathews G, Ward JL, Greaves F, Viner RM. Changing patterns of health risk in adolescence: implications for health policy. Lancet Public Health 2024; 9:e629-e634. [PMID: 38996502 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-2667(24)00125-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
Adolescence is a time of physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. This period is a very sensitive developmental window; environmental exposures, the development of health behaviours (eg, smoking and physical activity), and illness during adolescence can have implications for lifelong health. In the UK and other high-income countries, the experience of adolescence has changed profoundly over the past 20 years. Smoking, drug use, and alcohol consumption have all been in long-term decline. At the same time, obesity and mental ill health have increased and are now common among adolescents, with new risks (ie, vaping, psychoactive substances, and online harms) emerging. In this Viewpoint, we describe these and related trends in England and the UK. Although previous work has explored these changes in isolation, in this Viewpoint we consider them collectively. We explore what might be driving the changes and consider the implications for practice, policy, and research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver T Mytton
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Liam Donaldson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anne-Lise Goddings
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK; Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK; River Island Academic Centre, London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Gabrielle Mathews
- UCL Research Department of Primary Care & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Joseph L Ward
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Felix Greaves
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Russell M Viner
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wittenhagen L, Hielscher E, Meurk CS, Scott JG, Steele ML, Bosley E, Watson S, Heffernan E. A cohort profile of children and adolescents who had a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics in Queensland (Australia). Emerg Med Australas 2024; 36:520-526. [PMID: 38495001 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14392] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Suicide is a leading cause of death in children and adolescents worldwide and a major public health concern. While suicidal behaviours place a significant demand on mental health and emergency services, data regarding suicide-related contacts with police and paramedics are an underutilised resource. The aim of the present study was to identify the demographic profile of young individuals (aged 5-17) and had a suicide-related contact with police or paramedics in Queensland (Australia). METHODS The present study utilised a population-wide linked dataset, including data from police and paramedics and health administrative data, between 1 February 2013 and 31 January 2018. RESULTS The identified cohort of 7929 children had a median age of 15 years and mainly comprised females (63.2%). Over the study period, 64 children died, most by suicide (76.6%). Less than a third of the cohort were responsible for almost two-thirds of the total number of contacts with police or paramedics. CONCLUSION Findings provide a comprehensive profile of children and adolescents in suicidal crisis and highlight the substantial number of interactions that occur with police and paramedics. Due to the way the linked dataset was constructed, it must be assumed that the number of young persons in suicidal crisis is higher. Findings highlight the value of considering pre-hospital alternatives to presenting to emergency departments (EDs) for this cohort, to reduce impost on EDs and improve outcomes. Further examination of re-presentations by young persons is warranted to inform prevention and intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Wittenhagen
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emily Hielscher
- Child and Youth Mental Health Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carla S Meurk
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - James G Scott
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child Health Research Centre, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Child and Youth Mental Health Service, Children's Health Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Megan L Steele
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
| | - Emma Bosley
- Information Support, Research & Evaluation, Office of the Medical Director, Queensland Ambulance Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shelby Watson
- State Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit, Domestic Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Command, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ed Heffernan
- School of Public Health: Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Centre for Mental Health Research, The Park Centre for Mental Health, Wacol, Queensland, Australia
- Queensland Forensic Mental Health Service, Metro North Mental Health Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mathews F, Ford TJ, White S, Ukoumunne OC, Newlove-Delgado T. Children and young people's reported contact with professional services for mental health concerns: a secondary data analysis. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:2647-2655. [PMID: 38172370 PMCID: PMC11272805 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02328-z] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Children and young people's mental health services have been under increasing pressure following COVID-19. Understanding, for which channels help is sought from, will highlight services needing support. This study aims to explore the professional services that parents of children, and young people get help from when they have a concern for the child's/their mental health. Secondary analysis of data is taken from Mental Health of Children and Young People in England Survey, 2017. 7608 reports of mental health-related contact with professional services from parents of 5-16 year-olds and self-reports from young people aged 17-19 were available. Service contact was reported by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) diagnosis, age, gender and ethnicity. Less than two-thirds of children and young people with a DSM-V diagnosis (63.5% (95% CI 58.6-68.1) aged 5-10, and 64.0% (95% CI 59.4-68.4) aged 11-16) reported contact with any professional services. The figure was lower for those aged 17-19; 50.1% (95% CI 42.8-58.2), p = 0.005. Children and young people aged 5-16 from Black (11.7%; 95% CI 2.4-41.4), Asian (55.1%; 95% CI 34.7-73.9) and Mixed (46.0%; 95% CI 32.4-60.3) ethnic groups reported less contact with professional services compared to those from the White group (66.9%; 95% CI 63.5-70.2). Patterns of service access during the three main educational stages aid with understanding service need during childhood. These lower levels of reported service access for young people aged 17-19 with a DSM-V diagnosis and those in ethnic minority groups demand further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tamsin Jane Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Simon White
- MRC Biostatistics Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Obioha Chukwunyere Ukoumunne
- Department of Health and Community Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, NIHR Applied Research Collaboration South West Peninsula, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Armitage JM, Newlove-Delgado T, Ford T, McManus S, Collishaw S. Characteristics of children with a psychiatric disorder in 1999, 2004 and 2017: an analysis of the national child mental health surveys of England. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024. [PMID: 39044702 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.14040] [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] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While research has described the profile of children with poor mental health, little is known about whether this profile and their needs have changed over time. Our aim was to investigate whether levels of difficulties and functional impact faced by children with a psychiatric disorder have changed over time, and whether sociodemographic and family correlates have changed. METHODS Samples were three national probability surveys undertaken in England in 1999, 2004 and 2017 including children aged 5-15 years. Psychiatric disorders were assessed using the Development and Well-Being Assessment (DAWBA), a standardised multi-informant diagnostic tool based on the tenth International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). The impact and difficulties of having a disorder (emotional, behavioural or hyperkinetic) were compared over time using total difficulty and impact scores from the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Analyses explored the impact of having any disorder, as well as for each disorder separately. Regression analyses compared associations between disorders and sociodemographic factors over time. RESULTS Parent- and adolescent-reported total SDQ difficulty and impact scores increased between 1999 and 2017 for children and adolescents with disorders. No differences were noted when using teacher ratings. No differences in total SDQ difficulty score were found for children without a disorder. Comparison of sociodemographic correlates across the surveys over time revealed that ethnic minority status, living in rented accommodation and being in the lowest income quintile had a weaker association with disorder in 2017 compared to 1999. CONCLUSIONS Our study reveals a concerning trend; children with a disorder in 2017 experienced more severe difficulties and greater impact on functioning at school, home and in their daily lives, compared to children with a disorder in earlier decades. Research is needed to identify and understand factors that may explain the changing nature and level of need among children with a disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Armitage
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Tamsin Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, Cambridge University, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sally McManus
- Health and Social Care, National Centre for Social Research, London, UK
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Stephan Collishaw
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Armoon B, Ghadipasha A, Mohammadi R, Lesage A, Harooni J, Griffiths MD. The global prevalence of mental health disorders among runaway and homeless youth: A meta-analysis. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02519-2. [PMID: 38995408 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02519-2] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
A meta-analysis was performed to identify the pooled prevalence of mental health disorders (MHDs) among runaway and homeless youth (RHY). Relevant studies published between December 1, 1985, and October 1, 2023, were identified in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases. A preliminary screening of 11,266 papers resulted in the inclusion of 101 studies. The pooled-prevalence estimates were obtained using a random-effects model. The findings showed varying lifetime prevalence rates of MHDs: 47% (conduct disorders and psychological distress), 43% (depression), 34% (major depressive disorders), 33% (post-traumatic stress disorder), 27% (personality disorders), 25% (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), 23% (bipolar disorders), 22% (anxiety), 21% (oppositional defiant disorders), 15% (anorexia), 15% (adjustment disorders), 14% (dysthymia), 11% (schizophrenia), 9% (obsessive-compulsive disorders), and 8% (gambling disorder). The current prevalence rates were: 31% (depression), 23% (major depressive disorder), 23% (anxiety), 21% (post-traumatic stress disorder), 16% (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), 15% (bipolar disorder), 13% (personality disorders), 13% (oppositional defiant disorders), 8% (schizophrenia), and 6% (obsessive-compulsive disorders). Regular screening and the implementation of evidence-based treatments and the promotion of integration and coordination between mental health services for adolescent minors and young adults with other service systems are recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Armoon
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Saveh University of Medical Sciences, Saveh, Iran
| | - Amir Ghadipasha
- Firoozabadi Hospital, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rasool Mohammadi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, School of Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Alain Lesage
- Centre de Recherche de L'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Javad Harooni
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran.
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Storetvedt MHR, Kahlon S, Berg K, Sundfjord IA, Nordgreen T. Development of a digital mental health intervention for youth with ADHD: exploring youth perspectives on wants, needs, and barriers. Front Digit Health 2024; 6:1386892. [PMID: 39049819 PMCID: PMC11266159 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2024.1386892] [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: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder affecting five to eight percent of children and youth worldwide. Inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity are core symptoms, which often leads to comorbid disorders and impairments. Increased prevalence of ADHD among youth requires development of accessible and scalable interventions. Digital interventions for ADHD show promising results for adults, yet insight into youths perspectives and needs from digital ADHD interventions is lacking. This study is set in a person-based approach and explore what youths want and need from a therapist-guided digital intervention for ADHD. Methods Exploratory individual interviews were conducted with youths aged 13-16 years diagnosed with ADHD (N = 16). Participants with an ADHD diagnosis were recruited primarily via social media. The interview guide was based on research, treatment guidelines, and clinical expertise. The study applied reflexive thematic analysis, within a Big Q framework. Codes and themes were generated in Nvivo. Results Four main themes and sub-themes were generated: (1) Tailoring the intervention to youths with ADHD (Push the right buttons; Stumbling blocks), (2) Managing ADHD (Planning and Focus; Regulation and Balance; Social interactions), (3) Me and my ADHD (Insight and Understanding; Accept and Normalization), and (4) Balance between support and independence. Discussion The findings suggest that youths with ADHD prefer stimulating and interactive treatment and are aversive to overwhelming, passive content. The intervention and therapist should encourage empowerment by supporting the youths autonomy in managing their ADHD. Future research is needed to investigate feasibility for person-based approaches to digital mental health treatments. Furthermore, parent perspectives on digital treatment for youths with ADHD should be investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maren Helene Rinke Storetvedt
- Research Centre for Digital Mental Health Services, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Smiti Kahlon
- Research Centre for Digital Mental Health Services, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Karin Berg
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Tine Nordgreen
- Research Centre for Digital Mental Health Services, Division of Psychiatry, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mishina K, Heinonen E, Lempinen L, Sourander A. Twenty-year changes of adolescent mental health and substance use: a Finnish population-based time-trend study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02512-9. [PMID: 38985336 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02512-9] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
This time-trend study assesses changes in mental health and substance use among Finnish adolescents from 1998 to 2018. Representative samples of adolescents (N = 6,600) aged 13-16 years participated in school-based, almost identical cross-sectional studies in 1998 (n = 1,446), 2008 (n = 2,009), 2014 (n = 1,800) and 2018 (n = 1,345), respectively. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was used to assess mental health. When comparing mental health in the clinical range between 1998 and 2018, the main finding was the significant increase of emotional symptoms among females. The percentage of females in the clinical range increased from 17.5 to 30.1% during the twenty-year period. When psychopathology measures were analyzed as continuous variables, the finding of increased emotional problems was confirmed. The study clearly illustrates a linear trend, with a consistent increase in emotional problems among females and decrease in substance use among both genders. An alarming finding of steady increase of self-reported emotional problems indicates the importance of early detection and evidence-based interventions for adolescent with anxiety and depression to prevent adversities associated with these disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaisa Mishina
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, 20014, Finland
- Invest Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Emmi Heinonen
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, 20014, Finland
- Invest Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lotta Lempinen
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, 20014, Finland
- Invest Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Andre Sourander
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Turku, 20014, Finland.
- Invest Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fitzgerald A, Mahon C, Shevlin M, Dooley B, Reilly AO. Exploring changing trends in depression and anxiety among adolescents from 2012 to 2019: Insights from My World repeated cross-sectional surveys. Early Interv Psychiatry 2024. [PMID: 38956877 DOI: 10.1111/eip.13562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
AIM Research has indicated a rise in the prevalence of depression and anxiety among adolescents over the past three decades. However, the factors underpinning increases in mental health difficulties remain poorly understood. This study examines psychological, social and environmental risk and protective factors that may explain changes in depression and anxiety among adolescents. METHODS Data were taken from two nationally representative My World Surveys of adolescents aged 12-19 years in 2012 (N = 5,490) and 2019 (N = 9,844). Survey data on depression and anxiety and a range of potential risk (e.g., alcohol use, psychotic symptoms) and protective factors (e.g., resilience, self-esteem) were assessed at both time points. Multiple group analyses assessed whether the predictive ability of risk/protective factors changed from wave 1 to wave 2. RESULTS Results showed that the prevalence of depression and anxiety increased significantly between 2012 and 2019, particularly among females. Predictors accounted for between 37% and 61% of the variance in outcomes across waves. While some risk/protective factors were consistent predictors of depression and anxiety at both waves (e.g., bullying, discrimination, optimism), reporting female gender and having higher formal help-seeking tendencies more strongly predicted anxiety at wave 2, while lower self-esteem and lower resilience (personal competence) strongly predicted both depression and anxiety at wave 2. CONCLUSION Findings highlight the need to prioritize adolescent mental health service provision, especially in females. Self-esteem and resilience are potentially important targets for supporting adolescent mental health. Further research is required to understand the causal factors associated with increases in anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mark Shevlin
- School of Psychology, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Anthony R, Moore G, Page N, Ollerhead C, Parker J, Murphy S, Rice F, Armitage JM, Collishaw S. Trends in adolescent emotional problems in Wales between 2013 and 2019: the contribution of peer relationships. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2024; 65:887-898. [PMID: 38083987 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13924] [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] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidemiological evidence shows a substantial increase in adolescent emotional problems in many countries, but reasons for this increase remain poorly understood. We tested change in emotional problems in a national sample of young people in Wales in 2013, 2017 and 2019 using identical symptom screens, and examined whether trends were accounted for by changes in youth friendship quality and bullying. METHODS The present study of 230,735 11-16-year olds draws on repeat cross-sectional data obtained on three occasions (2013, 2017 and 2019) in national school-based surveys in Wales (conducted by the School Health Research Network). Emotional problems were assessed with a brief validated symptom screen (the SCL-4). RESULTS There was a significant increase in emotional problem scores between 2013 and 2019 (b[95% CI] = 1.573 [1.380, 1.765]). This increase was observed for all ages and was more pronounced for girls than boys (interaction b [95% CI] = 0.229 [0.004, 0.462]) and for young people from less affluent families (interaction b [95% CI] = -0.564[-0.809, -0.319]). Of the total sample, 14.2% and 5.7% reported frequent face-to-face and cyberbullying respectively. There were modest decreases in friendship quality and increases in rates of bullying between 2013 and 2019, but accounting for these changes did not attenuate estimates of the population-level increase in emotional problems. CONCLUSIONS This study provides evidence of a substantial increase in emotional problems among young people in Wales, particularly for young people from less affluent backgrounds. Changes in bullying or friendship quality did not explain this increase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Anthony
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Graham Moore
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Nicholas Page
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Jack Parker
- Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Simon Murphy
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Frances Rice
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Jessica M Armitage
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Stephan Collishaw
- Wolfson Centre for Young People's Mental Health, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
- Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Durdurak BB, Williams B, Zhigalov A, Moore A, Mallikarjun P, Wong D, Marwaha S, Morales-Muñoz I. Factors associated with chronic depressive symptoms across adolescence and young adulthood: a UK birth cohort study. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2024; 33:e32. [PMID: 38920396 PMCID: PMC11362687 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796024000350] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Identifying children and/or adolescents who are at highest risk for developing chronic depression is of utmost importance, so that we can develop more effective and targeted interventions to attenuate the risk trajectory of depression. To address this, the objective of this study was to identify young people with persistent depressive symptoms across adolescence and young adulthood and examine the prospective associations between factors and persistent depressive symptoms in young people. METHODS We used data from 6711 participants in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. Depressive symptoms were assessed at 12.5, 13.5, 16, 17.5, 21 and 22 years with the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire, and we further examined the influence of multiple biological, psychological and social factors in explaining chronic depressive symptoms. RESULTS Using latent class growth analysis, we identified four trajectories of depressive symptoms: persistent high, persistent low, persistent moderate and increasing high. After applying several logistic regression models, we found that loneliness and feeling less connected at school were the most relevant factors for chronic course of depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Our findings contribute with the identification of those children who are at highest risk for developing chronic depressive symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B. B. Durdurak
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - B. Williams
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| | - A. Zhigalov
- School of Engineering and Technology, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - A. Moore
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge Herchel Smith Building for Brain & Mind Sciences, Cambridge, UK
| | - P. Mallikarjun
- Early Intervention Service, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - D. Wong
- Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - S. Marwaha
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
- Specialist Mood Disorders Clinic, The Barberry Centre for Mental Health, Birmingham and Solihull NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - I. Morales-Muñoz
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Courbet O, Daviot Q, Kalamarides V, Habib M, Villemonteix T. Promoting Psychological Well-being in Preschoolers Through Mindfulness-based Socio-emotional Learning: A Randomized-controlled Trial. Res Child Adolesc Psychopathol 2024:10.1007/s10802-024-01220-x. [PMID: 38850462 DOI: 10.1007/s10802-024-01220-x] [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: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Mental health issues in children and young people are frequent and can have enduring negative consequences. Preventive early interventions delivered at school may foster psychological well-being, and preliminary evidence suggests that mindfulness-based social and emotional learning (SEL) interventions have positive effects on children's mental health. The aim of this study was to evaluate a mindfulness-based SEL curriculum including a French adaptation of the Kindness Curriculum (KC), delivered by pre-kindergarten teachers, in a cluster randomized control trial. Sixty-four classes (761 children, aged 38-58 months) from a socio-economically disadvantaged area in France were randomly assigned to either intervention or waiting-list control conditions. Indicators of children's mental health, self-management, positive relationships with teachers and peers, emotional processing and executive functioning were collected through teacher-rated questionnaires, standardized observations, and behavioral tasks. Results in the whole sample indicated a positive effect of the intervention on children's mental health, including a reduction in emotional, conduct and peer relationship problems, and a reduction in teacher-child conflicts. No significant effects were found on the other indicators. Heterogeneity analyses revealed stronger effects of the intervention on several indicators for children who had a teacher with lower level of teaching experience, for children with lower baseline mental health and for older children. This program therefore appears as a promising early school-based intervention promoting mental health and positive relationships, especially in a subgroup of at-risk preschool-aged children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ophélie Courbet
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Processes of Change [LPPC], Université Paris 8 - Paris Lumières [UPL], Saint-Denis, France
| | - Quentin Daviot
- Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab [J-PAL], Paris School of Economics, Paris, France
| | - Victoire Kalamarides
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Processes of Change [LPPC], Université Paris 8 - Paris Lumières [UPL], Saint-Denis, France
| | - Marianne Habib
- DysCo Laboratory, Université Paris 8 - Paris Lumières [UPL], Saint-Denis, France
| | - Thomas Villemonteix
- Laboratory of Psychopathology and Processes of Change [LPPC], Université Paris 8 - Paris Lumières [UPL], Saint-Denis, France.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Klinkby IMI, Hastrup LH, Bo S, Storebø OJ, Simonsen E, Kongerslev MT. Prevalence and incidence of personality disorders among children and adolescents in Danish mental health services: a nationwide register study. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:1731-1740. [PMID: 37566164 PMCID: PMC11211120 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02274-w] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
A few epidemiological studies have examined personality disorders (PDs) among children and adolescents in secondary mental health services. This study aims to describe the prevalence and incidence of PDs among children and adolescents who have attended Danish child and adolescent psychiatric services (CAPS). Using register-based data, we studied all patients under the age of 18 years who were admitted to in- and outpatient CAPS (N = 115,121) in Denmark from 2007 to 2017. A total of 4952 patients were diagnosed with a PD during the study period. The mean prevalence was 859 patients per year, and the mean incidence was 274 patients per year, including an increased incidence and prevalence of borderline, anxious, and unspecified PDs over the decade. The number of patients diagnosed with PDs increased from 700 to 851 per year, but the proportion of patients with PDs compared to all psychiatric diagnoses decreased from 4.2% to 2.8% over the study period. The PD population had an older age (14.8 years vs. 11.3 years; p < 0.001), a higher likelihood of being female (74% vs. 44%; p < 0.001), and four times more contacts with the psychiatric emergency departments than other patients with a psychiatric diagnosis. Future studies should focus on (a) implementing further epidemiological studies in different countries; (b) tracking diagnostic practices to facilitate comparisons and provide feedback for training clinicians and raising awareness; and (c) estimating trajectories of PDs, including costs within the CAPS, to facilitate informed decision-making regarding the future organization and provision of services to these children, adolescents, and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lene Halling Hastrup
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Mental Health Services Region Zealand, Slagelse, Denmark
- Danish Centre for Health Economics (DaCHE), University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sune Bo
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Jakob Storebø
- Psychiatric Research Unit, Mental Health Services Region Zealand, Slagelse, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Erik Simonsen
- Research Unit, Region Zealand Mental Health Services East, Roskilde, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mickey T Kongerslev
- Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
- Research Unit, Region Zealand Mental Health Services East, Roskilde, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Askari MS, Belsky DW, Olfson M, Breslau J, Mojtabai R, Kajeepeta S, Bruzelius E, Keyes KM. An integrative literature review of birth cohort and time period trends in adolescent depression in the United States. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024; 59:899-915. [PMID: 37428192 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-023-02527-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this literature review is to examine evidence of time trends and birth cohort effects in depressive disorders and symptoms among US adolescents in peer-reviewed articles from January 2004 to April 2022. METHODS We conducted an integrative systematic literature review. Three reviewers participated at different stages of article review. Of the 2234 articles identified in three databases (Pubmed, ProQuest Central, Ebscohost), 10 met inclusion criteria (i.e., adolescent aged United States populations, included information about birth cohort and survey year, focused on depressive symptoms/disorders). RESULTS All 10 articles observed increases in depressive symptoms and disorders in adolescents across recent survey years with increases observed between 1991 and 2020. Of the 3 articles that assessed birth cohort trends, birth cohort trends were less prominent than time period trends. Proposed explanations for increases included social media, economic-related reasons, changes in mental health screening and diagnosis, declining mental health stigma, increased treatment, and, in more recent years, the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Multiple cross-sectional surveys and cohort studies documented rising prevalence of depressive symptoms and disorder among adolescents from 1991 to 2020. Mechanisms driving this increase are still unknown. Research to identify these mechanisms is needed to inform depression screening and intervention efforts for adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie S Askari
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA.
| | - Daniel W Belsky
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Mark Olfson
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, 1051 Riverside Dr, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Joshua Breslau
- RAND Corporation, 4570 Fifth Ave #600, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 N. Broadway, Hampton House 797, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Sandhya Kajeepeta
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Emilie Bruzelius
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Katherine M Keyes
- Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, 722 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Geoffroy MC, Chadi N, Bouchard S, Fuoco J, Chartrand E, Loose T, Sciola A, Boruff JT, Iyer SN, Sun Y, Gouin JP, Côté SM, Thombs BD. Mental health of Canadian youth: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies examining changes in depression, anxiety, and suicide-related outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH = REVUE CANADIENNE DE SANTE PUBLIQUE 2024; 115:408-424. [PMID: 38478216 PMCID: PMC11151894 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-024-00865-x] [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] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to describe Canadian youth mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on changes in anxiety and depressive symptoms and suicidality. METHODS We searched four databases up to February 2023 for longitudinal or repeated cross-sectional studies reporting on changes in depressive and anxiety symptoms, suicidality, or related services utilization among young people under 25 years old residing in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed for studies comparing depressive and anxiety symptoms from before to during the first, second, and third COVID-19 waves (up to June 2021), and between COVID-19 waves. Other studies were described narratively. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist. SYNTHESIS Of the 7916 records screened, 35 articles met inclusion criteria for this review. Included studies were highly heterogeneous in design, population, and type of change investigated, and many had a high risk of bias. The meta-analyses found that depressive symptoms worsened minimally from pre-pandemic to wave 1 but returned to pre-pandemic levels by wave 2. Anxiety symptoms were broadly comparable from pre-pandemic to waves 1 and 2 but worsened from waves 1 to 3 and from pre-pandemic to wave 1 for girls. The narrative review included several studies that provided inconclusive evidence of increases in services utilization. CONCLUSION The current evidence is limited and highly heterogeneous, making it insufficient to draw definitive conclusions regarding the short- to medium-term impact of the pandemic on youth mental health in Canada. Obtaining better mental health surveillance among Canadian youth is imperative.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Claude Geoffroy
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute/Douglas Research Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Nicholas Chadi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samantha Bouchard
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Julia Fuoco
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elise Chartrand
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tianna Loose
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Anthony Sciola
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jill T Boruff
- Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Srividya N Iyer
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Douglas Research Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Ying Sun
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Sylvana M Côté
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Brett D Thombs
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lo Moro G, Scaioli G, Conrado F, Lusiani L, Pinto S, Rolfini E, Bert F, Siliquini R. Parental Perception of Children's Mental Health During the Pandemic: Insights From an Italian Cross-Sectional Study. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2024; 94:539-550. [PMID: 38532496 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explores the impact of the pandemic on children's mental health. It examined the understanding of parents regarding their children's mental condition and their ability to identify issues, 2 years post the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, 507 Italian parents reported on their youngest child aged between 2 and 17, totaling 507 children. The outcomes focused on were parental perception of children's mental health deterioration, scores on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) above the clinical cut-off, and parental under-recognition of mental health issues. Descriptive analyses and multivariable logistic regression models were executed (significance at p < .05). RESULTS Parents were 88.1% women (median age 41 years, interquartile range [IQR] = 36-47). Their children were 50.3% female [median age 6 years (IQR = 4-11)]. The data revealed 21.1% of parents perceived a deterioration in their children's mental health, while 44.2% had SDQ scores above the cut-off. Parental under-recognition of mental issues was found in 20.1% of cases. Significant correlations were found between parental perception of deterioration, SDQ scores, and factors like parental mental distress and children's sleep issues. IMPLICATIONS The findings suggest that schools and verified websites can serve as critical conduits for providing parents with reliable information. By promoting early identification and intervention, such mechanisms can help ensure mental health equity for children. CONCLUSIONS The research highlights the effect of the pandemic on children's mental health and the issue of parental under-recognition. The results underscore the importance of public health initiatives that enhance mental health information accessibility and reliability for parents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Lo Moro
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Giacomo Scaioli
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy; Health Local Unit "ASL TO3", Turin, Italy
| | - Francesco Conrado
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Lusiani
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Sonia Pinto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Edoardo Rolfini
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Bert
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy; Health Local Unit "ASL TO3", Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Siliquini
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 Bis, 10126, Turin, Italy; A.O.U. City of Health and Science of Turin, Turin, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Gill J, Jones A, Price K, Goodison E, Tyson P. A mixed-method systematic review of the perspectives of young people, carers and professionals on psychiatric diagnosis in childhood and adolescence. JOURNAL OF CHILD AND ADOLESCENT PSYCHIATRIC NURSING 2024; 37:e12459. [PMID: 38522014 DOI: 10.1111/jcap.12459] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM The significance and complexities of a psychiatric diagnosis have been well-documented in existing literature. Despite the reliability and accuracy of such diagnoses, the impact and use of diagnostic labelling on young people remains unclear. METHODS A systematic review was conducted using six databases, identifying 13 studies that explored psychiatric diagnosis experiences in professionals, caregivers, and young people. FINDINGS This review focuses on three main themes related to psychiatric diagnosis in young people. The first theme is diagnostic subjectivity, which explores the accuracy, usefulness, potential harm and alternatives (e.g. psychological formulation) to psychiatric diagnosis in this population. The second theme is the utility of psychiatric diagnosis, which considers whether it helps young people access appropriate support and gain a better understanding of themselves and their presenting issues. The third theme is stigma, which examines the negative experiences and discrimination that young people may face due to their psychiatric diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS There is relatively limited literature which discusses the experience of psychiatric diagnosis in young people, caregivers and professionals. The available literature is difficult to compare due to discrepancies between methodologies and services, and there are several gaps i.e. a limited focus on the experience of young people themselves. Different views and experiences of psychiatric diagnosis among professionals, caregivers, and young people could impact young people's quality of life, access to healthcare, and identity development. The current literature needs to be more comprehensive to draw firm conclusions about young people's experiences with psychiatric diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jodie Gill
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Alexis Jones
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Klara Price
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Egan Goodison
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Tyson
- School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies, University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Liu GX, Li ZL, Lin SY, Luo ZY, Yin YN, Zhou YL, Ning YP. NEFA can serve as good biological markers for the diagnosis of depression in adolescents. J Affect Disord 2024; 352:342-348. [PMID: 38364978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.274] [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: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of adolescent depression has markedly risen in recent years, with a high recurrence rate into adulthood. Diagnosis in adolescents is challenging due to subjective factors, highlighting the crucial need for objective diagnostic markers. METHODS Our study enrolled 204 participants, including healthy controls (n = 88) and first-episode adolescent depression patients (n = 116). Serum samples underwent gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis to assess non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) expression. Machine learning and ROC analysis were employed to identify potential biomarkers, followed by bioinformatics analysis to explore underlying mechanisms. RESULTS Nearly all differentially expressed NEFA exhibited significant downregulation. Notably, nonanoic acid, cis-10-pentadecenoic acid, cis-10-carboenoic acid, and cis-11-eicosenoic acid demonstrated excellent performance in distinguishing adolescent depression patients. Metabolite-gene interaction analysis revealed these NEFAs interacted with multiple genes. KEGG pathway analysis on these genes suggested that differentially expressed NEFA may impact PPAR and cAMP signaling pathways. LIMITATIONS Inclusion of diverse populations for evaluation is warranted. Biomarkers identified in this study require samples that are more in line with the experimental design for external validation, and further basic research is necessary to validate the potential depressive mechanisms of NEFA. CONCLUSIONS The overall reduction in NEFA expression in first-episode adolescent depression patients suggests a potential mediation of depression symptoms through cAMP and PPAR signaling pathways. NEFA levels show promise as a diagnostic tool for identifying first-episode adolescent depression patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guan-Xi Liu
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-Lin Li
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Su-Yan Lin
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zheng-Yi Luo
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ya-Nan Yin
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-Ling Zhou
- The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Yu-Ping Ning
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China; The Affiliated Brain Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University (Guangzhou Huiai Hospital), Guangzhou, China; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Larsen J, Kochhar P, Wolke D, Draper ES, Marlow N, Johnson S. Comparing behavioural outcomes in children born extremely preterm between 2006 and 1995: the EPICure studies. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:1517-1528. [PMID: 37430147 PMCID: PMC11098736 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02258-w] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children born extremely preterm (EP) are at increased risk of neurocognitive and behavioural morbidity. Here, we investigate whether behavioural outcomes have changed over time concomitant with increasing survival following EP birth. METHODS Comparison of outcomes at 11 years of age for two prospective national cohorts of children born EP in 1995 (EPICure) and 2006 (EPICure2), assessed alongside term-born children. Behavioural outcomes were assessed using the parent-completed Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), DuPaul Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale (ADHD-RS), and Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). RESULTS In EPICure, 176 EP and 153 term-born children were assessed (mean age: 10.9 years); in EPICure2, 112 EP and 143 term-born children were assessed (mean age: 11.8 years). In both cohorts, EP children had higher mean scores and more clinically significant difficulties than term-born children on almost all measures. Comparing outcomes for EP children in the two cohorts, there were no significant differences in mean scores or in the proportion of children with clinically significant difficulties after adjustment for confounders. Using term-born children as reference, EP children in EPICure2 had significantly higher SDQ total difficulties and ADHD-RS hyperactivity impulsivity z-scores than EP children in EPICure. CONCLUSIONS Behavioural outcomes have not improved for EP children born in 2006 compared with those born in 1995. Relative to term-born peers, EP children born in 2006 had worse outcomes than those born in 1995. There is an ongoing need for long-term clinical follow-up and psychological support for children born EP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Larsen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, George Davies Centre, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Puja Kochhar
- Institute of Mental Health, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Neurodevelopmental Specialist Service (NeSS), Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Highbury Hospital, Nottingham, UK
| | - Dieter Wolke
- Department of Psychology and Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Elizabeth S Draper
- Department of Population Health Sciences, George Davies Centre, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Neil Marlow
- EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Samantha Johnson
- Department of Population Health Sciences, George Davies Centre, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kusier AO, Ubbesen TR, Folker AP. Understanding mental health promotion in organized leisure communities for young people: a realist review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1336736. [PMID: 38694971 PMCID: PMC11061465 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1336736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction A large proportion of young people reports poor mental health, which is a major public health concern. Positive mental health is important for young people's development, quality of life, functioning in everyday life, and long-term possibilities. Thus, there is a great need to develop and implement mental health-promoting initiatives and activities in young people's lives. Participating in organized leisure communities has a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. However, more knowledge is still needed about why and how participating in organized leisure communities targeting young people can promote mental health. The aim of this study was to gain knowledge about the mental health-promoting potential of organized leisure communities for young people by exploring the active ingredients that contribute to mental health promotion. Method Given the complexity of the subject, this study implemented a realist review approach to explore the interaction between context, mechanism, and outcome. The study follows Pawsons' five key steps for conducting a realist review: (1) clarify scope, (2) search for evidence, (3) study selection criteria, and procedures, (4) data extraction, and (5) data synthesis and analysis. The literature was systematically searched in the four databases PsycINFO, Scopus, Embase, and SocIndex. Results In the literature search, a total of 11,249 studies were identified, of which 52 studies met the inclusion criteria. Based on the 52 studies, seven different contexts i.e., types of organized leisure communities for young peoples were identified. Across the seven different types of organized leisure communities, five active ingredients that promoted the mental health of young people were identified: social connectedness, development of skills, development of self-confidence, pleasure-driven participation, and safety and trust. Conclusion This review contributes important knowledge about how to promote young people's mental health when participating in organized leisure communities. Moving forward, an important task consists of establishing and maintaining the five active ingredients in organized leisure communities through e.g., education and training that strengthens the skills and knowledge of those responsible for facilitating the leisure communities, such as sports coaches or music teachers, as these adults play a central role in supporting the active ingredients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amalie Oxholm Kusier
- The Research Department for Health and Social Context, National Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mojtabai R. Problematic social media use and psychological symptoms in adolescents. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2024:10.1007/s00127-024-02657-7. [PMID: 38584201 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-024-02657-7] [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: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study examined time trends in significant child and adolescent psychological symptoms and explored the association of frequent and problematic social media use with these symptoms. METHODS Time trends in psychological symptoms were assessed using data from five waves of the international survey of Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC), conducted between 2001 and 2018 (N = 1,036,869). The associations of frequent and problematic social media use with significant psychological symptoms were assessed by hierarchical multinomial logistic regression using data from 2001-2002 and the 2017-2018 survey waves. The direction of effect between social media use variables and psychological symptoms was explored using Linear Non-Gaussian Acyclic Models (LiNGAM). RESULTS Prevalence of more severe psychological symptoms increased from 6.7% in 2001-2002 to 10.4% in the 2017-2018 survey waves. The increase was especially large among 15-year old and older girls: from 10.9 to 19.1%. The higher prevalence of more severe psychological symptoms in 2017-2018 compared with 2001-2002 was eliminated after adjusting the model for problematic social media use. LiNGAM analysis supported the direction of effect going from social media use and problematic social media use to psychological symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that frequent and problematic use of social media contribute to the increasing trend of psychological symptoms in adolescents in recent years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Mojtabai
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tulane University, 1440 Canal Street, Suite 1000, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Krokstad MA, Sund E, Rangul V, Bauman A, Olsson C, Bjerkeset O. Secular trends in risk factors for adolescent anxiety and depression symptoms: the Young-HUNT studies 1995-2019, Norway. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02373-2. [PMID: 38578474 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02373-2] [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: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
In recent decades, increases in mental health problems in adolescents have been reported from several large population-based surveys. This raises questions about changes in underlying risk and protective factors that can inform future intervention strategies. Population data were collected from 1995 to 2019 in three waves of the Young-HUNT studies in Norway to map decennial trends in the prevalence of established risk factors for, and their associations with, adolescent mental health problems. All adolescents (aged 13-19 years) attending lower and upper secondary school in the county of Trøndelag were invited, representing three historical cohorts of 25,245 unique adolescents. Mental health problems (HSCL-5) and established mental health risk factors were self-reported. Using a generalized linear model and linear regression, we calculated changes in relative and absolute differences between risk factors and mental health problems. Overall, the prevalence of established risk factors for mental health problems in adolescence increased markedly between 1995 and 2019, especially in girls. Prominent increases were observed for fatigue, bullying, musculoskeletal pain and migraine, loneliness, and overweight. Furthermore, with the exception of excess alcohol use and family economy, associations between each risk factor and adolescent mental health problems strengthened over the same time span in girls, but less among boys. Our findings suggest that several modifiable risk factors for poor mental health in adolescence are increasing, especially among girls, and should be targeted in community, school, and in clinical settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morten Austheim Krokstad
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Nord Universitet-Levanger Campus, Levanger, Norway.
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Erik Sund
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Nord Universitet-Levanger Campus, Levanger, Norway
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, HUNT Research Centre, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Levanger, Norway
- Levanger Hospital, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Levanger, Norway
| | - Vegar Rangul
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, HUNT Research Centre, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Levanger, Norway
| | - Adrian Bauman
- Prevention Research Collaboration, Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Craig Olsson
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Centre for Adolescent Health, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne Victoria, Parkville, Australia
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Centre for Social and Early Emotional Development, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ottar Bjerkeset
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Nursing, Nord Universitet-Levanger Campus, Levanger, Norway
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Resch F, Parzer P. [Anxiety and depression in adolescents]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2024; 67:374-382. [PMID: 38456934 PMCID: PMC10995088 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-024-03849-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: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Anxiety and depression among young people had already increased in the years before the COVID-19 pandemic and then experienced a significant increase again during the pandemic. In this article the different clinical forms of expression of these emotional syndromes are presented in detail and the developmental paths of a combination of both disorders are also explained. Even subclinical forms of anxiety and depression already have clear clinical implications and impair the developmental tasks of adolescence. The "avolitional depression" (depression with severe drive disorders) is mentioned as a special form. Pathogenetic building blocks-from genetic vulnerability to psychosocial stressors-come up for discussion in light of the fact that anxiety and depression are about twice as common in adolescent females as in males. The embedding of the disorders in current events shows the special importance of the self-reflective emotion of shame in the adolescent development process. The scarcity and dysfunctionality of emotional dialogue between significant caregivers and children must be cautioned against. Its role in adolescents' self-regulation and affect regulation should not be underestimated. Finally, an overview of the most important therapeutic measures for anxiety and depression in adolescence is presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franz Resch
- Klinik für Kinder und Jugendpsychiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Blumenstraße 8, 69115, Heidelberg, Deutschland.
| | - Peter Parzer
- Klinik für Kinder und Jugendpsychiatrie, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Blumenstraße 8, 69115, Heidelberg, Deutschland
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Senior M, Pierce M, Taxiarchi VP, Garg S, Edge D, Newlove-Delgado T, Neufeld SAS, Abel KM. 5-year mental health outcomes for children and adolescents presenting with psychiatric symptoms to general practitioners in England: a retrospective cohort study. Lancet Psychiatry 2024; 11:274-284. [PMID: 38490760 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(24)00038-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little information is available on the clinical trajectories of children and adolescents who attend general practice (GP) with psychiatric symptoms. We aimed to examine 5-year service use in English primary care for children and adolescents with neurodevelopmental or mental health symptoms or diagnoses. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we used anonymised primary care health records from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum database (CPRD-Aurum). We identified children and adolescents (aged 3-18 years) presenting to primary care in England between Jan 1, 2000, and May 9, 2016, with a symptom or diagnosis of a mental health, behavioural, or neurodevelopmental condition. Participants were excluded if they had less than 1 year of follow-up. We followed up participants from their index date until either death, transfer out of the practice, or the end of data collection on May 5, 2021, and for trajectory analysis we limited follow-up to 5 years. We used group-based multi-trajectory models to identify clusters with similar trajectories over 5 years of follow-up for three primary outcomes: mental health-related GP contacts, psychotropic medication prescriptions, and specialist mental health-care contact. We did survival analysis to examine the associations between trajectory-group membership and hospital admission for self-harm or death by suicide, as indicators of severe psychiatric distress. FINDINGS We included 369 340 children and adolescents, of whom 180 863 (49·0%) were girls, 188 438 (51·0%) were boys, 39 (<0·1%) were of indeterminate gender, 290 125 (78·6%) were White, 9161 (2·5%) were South Asian, 10 418 (2·8%) were Black, 8115 (2·2%) were of mixed ethnicity, and 8587 (2·3%) were other ethnicities, and the median age at index presentation was 13·6 years (IQR 8·4-16·7). In the best-fitting, seven-group, group-based multi-trajectory model, over a 5-year period, the largest group (low contact; 207 985 [51·2%]) had low rates of additional service contact or psychotropic prescriptions. The other trajectory groups were moderate, non-pharmacological contact (43 836 [13·0%]); declining contact (25 469 [8·7%]); year-4 escalating contact (18 277 [6·9%]); year-5 escalating contact (18 139; 5·2%); prolonged GP contact (32 147 [8·6%]); and prolonged specialist contact (23 487 [6·5%]). Non-White ethnicity and presentation in earlier study years (eg, 2000-2004) were associated with low-contact group membership. The prolonged specialist-contact group had the highest risk of hospital admission for self-harm (hazard ratio vs low-contact group 2·19 [95% CI 2·03-2·36]) and suicide (2·67 [1·72-4·14]). INTERPRETATION Most children and adolescents presenting to primary care with psychiatric symptoms or diagnoses have low or declining rates of ongoing contact. If these trajectories reflect symptomatic improvement, these findings provide reassurance for children and adolescents and their caregivers. However, these trajectories might reflect an unmet need for some children and adolescents. FUNDING National Institute for Health and Care Research and the Wellcome Trust.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morwenna Senior
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Matthias Pierce
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Vicky P Taxiarchi
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Shruti Garg
- Division of Neuroscience, School of Biological Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Dawn Edge
- Division of Psychology & Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Research Unit, Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Trust, Manchester, UK; NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester, UK; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | - Kathryn M Abel
- Centre for Women's Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Frye KE, Anthony CJ, Huggins-Manley AC, Smith-Bonahue TM. Kids these days and kids those days: Investigating perceptions of children's social skills from 1988 to 2007. J Sch Psychol 2024; 103:101278. [PMID: 38432729 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsp.2023.101278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Behavior rating scales are frequently used assessment tools designed to measure social skills. Use of norm-referenced assessments such as behavior rating scales requires examiners and test publishers to consider when norms become obsolete and norm-referenced scores can no longer be validly interpreted. A fundamental factor influencing norm obsolescence regards changes in baseline levels of targeted traits within the population. Yet, limited research exists regarding how social skills may change at a population level over time as measured by established assessment tools. Thus, the present study investigates population trends in social skills of K-12 children as rated by parents, teachers, and students by concordantly linking the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS; nparent = 833, nteacher = 1215, nstudent = 4105) and the Social Skills Improvement System-Rating Scales (SSIS-RS; nparent = 2400, nteacher = 750, nstudent = 800) using validity samples collected during the development of the SSIS-RS (nparent = 240, nteacher = 221, nstudent = 224). Analyses evaluated differences between ratings on the standardization data from 1988 and 2007 by informant, sex, grade level, and sex by grade level. After applying linear linking techniques, we conducted a series of statistical comparisons that revealed a general upward trend of ratings for the 2007 sample compared to the 1988 sample, with important differences across sex, grade level, and informant. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these findings for consideration and assessment of children's social skills.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Frye
- Department of Educational Psychology, Counseling, and Special Education, College of Education, The Pennsylvania State University, USA.
| | - Christopher J Anthony
- School of Special Education, School Psychology, and Early Childhood Studies, College of Education, University of Florida, USA
| | - A Corinne Huggins-Manley
- School of Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education, College of Education, University of Florida, USA
| | - Tina M Smith-Bonahue
- School of Special Education, School Psychology, and Early Childhood Studies, College of Education, University of Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Black L, Humphrey N, Panayiotou M, Marquez J. Mental Health and Well-being Measures for Mean Comparison and Screening in Adolescents: An Assessment of Unidimensionality and Sex and Age Measurement Invariance. Assessment 2024; 31:219-236. [PMID: 36864693 PMCID: PMC10822075 DOI: 10.1177/10731911231158623] [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] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a period of increased vulnerability for low well-being and mental health problems, particularly for girls and older adolescents. Accurate measurement via brief self-report is therefore vital to understanding prevalence, group trends, screening efforts, and response to intervention. We drew on data from the #BeeWell study (N = 37,149, aged 12-15) to consider whether sum-scoring, mean comparisons, and deployment for screening were likely to show bias for eight such measures. Evidence for unidimensionality, considering dynamic fit confirmatory factor models, exploratory graph analysis, and bifactor modeling, was found for five measures. Of these five, most showed a degree of non-invariance across sex and age likely incompatible with mean comparison. Effects on selection were minimal, except sensitivity was substantially lower in boys for the internalizing symptoms measure. Measure-specific insights are discussed, as are general issues highlighted by our analysis, such as item reversals and measurement invariance.
Collapse
|
41
|
Pham H, Vandeleur M, Ranganathan S. Neuropsychiatric symptoms with elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor: What does this mean for children? Pediatr Pulmonol 2024; 59:537-539. [PMID: 37991124 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.26762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiep Pham
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Respiratory Diseases, Murdoch Research Children's Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Moya Vandeleur
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarath Ranganathan
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Respiratory Diseases, Murdoch Research Children's Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Hermann V, Söderqvist F, Karlsson AC, Sarkadi A, Durbeej N. Mental health status according to the dual-factor model in Swedish adolescents: A cross sectional study highlighting associations with stress, resilience, social status and gender. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299225. [PMID: 38427682 PMCID: PMC10906859 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to I) investigate the dual-factor model of mental health by forming and describing four participant groups and II) examine associations between mental health status and background factors, school-related factors, stress, and resilience among adolescents in a community population in Sweden. Data were collected through a survey completed by 2,208 students in lower and upper secondary school on the Swedish island of Gotland. After missing data were removed, a total of 1,833 participants were included in the study. The survey included the Mental Health Continuum Short Form (MHC-SF) for the assessment of mental well-being and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for the assessment of mental health problems. These two measures were combined into a dual-factor model, forming four mental health status subgroups: Vulnerable (47.5%), Complete mental health (36.2%), Troubled (13.9%), and Symptomatic but content (2.5%). Associations between these groups were explored regarding background factors, school-related factors, stress, and resilience through chi-squared tests and logistic regressions. Girls (OR: 1.88) and participants with high stress levels (OR: 2.23) had elevated odds for Vulnerable mental health status, whereas higher resilience (OR: 0.87) and subjective social status in school (OR: 0.76) were factors associated with reduced odds for this mental health status classification. Female gender (OR: 5.02) was also associated with Troubled mental health status. Similarly, a high level of stress (ORs: 4.08 and 11.36) was associated with Symptomatic but content and Troubled mental health status, and participants with higher levels of resilience had decreased odds for being classified into these groups (ORs: 0.88 and 0.81). The findings highlight the importance of interventions to increase resilience, reduce stress, and address stereotypic gender norms as well as social status hierarchies to support adolescents' mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Hermann
- Child Health And Parenting (CHAP), Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Söderqvist
- University Health Care Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro Sweden
- Center for Clinical Research, Uppsala University, County Hospital, Västerås, Sweden
| | - Ann-Christin Karlsson
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Sarkadi
- Child Health And Parenting (CHAP), Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Natalie Durbeej
- Child Health And Parenting (CHAP), Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Wierenga LM, Ruigrok A, Aksnes ER, Barth C, Beck D, Burke S, Crestol A, van Drunen L, Ferrara M, Galea LAM, Goddings AL, Hausmann M, Homanen I, Klinge I, de Lange AM, Geelhoed-Ouwerkerk L, van der Miesen A, Proppert R, Rieble C, Tamnes CK, Bos MGN. Recommendations for a Better Understanding of Sex and Gender in the Neuroscience of Mental Health. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 4:100283. [PMID: 38312851 PMCID: PMC10837069 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2023.100283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
There are prominent sex/gender differences in the prevalence, expression, and life span course of mental health and neurodiverse conditions. However, the underlying sex- and gender-related mechanisms and their interactions are still not fully understood. This lack of knowledge has harmful consequences for those with mental health problems. Therefore, we set up a cocreation session in a 1-week workshop with a multidisciplinary team of 25 researchers, clinicians, and policy makers to identify the main barriers in sex and gender research in the neuroscience of mental health. Based on this work, here we provide recommendations for methodologies, translational research, and stakeholder involvement. These include guidelines for recording, reporting, analysis beyond binary groups, and open science. Improved understanding of sex- and gender-related mechanisms in neuroscience may benefit public health because this is an important step toward precision medicine and may function as an archetype for studying diversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Marise Wierenga
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Amber Ruigrok
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Eira Ranheim Aksnes
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Claudia Barth
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dani Beck
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sarah Burke
- Interdisciplinary Center for Psychopathology and Emotion regulation, Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Arielle Crestol
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Lina van Drunen
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Maria Ferrara
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, Institute of Psychiatry, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- University Hospital Psychiatry Unit, Integrated Department of Mental Health and Addictive Behavior, University S. Anna Hospital and Health Trust, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Liisa Ann Margaret Galea
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne-Lise Goddings
- University College London Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Markus Hausmann
- Department of Psychology, Durham University, Durham, United Kingdom
| | - Inka Homanen
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ineke Klinge
- Dutch Society for Gender & Health, the Netherlands
- Gendered Innovations at European Commission, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ann-Marie de Lange
- Laboratory for Research in Neuroimaging, Centre for Research in Neurosciences, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lineke Geelhoed-Ouwerkerk
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Anna van der Miesen
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ricarda Proppert
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Carlotta Rieble
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Christian Krog Tamnes
- Department of Psychiatric Research, Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- NORMENT, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- PROMENTA Research Center, Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marieke Geerte Nynke Bos
- Institute of Psychology, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Leiden Institute for Brain and Cognition, Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Svensson Å, Warne M. Staff perspectives on poor mental health in secondary school students: an increasing problem handled with insufficient resources. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1292520. [PMID: 38496395 PMCID: PMC10940380 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1292520] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction An increasing number of schools are recognizing the importance of addressing students' mental health based on the association with educational outcomes and long-term health. The school organization and the members of the school staff play important but, in several ways, challenging roles in this work. The purpose of this study was to explore views of staff from schools and school health services on mental ill health among students and their own role in detecting and managing it. Methods A qualitative study was conducted in a sparsely populated municipality in northern Sweden. In total, 40 participants from three secondary schools and the school health services participated either in focus groups or individual interviews. Participants were teachers, assistants, school nurses, school counselors and psychologists. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results The analysis revealed the main theme Student mental ill health: an increasing problem handled with insufficient resources and two subthemes, i.e., Uncertainty in interpreting students' signs of mental ill health and the need to clarify roles and establish a supportive organization. Conclusions It was concluded that school staff were uncertain regarding how to interpret signs of mental ill health among students and required better knowledge and more resources to help students with mental ill health. A clearer organization and consensus regarding support for students with mental ill health were also necessary in light of the division of responsibilities between school staff and the school health services.
Collapse
|
45
|
Wols A, Pingel M, Lichtwarck-Aschoff A, Granic I. Effectiveness of applied and casual games for young people's mental health: A systematic review of randomised controlled studies. Clin Psychol Rev 2024; 108:102396. [PMID: 38320420 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpr.2024.102396] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Many youth experience mental health problems and digital games hold potential as mental health interventions. This systematic review provides an overview of randomised controlled studies assessing the effectiveness of digital applied and casual games for improving mental health in youth aged 6-24 years. A systematic search of PsycINFO, Web of Science and Pubmed yielded 145 eligible studies. Studies on (sub)clinical participant samples (n = 75) most often focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism and anxiety. Applied games were found most effective for improving social skills, verbal memory and anxiety, whereas casual games were found most effective for improving depression, anxiety and ADHD. Studies involving healthy youth (n = 70) were grouped into papers examining anxiety in medical settings, momentary effects on positive and negative affect, and papers employing a longitudinal design measuring mental health trait outcomes. Promising results were found for the use of games as distraction tools in medical settings, and for applied and casual games for improving momentary affect. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential of digital games for improving mental health. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed, such as developing evaluation guidelines, clearly defining applied games, harmonising outcome measures, including positive outcomes, and examining nonspecific factors that may influence symptom improvement as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aniek Wols
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands.
| | - Michelle Pingel
- Radboud University, Behavioural Science Institute, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Anna Lichtwarck-Aschoff
- Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, Department of Pedagogical & Educational Sciences, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Isabela Granic
- McMaster University, Health, Aging & Society, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zheng H, Gao H, Li J, Li S, Chen L, Li Z, Chen X, Sun Y, Wang C, Liu J, Zhuang J. Social support systems involved in suicide prevention and intervention among adolescents: A Delphi study in Shanghai. Prev Med Rep 2024; 39:102654. [PMID: 38384963 PMCID: PMC10879809 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102654] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The rotes of attempted and completed suicide among adolescents are increasing globally. Social support can help decrease the risk of adolescent suicide, but this aspect has been rarely studied in China. The present study aimed to use the Delphi methodology to establish a set of guidelines for the development of social support resources, with the goal of collectively reducing suicide risks among adolescents in Shanghai. We commenced the study in April 2021, established a research team, searched the keywords using Web of Science from 2016 to 2021 and ultimately designed a pre-evaluation index. Next, following Donabedian's Structure-Process-Outcome model, the research developed a questionnaire comprising 3 level-1, 12 level-2, and 73 level-3 indicators. Ten experts were enlisted to conduct three rounds of e-mail inquiries in order to finalize the indicator system, resulting in 2 level-1, 11 level-2, and 52 level-3 indicators, as well as expert consensus. Our findings indicate that the social support systems should include parents, schools, psychiatric hospitals, social organizations, and government departments, with the government sector being the most important ((M = 9.4). Furthermore, our study revealed that school counselors and psychologists play similar roles to psychiatrists within the interdisciplinary team (M ± S = 9.2 ± 1.1). As per the expert consensus, social support systems should strengthen government-led and interdisciplinary collaboration, prioritize suicide prevention in schools and encourage greater involvement from social organizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zheng
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai, 200335, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Hui Gao
- Shanghai Changning District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200051, China
| | - Jiahui Li
- Fengxian Hospital Affiliated with Anhui University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 201499, China
| | - Su Li
- School of Journalism and Communication, Wuhan University, Wuhan Province, 430072, China
| | - Liangliang Chen
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai, 200335, China
| | - Ziyan Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Xuanxuan Chen
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai, 200335, China
| | - Yiting Sun
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Chenyu Wang
- Shanghai Changning Mental Health Center, Shanghai, 200335, China
| | - Junsheng Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Mental Health and Psychological Crisis Intervention, School of Psychology and Cognitive Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Jianlin Zhuang
- Shanghai Changning District Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, 200051, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Yap AU, Wee KK, Loh JY, Marpaung C, Natu VP. Temporomandibular disorder pain in older adolescents-young adults: Interrelationship with somatic burden, mental ill-being, and well-being. Cranio 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38415618 DOI: 10.1080/08869634.2024.2322595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The associations of Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain with somatic symptoms, mental ill-being/distress, and well-being were explored, along with the mental correlates of TMD (TS) and somatic symptom (SS) burden in older adolescents-young adults. METHODS TMD/somatic symptoms were appraised with the five quintessential symptoms (5Ts) of the DC/TMD/Somatic Symptom Scale-8, whereas mental distress/well-being was assessed with the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scales-21/Scales of Psychological Well-being-18. Data were examined using Chi-square/non-parametric tests and multivariate analyses (α = .05). RESULTS Among the 366 participants, 51.4%, 28.1%, 6.8%, and 13.7% had no TMD (NT), TMD pain (TP), TMD dysfunction (TD), and combined TMD (CT) respectively. Though mental distress varied substantially (CT, TP>NT, TD), no significant differences in well-being were discerned. SS burden, but not TS burden, was moderately correlated to distress. CONCLUSIONS The prospect of TMD pain was increased by being female, depressed, and anxious but reduced by "positive relations with others" and "self-acceptance".
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Ujin Yap
- Department of Dentistry, Ng Teng Fong General Hospital and Faculty of Dentistry, National University Health System, Singapore
- National Dental Research Institute Singapore, National Dental Center Singapore and Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore Health Services, Singapore
| | - Kai Kee Wee
- School of Health and Social Sciences, Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore
| | - Jia Yu Loh
- School of Health and Social Sciences, Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore
| | - Carolina Marpaung
- Department of Prosthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lahti J, Reinikainen J, Kontto J, Zhou Z, Koskinen S, Laaksonen M, Partonen T, Elonheimo H, Lundqvist A, Tolonen H. Work ability trends 2000-2020 and birth-cohort projections until 2040 in Finland. Scand J Public Health 2024:14034948241228155. [PMID: 38390654 DOI: 10.1177/14034948241228155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Aims: To examine age-group and birth-cohort trends in perceived work ability in Finland in 2000-2020 and make projections of perceived work ability up to 2040 based on the observed birth-cohort development. Methods: Ten population-representative cross-sectional surveys conducted in Finland between 2000 and 2020 were used (overall N = 61,087, range 817-18,956). Self-reported estimates of current work ability in relation to the person's lifetime best on a scale from zero to ten (0-10) were classified into three groups: limited (0-5), intermediate (6-7), and good (8-10). Multiple imputation was used in projecting work ability. Results: Examining past trends by 5-year birth-cohorts born between 1961 and 1995 showed that work ability has declined steadily over time among older birth-cohorts, while in the two younger cohorts a stable development before 2017 and a steep decline between 2017 and 2020 was seen. Trends by 5-year age groups showed a declining trend of good work ability among 20-44-year-olds, a stable trend among 45-54-year-olds, and an improving trend among 55-year-olds and older was observed for the period 2000-2020. Among the under 55-year-olds the prevalence of good work ability ended up around 75% and at 68% among the 55-59-year-olds, 58% among the 60-69-year-olds and 49% among the 70-74-year-olds in 2020. Birth-cohort projections suggested a declining work ability in the future among all age groups included (30-74 years). By 2040, the prevalence of good work ability is projected to decline by 10 to 15 percentage points among 45-74-year-olds. Conclusions: The projections suggest declining work ability in the future. Efforts to counteract the decline in work ability are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jouni Lahti
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jaakko Reinikainen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jukka Kontto
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Zhi Zhou
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Seppo Koskinen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Timo Partonen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Elonheimo
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Annamari Lundqvist
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Tolonen
- Department of Public Health and Welfare, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Winds K, Marka T, Salcher B, Rieser N, Skrivanek C, Hochrainer M, Trost-Schrems J, Rainer LJ, Hitzl W, Augner C, Plattner B. Glow up: does a professional photoshoot intervention affect self-esteem and emotions among adolescent psychiatric patients?-A longitudinal intervention study. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1310252. [PMID: 38463433 PMCID: PMC10920346 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1310252] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Today, online communication is shaped by a billion-dollar social media (SM) and social networking site (SNS) industry. Visual content consumed by children and adolescents has been shown to influence behavioral patterns, state emotions, and self-esteem (SE). In this study, we introduced a novel intervention creating visual content through a professional photoshoot and investigated its impact on state emotions and SE in child and adolescent psychiatric (CAP) patients. Methods Standardized and validated self-rating questionnaires were used to assess SE, state emotions, coping mechanisms, psychopathological symptoms, and internet use behavior at baseline. SE and state emotions were monitored at different time points around a professional photoshoot within 45 CAP patients (30 female patients; mean age, 15.1 years) using a longitudinal design. Results Within-subject repeated-measures ANOVA and bootstrapped paired-sample t-tests showed a significant fluctuation in state emotions and SE throughout the intervention. Spearman correlations and univariate logistic regressions revealed that internalizing symptomatology and maladaptive coping significantly worsened the outcome of the intervention on state emotions and SE in girls. Internet-related variables heightened the positive effect of the intervention in boys and lowered SE in girls during the intervention. Conclusion The photo intervention had various gender-specific effects. Boys did benefit from the intervention in terms of longitudinal outcome on positive state emotions (PE) and SE, even positively influenced by SNS and SM. Thus, it might be concluded that online social comparison was processed more beneficial in boys. In contrast, when working with visual content in girls, psychopathology and coping must be considered. Internet consumption in general, especially SM and SNS, was related to low SE in girls. Nevertheless, when therapeutically accompanied, the "glow up moment" during the shoot (high on PE and SE; low on negative state emotions) could be used as an index moment for therapeutic reflection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kornelius Winds
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Theresa Marka
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Bernhard Salcher
- Department of Environment and Biodiversity, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Nicole Rieser
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christine Skrivanek
- University Clinics for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Michelle Hochrainer
- University Clinics for Pediatrics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Julia Trost-Schrems
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Lucas J. Rainer
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- University Clinics for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- University Clinics for Neurology, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Hitzl
- Research Office Biostatistics, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christoph Augner
- University Clinics for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Institute for Human Resources Research in Health Care, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Belinda Plattner
- University Clinics for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapeutic Medicine, Salzburger Landeskliniken, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience Salzburg, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Li G, Sit HF, Chen W, Wu K, Sou EKL, Wong M, Chen Z, Burchert S, Hong IW, Sit HY, Lam AIF, Hall BJ. A WHO digital intervention to address depression among young Chinese adults: a type 1 effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled trial. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:102. [PMID: 38378687 PMCID: PMC10879210 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02812-3] [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: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Common mental disorders among young people are rising globally. Current university-based interventions are inadequate to address the need for evidence-based interventions. We investigated the effectiveness and implementation of Step-by-Step (SbS), a WHO digital intervention to address depression, among Chinese university students with depressive symptoms. In this paper, we report a type 1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation randomized controlled trial conducted between September 2021 and September 2022. The control condition was enhanced treatment as usual (ETAU, psychoeducation). The primary outcome was improvement in depression symptoms. Secondary outcomes were improvements in psychological well-being, anxiety symptoms, and self-identified psychosocial problems. Effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated using generalized linear mixed models. Implementation outcomes were evaluated by thematic analysis of participant interviews. A total of 371 participants were enrolled to two treatment conditions in a 1:1 ratio. SbS resulted in a greater reduction in depressive symptoms at posttreatment (p = 0.004, Hedges' g = 0.35), but no significant difference between SbS and ETAU was observed at three-month follow-up (p = 0.179, Hedges' g = 0.16). The treatment effect was larger among those who adhered to the treatment (Hedges' gs = 0.59 and 0.30). Subjective well-being also improved for SbS at both time points (Hedges' gs = 0.31 and 0.30). In addition, SbS resulted in more improvement in anxiety symptoms at posttreatment (p = 0.029, Hedges' g = 0.26), but not at three-month follow-up (p = 0.265, Hedges' g = 0.13). The qualitative results demonstrated that the intervention was well-implemented as a self-help mental health service, with minimal support from peer supporters. In conclusion, Step-by-Step, a digital intervention developed by WHO, was effective in reducing depressive symptoms in the short term and improving psychological well-being in a longer term. The sustained effect on depression needs further investigation. Improving uptake and engagement in the program is needed for its scale-up implementation as a university-based mental health service for Chinese young adults. Trial registration: ChiCTR2100050214.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gen Li
- Center for Global Health Equity, New York University Shanghai, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Fong Sit
- Department of Psychology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kunpeng Wu
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Sun Yat-sen Centre for Migrant Health Policy, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | | | - Mek Wong
- Student Affairs Office, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ze Chen
- Centre for Macau Studies, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Sebastian Burchert
- Department of Education and Psychology, Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ieng Wai Hong
- Moon Chun Memorial College, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | - Ho Yi Sit
- Shiu Pong College, University of Macau, Macau SAR, China
| | | | - Brian J Hall
- Center for Global Health Equity, New York University Shanghai, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|