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Gratão LHA, Silva TPRD, Rocha LL, Jardim MZ, Oliveira TRPRD, Cunha CDF, Mendes LL. Common mental disorders in Brazilian adolescents: association with school characteristics, consumption of ultra-processed foods and waist-to-height ratio. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2024; 40:e00068423. [PMID: 38775572 PMCID: PMC11105350 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311xen068423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Half of all mental health problems diagnosed in adulthood have their onset before or during adolescence, especially common mental disorders (CMD). Thus, it is relevant to study the factors associated with these disorders. This study aimed to investigate the association of school characteristics, consumption of ultra-processed foods, and waist-to-height ratio with the presence of CMD in Brazilian adolescents. This is a school-based, cross-sectional study that analyzed data from 71,553 Brazilian adolescents aged 12-17 years. The prevalence of CMD in these adolescents was 17.1% (cut-off point 5 for the General Health Questionnaire-12). Associations were estimated using multilevel logistic models, with the presence of CMD as the dependent variable. The final model, adjusted for non-modifiable individual variables, modifiable individual variables and family characteristics, identified a positive association between private-funded schools (OR = 1.10; 95%CI: 1.07-1.14), advertisements for ultra-processed foods (OR = 1.13; 95%CI: 1.09-1.17), the second to fourth quartiles of ultra-processed food intake and waist-to-height ratio (OR = 2.26; 95%CI: 2.03-2.52). This study demonstrated that the private-funded schools , the presence of ultra-processed food advertisements, the consumption of ultra-processed food, and an increased waist-to-height ratio are risk factors for CMD in Brazilian adolescents.
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Mensa-Kwao A, Sub Cuc I, Concepcion T, Kemp CG, Hughsam M, Sinha M, Collins PY. A mixed methods analysis of youth mental health intervention feasibility and acceptability in a North American city: Perspectives from Seattle, Washington. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0288214. [PMID: 38483880 PMCID: PMC10939237 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
In March 2021, the Governor of Washington declared a youth mental health crisis. State data revealed high rates of youth suicide and inadequate access to services. This study aims to ascertain the kinds of support across the mental health care continuum recommended by young people and key stakeholders who could assist with implementation in Seattle. We interviewed 15 key informants to identify the contextual, structural, and individual-level factors that increase the risk of poor mental health and deter access to care among youth. We complimented these data with a 25-item survey of 117 participants in King County to assess the feasibility and acceptability of interventions for youth mental health. We conducted a deductive thematic qualitative analysis of the interviews and performed descriptive analyses of the quantitative data, using t-tests and χ2 tests to summarize and compare participant characteristics stratified by age group. Qualitative informants attributed challenges to youth mental health to social isolation and relational problems. Example interventions included creating environments that increase belonging and implementation of culturally congruent mental health services. Quantitative study participants rated all evidence-based mental health interventions presented as highly acceptable. However, youth preferred interventions promoting social connectedness, peer support, and holistic approaches to care, while non-youth preferred interventions focused on suicide, and substance abuse prevention. Key informants and survey participants identified schools as the most important setting for mental health interventions. There were no significant differences among quantitative outcomes. Our findings highlight the need for interventions that reduce isolation and increase social connectedness to support youth mental health. As the city designs youth responsive interventions, schools and digital platforms should be prioritized. Engaging multiple stakeholders, particularly young people, tackling cultural stigma surrounding mental health, and improving access to safe community spaces are important considerations for youth mental health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustina Mensa-Kwao
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Ingrid Sub Cuc
- Department of Native American Studies, University of California Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Tessa Concepcion
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Christopher G. Kemp
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | | | - Pamela Y. Collins
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Putra IGNE, McInerney AM, Robinson E, Deschênes SS. Neighbourhood characteristics and socioeconomic inequalities in child mental health: Cross-sectional and longitudinal findings from the Growing Up in Ireland study. Health Place 2024; 86:103180. [PMID: 38301383 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
This study examined the role of neighbourhood characteristics in explaining socioeconomic inequalities in child mental health (the total difficulties score from the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire) using data from Cohort '08 of Growing Up in Ireland Waves 3 (age 5; baseline) and 5 (age 9; follow-up). Twenty neighbourhood items were grouped into neighbourhood safety, built environments, cohesion, interaction, and disorder. Data were analysed using regression, single and multiple mediation, and network psychometric analyses. We found that neighbourhood safety, cohesion, interaction, and disorder were associated with child mental health. These four domains separately (by up to 18 %) or in concert (by up to 23 %) partially explained socioeconomic inequalities in child mental health. Built environments may explain socioeconomic inequalities in mental health in urban children only. Findings from network analysis indicated that specific concerns over "people being drunk or taking drugs in public" and "this is a safe neighbourhood" had the strongest connections with child mental health. Improving neighbourhood characteristics may be important to reduce socioeconomic inequalities in child mental health in Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gusti Ngurah Edi Putra
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
| | - Amy M McInerney
- School of Psychology, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Eric Robinson
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Hannon E, Anselimus SM, Bardikoff N, Bulc B, Germann S, Gonsalves PP, Melendez-Torres GJ, Ospina-Pinillos L, Sinha M, Wanjiru M. Why cities matter for adolescent mental health and wellbeing. Lancet 2024; 403:708-710. [PMID: 37827186 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)02238-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sweetbert M Anselimus
- Tanzania's Psychosocial Welfare Organization, and University of Dar es Salaam, Iringa, Tanzania
| | - Nicole Bardikoff
- Global Mental Health at Grand Challenges Canada, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Barbara Bulc
- Global Development and SDG CoLab, Geneva, Switzerland
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Chhajer R, Hira N. Exploring positive psychology intervention and mindfulness-based intervention in nature: impact on well-being of school students in India. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1297610. [PMID: 38356944 PMCID: PMC10864550 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1297610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Enhancing the well-being of urban school students is a growing challenge. The online mode of teaching during and post-pandemic era has increased students' daily screen time. As they spend more time indoors, they tend to disconnect from nature even more, adversely impacting their well-being. This study aimed to design and execute two well-being interventions-a positive psychology intervention (PPI) and a mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) in natural settings for urban school students in India. Methods One hundred eighty participants (aged 17-20) from a senior secondary school were randomly assigned to three groups: PPI, MBI, and a control group (CTR). Participants self-reported their levels of well-being, gratitude, inclusion of nature in self, sense of connectedness, resilience, awareness, perceived stress, and positive and negative emotions using a survey questionnaire at two times-pre- and post-interventions. Repeated-measures ANOVA was employed across time and groups, and post hoc analyses for group differences were carried out through the Bonferroni test. Results Results indicate that both PPI and MBI interventions, when executed in natural settings, enhance student well-being, gratitude, inclusion of nature in self, sense of connectedness, resilience, awareness, positive emotions and decreased levels of perceived stress, and negative emotions. Discussion The study provides valuable insights for school authorities, policymakers, and urban planners to include natural settings in school premises and offer well-being interventions for students to connect with nature consciously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raina Chhajer
- Humanities and Social Sciences Area, Indian Institute of Management, Indore, India
| | - Nainika Hira
- College of Health, Education, and Human Services, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, United States
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Rony MKK, Alamgir HM. High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies-A perspective. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1729. [PMID: 38059052 PMCID: PMC10696165 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1729] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The influence of temperature on various aspects of daily life is often underestimated, and its effects on mental health are not widely recognized. Understanding and addressing the relationship between temperature and mental well-being is crucial in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. This perspective aimed to investigate the effects of high temperatures on mental health and identify proactive strategies to mitigate these effects. Methods This perspective adopted a twofold approach, including a comprehensive literature review and socioecological framework. The literature review involved extensive searches across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify relevant, peer-reviewed articles, and reports from diverse disciplines. Results The perspective emphasized the significance of recognizing heat stress and its consequences on mental well-being. Chronic heat stress can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Vulnerable populations include, the very young, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. Socioeconomic factors can further exacerbate vulnerability, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to manage mental health challenges during high temperatures. Additionally, the article identified and discussed proactive coping strategies to minimize both the psychological and physical impacts of heat stress. Mindfulness, stress management techniques, and therapy are suggested as effective means for individuals to manage psychological distress. Conclusion Implementing preventive measures are essential steps in promoting mental wellness in high temperatures. Proactive strategies by addressing the physiological and psychological effects of heat and considering the specific needs of vulnerable populations can help individuals and communities navigate the challenges posed by rising temperatures and promote resilience and preserve their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustaq Karim Khan Rony
- Department of Public HealthBangladesh Open UniversityGazipurBangladesh
- Department of Institute of Social Welfare and ResearchUniversity of DhakaDhakaBangladesh
| | - Hasnat M. Alamgir
- Department of Career & Professional Development Services (CPDS)Southeast UniversityDhakaBangladesh
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Liu X, Zhang Y, Gao W, Cao X. Developmental trajectories of depression, anxiety, and stress among college students: a piecewise growth mixture model analysis. HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 10:736. [DOI: 10.1057/s41599-023-02252-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2024]
Abstract
AbstractMental health issues are becoming increasingly common among college students, but not all students follow the same developmental trends of mental health. This study aims to identify the developmental trajectories of depression, anxiety, and stress among college students and the related factors for different trajectory classes. The data were collected from a longitudinal survey of college students over four consecutive years, and 2473 students were included in the analysis. The study used a piecewise growth mixture model to determine the subtrajectories, and a multinomial logistic regression model was constructed to investigate the related factors affecting students in subtrajectories. The results revealed that subtrajectories include the low and stable class, increasing class, decreasing then stable class, increasing then decreasing class, and decreasing and high class. The decreasing and high class only presents in the trajectories of anxiety and stress. Regarding related factors, high BMI and high sleep hours were identified as related factors for the increasing class of depression; gender and high sleep hours were associated with the increasing class of anxiety; and hometown location was related to the increasing class of stress. Extroversion personality, relationship with classmates, siblings, and father’s education level are related factors for other subtrajectories. Considering that college students experience multiple trajectories of depression, anxiety, and stress, mental health education and psychological intervention should be carried out for students in each class.
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Bogdan T, Xie W, Talaat H, Mir H, Venkataraman B, Banfield LE, Georgiades K, Duncan L. Longitudinal studies of child mental disorders in the general population: A systematic review of study characteristics. JCPP ADVANCES 2023; 3:e12186. [PMID: 37720586 PMCID: PMC10501698 DOI: 10.1002/jcv2.12186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Longitudinal studies of child mental disorders in the general population (herein study) investigate trends in prevalence, incidence, risk/protective factors, and sequelae for disorders. They are time and resource intensive but offer life-course perspectives and examination of causal mechanisms. Comprehensive syntheses of the methods of existing studies will provide an understanding of studies conducted to date, inventory studies, and inform the planning of new longitudinal studies. Methods A systematic review of the research literature in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO was conducted in December 2022 for longitudinal studies of child mental disorders in the general population. Records were grouped by study and assessed for eligibility. Data were extracted from one of four sources: a record reporting study methodology, a record documenting child mental disorder prevalence, study websites, or user guides. Narrative and tabular syntheses of the scope and design features of studies were generated. Results There were 18,133 unique records for 487 studies-159 of these were eligible for inclusion. Studies occurred from 1934 to 2019 worldwide, with data collection across 1 to 68 time points, with 70% of studies ongoing. Baseline sample sizes ranged from n = 151 to 64,136. Studies were most frequently conducted in the United States and at the city/town level. Internalizing disorders and disruptive, impulse control, and conduct disorders were the most frequently assessed mental disorders. Of studies reporting methods of disorder assessment, almost all used measurement scales. Individual, familial and environmental risk and protective factors and sequelae were examined. Conclusions These results summarize characteristics of existing longitudinal studies of child mental disorders in the general population, provide an understanding of studies conducted to date, encourage comprehensive and consistent reporting of study methodology to facilitate meta-analytic syntheses of longitudinal evidence, and offer recommendations and suggestions for the design of future studies. Registration DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/73HSW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodora Bogdan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Weiyi Xie
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Habeba Talaat
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Hafsa Mir
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Bhargavi Venkataraman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | | | - Katholiki Georgiades
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
| | - Laura Duncan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural NeurosciencesOfford Centre for Child StudiesMcMaster UniversityHamiltonOntarioCanada
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Abdollahi S, Waygood EOD, Aliyas Z, Cloutier MS. An Overview of How the Built Environment Relates to Children's Health. Curr Environ Health Rep 2023; 10:264-277. [PMID: 37507592 DOI: 10.1007/s40572-023-00405-8] [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] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Explore the varied pathways between the built environment and children's health. The review begins by describing how the built environment and transport infrastructure relate to conditions that lead to health outcomes. The review examines emissions, noise, and traffic dangers in relation to children's physical, mental, and social health. RECENT FINDINGS Evidence is increasing for walkable neighborhoods and health-related behavior such as physical activity. However, diverse land uses (often supporting walkability) were also found to increase traffic injuries. Cognitive impacts of motorways on children at schools were found. Finally, the relationships between social activities and built environment are beginning. The built environment's influence on various physical health outcomes is increasingly clear and is often through a transport pathway. However, the links with mental and social health are less developed, though recent findings show significant results. Having accessible child-relevant destinations is an important consideration for children's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Abdollahi
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - E Owen D Waygood
- Department of Civil, Geological and Mining Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal, Montréal, H3T 1J4, Canada.
| | - Zeinab Aliyas
- Centre Urbanisation Culture Société, Institut National de La Recherche Scientifique, Montreal, H7B 1V7, Canada
| | - Marie-Soleil Cloutier
- Centre Urbanisation Culture Société, Institut National de La Recherche Scientifique, Montreal, H7B 1V7, Canada
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10
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Buttazzoni A, Nelson Ferguson K, Gilliland J. Barriers to and facilitators of active travel from the youth perspective: A qualitative meta-synthesis. SSM Popul Health 2023; 22:101369. [PMID: 36909930 PMCID: PMC9996358 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Buttazzoni
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kendra Nelson Ferguson
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason Gilliland
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Geography and Environment, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
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Pykett J, Campbell N, Fenton SJ, Gagen E, Lavis A, Newbigging K, Parkin V, Williams J. Urban precarity and youth mental health: An interpretive scoping review of emerging approaches. Soc Sci Med 2023; 320:115619. [PMID: 36641884 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Circumstances of living are key to shaping emotional and affective experiences, long term health, wellbeing and opportunities. In an era characterised by rapid urbanisation across the majority of the world, there is increasing interest in the interaction between mental health and urban environments, but insufficient attention is paid to how mental health is situated in space and time. Socio-economic inequalities are prevalent in many urban environments globally, making conditions of living highly precarious for some social groups including young people. There remains a large volume of unmet mental health service needs, and young people are impacted by uncertain economic futures. The purpose of this scoping review is to develop an interdisciplinary and globally-informed understanding of the urban conditions which affect youth mental health across a range of scales, and to identify protective factors which can promote better youth mental health. We seek to broaden the scope of urban mental health research beyond the physical features of urban environments to develop an interpretive framework based on perspectives shared by young people. We illustrate how concepts from social theory can be used as an integrative framework to emphasise both young people's lived experiences and the wider cultural and political dynamics of urban mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pykett
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Institute for Mental Health and Centre for Urban Wellbeing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Niyah Campbell
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Sarah-Jane Fenton
- School of Social Policy and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Elizabeth Gagen
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Llandinam Building, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DB, Wales, UK.
| | - Anna Lavis
- Institute of Applied Health Research and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Karen Newbigging
- School of Social Policy and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Verity Parkin
- Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences Alumni, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Jessy Williams
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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Baus E, Carrasco-Tenezaca M, Frey M, Medina-Maldonado V. Risk Factors for the Mental Health of Adolescents from the Parental Perspective: Photo-Voice in Rural Communities of Ecuador. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2205. [PMID: 36767571 PMCID: PMC9915978 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032205] [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: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Mental health in adolescence is a very important topic worldwide, especially in rural areas. The implementation of Participatory Action Research (PAR) through the photo-voice method was a way to encourage adults to recognize problematic situations (at personal, family or community levels) that threaten the well-being of adolescents, but that in everyday life may go unnoticed by parents and caregivers. Our study aimed to identify risk factors for mental health in adolescents living in rural communities of Ecuador from the parental perspective through photographs and focus group discussions. The study sought to raise awareness of this issue at the family and community levels. The photo-voice method was conducted with the participation of 29 parents. The photographs and the collaborative construction of meanings allowed parents to have a better understanding about the importance of mental health and its benefit for adolescents. The principal risk factors mentioned by parents were stress, sleep deprivation, tiredness, poverty, difficulties in continuing education and alcohol consumption. In conclusion, we point out the importance of this intervention to explore the knowledge and understanding of the topic by parents as well as to communicate information that demystifies false beliefs around mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Baus
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Medicine Faculty, Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Nayón 170530, Ecuador
| | - Majo Carrasco-Tenezaca
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Nayón 170530, Ecuador
| | - Molly Frey
- Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OUHCOM), Dublin, OH 43016, USA
| | - Venus Medina-Maldonado
- Centro de Investigación para la Salud en América Latina (CISeAL), Nursing Faculty, Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Nayón 170530, Ecuador
- Research Group of Gender Violence Prevention (E-previo), Nursing Faculty, Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador, Quito 170143, Ecuador
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Senkler B, Freymueller J, Lopez Lumbi S, Hornberg C, Schmid HL, Hennig-Fast K, Horstmann G, Mc Call T. Urbanicity-Perspectives from Neuroscience and Public Health: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:688. [PMID: 36613008 PMCID: PMC9819040 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010688] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Urban residency is associated with exposure to environmental factors, which can influence health in many ways. Neuroscientific research, as well as Public Health research, aim towards broadening evidence in the field of Urban Health. However, it is unclear whether the association between urban living and mental illnesses is causal rather than explainable by other selective effects. This review seeks to gather information on the current evidence regarding urban living and neurological outcomes to demonstrate how Public Health and Neuroscience could complement each other in the field of Urban Health. A scoping review was conducted in four electronic databases according to the PRISMA-statement guidelines. 25 empirical studies were included. Outcomes such as schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, social and cognitive functioning were scrutinised. Evidence was found for alteration of brain functioning and brain structure. Most studies researching cognitive functioning or cognitive decline displayed possible protective effects of urban living compared to rural living. The different study designs in Public Health and Neuroscience could profit from each other. Although the comparability of studies is limited by the inconsistent assessments of urbanity. Synergies and potentials to combine aspects of Public Health and Neuroscience in the field of Urban Health to improve population health became apparent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Senkler
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Julius Freymueller
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Susanne Lopez Lumbi
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Claudia Hornberg
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Hannah-Lea Schmid
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Kristina Hennig-Fast
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Department Psychiatry, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Gernot Horstmann
- Neurocognitive Psychology, Department Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Science, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Timothy Mc Call
- Sustainable Environmental Health Sciences, Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, 33615 Bielefeld, Germany
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Marquez J, Lambert L, Cutts M. Geographic, Socio-Demographic and School Type Variation in Adolescent Wellbeing and Mental Health and Links with Academic Competence in the United Arab Emirates. CHILD INDICATORS RESEARCH 2022; 16:797-836. [PMID: 36465521 PMCID: PMC9702627 DOI: 10.1007/s12187-022-09993-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Interest in adolescents' wellbeing and mental health is growing worldwide, but little research in this area has been conducted in certain world regions and countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Geographic, socio-demographic and school type differences in adolescent wellbeing and mental health are commonly observed in the field, and the UAE is a diverse country where these types of differences have been found for other outcomes (notably, academic). Yet, no prior national study has explored these differences in terms of wellbeing and mental health in the nation. We address this gap by investigating differences across emirates, gender, socio-economic status, immigrant status, school sector and school curriculum for overall life satisfaction, positive affect, negative affect, meaning and purpose in life, and internalizing difficulties. We use linear regression to analyse cross-sectional data from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) study from 2015 and 2018. We find substantial geographic, socio-demographic and school type differences in levels (2018) of wellbeing and mental health -which vary across distinct domains- and declines (2015-2018) of wellbeing. Better wellbeing and mental health are observed in the northern emirates and among boys. Better wellbeing and poorer mental health are observed among nationals (compared to expatriates) and in public schools (compared to private schools). Despite presenting the best academic outcomes, British schools present the worst wellbeing and mental health outcomes. However, results show the absence of a trade-off between academic competence and wellbeing and mental health, with evidence of a small positive association with wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Marquez
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | | | - Megan Cutts
- Manchester Institute of Education, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
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Huang H, Li Y, Zhao Y, Zhai W. Analysis of the impact of urban summer high temperatures and outdoor activity duration on residents' emotional health: Taking hostility as an example. Front Public Health 2022; 10:955077. [PMID: 35958864 PMCID: PMC9358219 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.955077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The combined effect of global warming and the heat island effect keeps the temperature of cities rising in the summer, seriously threatening the physical and mental health of urban residents. Taking the area within the Sixth Ring Road of Beijing as an example, based on Landsat remote sensing images, meteorological stations, and questionnaires, this study established a relational model between temperature and hostility and then analyzed the changes in the emotional health risk (hostility) in the study area and the mechanism of how outdoor activity duration influences hostility. Results show that: (1) the area within the Sixth Ring Road of Beijing had a higher and higher temperature from 1991 to 2020. Low-temperature areas gradually shrank, and medium- and high-temperature areas extended outwards from the center. (2) The threat of high temperature to residents' hostility gradually intensified—the sphere of influence expanded, low-risk areas quickly turned into medium-high-risk areas, and the level of hostility risk increased. Level 1 risk areas of hostility had the most obvious reduction—a 74.33% reduction in area proportion; meanwhile, Level 3 risk areas had the most significant growth—a 50.41% increase in area proportion. (3) In the first 120 min of outdoor activities under high temperature, residents' hostility was negatively correlated with outdoor activity duration; after more than 120 min, hostility became positively correlated with duration. Therefore, figuring out how temperature changes influence human emotions is of great significance to improving the living environment and health level of residents. This study attempts to (1) explore the impact of temperature changes and outdoor activity duration on hostility, (2) evaluate residents' emotional health risk levels affected by high temperature, and (3) provide a theoretical basis for the early warning mechanism of emotional health risk and the planning of healthy cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanchun Huang
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Li
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yimin Zhao
- College of Landscape Architecture, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Zhai
- School of Architecture and Planning, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Wei Zhai
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Buttazzoni A, Dean J, Minaker L. Urban design and adolescent mental health: A qualitative examination of adolescent emotional responses to pedestrian- and transit-oriented design and cognitive architecture concepts. Health Place 2022; 76:102825. [PMID: 35636073 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2022.102825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
With the continued migration of people into cities, urban environments are becoming increasingly important determinants of health. However, the study of how precise environmental designs are linked to mental health are generally lacking, especially among adolescent populations. Using a qualitative approach featuring 23 go-along interviews with adolescents, we investigated the relationships between specific urban designs as outlined in pedestrian- and transit-oriented design (imageability, enclosure, scale, transparency, complexity) and cognitive architecture (biophilic architecture, symmetries, fractals) concepts and adolescent mental health indicators (i.e., emotional responses). Central findings from the subsequently undertaken framework analysis include considerably different perceptions regarding natural versus built enclosure and landmarks, significantly more expressed emotional engagement with visually rich and transparent urban designs relative to grey/concrete and windowless designs, and strong positive reactions to the three cognitive architecture concepts. Additional exploratory gender-based analyses were conducted and found potential differences in perceptions of design concepts between boys and girls. We note the broader relevance of these findings by discussing their implications for practitioners and suggesting how they can advance certain UN Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Buttazzoni
- School of Planning, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Geographies of Health in Place, Planning, and Public Health Lab (GoHelP Lab), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Dean
- School of Planning, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Geographies of Health in Place, Planning, and Public Health Lab (GoHelP Lab), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Leia Minaker
- School of Planning, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; Geographies of Health in Place, Planning, and Public Health Lab (GoHelP Lab), University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; School of Public Health and Health Sciences, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
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Socioeconomic Determinants of Health and Their Unequal Distribution in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182010856. [PMID: 34682597 PMCID: PMC8536126 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182010856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to identify inequities in the distribution of socioeconomic determinants of health within Poland and their impact on the health status of Poles, as measured by mortality rate. We hypothesised that (1) there are inequities in the socioeconomic characteristics within geographically defined population groups and (2) some socioeconomic determinants of health have a particularly strong impact on the health status of Poles. Poland is administratively divided into three levels: voivodeships, powiats and gminas. We used a dataset covering all 380 powiats in Poland for the year 2018. We employed a two-stage nested Theil index and Herfindahl–Hirschman Index. In order to identify which of these determinants has the strongest impact on health, we conducted a regression analysis. The study revealed some inequities in the distribution of socioeconomic determinants of health. The mortality rate can be partly understood from variations within voivodeships in the distribution of health determinants. Important national inequalities were found in the case of two determinants, which simultaneously proved their significant impact on Poles’ health in the regression analysis. Thus, type of employment and access to modern infrastructure should be of particular concern for public authorities.
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