1
|
Elbasheir A, Fulton TM, Choucair KC, Lathan EC, Spivey BN, Guelfo A, Carter SE, Powers A, Fani N. Moral injury, race-related stress and post-traumatic stress disorder in a trauma-exposed Black population. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 173:326-332. [PMID: 38574596 PMCID: PMC11140589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.03.016] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Race-related stress (RRS) is an unrecognized source of moral injury (MI)-or the emotional and/or spiritual suffering that may emerge after exposure to events that violate deeply held beliefs. Additionally, MI has not been explored as a mechanism of risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in trauma-exposed civilians. We examined relations among exposure to potentially morally injurious events (moral injury exposure, MIE), related distress (moral injury distress, MID), and RRS in Black Americans. Potential indirect associations between RRS and PTSD symptoms via MID were also examined. METHODS Black Americans (n = 228; 90.4% female; Mage = 31.6 years. SDage = 12.8 years) recruited from an ongoing study of trauma completed measures assessing civilian MIE and MID, RRS, and PTSD. Bivariate correlations were conducted with MIE and MID, and mediation analysis with MID, to examine the role of MI in the relationship between RRS and PTSD symptom severity. RESULTS MIE was significantly correlated with cultural (r = 0.27), individual (r = 0.29), and institutional (r = 0.25) RRS; MID also correlated with cultural (r = 0.31), individual (r = 0.31), and institutional (r = 0.26) RRS (ps < 0.001). We found an indirect effect of RRS on PTSD symptoms via MID (β = 0.10, p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS All types of RRS were associated with facets of MI, which mediated the relationship between RRS and current PTSD symptoms. MI may be a potential mechanism through which RRS increases the risk for PTSD in Black individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aziz Elbasheir
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Neuroscience PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Travis M Fulton
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA; Molecular and Systems Pharmacology PhD Program, Emory University, USA
| | - Khaled C Choucair
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Emma C Lathan
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | | | - Abigail Powers
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tamman AJF, Abdallah CG, Dunsmoor JE, Cisler JM. Neural differentiation of emotional faces as a function of interpersonal violence among adolescent girls. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 172:90-101. [PMID: 38368703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.02.015] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Interpersonal violence (IV) is associated with altered neural threat processing and risk for psychiatric disorder. Representational similarity analysis (RSA) is a multivariate approach examining the extent to which differences between stimuli correspond to differences in multivoxel activation patterns to these stimuli within each ROI. Using RSA, we examine overlap in neural patterns between threat and neutral faces in youth with IV. Participants were female adolescents aged 11-17 who had a history of IV exposure (n = 77) or no history of IV, psychiatric diagnoses, nor psychiatric medications (n = 37). Participants completed a facial emotion processing task during fMRI. Linear mixed models indicated that increasing hippocampal differentiation of fear and neutral faces was associated with increasing IV severity. Increased neural differentiation of these facial stimuli in the left and right hippocampus was associated with increasing physical abuse severity. Increased differentiation by the dACC correlated with increasing physical assault severity. RSA for most ROIs were not significantly associated with univariate activity, except for a positive association between amygdala RSA and activity to fear faces. Differences in statistically significant ROIs for physical assault and physical abuse may highlight distinct effects of trauma type on encoding of threat vs. neutral faces. Null associations between RSA and univariate activation in most ROIs suggest unique contributions of RSA for understanding IV compared to traditional activation. Implications include understanding mechanisms of risk in IV and trauma-specific treatment selection. Future work should replicate these findings in longitudinal studies and identify sensitive periods for neural alterations in RSA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda J F Tamman
- Baylor College of Medicine, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Chadi G Abdallah
- Baylor College of Medicine, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; US Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD - Clinical Neurosciences Division, VA Connecticut, West Haven, CT 06516, USA; Core for Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CAMRI), Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Joseph E Dunsmoor
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Center for Learning and Memory, Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| | - Josh M Cisler
- Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA; Institute for Early Life Adversity Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Austin, TX 78712, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wilson MA, Shay A, Harris JI, Faller N, Usset TJ, Simmons A. Moral Distress and Moral Injury in Military Healthcare Clinicians: A Scoping Review. AJPM FOCUS 2024; 3:100173. [PMID: 38304024 PMCID: PMC10832382 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2023.100173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Healthcare clinicians are often at risk of psychological distress due to the nature of their occupation. Military healthcare providers are at risk for additional psychological suffering related to unique moral and ethical situations encountered in military service. This scoping review identifies key characteristics of moral distress and moral injury and how these concepts relate to the military healthcare clinician who is both a care provider and service member. Methods A scoping review of moral distress and moral injury literature as relates to the military healthcare clinician was conducted on the basis of the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review framework. Databases searched included CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), PsycInfo, 2 U.S. Defense Department sources, conference papers index, and dissertation abstracts. Reference lists of all identified reports and articles were searched for additional studies. Results A total of 573 articles, published between the years 2009 and 2021, were retrieved to include a portion of the COVID-19 pandemic period. One hundred articles met the inclusion criteria for the final full-text review and analysis. Discussion This scoping review identified moral distress and moral injury literature to examine similarities, differences, and overlaps in the defining characteristics of the concepts and the associated implications for patients, healthcare clinicians, and organizations. This review included the unfolding influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on moral experiences in health care and the blurring of those lines between civilian and military healthcare clinicians. Future directions of moral injury and moral distress research, practice, and care are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A. Wilson
- U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Dayton, Ohio
- College of Health, Education and Human Services Department of Nursing, Wright State University, Dayton, Ohio
| | - Amy Shay
- School of Nursing, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | | | - Timothy J. Usset
- Division of Health Policy & Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Angela Simmons
- Daniel K. Inouye Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Harris JI, Dunlap S, Xanthos D, Pyne JM, Hermes E, Griffin BJ, Kondrath SR, Kim SY, Golden KB, Cooney NJ, Usset TJ. Implementing a Multi-Disciplinary, Evidence-Based Resilience Intervention for Moral Injury Syndrome: Systemic Barriers and Facilitators. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:281. [PMID: 38667079 PMCID: PMC11047717 DOI: 10.3390/bs14040281] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Moral injury syndrome (MIS) is a mental health (MH) problem that substantially affects resilience; the presence of MIS reduces responsiveness to psychotherapy and increases suicide risk. Evidence-based treatment for MIS is available; however, it often goes untreated. This project uses principles of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to assess barriers and facilitators to the implementation of Building Spiritual Strength (BSS), a multi-disciplinary treatment for MIS. Interviews were conducted with chaplains and mental health providers who had completed BSS facilitator training at six sites in the VA. Data were analyzed using the Hamilton Rapid Turnaround method. Findings included multiple facilitators to the implementation of BSS, including its accessibility and appeal to VA chaplains; leadership by VA chaplains trained in the intervention; and effective collaboration between the chaplains and mental health providers. Barriers to the implementation of BSS included challenges in engaging mental health providers and incorporating them as group leaders, veterans' lack of familiarity with the group format of BSS, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results highlight the need for increased trust and collaboration between VA chaplains and mental health providers in the implementation of BSS and treatment of MIS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Irene Harris
- VA Maine Healthcare System, Augusta, ME 04330, USA; (S.R.K.); (N.J.C.); (T.J.U.)
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - Shawn Dunlap
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA 01730, USA; (S.D.); (K.B.G.)
| | | | - Jeffrey M. Pyne
- Center for Mental Health Outcomes Research, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, North Little Rock, AR 72114, USA; (J.M.P.)
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Eric Hermes
- Veterans Affairs Northeast Program Evaluation Center, Orange, CT 06516, USA
| | - Brandon J. Griffin
- Center for Mental Health Outcomes Research, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, North Little Rock, AR 72114, USA; (J.M.P.)
- Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
| | - Susannah Robb Kondrath
- VA Maine Healthcare System, Augusta, ME 04330, USA; (S.R.K.); (N.J.C.); (T.J.U.)
- Department of Psychology, University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469, USA
| | - Se Yun Kim
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA 01730, USA; (S.D.); (K.B.G.)
| | - Kristin B. Golden
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA 01730, USA; (S.D.); (K.B.G.)
| | - Nathaniel J. Cooney
- VA Maine Healthcare System, Augusta, ME 04330, USA; (S.R.K.); (N.J.C.); (T.J.U.)
| | - Timothy J. Usset
- VA Maine Healthcare System, Augusta, ME 04330, USA; (S.R.K.); (N.J.C.); (T.J.U.)
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Boska RL, Bishop TM, Capron DW, Paxton Willing MM, Ashrafioun L. Difficulties with emotion regulation within PTSD clusters and moral injury subtypes. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38421375 DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2024.2322904] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Treatment and research centered on trauma-related mental health issues have largely focused on posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); however, moral injury is another important mental health concern requiring attention. There is a paucity of research examining how PTSD and moral injury affect emotion regulation. The current investigation examined how PTSD clusters and moral injury subtypes were uniquely associated with difficulties with emotion regulation. Participants consisted of 253 previously deployed military personnel who were recruited online. To be included in the study, participants had to verify that they had served in the U.S. Military, had been deployed as part of their military service, and endorsed elevated levels of symptoms associated with PTSD and/or moral injury. A hierarchical linear regression was conducted to examine the association between PTSD symptom clusters, moral injury subtypes, and difficulties with emotion regulation. Results indicated that alterations in arousal and reactivity was the only PTSD symptom cluster associated with difficulties with emotion regulation. Self-transgressions was the only facet of moral injury significantly associated with difficulties with emotion regulation. This is the first study to examine the association between emotion dysregulation, PTSD symptom clusters, and moral injury in previously deployed U.S. Military.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Boska
- The War Related Illness and Injury Study Center, The VA New Jersey Healthcare System, East Orange, New Jersey
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, Canandaigua, New York
| | - Todd M Bishop
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, Canandaigua, New York
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| | - Daniel W Capron
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
| | - Maegan M Paxton Willing
- Center for Deployment Psychology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Lisham Ashrafioun
- VA Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, VA Finger Lakes Healthcare System, Canandaigua, New York
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, New York
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
D’Alessandro-Lowe AM, Patel H, Easterbrook B, Ritchie K, Brown A, Xue Y, Karram M, Millman H, Sullo E, Pichtikova M, Nicholson A, Heber A, Malain A, O’Connor C, Schielke H, Rodrigues S, Hosseiny F, McCabe RE, Lanius RA, McKinnon MC. The independent and combined impact of moral injury and moral distress on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2299661. [PMID: 38334706 PMCID: PMC10860446 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2299661] [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: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) across the globe have reported symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moral Injury (MI) has been associated with PTSD in military populations, but is not well studied in healthcare contexts. Moral Distress (MD), a related concept, may enhance understandings of MI and its relation to PTSD among HCWs. This study examined the independent and combined impact of MI and MD on PTSD symptoms in Canadian HCWs during the pandemic.Methods: HCWs participated in an online survey between February and December 2021, with questions regarding sociodemographics, mental health and trauma history (e.g. MI, MD, PTSD, dissociation, depression, anxiety, stress, childhood adversity). Structural equation modelling was used to analyze the independent and combined impact of MI and MD on PTSD symptoms (including dissociation) among the sample when controlling for sex, age, depression, anxiety, stress, and childhood adversity.Results: A structural equation model independently regressing both MI and MD onto PTSD accounted for 74.4% of the variance in PTSD symptoms. Here, MI was strongly and significantly associated with PTSD symptoms (β = .412, p < .0001) to a higher degree than MD (β = .187, p < .0001), after controlling for age, sex, depression, anxiety, stress and childhood adversity. A model regressing a combined MD and MI construct onto PTSD predicted approximately 87% of the variance in PTSD symptoms (r2 = .87, p < .0001), with MD/MI strongly and significantly associated with PTSD (β = .813, p < .0001), after controlling for age, sex, depression, anxiety, stress, and childhood adversity.Conclusion: Our results support a relation between MI and PTSD among HCWs and suggest that a combined MD and MI construct is most strongly associated with PTSD symptoms. Further research is needed better understand the mechanisms through which MD/MI are associated with PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Herry Patel
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Kim Ritchie
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Yuanxin Xue
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mauda Karram
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Emily Sullo
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mina Pichtikova
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew Nicholson
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Heber
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Institute for Pandemic Health Education and Response, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Ann Malain
- Homewood Health Centre, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Sarah Rodrigues
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fardous Hosseiny
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Randi E. McCabe
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ruth A. Lanius
- University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
- Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Margaret C. McKinnon
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
- Homewood Research Institute, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Espinola CW, Nguyen B, Torres A, Sim W, Rueda A, Beavers L, Campbell DM, Jung H, Lou W, Kapralos B, Peter E, Dubrowski A, Krishnan S, Bhat V. Digital Interventions for Stress Among Frontline Health Care Workers: Results From a Pilot Feasibility Cohort Trial. JMIR Serious Games 2024; 12:e42813. [PMID: 38194247 PMCID: PMC10783335 DOI: 10.2196/42813] [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: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the mental health of health care workers, increasing the rates of stress, moral distress (MD), and moral injury (MI). Virtual reality (VR) is a useful tool for studying MD and MI because it can effectively elicit psychophysiological responses, is customizable, and permits the controlled study of participants in real time. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the feasibility of using an intervention comprising a VR scenario and an educational video to examine MD among health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and to use our mobile app for longitudinal monitoring of stress, MD, and MI after the intervention. METHODS We recruited 15 participants for a compound intervention consisting of a VR scenario followed by an educational video and a repetition of the VR scenario. The scenario portrayed a morally challenging situation related to a shortage of life-saving equipment. Physiological signals and scores of the Moral Injury Outcome Scale (MIOS) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) were collected. Participants underwent a debriefing session to provide their impressions of the intervention, and content analysis was performed on the sessions. Participants were also instructed to use a mobile app for 8 weeks after the intervention to monitor stress, MD, and mental health symptoms. We conducted Wilcoxon signed rank tests on the PSS and MIOS scores to investigate whether the VR scenario could induce stress and MD. We also evaluated user experience and the sense of presence after the intervention through semi-open-ended feedback and the Igroup Presence Questionnaire, respectively. Qualitative feedback was summarized and categorized to offer an experiential perspective. RESULTS All participants completed the intervention. Mean pre- and postintervention scores were respectively 10.4 (SD 9.9) and 13.5 (SD 9.1) for the MIOS and 17.3 (SD 7.5) and 19.1 (SD 8.1) for the PSS. Statistical analyses revealed no significant pre- to postintervention difference in the MIOS and PSS scores (P=.11 and P=.22, respectively), suggesting that the experiment did not acutely induce significant levels of stress or MD. However, content analysis revealed feelings of guilt, shame, and betrayal, which relate to the experience of MD. On the basis of the Igroup Presence Questionnaire results, the VR scenario achieved an above-average degree of overall presence, spatial presence, and involvement, and slightly below-average realism. Of the 15 participants, 8 (53%) did not answer symptom surveys on the mobile app. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated VR to be a feasible method to simulate morally challenging situations and elicit genuine responses associated with MD with high acceptability and tolerability. Future research could better define the efficacy of VR in examining stress, MD, and MI both acutely and in the longer term. An improved participant strategy for mobile data capture is needed for future studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrails.gov NCT05001542; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05001542. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/32240.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline W Espinola
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Binh Nguyen
- Department of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Andrei Torres
- maxSIMhealth Group, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Walter Sim
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alice Rueda
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lindsay Beavers
- Allan Waters Family Simulation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Douglas M Campbell
- Allan Waters Family Simulation Program, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Hyejung Jung
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Wendy Lou
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bill Kapralos
- maxSIMhealth Group, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Peter
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg, Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Adam Dubrowski
- maxSIMhealth Group, Ontario Tech University, Oshawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sridhar Krishnan
- Department of Electrical, Computer, and Biomedical Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Venkat Bhat
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Interventional Psychiatry Program, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Grimell J. Moral injury: understanding Swedish veterans who are assessed but not diagnosed with PTSD. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1200869. [PMID: 38111618 PMCID: PMC10725915 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1200869] [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: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This article is based on an interview study of 24 Swedish veterans who experienced deteriorating mental health and increased suffering without meeting the criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. With no clinical answers as to the cause of their deteriorating mental health, they have been thrown into a veteran's health limbo. The analysis was based on an inductive logic. A key finding of the analysis was a kind of deep-seated permanent moral conflict that could be conceptualized as moral injury. Such an injury can give rise to intense guilt, shame, anxiety, anger, dejection, bitterness, identity issues and more. The results section of the article details five different yet for the sample representative cases of moral injury and their implications. The notion of moral injury is linked to Mead's division of the self into an I and me, where me is the socially constructed part of the self that is charged with the morality of a group. Thus, a moral me played a key role in the development of moral injury. The conceptual apparatus illustrates a new way of understanding experiences that can create suffering and negatively impact a veteran's mental health. Future research is encouraged that examines this topic, national designs for addressing moral injury, screening for moral injury, and methods for healing included.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Grimell
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jamieson N, Carey LB, Jamieson A, Maple M. Examining the Association Between Moral Injury and Suicidal Behavior in Military Populations: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:3904-3925. [PMID: 37592186 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01885-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
The increasing number of suicides among military populations cannot be fully accounted for by conventional risk factors like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As a result, researchers and theorists propose that delving into the concept of Moral Injury could offer a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon of suicide. Moral Injury is not currently a recognized mental health disorder but can be associated with PTSD. Moral Injury is a multi-dimensional issue that profoundly affects emotional, psychological, behavioral, social, and spiritual well-being. The objective of this systematic review is to examine the association between Moral Injury and suicidal behavior (suicide ideation, plans and or suicide attempt) within military populations. The review will specifically concentrate on identifying and analyzing studies that have investigated the connection between these variables, with a specific focus on the context of military personnel both serving and former serving members. Of the 2214 articles identified as part of this review, 12 studies satisfied the research criteria with a total participant sample having an average age of 40.7 years. The male population accounted for 78.6% of the overall sample. Two studies were identified as high-quality, while the remaining ten were rated as moderate. The analysis of these twelve studies consistently affirms a connection between Moral Injury and suicidal behavior; most obviously, that exposure to morally injurious events substantially amplify the risk of suicide, with higher levels of potential exposure being linked to increased Moral Injury and heightened levels of suicidal behavior. Our review uncovered noteworthy findings regarding the association between Moral Injury and suicidal behavior, marking a pioneering effort in exploring this association and offering valuable insights into this emerging issue. Several limitations are noted regarding this review and recommendations are made concerning the need to prioritize, expand and employ longitudinal research designs that include non-military populations such as first responders (e.g., police, paramedics, firefighters) and medical, nursing, or allied health professionals-all disciplines known to be impacted by Moral Injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikki Jamieson
- Moral Injury Australia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Lindsay B Carey
- Palliative Care Unit, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Institue of Ethics and Society, The University of Notre Dame, Sydney Campus, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - Myfanwy Maple
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
- Manna Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New England, Armidale, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
McDaniel JT, Redner R, Jayawardene W, Haun J, Clapp J, Che D, Renzaglia K, Abou-Jabal D. Moral Injury is a Risk Factor for Substance Use and Suicidality Among US Military Veterans with and without Traumatic Brain Injury. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:3926-3941. [PMID: 37679519 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01905-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
A national survey of United States veterans was conducted, yielding 252 veterans with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and 1235 veterans without TBI. Participants were asked questions about moral injury, suicidality, substance use, and other sociodemographic variables. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to examine the previously described relationships. Increasing severity of moral injury was associated with higher scores on the substance use tool (b = 0.02, p = 0.04), although the magnitude of effect was not different from those without TBI (Z = - 0.57, p = 0.72). Increasing severity of moral injury was positively associated with suicidal behavior scores (b = 0.10, p < 0.01). The strength of this relationship was stronger in veterans with TBI than those without TBI (Z = 1.78, p = 0.04). Rehabilitation programs that treat veterans for TBI may need to consider the evaluation of moral injury given its association with adverse events in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin T McDaniel
- School of Human Sciences, Southern Illinois University, 475 Clocktower Drive, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA.
| | - Ryan Redner
- School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | | | - Jolie Haun
- James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, US Veterans Health Administration, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - John Clapp
- School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Dunren Che
- School of Computing, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Karen Renzaglia
- Department of Plant Biology, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Dania Abou-Jabal
- School of Human Sciences, Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Phelps AJ, Madden K, Carleton RN, Johnson L, Carey LB, Mercier JM, Mellor A, Baills J, Forbes D, Devenish-Meares P, Hosseiny F, Dell L. Towards a Holistic Model of Care for Moral Injury: An Australian and New Zealand Investigation into the Role of Police Chaplains in Supporting Police Members following exposure to Moral Transgression. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:3995-4015. [PMID: 37697218 PMCID: PMC10682271 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01908-2] [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] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Police members can be exposed to morally transgressive events with potential for lasting psychosocial and spiritual harm. Through interviews with police members and police chaplains across Australia and New Zealand, this qualitative study explores the current role that police chaplains play in supporting members exposed to morally transgressive events. The availability of chaplains across police services and the close alignment between the support they offer, and the support sought by police, indicates they have an important role. However, a holistic approach should also consider organizational factors, the role of leaders, and access to evidence-based treatment in collaboration with mental health practitioners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea J Phelps
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| | - Kelsey Madden
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | | | - Lucinda Johnson
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Lindsay B Carey
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Andrew Mellor
- National Police Chaplaincy Group, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Baills
- National Police Chaplaincy Group, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - David Forbes
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | | | | | - Lisa Dell
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Level 3, 161 Barry Street, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Carey LB, Bambling M, Hodgson TJ, Jamieson N, Bakhurst MG, Koenig HG. Pastoral Narrative Disclosure: The Development and Evaluation of an Australian Chaplaincy Intervention Strategy for Addressing Moral Injury. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2023; 62:4032-4071. [PMID: 37891396 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-023-01930-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes the development and initial chaplaincy user evaluation of 'Pastoral Narrative Disclosure' (PND) as a rehabilitation strategy developed for chaplains to address moral injury among veterans. PND is an empirically informed and integrated intervention comprising eight stages of pastoral counselling, guidance and education that was developed by combining two previously existing therapeutic techniques, namely Litz et al's (2017) 'Adaptive Disclosure' and 'Confessional Practice' (Joob & Kettunen, 2013). The development and results of PND can be categorized into five phases. Phase 1: PND Strategy Formation-based upon extensive international research demonstrating that MI is a complex bio-psycho-social-spiritual syndrome with symptoms sufficiently distinct from post-traumatic stress disorder. The review also provided evidence of the importance of chaplains being involved in moral injury rehabilitation. Phase II: Development and Implementation of 'Moral Injury Skills Training' (MIST)-which involved the majority of available Australian Defence Force (ADF) Chaplains (n = 242/255: 94.9%) completing a basic 'Introduction to Moral Injury' (MIST-1) as well as an 'Introduction to PND' (MIST-2). Phase III: MIST-3-PND-Pilot evaluation-involved a representative chaplaincy cohort (n = 13) undergoing the PND eight-stage strategy to ensure the integrity and quality of PND from a chaplaincy perspective prior to wider implementation. The pilot PND evaluation indicated a favourable satisfaction rating (n = 11/13: 84.6%; M = 4.73/5.0 satisfaction). Phase IV: MIST-3-PND Implementation-involved a larger cohort of ADF Chaplaincy participants (n = 210) completing a revised and finalized PND strategy which was regarded favourably by the majority of ADF Chaplains (n = 201/210: 95.7%; M = 4.73/5.0 satisfaction). Phase V: Summation. In conclusion the positive satisfaction ratings by a significant number of ADF chaplaincy personnel completing MIST-3-PND, provided evidence that chaplains evaluated PND as a suitable counselling, guidance and education strategy, which affirmed its utilisation and justifies further research for using PND to address MI among veterans, that may also prove valuable for other chaplains working in community health and first responder contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay B Carey
- Palliative Care Unit, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, 3083, Australia.
- Australian Institute of Ethics and Society, University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia.
| | - Matthew Bambling
- Brisbane Central Clinical School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Timothy J Hodgson
- School of Historical and Philosophical Enquiry, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Melissa G Bakhurst
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Harold G Koenig
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fraser T, Panagopoulos C, Smith K. Election-Related Post-Traumatic Stress: Evidence from the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. Politics Life Sci 2023; 42:179-204. [PMID: 37987568 DOI: 10.1017/pls.2023.8] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The 2020 U.S. presidential election saw rising political tensions among ordinary voters and political elites, with fears of election violence culminating in the January 6 riot. We hypothesized that the 2020 election might have been traumatic for some voters, producing measurable symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We also hypothesized that negative sentiment toward the opposing party correlates with PTSD. We measured PTSD using a modified version of the PCL-5, a validated PTSD screener, for 573 individuals from a nationally representative YouGov sample. We modeled the association between affective polarization and PTSD, controlling for political, demographic, and psychological traits. We estimate that 12.5% of American adults (95% CI: 9.2% to 15.9%) experienced election-related PTSD, far higher than the annual PTSD prevalence of 3.5%. Additionally, negativity toward opposing partisans correlated with PTSD symptoms. These findings highlight a potential need to support Americans affected by election-related trauma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin Smith
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lathan EC, Sheikh IS, Guelfo A, Choucair KC, Fulton T, Julian J, Mekawi Y, Currier JM, Powers A, Fani N. Moral injury appraisals and dissociation: Associations in a sample of trauma-exposed community members. J Trauma Dissociation 2023; 24:692-711. [PMID: 37387238 PMCID: PMC10771817 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2023.2231010] [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: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Appraisal of trauma is a critical factor in the development of impairing post-traumatic stress symptoms, such as dissociation. Individuals may appraise trauma as morally injurious (i.e., moral injury exposure [MIE]) and experience subsequent moral distress related to this exposure (i.e., moral injury distress [MID]). To date, however, investigation into the relations between moral injury appraisals and dissociation has been limited, particularly within community populations. This study investigated MIE and MID in relation to six facets of dissociation (disengagement, depersonalization, derealization, memory disturbances, emotional constriction, identity dissociation) in a sample of trauma-exposed community members (n = 177, 58.2% Black, 89.3% female) recruited from a public hospital and/or community advertisements. Participants completed measures assessing trauma exposure, MIE, MID, dissociation, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Partial correlation analyses revealed that after controlling for PTSD symptoms, MIE was correlated with disengagement, r = .23, p ≤ .025, and depersonalization, r = .25, p ≤ .001, and MID was correlated with depersonalization, r = .19, p ≤ .025. Sex moderated each association, with stronger associations observed for female participants. Findings suggest that moral injury appraisals are linked to more severe dissociative symptoms among female civilians, and as such, may need to be specifically targeted in empirically supported treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Lathan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
| | | | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Khaled C. Choucair
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Travis Fulton
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology PhD Program, Emory University
| | - Jacob Julian
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University
| | - Yara Mekawi
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville
| | | | - Abigail Powers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
| | - Negar Fani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Serfioti D, Murphy D, Greenberg N, Williamson V. Professionals' perspectives on relevant approaches to psychological care in moral injury: A qualitative study. J Clin Psychol 2023; 79:2404-2421. [PMID: 37310171 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite the increasing consensus that moral injury (MI) is a unique type of psychological stressor, there is an ongoing debate about best practices for psychological care. This qualitative study explored the perceptions of UK and US professionals in the field of MI investigating advances and challenges in treatment or support delivery and issues relating to treatment/support feasibility and acceptability. METHODS 15 professionals were recruited. Semi-structured, telephone/online interviews were carried out, and transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Two interconnected themes emerged: perceived barriers to appropriate care for MI cases and recommendations for providing effective care to MI patients. Professionals highlighted the challenges that occur due to the lack of empirical experience with MI, the negligence of patients' unique individual needs and the inflexibility in existing manualised treatments. CONCLUSIONS These findings illustrate the need to evaluate the effectiveness of current approaches and explore alternative pathways, which will effectively support MI patients in the long-term. Key recommendations include the use of therapeutic techniques which lead to a personalised and flexible support plan to meet patients' needs, increase self-compassion and encourage patients to reconnect with their social networks. Interdisciplinary collaborations (e.g., religious/spiritual figures), could be a valuable addition following patients' agreement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danai Serfioti
- Department of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Dominic Murphy
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
- Research Department, Combat Stress, Surrey, UK
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Williamson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Anna Watts Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zasiekina L, Zasiekin S, Kuperman V. Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Moral Injury Among Ukrainian Civilians During the Ongoing War. J Community Health 2023; 48:784-792. [PMID: 37119352 PMCID: PMC10148618 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01225-5] [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] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
While severity of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and moral injury among civilians affected by armed conflicts is generally understudied, even less research exists on civilian populations during an active war. This paper reports a large-scale study that administered standard assessments of PTSD and moral injury severity, as well as rich demographic questionnaires, to nearly 1300 Ukrainian civilians during the ongoing Russian invasion. Analyses revealed an extremely high prevalence of severe PTSD symptoms and moral injury, relative to both proposed clinical cut-offs and to earlier measurements from a similar population. Further regression analyses identified risk factors and protective factors. Greater severity of PTSD symptoms was observed among women, older and forcibly displaced individuals, and individuals from geographic regions under Russian occupation. Higher education correlated with milder PTSD symptoms. Moral injury was particularly strong in younger individuals. The present study is one of the first to report a large scale set of psychological data collected from the civilian population of Ukraine during the ongoing Russian invasion. It is obvious from the scope and long-term nature of the atrocities that psychological treatment of the civilian population will be required both presently, while the hostilities are ongoing, and in the future. This data contributes to a detailed understanding of the psychological response to traumatic stress, including its overall prevalence and presence in specific demographically and geographically defined civilian groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larysa Zasiekina
- Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, Lutsk, Ukraine.
- University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Serhii Zasiekin
- Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, Lutsk, Ukraine
- University College London, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ritter M, Vance M, Iskander J. Moral Injury Among US Public Health Service First Responders During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Public Health Rep 2023; 138:732-735. [PMID: 37300285 PMCID: PMC10261941 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231176294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Ritter
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA
- United States Coast Guard, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Mary Vance
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA
- United States Coast Guard, Washington, DC, USA
| | - John Iskander
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA
- United States Coast Guard, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
O'Garo KGN, Koenig HG. Spiritually Integrated Cognitive Processing Therapy for Moral Injury in the Setting of PTSD: Initial Evidence of Therapeutic Efficacy. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:656-663. [PMID: 37381149 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001686] [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] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT After defining the syndrome of moral injury (MI), reviewing its relationship to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and examining its psychological consequences and impact on functioning, we describe a new psychotherapeutic treatment for MI called spiritually integrated cognitive processing therapy (SICPT). SICPT builds on cognitive processing therapy (CPT), a commonly used trauma-focused treatment for PTSD. To our knowledge, SICPT is the first one-on-one individualized psychotherapeutic treatment that integrates a person's spiritual and religious beliefs into the treatment for MI, using the latter to work through and process the psychological, spiritual, and religious symptoms of this condition. Here, we describe the initial results obtained from a single-group experimental study examining the treatment of three patients with significant symptoms of both MI and PTSD. Given the effects of SICPT on reducing both MI and PTSD symptoms, we have decided to report these early results before study completion to alert the scientific community about this potentially effective new treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keisha-Gaye N O'Garo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lathan EC, Powers A, Kottakis A, Guelfo A, Siegle GJ, Turner JA, Turner MD, Yakkanti V, Jain J, Mekawi Y, Teer AP, Currier JM, Fani N. Civilian moral injury: associations with trauma type and high-frequency heart rate variability in two trauma-exposed community-based samples. Psychol Med 2023; 53:5136-5145. [PMID: 37650341 PMCID: PMC10476056 DOI: 10.1017/s003329172200215x] [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: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moral injury exposure (MIE) and distress (MID) may indirectly affect the relationship between trauma exposure and alterations in autonomic regulation [assessed via high-frequency heart rate variability (hfHRV)] in civilians, but this has not been tested in prior research. We conducted two exploratory studies to examine trauma types' associations with MIE and MID among civilian medical patients (Study 1) and explore how these facets may indirectly affect the relationship between trauma type and hfHRV among civilians seeking mental health services (Study 2). METHODS Participants recruited from a public hospital and/or community advertisements (Study 1, n = 72, 87.5% Black, 83.3% women; Study 2, n = 46, 71.7% Black, 97.8% women) completed measures assessing trauma type, MIE, and MID. In Study 1, trauma types that emerged as significant correlates of MIE and MID were entered into separate linear regression analyses. Trauma types identified were included as predictors in indirect effects models with MIE or MID as the mediator and resting hfHRV (assayed via electrocardiography) as the outcome. RESULTS Childhood sexual abuse emerged as the only significant predictor of MIE, b = 0.38, p < 0.001; childhood sexual abuse, b = 0.26, p < 0.05, and adulthood sexual assault, b = 0.23, p < 0.05 were significant predictors of MID. Participants with greater MIE and MID demonstrated lower hfHRV. Adulthood sexual assault showed an indirect effect on hfHRV through MID, B = -0.10, s.e. = 0.06, 95%CI (-0.232 to -0.005). CONCLUSIONS Moral injury was uniquely associated with sexual violence and lower hfHRV in civilians. Data highlight moral injury as a pathway through which autonomic dysregulation may emerge and its salience for trauma treatment selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C. Lathan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Abigail Powers
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Anna Kottakis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Alfonsina Guelfo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Greg J. Siegle
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jessica A. Turner
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Matthew D. Turner
- Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Vijwala Yakkanti
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jahnvi Jain
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yara Mekawi
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Andrew P. Teer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph M. Currier
- Department of Psychology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Negar Fani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gertler J, Dale L, Tracy N, Dorsett J, Sambuco N, Guastello A, Allen B, Cuffe SP, Mathews CA. Resilient, but for how long? The relationships between temperament, burnout, and mental health in healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1163579. [PMID: 37484670 PMCID: PMC10361786 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1163579] [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: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dispositional traits of wellbeing and stress-reaction are strong predictors of mood symptoms following stressful life events, and the COVID-19 pandemic introduced many life stressors, especially for healthcare workers. Methods We longitudinally investigated the relationships among positive and negative temperament group status (created according to wellbeing and stress-reaction personality measures), burnout (exhaustion, interpersonal disengagement), COVID concern (e.g., health, money worries), and moral injury (personal acts, others' acts) as predictors of generalized anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms in 435 healthcare workers. Participants were employees in healthcare settings in North Central Florida who completed online surveys monthly for 8 months starting in October/November 2020. Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire subscale scores for stress-reaction and wellbeing were subjected to K-means cluster analyses that identified two groups of individuals, those with high stress-reaction and low wellbeing (negative temperament) and those with the opposite pattern defined as positive temperament (low stress-reaction and high wellbeing). Repeated measures ANOVAs assessed all time points and ANCOVAs assessed the biggest change at timepoint 2 while controlling for baseline symptoms. Results and Discussion The negative temperament group reported greater mood symptoms, burnout, and COVID concern, than positive temperament participants overall, and negative participants' scores decreased over time while positive participants' scores increased over time. Burnout appeared to most strongly mediate this group-by-time interaction, with the burnout exhaustion scale driving anxiety and depression symptoms. PTSD symptoms were also related to COVID-19 health worry and negative temperament. Overall, results suggest that individuals with higher stress-reactions and more negative outlooks on life were at risk for anxiety, depression, and PTSD early in the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas individuals with positive temperament traits became more exhausted and thus more symptomatic over time. Targeting interventions to reduce mood symptoms in negative temperament individuals and prevent burnout/exhaustion in positive temperament individuals early in an extended crisis may be an efficient and effective approach to reduce the mental health burden on essential workers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Gertler
- UF Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- University of Florida, Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Lourdes Dale
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine-Jacksonville, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States
| | - Natasha Tracy
- UF Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- University of Florida, Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Joelle Dorsett
- Department of Educational and Psychological Studies, School of Education and Human Development, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, United States
| | - Nicola Sambuco
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Andrea Guastello
- UF Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- University of Florida, Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Brandon Allen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
| | - Steven P. Cuffe
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine-Jacksonville, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States
| | - Carol A. Mathews
- UF Center for OCD, Anxiety, and Related Disorders, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- University of Florida, Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Florida, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine-Jacksonville, University of Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, United States
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
McDaniel JT. Moral injury and quality of life among military veterans. BMJ Mil Health 2023:e002457. [PMID: 37344006 DOI: 10.1136/military-2023-002457] [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: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Moral injury concerns transgressive harms and the outcomes that such experiences may cause. A gap in the literature surrounding moral injury, and an outcome that may be important to include in the mounting evidence toward the need for the formal clinical acknowledgement of moral injury, has to do with the relationship between moral injury and quality of life. No studies have examined this relationship in US military veterans-a population that is disproportionately exposed to potentially morally injurious events. METHODS A nationwide cross-sectional survey was conducted yielding 1495 military veterans. Participants were asked questions about moral injury and quality of life, among other things. Multivariable linear regression was used to characterise the adjusted relationship between moral injury and quality of life. RESULTS Moral injury (mean=40.1 out of 98) and quality-of-life (mean=69.5 out of 100) scores were calculated for the sample. Moral injury was inversely associated with quality of life in an adjusted model, indicating that worsening moral injury was associated with decreased quality of life (adjusted unstandardised beta coefficient (b)=-0.3, p<0.001). Results showed that age moderated said relationship, such that ageing veterans experienced an increasingly worse quality of life with increasingly severe moral injury (b=-0.1, p=0.003). CONCLUSIONS Results of the study showed that moral injury was inversely associated with quality of life and that this relationship rapidly worsens with age. More work is needed to more precisely understand this relationship and to determine the best strategies for intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Tyler McDaniel
- School of Human Sciences, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, Illinois, USA
- Dale and Deborah Smith Center for Alzheimer's Research and trEatment (CARE), Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Kidwell MC, Kerig PK. To Trust is to Survive: Toward a Developmental Model of Moral Injury. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2023; 16:459-475. [PMID: 37234829 PMCID: PMC10205960 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-021-00399-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Research on trauma- and stressor-related disorders has recently expanded to consider moral injury, or the harmful psychological impact of profound moral transgressions, betrayals, and acts of perpetration. Largely studied among military populations, this construct has rarely been empirically extended to children and adolescents despite its relevance in the early years, as well as youths' potentially heightened susceptibility to moral injury due to ongoing moral development and limited social resources relative to adults. Application of the construct to young persons, however, requires theoretical reconceptualization from a developmental perspective. The present paper brings together theory and research on developmentally-oriented constructs involving morally injurious events, including attachment trauma, betrayal trauma, and perpetration-induced traumatic stress, and describes how they may be integrated and extended to inform a developmentally-informed model of moral injury. Features of such a model include identification of potentially morally injurious events, maladaptive developmental meaning-making processes that underlie moral injury, as well as behavioral and emotional indicators of moral injury among youth. Thus, this review summarizes the currently available developmental literatures, identifies the major implications of each to a developmentally-informed construct of moral injury, and presents a conceptual developmental model of moral injury for children and adolescents to guide future empirical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallory C. Kidwell
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 S 1530 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| | - Patricia K. Kerig
- Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 S 1530 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84112 USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bonson A, Murphy D, Aldridge V, Greenberg N, Williamson V. Veterans' experiences of moral injury, treatment and recommendations for future support. BMJ Mil Health 2023:military-2022-002332. [PMID: 37192765 DOI: 10.1136/military-2022-002332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Moral injury (MI) significantly impacts the lives of many UK military veterans however, there is a lack of manualised treatment to address the needs of this population. To develop future treatments that are acceptable and well tolerated, veterans should be consulted on their experiences of existing psychological treatments and suggestions for future treatments. METHODS 10 UK military veterans were interviewed about their experiences of receiving treatment for psychological difficulties after MI, and beliefs about core components of future treatments. Thematic analysis of these interviews were conducted. RESULTS 2 superordinate themes were identified: experiences of previous mental health treatment and perceptions of the proposed treatments. Reflections on cognitive behavioural therapy were mixed, with some describing that it did not ameliorate their guilt or shame. In future treatments, focusing on values, using written letters and including therapy sessions with close companions were considered beneficial. Veterans reported that a strong rapport with therapist was key for MI treatment. CONCLUSION Findings provide a useful account of how current post-trauma treatments may be experienced by patients with MI. Although limited by sample size, the results highlight therapeutic approaches that may be helpful in future and provide important considerations for therapists treating MI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - D Murphy
- Research Department, Combat Stress, Leatherhead, UK
- King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - V Aldridge
- Research Department, Combat Stress, Leatherhead, UK
| | - N Greenberg
- King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
| | - V Williamson
- King's Centre for Military Health Research, King's College London, London, UK
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Ann Watts Building, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cahill JM, Kinghorn W, Dugdale L. Repairing moral injury takes a team: what clinicians can learn from combat veterans. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2023; 49:361-366. [PMID: 35705446 DOI: 10.1136/medethics-2022-108163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Moral injury results from the violation of deeply held moral commitments leading to emotional and existential distress. The phenomenon was initially described by psychologists and psychiatrists associated with the US Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs but has since been applied more broadly. Although its application to healthcare preceded COVID-19, healthcare professionals have taken greater interest in moral injury since the pandemic's advent. They have much to learn from combat veterans, who have substantial experience in identifying and addressing moral injury-particularly its social dimensions. Veterans recognise that complex social factors lead to moral injury, and therefore a community approach is necessary for healing. We argue that similar attention must be given in healthcare, where a team-oriented and multidimensional approach is essential both for ameliorating the suffering faced by health professionals and for addressing the underlying causes that give rise to moral injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Cahill
- Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| | - Warren Kinghorn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Duke Divinity School, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lydia Dugdale
- Center for Clinical Medical Ethics, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Williams AY, Butts CC. Stress Disorders: the Trauma Surgeon as the Second Victim. CURRENT TRAUMA REPORTS 2023; 9:1-8. [PMID: 37362905 PMCID: PMC10134724 DOI: 10.1007/s40719-023-00259-3] [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] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review We review the vocabulary and studies regarding stress disorders, as it relates to trauma care providers, specifically trauma surgeons. In addition, we make recommendations regarding strategies to address the needs identified and future areas of research to assess the adequacy of these strategies. Recent Findings Stress disorders in trauma are common and constant, identified at levels similar to those seen among first-responders to mass-casualty events. These disorders are identified at every level-from trainee to the most experienced. Trauma surgeons experience the trauma firsthand, as well as through forced re-traumatization as a part of routine care. High levels of cumulative stress result due to the volume of patients that can be difficult to process due to the frequency of shifts and disrupted sleep patterns. This level of chronic stress can lead to a cycle of burnout and increased stress, which is harmful to surgeons and patients. Summary Stress disorders are common and poorly understood. Treatment options are infrequently encountered. In order to more adequately respond to this, systematic change is necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Y. Williams
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma, Acute Care Surgery, and Burns, Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL USA
| | - C. Caleb Butts
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma, Acute Care Surgery, and Burns, Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Smith-MacDonald L, Jones C, Brown MRG, Dunleavy RS, VanderLaan A, Kaneva Z, Hamilton T, Burback L, Vermetten E, Brémault-Phillips S. Moving Forward from Moral Injury: A Mixed Methods Study Investigating the Use of 3MDR for Treatment-Resistant PTSD. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5415. [PMID: 37048029 PMCID: PMC10094650 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to trauma and potentially morally injurious events may lead to moral injury (MI). The link between MI and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have particularly relevant implications for treatment-resistant PTSD (TR-PTSD). Multi-modal Motion-Assisted Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation (3MDR), a technology-assisted exposure-based trauma therapy that has been used in the treatment of PTSD, may also be an acceptable modality for patients in the treatment of TR-PTSD and MI. This proof-of-concept study aimed to investigate (1) whether MI co-occurs in military members (MMs) and veterans with TR-PTSD, and (2) the perspectives of MMs and veterans with TR-PTSD utilizing 3MDR for MI. METHODS This study employed a mixed-methods clinical trial. Military Members and veterans participated in this study (N = 11) through self-reported questionnaires, video recordings of treatment sessions, and semi-structured interviews post-session and post-intervention, with longitudinal follow-up to 6 months. RESULTS MI scores correlated with self-reported measures of mental health symptoms related to PTSD. The thematic analysis revealed three emergent themes: (1) Realities of War, (2) Wrestling Scruples, and (3) Moral Sensemaking. CONCLUSION MI was highly correlated with TR-PTSD and themes regarding MI. This result, while preliminary, allows for the postulation that MI may be contributing to the continuation of PTSD symptoms in TR-PTSD, and that 3MDR may be an acceptable modality for addressing these symptoms in MMs and veterans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Smith-MacDonald
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- St. Stephen’s College, Edmonton, AB T6G 2J6, Canada
| | - Chelsea Jones
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4, Canada
| | - Matthew R. G. Brown
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S4, Canada
| | | | - Annelies VanderLaan
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
| | - Zornitsa Kaneva
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
| | - Tristin Hamilton
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, AB T5J 3E4, Canada
| | - Lisa Burback
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Eric Vermetten
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden University, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Suzette Brémault-Phillips
- Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC), Faculty of Rehabilitation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Farrell D, Moran J, Zat Z, Miller PW, Knibbs L, Papanikolopoulos P, Prattos T, McGowan I, McLaughlin D, Barron I, Mattheß C, Kiernan MD. Group early intervention eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy as a video-conference psychotherapy with frontline/emergency workers in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder and moral injury—An RCT study. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1129912. [PMID: 37063579 PMCID: PMC10100089 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1129912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveFrontline mental health, emergency, law enforcement, and social workers have faced unprecedented psychological distress in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of the RCT (Randomized Controls Trial) study was to investigate the effectiveness of a Group EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy (Group Traumatic Episode Protocol—GTEP) in the treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Moral Injury. The treatment focus is an early intervention, group trauma treatment, delivered remotely as video-conference psychotherapy (VCP). This early intervention used an intensive treatment delivery of 4x2h sessions over 1-week. Additionally, the group EMDR intervention utilized therapist rotation in treatment delivery.MethodsThe study’s design comprised a delayed (1-month) treatment intervention (control) versus an active group. Measurements included the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES), and a Quality-of-Life psychometric (EQ-5D), tested at T0, T1: pre—treatment, T2: post-treatment, T3: 1-month follow-up (FU), T4: 3-month FU, and T5: 6-month FU. The Adverse Childhood Experiences – International version (ACEs), Benevolent Childhood Experience (BCEs) was ascertained at pre-treatment only. N = 85 completed the study.ResultsResults highlight a significant treatment effect within both active and control groups. Post Hoc comparisons of the ITQ demonstrated a significant difference between T1 pre (mean 36.8, SD 14.8) and T2 post (21.2, 15.1) (t11.58) = 15.68, p < 0.001). Further changes were also seen related to co-morbid factors. Post Hoc comparisons of the GAD-7 demonstrated significant difference between T1 pre (11.2, 4.91) and T2 post (6.49, 4.73) (t = 6.22) = 4.41, p < 0.001; with significant difference also with the PHQ-9 between T1 pre (11.7, 5.68) and T2 post (6.64, 5.79) (t = 6.30) = 3.95, p < 0.001, d = 0.71. The treatment effect occurred irrespective of either ACEs/BCEs during childhood. However, regarding Moral Injury, the MIES demonstrated no treatment effect between T1 pre and T5 6-month FU. The study’s findings discuss the impact of Group EMDR therapy delivered remotely as video-conference psychotherapy (VCP) and the benefits of including a therapist/rotation model as a means of treatment delivery. However, despite promising results suggesting a large treatment effect in the treatment of trauma and adverse memories, including co-morbid symptoms, research results yielded no treatment effect in frontline/emergency workers in addressing moral injury related to the COVID-19 pandemic.ConclusionThe NICE (2018) guidance on PTSD highlighted the paucity of EMDR therapy research used as an early intervention. The primary rationale for this study was to address this critical issue. In summary, treatment results for group EMDR, delivered virtually, intensively, using therapist rotation are tentatively promising, however, the moral dimensions of trauma need consideration for future research, intervention development, and potential for further scalability. The data contributes to the emerging literature on early trauma interventions.Clinical Trial Registration:Clinicaltrials.gov, ISRCTN16933691.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Derek Farrell
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Derek Farrell,
| | - Johnny Moran
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Zeynep Zat
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul W. Miller
- School of Nursing, Magee Campus, Ulster University, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Lorraine Knibbs
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Penny Papanikolopoulos
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Tessa Prattos
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Iain McGowan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Derek McLaughlin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Barron
- Centre for International Education, College of Education, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Cordula Mattheß
- Department for Violence Prevention, Trauma and Criminology (VPTC), School of Psychology, University of Worcester, Worcester, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew D. Kiernan
- Northern Hub for Veteran and Military Families’ Research, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ryu MY, Martin MJ, Jin AH, Tabor HK, Wren SM. Characterizing Moral Injury and Distress in US Military Surgeons Deployed to Far-Forward Combat Environments in Afghanistan and Iraq. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e230484. [PMID: 36821112 PMCID: PMC9951040 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.0484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Moral injury and distress (MID), which occurs when individuals have significant dissonance with their belief system and overwhelming feelings of being powerless to do what is believed to be right, has not been explored in the unique population of military surgeons deployed far forward in active combat settings. Deployed military surgeons provide care to both injured soldiers and civilians under command-driven medical rules of engagement (MROE) in variably resourced settings. This practice setting has no civilian corollary for comparison or current specific tool for measurement. OBJECTIVE To characterize MID among military surgeons deployed during periods of high casualty volumes through a mixed-methods approach. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS This qualitative study using convergent mixed methods was performed from May 2020 to October 2020. Participants included US military surgeons who had combat deployments to a far-forward role 2 treatment facility during predefined peak casualty periods in Iraq (2003-2008) and Afghanistan (2009-2012), as identified by purposeful snowball sampling. Data analysis was performed from October 2020 to May 2021. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Measure of Moral Distress for Healthcare Professionals (MMD-HP) survey and individual, semistructured interviews were conducted to thematic saturation. RESULTS The total cohort included 20 surgeons (mean [SD] age, 38.1 [5.2] years); 16 (80%) were male, and 16 (80%) had 0 or 1 prior deployment. Deployment locations were Afghanistan (11 surgeons [55%]), Iraq (9 surgeons [45%]), or both locations (3 surgeons [15%]). The mean (SD) MMD-HP score for the surgeons was 104.1 (39.3). The primary thematic domains for MID were distressing outcomes (DO) and MROE. The major subdomains of DO were guilt related to witnessing horrific injuries; treating pregnant women, children, and US soldiers; and second-guessing decisions. The major subdomains for MROE were forced transfer of civilian patients, limited capabilities and resources, inexperience in specialty surgical procedures, and communication with command. Postdeployment manifestations of MID were common and affected sleep, medical practice, and interpersonal relationships. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this qualitative study, MID was ubiquitous in deployed military surgeons. Thematic observations about MID, specifically concerning the domains of DO and MROE, may represent targets for further study to develop an evaluation tool of MID in this population and inform possible programs for identification and mitigation of MID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Y. Ryu
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Matthew J. Martin
- Division of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery, Los Angeles County and USC Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | | | - Holly K. Tabor
- Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California
| | - Sherry M. Wren
- Surgical Service, Palo Alto Veterans Health Care System, Palo Alto, California
- Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Rodrigues S, Mercier JM, McCall A, Nannarone M, Hosseiny F. 'Against everything that got you into the job': experiences of potentially morally injurious events among Canadian public safety personnel. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2205332. [PMID: 37170904 PMCID: PMC10184585 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2205332] [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: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Moral injury (MI) has become a research and organizational priority as frontline personnel have, both during and in the years preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, raised concerns about repeated expectations to make choices that transgress their deeply held morals, values, and beliefs. As awareness of MI grows, so, too, does attention on its presence and impacts in related occupations such as those in public safety, given that codes of conduct, morally and ethically complex decisions, and high-stakes situations are inherent features of such occupations.Objective: This paper shares the results of a study of the presence of potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) in the lived experiences of 38 public safety personnel (PSP) in Ontario, Canada.Method: Through qualitative interviews, this study explored the types of events PSP identify as PMIEs, how PSP make sense of these events, and the psychological, professional, and interpersonal impacts of these events. Thematic analysis supported the interpretation of PSP descriptions of events and experiences.Results: PMIEs do arise in the context of PSP work, namely during the performance of role-specific responsibilities, within the organizational climate, and because of inadequacies in the broader healthcare system. PMIEs are as such because they violate core beliefs commonly held by PSP and compromise their ability to act in accordance with the principles that motivate them in their work. PSP associate PMIEs, in combination with traumatic experiences and routine stress, with adverse psychological, professional and personal outcomes.Conclusion: The findings provide additional empirical evidence to the growing literature on MI in PSP, offering insight into the contextual dimensions that contribute to the sources and effects of PMIEs in diverse frontline populations as well as support for the continued application and exploration of MI in the PSP context.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rodrigues
- Research and Policy, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jean-Michel Mercier
- Research and Policy, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Adelina McCall
- Research and Policy, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Molly Nannarone
- Research and Policy, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Fardous Hosseiny
- Research and Policy, Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Institute of Mental Health Research, Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nagdee N, Manuel de Andrade V. 'I don't really know where I stand because I don't know if I took something away from her': Moral injury in South African speech-language therapists and audiologists due to patient death and dying. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE & COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2023; 58:28-38. [PMID: 35925001 PMCID: PMC10087539 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.12765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Speech-language therapists and audiologists (SLT&As) may encounter difficulties when confronted with patient death and dying, which may conflict with their moral beliefs and result in moral injury. Furthermore, South African SLT&As practice in a country with a high mortality rate, which may add to the complexity of their experience. Moreover, they may be influenced by African philosophies promoting care, which might conflict with their experiences of patient death and dying. AIMS To explore the moral injury experienced by South African SLT&As in patient death and dying, and how they overcame the injury. METHODS & PROCEDURES This article forms part of a larger qualitative study that explored SLT&As' experiences of patient death and dying in South Africa. Thematic analysis was conducted on the transcripts of 25 episodic narrative interviews conducted with South African SLT&As on their experiences of patient death and dying. OUTCOMES & RESULTS Findings suggest that South African SLT&As experienced helplessness, guilt and anger in patient death and dying. However, with support from the allied team, engaging in self-reflection and religious practices, they reported alleviation of moral injury. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS In order to mitigate moral injury in South African SLT&As, they require professional education, self-care strategies, guidelines and support from the teams in which they work and their supervisors. Research is needed that explores how SLT&As' biographical characteristics and interactions with significant others of dying and deceased patients, may result in moral injury. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS?: What is already known on this subject? Moral injury and measures used to overcome the injury have been explored in military personnel, doctors and nurses, but not in SLT&As. However, studies that explored the perceptions of SLTs and/or audiologists regarding providing palliative care and of death and dying, particularly that by Rivers et al. in 2009, suggested that these professionals may be at risk of experiencing emotional trauma due to patient death, particularly when not receiving undergraduate education on this subject. However, the extent of this trauma and the support needed to overcome it is unknown because the participants in these studies may have not experienced patient death, and were only students or just SLTs. What this article adds? This article highlights the complexity of speech-language therapy and audiology practice when confronted with patient death and dying. South African SLT&As may have to make decisions that conflict with their morals and professional practice standards, especially as the helping nature of their profession is characterized by African philosophies that promote care, which may result in moral injury. Clinical implications of this article This article indicates that in addition to undergraduate education on patient death and dying, SLTs and audiologists require continuous professional education on this topic, self-care strategies, support from the teams in which they work, and their supervisors and guidelines for when they encounter patient death and dying.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabeelah Nagdee
- Department of Speech‐Pathology and AudiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| | - Victor Manuel de Andrade
- Department of Speech‐Pathology and AudiologyUniversity of the WitwatersrandJohannesburgSouth Africa
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Rees N, Williams J, Hogan C, Smyth L, Archer T. Heroism and paramedic practice: A constructivist metasynthesis of qualitative research. Front Psychol 2022; 13:1016841. [DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1016841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesWe aimed to identify, appraise, and synthesise the qualitative literature to develop theory on heroism and paramedic practice.Hypothesis/research questionWhat does published literature tell us about heroism and paramedic practice?SettingParamedics and other healthcare workers (HCWs) faced an outpouring of public support for them early in the COVID-19 pandemic which brought into focus the relationship between them and society, where they are portrayed as heroes.ParticipantsWe conducted a metasynthesis using Evolved Grounded Theory and procedural guidelines of Noblit and Hare to guide analysis. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines were also applied.Results151 papers were retrieved and eleven included in the final sample. Studies were moderate to very low quality, involving a wide range of methodologies and settings; none specifically explored heroism and paramedic practice. The following interrelated themes were constructed on heroism and paramedic practice: (a) Myth, Folk law, and storytelling in heroism and paramedic practice (b) The epic journey of heroism and paramedic practice (c) Heroes and Zeroes: The fluctuating Societal Value in heroism and paramedic practice (d) Politicisation, and objectification in Heroism and Paramedic practice.ConclusionParamedics have long been characterised as heroes, but this may not reflect their everyday experiences. Heroism in paramedic practice can provide scripts for prosocial action, inspiring others, and leading to more social heroic actions. Paramedics may however be ambivalent to such heroism narratives, due to politicisation, and objectification in the media and society. This metasynthesis is only one of many possible constructions of heroism and paramedic practice and is the first point in making sense of and developing theory on heroism and paramedic practice.Study registrationPROSPERO: CRD42021234851.
Collapse
|
32
|
Williamson V, Murphy D, Aldridge V, Bonson A, Seforti D, Greenberg N. Development of an intervention for moral injury-related mental health difficulties in UK military veterans: a feasibility pilot study protocol. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2138059. [PMID: 36340009 PMCID: PMC9629100 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2022.2138059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Experiencing potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) has been found to be significantly associated with poor mental health outcomes in military personnel/veterans. Currently, no manualised treatment for moral injury-related mental health difficulties for UK veterans exists. This article describes the design, methods and expected data collection of the Restore & Rebuild (R&R) protocol, which aims to develop procedures to treat moral injury related mental ill health informed by a codesign approach. Methods: The study consists of three main stages. First, a systematic review will be conducted to understand the best treatments for the symptoms central to moral injury-related mental ill health (stage 1). Then the R&R manual will be co-designed with the support of UK veteran participants with lived experience of PMIEs as well as key stakeholders who have experience of supporting moral injury affected individuals (stage 2). The final stage of this study is to conduct a pilot study to explore the feasibility and acceptability of the R&R manual (stage 3). Results: Qualitative data will be analysed using thematic analysis. Conclusions: This study was approved by the King's College London's Research Ethics Committee (HR-20/21-20850). The findings will be disseminated in several ways, including publication in academic journals, a free training event and presentation at conferences. By providing information on veteran, stakeholder and clinician experiences, we anticipate that the findings will not only inform the development of an acceptable evidence-based approach for treating moral injury-related mental health problems, but they may also help to inform broader approaches to providing care to trauma exposed military veterans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dominic Murphy
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
- Research Department, Combat Stress, Surrey, UK
| | | | | | - Danai Seforti
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Muacevic A, Adler JR, Uribe Quevedo A, Kapralos B, Krishnan S, Bhat V, Dubrowski A. Development of Content for a Virtual Reality Simulation to Understand and Mitigate Moral Distress in Healthcare Workers. Cureus 2022; 14:e31240. [PMID: 36505119 PMCID: PMC9731177 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31240] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In high-stakes situations, healthcare workers are prone to suffer moral injury, the psychological, social, and spiritual impact of events involving betrayal or transgression of one's own deeply held moral beliefs and values. As a result, this may negatively impact their capacity to provide adequate levels of care to patients. There is a lack of educational resources catered to help healthcare workers navigate ethical situations in clinical settings that may lead to or worsen moral distress. The aim of this report is to describe the methodology of development and resulting outcomes in the form of an educational resource that includes a virtual reality (VR) simulation to help healthcare workers understand and mitigate moral distress as a result of internal and external constraints at their workplaces. Methodology A study using a method outlining a set of constraint parameters, followed by ideation utilizing design thinking (DT), and concluding with a consensus-building exercise using Delphi methodology (DM) with a group of 13 experts in healthcare simulation, VR, psychiatry, psychology, and nursing. The constraints parameters included technology use (VR), use of experiential learning theory, and duration of the intervention (15 minutes). A DT process was performed to generate and expand on ideas on the scenario and intervention of a possible VR simulation which were funneled into a three-round DM to define the foundations of the VR simulation. Average, standard deviations, and free-text comments in the DM were used to assess the inclusion of the produced requirements. Finally, a focus group interview was conducted with the same experts to draft the VR simulation. Results Within the specified constraints, the DT process produced 33 ideas for the VR simulation scenario and intervention that served as a starting point to short-list the requirements in Round 1. In Rounds 1 to 2, 25 items were removed, needed revising, and/or were retained for the subsequent rounds, which resulted in eight items at the end of Round 2. Round 2 also required specialists to provide descriptions of potential scenarios and interventions, in which five were submitted. In Round 3, experts rated the descriptions as somewhat candidate to use in the final VR simulation, and the open feedback in this round proposed combining the elements from each of the descriptions. Using this data, a prototype of the VR simulation was developed by the project team together with VR designers. Conclusions This development demonstrated the feasibility of using the constraints-ideation-consensus approach to define the content of a possible VR simulation to serve as an educational resource for healthcare workers on how to understand and mitigate moral distress in the workplace. The methodology described in this development may be applied to the design of simulation training for other skills, thereby advancing healthcare training and the quality of care delivered to the greater society.
Collapse
|
34
|
Larsson G, Nilsson S, Bandlitz Johansen R, Waaler G, Hyllengren P, Ohlsson A. Moral stress and coping: relationship with long-term positive reactions and PTSD indication in military personnel. ETHICS & BEHAVIOR 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/10508422.2022.2131553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gerry Larsson
- Department of Leadership and Command & Control, Swedish Defence University, Karlstad, Sweden
- Department of Health and Welfare, the Inland University College of Applied Sciences, Elverum, Norway
| | - Sofia Nilsson
- Department of Leadership and Command & Control, Swedish Defence University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | | | - Gudmund Waaler
- Department of Leadership, Norwegian Royal Naval Academy, Bergen, Norway
| | - Peder Hyllengren
- Department of Leadership and Command & Control, Swedish Defence University, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Alicia Ohlsson
- Department of Leadership and Command & Control, Swedish Defence University, Karlstad, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kelley ML, Strowger M, Chentsova VO, Bravo AJ, Gaylord SA, Burgin EE, Vinci C, Ayers KL, Agha E. Mindfulness to Manage Moral Injury: Rationale and development of a live online 7-week group intervention for veterans with moral injury. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2022; 30:101011. [PMID: 36340697 PMCID: PMC9626875 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2022.101011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Military service puts service members at risk for moral injury. Moral injury is an array of symptoms (e.g., guilt, shame, anger) that develop from events that violate or transgress one's moral code. Objective We describe adaption of in-person mindfulness training program, Mindfulness to Manage Chronic Pain (MMCP), to address symptoms of moral injury to be delivered live via the web. We discuss how we will assess benchmarks (i.e., recruitment, credibility and acceptability, completion rates, and adherence) of the Mindfulness to Manage Moral Injury (MMMI) program. Methods Aim 1: To develop and then adapt the MMCP program based on feedback from experts and veterans who took part in Study 1. Aim 2: To develop an equally intensive facilitator-led online Educational Support (ES) program to serve as a comparison intervention and conduct a run-through of each program with 20 veterans (10 MMMI; 10 ES). Aim 3: To conduct a small-scale randomized controlled trial (N = 42 veterans; 21 MMMI; 21 ES) in which we will collect pre-post-test and weekly benchmark data for both refined intervention arms. Results Study 1 and 2 are completed. Data collection for Study 3 will be completed in 2022. Conclusion MMMI is designed to provide a live facilitated mindfulness program to address symptoms of moral injury. If Study 3 demonstrates good benchmarks, with additional large-scale testing, MMMI may be a promising treatment that can reach veterans who may not seek traditional VAMC care and/or who prefer a web-based program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Kelley
- Old Dominion University, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Corresponding author. Department of Psychology, Old Dominion University, 250 Mills Godwin Building, Norfolk, VA, 23529, USA.
| | - Megan Strowger
- Old Dominion University, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | | | - Adrian J. Bravo
- Department of Psychological Sciences, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - Susan A. Gaylord
- Program on Integrative Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Burgin
- School Psychology and Counselor Education, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
| | - Christine Vinci
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Kenneth L. Ayers
- Virginia Consortium Program in Clinical Psychology, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Erum Agha
- Program on Integrative Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wong PH. Moral Injury in Former Child Soldiers in Liberia. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2022; 15:847-856. [PMID: 35958708 PMCID: PMC9360290 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-021-00414-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Moral injury (MI) is a form of traumatic stress induced by perpetrating actions that transgress a person's beliefs and values. Existing research on MI has been mostly confined to military veterans, however there is reason to believe that the risk of MI among child soldiers is higher due to their age and history of abduction. This study examined the risk of MI in former child soldiers in Liberia and tested whether age and history of abduction moderate the relationship between perpetrating violence and MI based on a sample of 459 former child soldiers. Results from regression analysis confirmed that perpetrators had a higher risk of MI. However, while younger perpetrators were more vulnerable to MI, abduction history had no statistically significant moderation effect on the risk of MI. Further analysis also revealed that the moderation effects are primarily on anxiety, avoidance and negative feelings but not re-experiencing. These findings suggest that new tests and treatment models may be required for future disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) policy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pui-Hang Wong
- Maastricht Graduate School of Governance, Maastricht University, Boschstraat 24, 6211 AX Maastricht, Netherlands
- United Nations University MERIT, Maastricht, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
King EL, Hawkins LE. Identifying and mitigating moral injury risks in military behavioral health providers. MILITARY PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 35:169-179. [PMID: 37133488 DOI: 10.1080/08995605.2022.2093599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The term "moral injury" was initially used to describe the multifaceted pain that service members feel after perpetrating, witnessing, or failing to prevent acts that conflict with their moral codes. More recently the term has been used to describe healthcare providers' pain stemming from their experiences serving on the frontlines of the healthcare system when: a medical error causes serious harm to patients, systems continuously impede their abilities to provide proper care, or providers assess that they have acted in ways that conflict with their professional ethics or oaths to "do no harm." This article explores moral injury risk at the intersection of military service and healthcare by examining challenges that military behavioral healthcare providers face. Leveraging moral injury definitions previously applied to service members (personal or witnessed transgressions) and in two healthcare contexts ("second victim" to adverse client outcomes and system-driven moral distress), as well as literature on ethical challenges in military behavioral health, this paper uncovers situations that may amplify military behavioral health providers' risks for moral injury. It concludes by offering policy and practice recommendations germane to military medicine aimed at alleviating pressures military behavioral healthcare providers face and mitigating moral injuries' potential ripple effects on provider wellness, retention and care quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika L. King
- Army-University of Kentucky Master of Social Work Program, University of Kentucky, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lataya E. Hawkins
- Army-University of Kentucky Master of Social Work Program, University of Kentucky, Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Edgar M, Selvaraj SA, Lee KE, Caraballo-Arias Y, Harrell M, Rodriguez-Morales AJ. Healthcare workers, epidemic biological risks - recommendations based on the experience with COVID-19 and Ebolavirus. LE INFEZIONI IN MEDICINA 2022; 30:168-179. [PMID: 35693057 PMCID: PMC9177174 DOI: 10.53854/liim-3002-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Infectious disease outbreaks frequently cause illness and death among Healthcare Workers (HCWs). We compare strategies from recent, past and ongoing outbreak measures used to protect HCWs, including those facing additional challenges such as racial disparities, violence and stigmatization. Outbreaks and pandemics superimposed on countries with preexisting crises have also affected emergency response to these viral outbreaks. Strategies to protect HCWs include adherence to recommended infection prevention and control measures; new technology such as rapid point-of-care tests and remote monitoring; adopting national public health preparedness plans to ensure the supply and allocation of PPE, staff, and testing supplies; occupational health and mental health support services. Lessons learned from recent pandemics should be used by Infection Prevention and Control and Occupational Health staff to refine preparedness plans to protect HCWs better.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mia Edgar
- Independent Researcher, Honolulu, HI 96795, USA
| | | | - Karen E. Lee
- The Open University, Walton Hall, Kents Hill, Milton Keynes MK7 6AA, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mason Harrell
- School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Grupo de Investigacion Biomedicina, Faculty of Medicine, Fundacion Universitaria Autónoma de las Americas, Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia
- Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to provide a clinical update on moral injury from the perspective of a public sector community psychiatrist, and to outline approaches to addressing the issues raised. CONCLUSIONS Although not considered a mental illness, moral injury is an important condition for psychiatrists to have an awareness of, as it is associated with psychological distress and/or impairments in emotional, social or behavioural functioning. Potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) for community psychiatrists may include staff shortages and deficient resources rendering it difficult to provide an acceptable standard of professional care; time constraints negatively impacting teaching, supervising and mentoring medical students; cost-prohibition regarding preferred medication choices; lack of gender and cultural diversity of available psychiatrists; and work environments not conducive to psychiatrists speaking out about their concerns. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated PMIEs for some community psychiatrists. Whether or not a PMIE transitions to a moral injury may be influenced by the individual's resilience and the quality of emotional, psychological and administrative support they receive before, during and after the potentially precipitating event. Preventative strategies to mitigate susceptibility to a moral injury may be implemented at both a systems level and individual level, and include collective healthcare advocacy action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Maguire
- Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, Canberra Hospital, 104822The Australian National University Medical School, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Consortium of Australian-Academic Psychiatrists for Independent Policy and Research Analysis (CAPIPRA), Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jeffrey Cl Looi
- Academic Unit of Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, Canberra Hospital, 104822The Australian National University Medical School, Canberra, ACT, Australia; Consortium of Australian-Academic Psychiatrists for Independent Policy and Research Analysis (CAPIPRA), Canberra, ACT, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Validation of the German Version of the Moral Injury Symptom and Support Scale for Health Professionals (G-MISS-HP) and Its Correlation to the Second Victim Phenomenon. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084857. [PMID: 35457724 PMCID: PMC9029354 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Comparable to second victim phenomenon (SVP), moral injury (MI) affects health professionals (HP) working in stressful environments. Information on how MI and SVP intercorrelate and their part in a psychological trauma complex is limited. We tested and validated a German version of the Moral Injury Symptom and Support Scale for Health Professionals (G-MISS-HP) instrument, screening for MI and correlated it with the recently developed German version of the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool (G-SVESTR) instrument, testing for SVP. METHODS After translating Moral Injury Symptom and Support Scale for Health Professionals (MISS-HP), we conducted a cross-sectional online survey providing G-MISS-HP and G-SVEST-R to HP. Statistics included Pearson's interitem correlation, reliability analysis, principal axis factoring and principal components analysis with Promax rotation, confirmatory factor and ROC analyses. RESULTS A total of 244 persons responded, of whom 156 completed the survey (33% nurses, 16% physicians, 9% geriatric nurses, 7.1% speech and language therapists). Interitem and corrected item-scale correlations did not measure for one item sufficiently. It was, therefore, excluded from further analyses. The nine-item score revealed good reliability (Guttman's lambda 2 = 0.80; Cronbach's alpha = 0.79). Factor validity was demonstrated, indicating that a three-factor model from the original study might better represent the data compared with our two-factor model. Positive correlations between G-MISS-HP and G-SVESTR subscales demonstrated convergent validity. ROC revealed sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 63% for G-MISS-HP using a nine-item scale with cutoff value of 28.5 points. Positive and negative predictive values were 62% and 69%, respectively. Subgroup analyses did not reveal any differences. CONCLUSION G-MISS-HP with nine items is a valid and reliable testing instrument for moral injury. However, strong intercorrelations of MI and SVP indicate the need for further research on the distinction of these phenomena.
Collapse
|
41
|
Strametz R, Siebold B, Heistermann P, Haller S, Bushuven S. Validation of the German Version of the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool-Revised. J Patient Saf 2022; 18:182-192. [PMID: 34387250 PMCID: PMC9359781 DOI: 10.1097/pts.0000000000000886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The second victim phenomenon that occurs after critical events poses a serious factor for patient and workplace safety. These experiences can be evaluated using the Second Victim Experience and Support Tool (SVEST), originally in English, or the translated and validated Korean or Chinese versions. In 2020, a revised version was published (SVESTR) with the addition of resilience items. The aim of this study is the validation of the German version, the G-SVESTR, in a multiprofessional setting. METHODS The G-SVESTR questionnaire was designed according to World Health Organization recommendations. This entails translation, test for face validity, back translation, pretest, expert panel evaluation, and a test in a large population for validity and reliability. We provided an anonymous online questionnaire to physicians, nurses, paramedics, medical assistants, and physician assistants to test our developed tool. Statistics were accomplished using XL-Stats. RESULTS Altogether, 72% (306 of 428) of the participants completed the survey. The mean time for completion was 9.4 minutes. Physician assistants and medical assistants were significantly younger than other respondents. The analysis revealed satisfactory reliability (Cronbach α = 0.844). A principal component analysis showed 11 factors with eigenvalues greater than 1. Factor loading on distinct dimensions was satisfactory with one exception, the absenteeism item (item 31), which showed cross-loadings and poor factor loading on the absenteeism dimension. The results of the G-SVESTR revealed only some differences between the professional subgroups. CONCLUSION The G-SVESTR is a valid and reliable testing instrument for the evaluation of second victim experiences in different medical professions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reinhard Strametz
- From the Institute for Medical Education, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich
- Wiesbaden Business School, RheinMain University of Applied Sciences, Wiesbaden
| | - Bianka Siebold
- Institute for Anesthesiology, Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine and Pain Therapy, Hegau-Bodensee-Hospital Singen, Health Care Association District of Constance, Radolfzell
| | | | - Susanne Haller
- Elisabeth-Kuebler-Ross Academy—Hospice Stuttgart, Stuttgart
| | - Stefan Bushuven
- From the Institute for Medical Education, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich
- Institute for Hospital Hygiene und Infection Prevention
- Hegau-Jugendwerk Hospital Gailingen, Health Care Association District of Constance, Radolfzell, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Jones KA, Freijah I, Carey L, Carleton RN, Devenish-Meares P, Dell L, Rodrigues S, Madden K, Johnson L, Hosseiny F, Phelps AJ. Moral Injury, Chaplaincy and Mental Health Provider Approaches to Treatment: A Scoping Review. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2022; 61:1051-1094. [PMID: 35290554 PMCID: PMC8922078 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-022-01534-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this research was to describe the evidence examining the approaches taken by mental health providers (MHPs) and chaplains to address symptoms related to moral injury (MI) or exposure to potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs). This research also considers the implications for a holistic approach to address symptoms related to MI that combines mental health and chaplaincy work. A scoping review of literature was conducted using Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, Central Register of Controlled Trials, Proquest, Philosphers Index, CINAHL, SocINDEX, Academic Search Complete, Web of Science and Scopus databases using search terms related to MI and chaplaincy approaches or psychological approaches to MI. The search identified 35 eligible studies: 26 quantitative studies and nine qualitative studies. Most quantitative studies (n = 33) were conducted in military samples. The studies examined interventions delivered by chaplains (n = 5), MHPs (n = 23) and combined approaches (n = 7). Most studies used symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and/or depression as primary outcomes. Various approaches to addressing MI have been reported in the literature, including MHP, chaplaincy and combined approaches, however, there is currently limited evidence to support the effectiveness of any approach. There is a need for high quality empirical studies assessing the effectiveness of interventions designed to address MI-related symptoms. Outcome measures should include the breadth of psychosocial and spiritual impacts of MI if we are to establish the benefits of MHP and chaplaincy approaches and the potential incremental value of combining both approaches into a holistic model of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kimberley A Jones
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Isabella Freijah
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Lindsay Carey
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Peter Devenish-Meares
- Graduate School of Business, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lisa Dell
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Sara Rodrigues
- Canadian Centre of Excellence on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Related Mental Health Conditions, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Kelsey Madden
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Lucinda Johnson
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia
| | - Fardous Hosseiny
- Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrea J Phelps
- Phoenix Australia - Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Carlton, VIC, 3053, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Hall S. Comorbidities of Combat Trauma: Unresolved Grief and Moral Injury. JOURNAL OF LOSS & TRAUMA 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2022.2053227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
44
|
Gee PM, Weston MJ, Harshman T, Kelly LA. Beyond Burnout and Resilience: The Disillusionment Phase of COVID-19. AACN Adv Crit Care 2022; 33:134-142. [PMID: 35179561 DOI: 10.4037/aacnacc2022248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
In caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses are experiencing a crisis of emotional highs and lows that will have lasting implications for their professional and personal well-being. As a result, much attention has been focused on nurse burnout, but the range of nurses' experiences is more nuanced, complicated, and profound. With the recognition that the nursing workforce was already experiencing burnout before the pandemic, this article explores how individuals respond to disasters and the detrimental effects of the repeated surges of critically ill patients, which have led nurses to experience an extended period of disillusionment that includes secondary traumatic stress, cumulative grief, and moral distress. This article describes the range of psychological responses to the COVID-19 pandemic so that nurse leaders can better identify resources and interventions to support nurses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Perry M Gee
- Perry M. Gee is Nurse-Scientist, Intermountain Healthcare, 36 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
| | - Marla J Weston
- Marla J. Weston is Chief Executive Officer, Weston Consulting LLC, Washington, DC
| | - Tom Harshman
- Tom Harshman is System Vice President, Pastoral and Spiritual Care, CommonSpirit Health, San Francisco, California
| | - Lesly A Kelly
- Lesly A. Kelly is Nurse-Scientist, CommonSpirit Health, Phoenix, Arizona
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Pernicano PU, Wortmann J, Haynes K. Acceptance and forgiveness therapy for veterans with moral injury: spiritual and psychological collaboration in group treatment. J Health Care Chaplain 2022; 28:S57-S78. [PMID: 35135436 DOI: 10.1080/08854726.2022.2032982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The authors developed Acceptance and Forgiveness Therapy (AFT), a psychospiritual group intervention that guides veterans with moral injury experientially from a trauma-focused (damaged, broken, guilty, unforgivable, hopeless, unacceptable) to restorative (worthy, connected, hopeful, forgiven, responsible) view of self. A mental health (MH)-trained chaplain and MH provider, as co-leaders, provide psychoeducation, facilitate therapeutic interaction, and encourage home practice. The curriculum includes evidence-driven psychological interventions, spiritually oriented practices, and metaphor, story, and art to illustrate concepts and facilitate self-expression. Scores on the Brief Symptom Inventory-18 and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-2 showed decreased distress and increased flexibility. Post-group drawings reflect renewed purpose, greater self-acceptance, and meaningful engagement with others. Retention rate across seven group administrations ranged from 50% to 100%. Outcomes suggest AFT is a promising practice for veteran moral injury meriting further study and implementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Wortmann
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Integrative Mental Health, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Kerry Haynes
- South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Spilg EG, Rushton CH, Phillips JL, Kendzerska T, Saad M, Gifford W, Gautam M, Bhatla R, Edwards JD, Quilty L, Leveille C, Robillard R. The new frontline: exploring the links between moral distress, moral resilience and mental health in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:19. [PMID: 34991514 PMCID: PMC8734541 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03637-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Global health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, confront healthcare workers (HCW) with increased exposure to potentially morally distressing events. The pandemic has provided an opportunity to explore the links between moral distress, moral resilience, and emergence of mental health symptoms in HCWs. METHODS A total of 962 Canadian healthcare workers (88.4% female, 44.6 + 12.8 years old) completed an online survey during the first COVID-19 wave in Canada (between April 3rd and September 3rd, 2020). Respondents completed a series of validated scales assessing moral distress, perceived stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms, and moral resilience. Respondents were grouped based on exposure to patients who tested positive for COVID-19. In addition to descriptive statistics and analyses of covariance, multiple linear regression was used to evaluate if moral resilience moderates the association between exposure to morally distressing events and moral distress. Factors associated with moral resilience were also assessed. FINDINGS Respondents working with patients with COVID-19 showed significantly more severe moral distress, anxiety, and depression symptoms (F > 5.5, p < .020), and a higher proportion screened positive for mental disorders (Chi-squared > 9.1, p = .002), compared to healthcare workers who were not. Moral resilience moderated the relationship between exposure to potentially morally distressing events and moral distress (p < .001); compared to those with higher moral resilience, the subgroup with the lowest moral resilience had a steeper cross-sectional worsening in moral distress as the frequency of potentially morally distressing events increased. Moral resilience also correlated with lower stress, anxiety, and depression symptoms (r > .27, p < .001). Factors independently associated with stronger moral resilience included: being male, older age, no mental disorder diagnosis, sleeping more, and higher support from employers and colleagues (B [0.02, |-0.26|]. INTERPRETATION Elevated moral distress and mental health symptoms in healthcare workers facing a global crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic call for the development of interventions promoting moral resilience as a protective measure against moral adversities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward G Spilg
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa and Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 1053 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 4E9, Canada.
| | - Cynda Hylton Rushton
- Berman Institute of Bioethics & School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 1809 Ashland Avenue, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Jennifer L Phillips
- The University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Tetyana Kendzerska
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa and Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, 1053 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 4E9, Canada
| | - Mysa Saad
- The University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Wendy Gifford
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Mamta Gautam
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Rajiv Bhatla
- Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Jodi D Edwards
- Brain and Heart Nexus Research Program, University of Ottawa Heart Institute, 40 Ruskin Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Y 4W7, Canada
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, 600 Peter Morand Crescent, Room 101, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 5Z3, Canada
| | - Lena Quilty
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 1025 Queen Street, Toronto, Ontario, M6J 1H1, Canada
| | - Chloe Leveille
- The University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Rebecca Robillard
- The University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal, 1145 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1Z 7K4, Canada
- School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, 136 Jean-Jacques Lussier, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 6N5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Secondary Qualitative Analysis of Moral Injury in Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:166-176. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
|
48
|
Nelson KE, Hanson GC, Boyce D, Ley CD, Swavely D, Reina M, Rushton CH. Organizational Impact on Healthcare Workers' Moral Injury During COVID-19: A Mixed-Methods Analysis. J Nurs Adm 2022; 52:57-66. [PMID: 34910709 PMCID: PMC9199451 DOI: 10.1097/nna.0000000000001103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore relationships between organizational factors and moral injury among healthcare workers and the impact of perceptions of their leaders and organizations during COVID-19. BACKGROUND COVID-19 placed healthcare workers at risk for moral injury, which often involves feeling betrayed by people with authority and can impact workplace culture. METHODS Secondary data from a Web-based survey of mid-Atlantic healthcare workers were analyzed using mixed methods. Data were synthesized using the Reina Trust & Betrayal Model. RESULTS Fifty-five percent (n = 328/595) of respondents wrote comments. Forty-one percent (n = 134/328) of commenters had moral injury scores of 36 or higher. Three themes emerged: organizational infrastructure, support from leaders, and palliative care involvement. Respondents outlined organizational remedies, which were organized into 5 domains. CONCLUSIONS Findings suggest healthcare workers feel trust was breached by their organizations' leaders during COVID-19. Further study is needed to understand intersections between organizational factors and moral injury to enhance trust within healthcare organizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie E Nelson
- Author Affiliations: PhD Candidate (Ms Nelson), Assistant Professor (Dr Hanson), Research Data Analyst (Ms Boyce), and Professor (Dr Rushton), Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland; Director of Nursing Quality and Research (Dr Ley), Luminis Health, Anne Arundel Medical Center, Annapolis, Maryland; Senior Director of Clinical Inquiry and Research (Dr Swavely), Tower Health, Reading Hospital, West Reading, Pennsylvania; and Chief Trust Building Officer (Dr Reina), Reina Trust Building, Stowe, Vermont
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Hegarty S, Lamb D, Stevelink SAM, Bhundia R, Raine R, Doherty MJ, Scott HR, Marie Rafferty A, Williamson V, Dorrington S, Hotopf M, Razavi R, Greenberg N, Wessely S. 'It hurts your heart': frontline healthcare worker experiences of moral injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2128028. [PMID: 36276556 PMCID: PMC9586685 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2022.2128028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Moral injury is defined as the strong emotional and cognitive reactions following events which clash with someone's moral code, values or expectations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased exposure to Potentially Morally Injurious Events (PMIEs) has placed healthcare workers (HCWs) at risk of moral injury. Yet little is known about the lived experience of cumulative PMIE exposure and how NHS staff respond to this. Objective: We sought to rectify this knowledge gap by qualitatively exploring the lived experiences and perspectives of clinical frontline NHS staff who responded to COVID-19. Methods: We recruited a diverse sample of 30 clinical frontline HCWs from the NHS CHECK study cohort, for single time point qualitative interviews. All participants endorsed at least one item on the 9-item Moral Injury Events Scale (MIES) [Nash et al., 2013. Psychometric evaluation of the moral injury events scale. Military Medicine, 178(6), 646-652] at six month follow up. Interviews followed a semi-structured guide and were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: HCWs described being routinely exposed to ethical conflicts, created by exacerbations of pre-existing systemic issues including inadequate staffing and resourcing. We found that HCWs experienced a range of mental health symptoms primarily related to perceptions of institutional betrayal as well as feeling unable to fulfil their duty of care towards patients. Conclusion: These results suggest that a multi-facetted organisational strategy is warranted to prepare for PMIE exposure, promote opportunities for resolution of symptoms associated with moral injury and prevent organisational disengagement. HIGHLIGHTS Clinical frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) have been exposed to an accumulation of potentially morally injurious events (PMIEs) throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including feeling betrayed by both government and NHS leaders as well as feeling unable to provide duty of care to patients.HCWs described the significant adverse impact of this exposure on their mental health, including increased anxiety and depression symptoms and sleep disturbance.Most HCWs interviewed believed that organisational change within the NHS was necessary to prevent excess PMIE exposure and promote resolution of moral distress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siobhan Hegarty
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Danielle Lamb
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sharon A M Stevelink
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rupa Bhundia
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rosalind Raine
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Hannah R Scott
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anne Marie Rafferty
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery & Palliative Care, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Williamson
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Dorrington
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Matthew Hotopf
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.,South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Reza Razavi
- King's Wellcome Trust EPSRC Centre For Medical Engineering, London, UK
| | - Neil Greenberg
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Simon Wessely
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
Interest in the concept of moral injury among researchers, clinicians and policy makers can have undesirable consequences that are rarely considered. It can lead to misunderstanding of post-traumatic stress disorder, risks of primary and secondary gains for affected individuals and tertiary gains for third parties. This editorial calls for critical assessment of this sensitive matter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tine Molendijk
- Department of Military Management Studies, Faculty of Military Sciences, Netherlands Defence Academy, Breda; and Centre for International Conflict Analysis and Management, Radboud University Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|