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Koet LBM, Velek P, Bindels PJE, Bohnen AM, de Schepper EIT, Gerger H. Children and young people's consultation rates for psychosocial problems between 2016 and 2021 in the Netherlands. Eur J Gen Pract 2024; 30:2357780. [PMID: 38832626 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2024.2357780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, there are concerns about declining mental health of children and young people (CYP). OBJECTIVES To examine trends in GP consultation rates for psychosocial problems and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We performed a population-based cohort study using electronic GP records of CYP (0-24 years) living in the Rotterdam metropolitan area between 2016 and 2021. We calculated monthly consultation rates for psychosocial problems, stratified by age group and sex. We used negative binomial models to model the pre-COVID-19 trend, and estimate expected rates post-COVID-19 onset. We modelled the effect of COVID-19 infection rate and school closure on consultation rates per sex and age group. RESULTS The cohort increased from 64801 to 92093 CYP between January 2016 and December 2021. Median age was 12.5 years and 49.3% was female. Monthly consultation rates increased from 2,443 to 4,542 consultations per 100,000 patient months over the six years. This trend (RR 1.009, 95%CI 1.008-1.011) started well before the COVID-19 pandemic. Consultation rates of adolescent girls and young women increased most strongly. Between March and May 2020, there was a temporary reduction in consultation rates, whereupon these returned to expected levels. COVID-19 infection rate and school closures showed small but significant associations with consultation rates for psychosocial problems but this did not affect the overall trend. Although consultation rates for psychosocial problems increased, this increment was stable over the entire study period. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic did not significantly increase consultation rates for psychosocial problems in CYP. The consultation rates increased, especially in adolescent girls and young women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas B M Koet
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Premysl Velek
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Patrick J E Bindels
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Arthur M Bohnen
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Evelien I T de Schepper
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Heike Gerger
- Department of General Practice, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Open University, Heerlen, The Netherlands
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2
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O'Gorman E, Rainford A, Devaney E, O'Mahony B, McLoughlin J, Hallahan B. A two-year longitudinal evaluation of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pre-existing mental health service attenders. Ir J Psychol Med 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38818869 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2024.8] [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] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To examine if the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a differential effect longitudinally in relation to its psychological and functional impact on patients with bipolar disorder and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD). METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 individuals attending the Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services with an ICD-10 diagnosis of either bipolar disorder (n = 18) or EUPD (n = 11). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic was assessed in relation to anxiety and mood symptoms, social and occupational functioning, and quality of life utilising psychometric instruments and Likert scale data, with qualitative data assessing participants' subjective experiences. RESULTS Individuals with EUPD exhibited significant anxiety and depressive symptoms and increased hopelessness compared to individuals with bipolar disorder. Repeated measures data demonstrated no significant change in symptomatology for either the EUPD or bipolar disorder group over time, but demonstrated an improvement in social (t = 4.40, p < 0.001) and occupational functioning (t = 3.65, p = 0.03), and in quality of life (t = 4.03, p < 0.001) for both participant groups. Themes attained from qualitative data included the positive impact of the discontinuation of COVID-19 mandated restrictions (n = 19), and difficulties experienced secondary to reductions in the provision of mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 17). CONCLUSION Individuals with EUPD demonstrated increased symptomatology over a two-year period compared to those with bipolar disorder. The importance of face-to-face mental health supports for this cohort are indicated, particularly if future pandemics impact the delivery of mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- E O'Gorman
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A Rainford
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - E Devaney
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Psychology, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B O'Mahony
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - J McLoughlin
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
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3
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Rojnic Kuzman M, Padberg F, Amann BL, Schouler-Ocak M, Bajic Z, Melartin T, James A, Beezhold J, Artigue Gómez J, Arango C, Jendricko T, Ismayilov J, Flannery W, Chumakov E, Başar K, Vahip S, Dudek D, Samochowiec J, Mihajlovic G, Rota F, Stoppe G, Dom G, Catthoor K, Chkonia E, Heitor Dos Santos MJ, Telles D, Falkai P, Courtet P, Patarák M, Izakova L, Skugarevski O, Barjaktarov S, Babic D, Racetovic G, Fiorillo A, Carpiniello B, Taube M, Melamed Y, Chihai J, Cozman DCM, Mohr P, Szekeres G, Delic M, Mazaliauskienė R, Tomcuk A, Maruta N, Gorwood P. Clinician treatment choices for post-traumatic stress disorder: ambassadors survey of psychiatrists in 39 European countries. Eur Psychiatry 2024; 67:e24. [PMID: 38450651 PMCID: PMC10988156 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2024.19] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Considering the recently growing number of potentially traumatic events in Europe, the European Psychiatric Association undertook a study to investigate clinicians' treatment choices for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). METHODS The case-based analysis included 611 participants, who correctly classified the vignette as a case of PTSD, from Central/ Eastern Europe (CEE) (n = 279), Southern Europe (SE) (n = 92), Northern Europe (NE) (n = 92), and Western Europe (WE) (N = 148). RESULTS About 82% woulduse antidepressants (sertraline being the most preferred one). Benzodiazepines and antipsychotics were significantly more frequently recommended by participants from CEE (33 and 4%, respectively), compared to participants from NE (11 and 0%) and SE (9% and 3%). About 52% of clinicians recommended trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy and 35% psychoeducation, irrespective of their origin. In the latent class analysis, we identified four distinct "profiles" of clinicians. In Class 1 (N = 367), psychiatrists would less often recommend any antidepressants. In Class 2 (N = 51), clinicians would recommend trazodone and prolonged exposure therapy. In Class 3 (N = 65), they propose mirtazapine and eye movement desensitization reprocessing therapy. In Class 4 (N = 128), clinicians propose different types of medications and cognitive processing therapy. About 50.1% of participants in each region stated they do not adhere to recognized treatment guidelines. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians' decisions for PTSD are broadly similar among European psychiatrists, but regional differences suggest the need for more dialogue and education to harmonize practice across Europe and promote the use of guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Rojnic Kuzman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb and School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Frank Padberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Benedikt L. Amann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University (LMU), Munich, Germany
- Mental Health Institute Hospital del Mar and Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meryam Schouler-Ocak
- Psychiatric University Clinic of Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zarko Bajic
- Research Unit “Dr. Mirko Grmek”, Psychiatric Clinic “Sveti Ivan”, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tarja Melartin
- Department of Psychiatry, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Julian Beezhold
- Great Yarmouth Acute Service, Northgate Hospital/Norfolk & Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, Great Yarmouth, UK
| | | | - Celso Arango
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), CIBERSAM, ISCIII, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - William Flannery
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Egor Chumakov
- Department of Psychiatry and Addiction, Saint-Petersburg State University, Saint-Petersburg, Russia
| | - Koray Başar
- Department of Psychiatry, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Simavi Vahip
- Affective Disorders Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Ege University Medicine Faculty, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Dominika Dudek
- Psychiatry and Department of Adult Psychiatry, Collegium Medicum Jagiellonian University, Cracow, Poland
| | | | - Goran Mihajlovic
- Clinic for Psychiatry, University of Kragujevac, Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Fulvia Rota
- Swiss Society for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Switzerland
| | | | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Kirsten Catthoor
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Eka Chkonia
- Department of Psychiatry, Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
| | - Maria João Heitor Dos Santos
- Psychiatry and Mental Health Department, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Saúde (CIIS), Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Diogo Telles
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Peter Falkai
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilian University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Philippe Courtet
- Department of Emergency Psychiatry and Post Acute Care, Hôspital Lapeyronie, CHU Montpellier,Montpellier, France
| | - Michal Patarák
- Department of Psychiatry, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Roosevelt Teaching Hospital, Banská Bystrica, Slovakia
| | - Lubomira Izakova
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Oleg Skugarevski
- Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
| | - Stojan Barjaktarov
- University Clinic of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia
| | - Dragan Babic
- Psychiatry Clinic, University Clinical Hospital Mostar, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Goran Racetovic
- Community Mental Health Center, Health Center Prijedor, Prijedor, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Bernardo Carpiniello
- University of Cagliari and Psychiatry Unit, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maris Taube
- Department of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga Stradiņš University, Riga Centre of Psychiatry and Narcology, Riga, Latvia
| | | | - Jana Chihai
- Department of Mental Health, Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova, Kishinev, Moldova
| | | | - Pavel Mohr
- Clinical Department, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
- Third School of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | | | - Ramunė Mazaliauskienė
- Psychiatric Clinic, Lithuanian Health Sciences University Kaunas Hospital, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | | | - Nataliya Maruta
- Institute of Neurology, Psychiatry and Narcology, National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Philip Gorwood
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM UMR1266, Paris, France
- CMME, GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Hôpital Sainte-Anne, Paris, France
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4
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Hosseini SR, Hajebi A, Shalbafan M, Ghannadi F, Larnaout A, Nofal M, Gondek TM, Pinto da Costa M. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being, work conditions, and education of early career psychiatrists in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region: study protocol. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1340181. [PMID: 38455518 PMCID: PMC10918477 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1340181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic placed great strain on healthcare professionals, leading to a substantial impact and a redistribution of the workforce. Despite the active involvement of the Eastern Mediterranean Region Office (EMRO) and the World Health Organization in managing mental health crises, there is a knowledge gap concerning the working conditions and training opportunities available for early career psychiatrists (ECPs) during the pandemic period. Objectives This study aims to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on ECPs and how it affected their well-being, employment, and educational opportunities. Methods A mixed methods study has been conducted in Iran, Egypt, and Tunisia, three EMRO member countries. It includes a cross-sectional survey with self-reported questions, and a qualitative study with individual in-depth interviews. Discussion The findings of this study will raise awareness to the working conditions of ECPs within the EMRO region and its member societies, both during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The results will serve as a basis for encouraging supervisors and policymakers to mitigate the pandemic's impact on psychiatric training, strengthen healthcare systems' preparedness, and equip early career psychiatrists with the necessary skills to deal with the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad Hajebi
- Research Center for Addiction & Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Shalbafan
- Mental Health Research Center, Psychosocial Health Research Institute (PHRI), Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnaz Ghannadi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amine Larnaout
- Department of Psychiatry, Razi Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Marwa Nofal
- Helwan Mental Health Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
- Mental Health Research Network of Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
- Kingsley Green hospital, Hertfordshire partnership University NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tomasz M. Gondek
- Iter Psychology Practices, Wroclaw, Poland
- Institute of Clinical Improvement, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariana Pinto da Costa
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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5
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Mannix D, Holleran L, Cevikel P, McMorrow C, Nerney D, Phelan S, McDonald C, Hallahan B. A comparison of rate and methods of probable suicide for 2 years pre and post the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ir J Psychol Med 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38229585 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2023.47] [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] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine and compare rates and methods of probable suicide in a Western region of Ireland during a 24 month period since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compared with a similar period immediately prior to the pandemic onset. METHODS Post-mortem reports between March 1st 2018 and February 29th 2020 were reviewed and compared with data from March 1st 2020 to February 28th 2022. Relevant demographic data, rates and methods of probable suicide and lifetime engagement with mental health services were compared across the two time points. RESULTS Identical rates of probable suicide (85 individuals at both time points) were demonstrated with no difference evident in the utilisation of violent compared to non-violent methods. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that despite previous reports of increased rates of self-harm and some evidence of increased mental distress since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, no change in rates of or methods employed by individuals who died by probable suicide were evident in this geographical region.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mannix
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - L Holleran
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - P Cevikel
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - C McMorrow
- Department of Pathology, University College hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - D Nerney
- Department of Pathology, University College hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - S Phelan
- Department of Pathology, University College hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - C McDonald
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
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Medved S, Palavra IR, Gerlach J, Levaj S, Shields-Zeeman L, Bolinski F, Bradaš Z, Madžarac Z, Filipčić I, Rojnić Kuzman M. Changes in substance use and engagement in gaming/gambling in persons with severe mental illness during the COVID-19 pandemic and earthquakes: a community study in two points. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1264875. [PMID: 38169718 PMCID: PMC10758456 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1264875] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction External stressors, such as COVID-19 pandemic and earthquake, can cause an increase in substance use and addictive behavior in persons with severe mental illnesses (SMI). We analyzed the changes and predictors of substance use and addictive behavior in SMI during these double disasters in Croatia. Methods Questionnaires exploring the presence of substance or behavior addiction disorder, mental ill health [Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised], coping mechanisms, and perceived social support [Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)] were administered among 90 participants with SMI included in the RECOVER-E study in May/June 2020 (first COVID-19 wave, Zagreb earthquake) and in December 2020/January 2021 (second COVID-19 wave, Petrinja earthquake). Results In both time points, a major increase was observed in tobacco smoking (25.0%; 28.6%, respectively) predicted by discontinuation of antidepressants and higher DASS-21 score. Increased sedative use was observed (24.4%; 23.8%, respectively) predicted by higher PSS and ISI scores, lower MSPSS scores, antipsychotic discontinuation and not receiving community mental health team (CMHT) service. Discussion In persons with SMI during a double disaster special attention needs to be given to reducing mental-ill health and stress, providing social support and continuity of psychiatric care, through medications and CMHTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Medved
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Sarah Levaj
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Laura Shields-Zeeman
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Felix Bolinski
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Zoran Bradaš
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Zoran Madžarac
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Igor Filipčić
- University Psychiatric Hospital Sveti Ivan, Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Osijek, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Martina Rojnić Kuzman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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7
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O'Malley A, McIntyre A, McGilloway A, Doherty A, Hallahan B. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on presentations of self-harm over an 18-month period to a tertiary hospital. Ir J Psychol Med 2023; 40:418-423. [PMID: 36794350 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2023.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine and compare rates and methods of self-harm presenting to a tertiary referral hospital during an 18-month period since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic with a similar period immediately prior to the pandemic onset. METHODS Data from an anonymized database compared rates of self-harm presentations and methods employed between 1st March 2020 and 31st August 2021 to a similar time-frame prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. RESULTS A 9.1% increase in presentations with self-harm was noted since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Periods of more stringent restrictions were associated with higher levels of self-harm (daily rate of 2.10 v 0.77). A higher lethality of attempt was demonstrated post-COVID-19 onset (χ2 = 15.38, p < 0.001). Fewer individuals presenting with self-harm were diagnosed with an adjustment disorder since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 84, 11.1%, v. n = 112, 16.2%, χ2 = 7.898, p = 0.005), with no other differences pertaining to psychiatric diagnosis noted. More patients actively engaged with mental health services (MHS) presented with self-harm (n = 239 (31.7%) v. n = 137, (19.8%), χ2 = 40.798, p ≤ 0.001) since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Despite an initial reduction, an increase in rates of self-harm has occurred since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic with higher rates evident during periods of higher government mandated restrictions. An increase in active patients of MHS presenting with self-harm potentially relates to reduced availability of supports and particularly group activities. The recommencement of group therapeutic interventions for individuals attending MHS in particular is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A O'Malley
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A McIntyre
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A McGilloway
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A Doherty
- Department of Psychiatry, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, Mater Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
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8
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McLoughlin A, Mulholland K, McMahon E, Plunkett R, Hennigan K, McDonald C, Hallahan B. A 2-year longitudinal evaluation of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders. Ir J Psychol Med 2023; 40:437-444. [PMID: 37051901 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2023.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine if the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with a differential effect over a 2-year time period in relation to its psychological and social impact on patients with established anxiety disorders. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 individuals attending the Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services in Ireland with an ICD-10 diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. Interviews occurred at three time-points over a 2-year period to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions on anxiety and depressive symptoms, social and occupational functioning, and quality of life. RESULTS No statistical difference in symptomatology was noted between the three time-points in relation to anxiety symptoms as measured utilising psychometric rating scales (Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) or Likert Scale measures). The greatest impact of COVID-19 at all time-points related to social functioning and quality of life. Significant variability was noted for individual participants. Qualitative analysis noted a tentative optimism for the future in the setting of vaccination and societal re-opening. Fear of re-emerging anxiety symptoms with the removal of societal restrictions was noted. CONCLUSIONS No significant overall change in symptomatology or functioning over time was noted for individuals with pre-existing anxiety disorders, however variability was demonstrated, with some individuals describing ongoing anxiety, social isolation and concern for their future. A strong theme of hope for the future and less concern regarding the COVID-19 pandemic was evident; however tailored supports including the utilisation of tele-psychiatry is suggested, particularly for those experiencing increased anxiety with the removal of societal restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A McLoughlin
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, Jonathan Swift Centre, St. James's Hospital, Dublin8, Ireland
| | - K Mulholland
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
| | - E McMahon
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
| | - R Plunkett
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychological Medicine, St. James's Hospital, Dublin8, Ireland
| | - K Hennigan
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, Mayo University Hospital, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, Ireland
| | - C McDonald
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- Galway-Roscommon Mental Health Services, University Hospital Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
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9
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Adams L, Adamo N, Hollocks MJ, Watson J, Brewster A, Valmaggia L, Jewitt E, Edwards J, Krisson M, Simonoff E. Autistic young people's experiences of remote psychological interventions during COVID-19. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 27:1616-1627. [PMID: 36645009 PMCID: PMC9845848 DOI: 10.1177/13623613221142730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
LAY ABSTRACT Recently, therapy has been delivered at a distance (i.e. remotely) to help control the spread of coronavirus. Clinicians have voiced concerns that remote delivery is unsuitable for certain individuals, including those who are autistic, but they have also highlighted potential benefits for autistic individuals. Benefits include some individuals feeling more comfortable receiving therapy at home. This is the first study to interview autistic individuals about their experience of remote therapy. Participants were six young people aged 15-18 years and eight clinicians. Participants described their experience of remote delivery, including challenges, benefits, and suggestions. Most of these supported previous research findings, but some were new or provided further insight into those already identified. A newly identified challenge was knowing online social etiquette. All participants found aspects of the experience challenging, but all identified benefits and most voiced that remote sessions should be offered to young people. Participants further identified individual characteristics that may make someone less suited to remote delivery (e.g. shyness). They also identified ways of making the experience of remote delivery easier (e.g. sitting with a pet). Young people's and clinicians' views were similar overall, with only subtle differences. For example, young people uniquely voiced that remote delivery was similar to in-person, that benefits were hard to identify, and provided distinct reasons for the social interaction feeling less intense remotely. Findings may be used to improve remote delivery, for guiding future research, and as a case for continuing to offer it to those who may most benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Adams
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Nicoletta Adamo
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Matthew J Hollocks
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | | | - Lucia Valmaggia
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Emma Jewitt
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | | | | | - Emily Simonoff
- King’s College London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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10
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Wullschleger A, Gonçalves L, Royston M, Sentissi O, Ambrosetti J, Kaiser S, Baggio S. Admissions to psychiatric inpatient services and use of coercive measures in 2020 in a Swiss psychiatric department: An interrupted time-series analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289310. [PMID: 37498908 PMCID: PMC10374153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The CoVID pandemic and the associated lockdown had a significant impact on mental health services. Inpatient services faced the challenge of offering acute psychiatric while implementing strict infection control measures. There is, however, a lack of studies investigating the use of coercive measures during the pandemic and their relation to hospitalizations and symptom severity. AIMS To investigate the effects of the CoVID outbreak on psychiatric admissions, use of seclusion and symptom severity. METHOD Using routine data from 2019 and 2020 gathered in the Department of Psychiatry at the Geneva University Hospitals, we performed an interrupted time series analysis. This included the number of psychiatric hospitalizations, the proportion of people who experienced seclusion and the average severity of symptoms as measured by the Health of Nations Outcome Scale (HoNOS). Dependent variables were regressed on the time variable using regression model with bootstrapped standard errors. RESULTS Hospitalizations decreased over time (b = -0.57, 95% CI: -0.67; -0.48, p < .001). A structural break in the data (supremum Wald test: p < .001) was observed in the 12th week of 2020. There was an inverse relationship between the number of admissions and the proportions of people subject to seclusion (b = 0.21, 95% CI: -0.32; -0.09, p < .001). There was a statistically marginally significant inverse relationship between HoNOS scores at admission and the number of psychiatric hospitalizations (b = -1.28, 95% CI: -2.59, 0.02, p = .054). CONCLUSION Our results show that the CoVID pandemic in 2020 was associated with a significant decrease in the number of hospital admissions. This decrease was correlated with a greater use of seclusion. The higher burden of symptoms and the difficult implementation of infection control measures might explain this higher use of coercion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leonel Gonçalves
- Division of Prison Health, Geneva University Hospitals & University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maya Royston
- Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Othman Sentissi
- Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Julia Ambrosetti
- Department of Acute Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Kaiser
- Department of Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stéphanie Baggio
- Institute of Primary Health Care (BIHAM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Population Health Laboratory (#PopHealthLab), University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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11
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Vasiliadis HM, Spagnolo J, Fleury MJ, Gouin JP, Roberge P, Bartram M, Grenier S, Shen-Tu G, Vena JE, Wang J. Mental health service use and associated predisposing, enabling and need factors in community living adults and older adults across Canada. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:357. [PMID: 37046270 PMCID: PMC10091342 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09335-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Using Andersen's model of health care seeking behavior, we examined the predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with mental health service use (MHSU) during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic across Canada. METHODS The sample included n = 45,542 participants in the 5 established regional cohorts of the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow's Health (CanPath) and who responded to the CanPath COVID-19 health survey (May-December 2020), with complete data on MHSU. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were carried out to study MHSU as a function of predisposing, enabling, and need factors. Analyses were stratified by regional cohort. RESULTS Among the need factors, individuals reporting moderate/severe symptoms of depression and anxiety and poorer self-rated mental health were more likely to report MHSU. Among the enabling factors, receipt of informational/financial/practical support was associated with increased MHSU. While income was not consistently associated with MHSU, reported decrease in income was marginally associated with reduced MHSU. Among the predisposing factors, identifying as female or other gender minority was associated with increased MHSU, as was the presence of past-year cannabis use. In contrast, older age and alcohol consumption were associated with reduced MHSU. CONCLUSION Need factors were consistently associated with MHSU. Although income inequities in MHSU were not observed, changes such as reduced income during the pandemic may lead to barriers in accessing mental health services. Future research should focus on better identifying contextual enabling factors and policies that overcome financial barriers to MHSU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen-Maria Vasiliadis
- Département des sciences de la santé communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500, boul. de l'Université, J1K 2R1, Sherbrooke (Québec), Canada.
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne, 150, place Charles‑Le Moyne, C. P. 200, J4K 0A8, Longueuil (Québec), Canada.
| | - Jessica Spagnolo
- Département des sciences de la santé communautaire, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500, boul. de l'Université, J1K 2R1, Sherbrooke (Québec), Canada
- Centre de recherche Charles-Le Moyne, 150, place Charles‑Le Moyne, C. P. 200, J4K 0A8, Longueuil (Québec), Canada
| | - Marie-Josée Fleury
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, 6875 boul., H4H 1R3, LaSalleVerdun (Québec), Canada
- McGill University, 845 Sherbrooke St W, H3A 0G4, Montreal (Québec), Canada
| | - Jean-Philippe Gouin
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, 7141 Sherbrooke West, H4B 1R6, Montreal (Québec), Canada
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, 4545 Queen Mary Rd, H3W 1W6, Montreal (Québec), Canada
| | - Pasquale Roberge
- Département de médecine familiale et d'urgence, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500, boul. de l'Université, J1K 2R1, Sherbrooke (Québec), Canada
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke, 12e Avenue N Porte 6, J1H 5N4, Sherbrooke (Québec), Canada
| | - Mary Bartram
- Mental Health Commission of Canada, 350 Albert St #1210, K1R 1A4, Ottawa (Ontario), Canada
- School of Public Policy & Administration, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, K1S 5B6, Ottawa (Ontario), Canada
| | - Sébastien Grenier
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, 4545 Queen Mary Rd, H3W 1W6, Montreal (Québec), Canada
- Département de psychologie, Université de Montréal, 90, avenue Vincent d'Indy, H2V 2S9, Montréal (Québec), Canada
| | - Grace Shen-Tu
- Alberta's Tomorrow Project, Cancer Research & Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta, Alberta Health Services, 1820 Richmond Road SW, T2T 5C7, Calgary (Alberta), Canada
| | - Jennifer E Vena
- Alberta's Tomorrow Project, Cancer Research & Analytics, Cancer Care Alberta, Alberta Health Services, 1820 Richmond Road SW, T2T 5C7, Calgary (Alberta), Canada
| | - JianLi Wang
- Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, Dalhousie University, 5790 University Avenue, B3H 1V7, Halifax (Nova Scotia), Canada
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12
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Joo SW, Kim H, Jo YT, Ahn S, Choi YJ, Choi W, Lee J. Impact of the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of mental health services in South Korea: a nationwide, health insurance data-based study. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2023; 58:441-452. [PMID: 36350338 PMCID: PMC9644390 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-022-02382-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has profoundly affected the utilization of mental health services. Existing evidence investigating this issue at the nationwide level is lacking, and it is uncertain whether the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of psychiatric services differs based on psychiatric diagnosis. METHODS Data from the claims database between October 2015 and August 2020 was obtained from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment agency in South Korea. Based on the main diagnostic codes, psychiatric patients were identified and categorized into diagnostic groups (anxiety disorders, bipolar and related disorders, depressive disorders, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders). We calculated the number of psychiatric inpatients and outpatients and the medication adherence of patients for each month. We compared the actual and predicted values of outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic and performed interrupted time-series analyses to test the statistical significance of the impact of the pandemic. RESULTS During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of inpatients and admissions to psychiatric hospitals decreased for bipolar and related disorders and depressive disorders. In addition, the number of patients admitted to psychiatric hospitals for schizophrenia spectrum disorders decreased. The number of psychiatric outpatients showed no significant change in all diagnostic groups. Increased medication adherence was observed for depressive, schizophrenia spectrum, and bipolar and related disorders. CONCLUSIONS In the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a trend of a decreasing number of psychiatric inpatients and increasing medication adherence; however, the number of psychiatric outpatients remained unaltered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Woo Joo
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Harin Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Tak Jo
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Soojin Ahn
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Jae Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Woohyeok Choi
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsun Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-Ro 43-Gil, SongPa-Gu, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Becerra-García JA, Barbeito S, Calvo A, Sanchez-Gutierrez T. Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and its relationship with public interest in mental health: a study between 2020-2022 in Spain. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2022:1-10. [DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2022.2159049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Barbeito
- Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja (UNIR), La Rioja, Spain
| | - Ana Calvo
- Department of Personality, Assessment and Clinical Psychology, School of Psychology, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Goldsmith LP, Anderson K, Clarke G, Crowe C, Jarman H, Johnson S, Lomani J, McDaid D, Park AL, Smith JG, Gillard S. Service use preceding and following first referral for psychiatric emergency care at a short-stay crisis unit: A cohort study across three cities and one rural area in England. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022:207640221142530. [PMID: 36527189 DOI: 10.1177/00207640221142530] [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] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, hospital-based short-stay crisis units have been introduced to provide a safe space for stabilisation and further assessment for those in psychiatric crisis. The units typically aim to reduce inpatient admissions and psychiatric presentations to emergency departments. AIMS To assess changes to service use following a service user's first visit to a unit, characterise the population accessing these units and examine equality of access to the units. METHODS A prospective cohort study design (ISCTRN registered; 53431343) compared service use for the 9 months preceding and following a first visit to a short-stay crisis unit at three cities and one rural area in England. Included individuals first visited a unit in the 6 months between 01/September/2020 and 28/February/2021. RESULTS The prospective cohort included 1189 individuals aged 36 years on average, significantly younger (by 5-13 years) than the population of local service users (<.001). Seventy percent were White British and most were without a psychiatric diagnosis (55%-82% across sites). The emergency department provided the largest single source of referrals to the unit (42%), followed by the Crisis and Home Treatment Team (20%). The use of most mental health services, including all types of admission and community mental health services was increased post discharge. Social-distancing measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic were in place for slightly over 50% of the follow-up period. Comparison to a pre-COVID cohort of 934 individuals suggested that the pandemic had no effect on the majority of service use variables. CONCLUSIONS Short-stay crisis units are typically accessed by a young population, including those who previously were unknown to mental health services, who proceed to access a broader range of mental health services following discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Chloe Crowe
- North East London NHS Foundation Trust, Goodmayes Hospital, Ilford, UK
| | - Heather Jarman
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, UK.,St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sonia Johnson
- NIHR Mental Health Policy Research Unit, Division of Psychiatry, University College London - Bloomsbury, UK
| | - Jo Lomani
- NHS England and NHS Improvement, London, UK
| | - David McDaid
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
| | - A-La Park
- Care Policy and Evaluation Centre, Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK
| | - Jared G Smith
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, UK
| | - Steven Gillard
- School of Health and Psychological Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
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15
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Paruk S, Ngcobo NN, Karim E, Tomita A, Ramlall S. COVID-19 infection at a psychiatric hospital in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Clinical service planning and challenges. S Afr J Psychiatr 2022; 28:1933. [PMID: 36569809 PMCID: PMC9772653 DOI: 10.4102/sajpsychiatry.v28i0.1933] [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: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background South Africa had over 4 million cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections and more than 1 million COVID-19-related deaths. Despite the devastating psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is little qualitative, critical evaluation of government mental health services in this resource-limited setting. Aim The authors describe the clinical service plan and response to the COVID-19 pandemic at a government psychiatric hospital. Setting KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Methods A descriptive narrative overview of the specialised psychiatric hospital's clinical response (April 2020 - March 2021) to the COVID-19 pandemic was undertaken in the following domains: screening policy; testing and swabbing policy; staff training and monitoring; and restructuring the wards to accommodate mental health care users (MHCUs) with suspected cases of COVID-19. Results The in-depth narrative reviews led to the introduction of staff training, routine COVID-19 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing of all MHCUs, the creation of designated quarantine and isolation facilities and screening of physical health status of patients with COVID-19 prior to transfer being implemented to prevent an outbreak or increased morbidity or mortality. Conclusion Implementing a service plan early which included staff training, screening and routine COVID-19 testing services for psychiatric admissions in a rapidly evolving environment with few additional resources was challenging. The absence of guidelines early in the pandemic that addressed the unique needs of a clinical psychiatric inpatient population is a noteworthy learning point. Contribution The article highlights that the inpatient infrastructural requirements and clinical management protocols of acutely psychiatrically ill inpatients, in the context of infectious outbreaks, require dedicated task teams and bespoke policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeeda Paruk
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ntokozo N. Ngcobo
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Enver Karim
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Andrew Tomita
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa,Centre for Rural Health, School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Suvira Ramlall
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Clinical Medicine, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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16
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Tan RXR, Goh YS. Community mental health interventions for people with major depressive disorder: A scoping review. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2022; 31:1315-1359. [PMID: 35695678 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
People with major depressive disorder continue to be marred by chronically pernicious yet preventable outcomes in the biopsychosocial aspects. With the reallocation of healthcare resources towards the fight against the coronavirus 2019 pandemic, much emphasis has been placed on existing community mental health interventions to ameliorate the disruption of mental health services. Moreover, the recent propulsion of community mental health services by the World Health Organization Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030 ignited the need to bolster existing community interventions by providing comprehensive, responsive and integrated mental healthcare. The enhanced emphasis on mental healthcare in the community and the heightened demands of people with major depressive disorder underscores the need to explore the current state of community mental health interventions. This scoping review examined 51 primary studies published from year 2010 to 2020 using Arskey & O'Malley's five-stage framework and provided an overview of the impact of existing community mental health interventions for people with major depressive disorder. Findings using thematic analysis have recommended the adoption of person-centred community mental healthcare via the biopsychosocial approach for people with major depressive disorder. Enablers of community mental health interventions were driven by culturally appropriate care and augmented by technology-driven modalities. Challenges and gaps of community mental health interventions include the perpetuation of stigma and misconception, complex demands of persons with major depressive disorder and lack of holistic and long-term outcomes. Given the impact of major depressive disorder on the various biopsychosocial aspects, it is envisioned that our insights into the enablers and barriers of community mental health interventions will guide prospective interdisciplinary and nurse-led interventions in holistically improving the care of persons with major depressive disorder in the community settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronel Xian Rong Tan
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yong Shian Goh
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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17
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Eissazade N, Shalbafan M, Saeed F, Hemmati D, Askari S, Sayed Mirramazani M, Eftekhar Ardebili M, Gondek TM, Pinto da Costa M. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Iranian Psychiatric Trainees' and Early Career Psychiatrists' Well-being, Work Conditions, and Education. ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF DIRECTORS OF PSYCHIATRIC RESIDENCY TRAINING AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY 2022; 46:710-717. [PMID: 35732923 PMCID: PMC9217116 DOI: 10.1007/s40596-022-01674-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychiatric trainees and early career psychiatrists in Iran. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey, the authors used a 24-item questionnaire inquiring about the sociodemographic characteristics of the participants, their views on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their professional careers, methods of education, workplace environment, well-being and mental health, and the use of telepsychiatry in Iran. RESULTS A total of 159 responses were received. The majority (n=124, 78.0%) reported that "some but not all obligatory activities have been converted to online activities." Most of the participants (n=103, 64.8%) stated that the pandemic had not affected the duration of their training. Less than half (n=61, 38.4%) reported that their well-being had been affected rather negatively. Some (n=59, 37.1%) reported that their supervisors or coworkers had no significant impact on their well-being, whereas others (n=53, 33.3%) reported a rather positive impact. Almost half of the participants (n=78, 49.0%) did not have access to free psychological counseling. In addition, more than half (n=89, 56.0%) reported that there were no recommendations on how to proceed with telepsychiatry. CONCLUSIONS This study calls for improvements in the education and well-being of psychiatric trainees and early career psychiatrists in Iran amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Additional research should be carried out to maximize learning, provide mental health care, and use telepsychiatry.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fahimeh Saeed
- University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Dina Hemmati
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sanaz Askari
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Levaj S, Medved S, Grubišin J, Tomašić L, Brozić K, Shields-Zeeman L, Bolinski F, Rojnic Kuzman M. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and earthquake on mental health of persons with severe mental illness: A survey study among people receiving community mental health care versus treatment as usual in Croatia. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2022; 69:653-663. [PMID: 36317586 PMCID: PMC9629027 DOI: 10.1177/00207640221130966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic led to the disruption of mental health services in most countries. Croatia has been developing and strengthening its mental health system, including the introduction of community mental health teams (CMHT) for persons with severe mental illness (SMI), whose implementation was ongoing during the pandemic through the RECOVER-E project. AIMS The aim of this study was to assess the differences in mental health outcomes, perceived social support and healthcare utilization in the group of participants receiving treatment as usual (TAU group) compared to the group receiving TAU and additional care by the CMHT (CMHT group) during the COVID-19 pandemic and two earthquakes. METHOD This is a cross-sectional survey administered among 90 participants with SMI at two time points: in May/June 2020 (first COVID-19 wave, earthquake) and in December 2020/January 2021 (second COVID-19 wave, earthquake). RESULTS A significantly larger proportion of participants from the CMHT group visited the general practitioners in both waves of COVID-19 (first wave: CMHT 72.1%, TAU 44.2%, p = .009; second wave: CMHT 91.1%, TAU 64.1%, p = .003), as well as psychiatric services in the second wave (CMHT 95.3%, TAU 79.5%, p = .028). The use of long-acting injectables was also more frequent in the CMHT group (p = .039). Furthermore, analysis of the first wave showed higher perceived support of significant others (p = .004) in the CMHT group. We did not identify any differences in mental health outcomes between groups in either wave. CONCLUSIONS While mental health outcomes did not differ between TAU and CMHT group, people in CMHT used services and treatments more frequently than those in TAU during the pandemic, which may indicate that CMHT services enable the continuity and accessibility of care for people with SMI under the circumstances where standard care is interruped (for example pandemic, disaster conditions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Levaj
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Sara Medved
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jasmina Grubišin
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lea Tomašić
- University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapče, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kristina Brozić
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Laura Shields-Zeeman
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Felix Bolinski
- Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction (Trimbos Institute), Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Rojnic Kuzman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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19
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Cuomo A, Amore M, Arezzo MF, De Filippis S, De Rose A, La Pia S, Pirani A, Torta R, Fagiolini A. Mental health in Italy after two years of COVID-19 from the perspective of 1281 Italian physicians: looking back to plan forward. Ann Gen Psychiatry 2022; 21:30. [PMID: 35948983 PMCID: PMC9363263 DOI: 10.1186/s12991-022-00410-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has generated an unprecedented global crisis that is profoundly affecting mental health and mental health care. The aim of this study was to survey a relatively large group of Italian physicians about their perceived impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of the Italian population and about their suggestions on the best strategies to address the current and future challenges. METHODS One thousand two hundred eighty-one (1,281) physicians were surveyed between November 2021 and February 2022. RESULTS Eighty-one percent of respondents reported an increase in the number of people with mental illness presenting to their practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-four percent reported a 26-50% increase in the number of people with mental illness in their community; approximately 33% reported a 1-25% increase; and 26.9% reported a 51-75% increase. The most commonly reported mental issues that increased because of COVID-19 were agitation, mood and anxiety disorders. Regarding the suggested strategies to address future challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic, 34.6% of respondents recommended providing psychoeducation to the general population for early detection of mental illness and developing strategies to reduce the impact of COVID-19-related stress. In addition, 12.6% of respondents suggested improving telehealth services, while 12.3% suggested the need for increased funding for community-based care. When asked about physicians' opinion on the possibility of an increased prevalence of mental illness in the next 12 months, more than 30% of them predicted an increase in stress-related illnesses, while 25.2% were more concerned about a worsening of the ongoing clinical conditions of patients with previous psychiatric disorders. However, 21% of respondents believed that people's ability to cope with the pandemic would increase in the next 12 months. CONCLUSIONS This study confirmed a strong and negative impact on the mental health of the past 2 years of COVID-19 pandemic in the Italian population. Providing psychoeducation to the general population and improving the availability of telemedicine services could reduce the impact of future challenges related to the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cuomo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
| | - Mario Amore
- Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, Genetics and Infant-Maternal Science, Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maria Felice Arezzo
- Department of Methods and Models for Economy, Territory, and Finance - Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra De Rose
- Department of Methods and Models for Economy, Territory, and Finance - Sapienza Università di Roma, Roma, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Pirani
- Center for Cognitive Disorders and Dementia, Health County of Ferrara, Cento, Italy
| | - Riccardo Torta
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Fagiolini
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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20
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Adams L, Adamo N, Hollocks MJ, Valmaggia L, Brewster A, Watson J, Krisson M, Simonoff E. Examining clinicians' concerns delivering telemental health interventions directly to autistic individuals during COVID-19. RESEARCH IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 2022; 94:101956. [PMID: 35369648 PMCID: PMC8963796 DOI: 10.1016/j.rasd.2022.101956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the adoption of telemental health (TMH). Pre-pandemic, clinicians had voiced many TMH concerns, but these had not been investigated with respect to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) even with it being known that there are distinct ASD-associated challenges for in-person mental health interventions. METHOD A convenience sample of (n = 55) clinicians completed an online survey regarding their perspectives of adopting TMH interventions in ASD, with closed- and open-answered questions. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed descriptively/inferentially and via Content Analysis, respectively. RESULTS Multiple clinicians endorsed each TMH challenges/barrier previously identified as concerns in the non-ASD literature. However, overall levels of concern over challenges/barriers were low, and challenges were more likely to be predicted than experienced and considered to be case/presentation specific. Challenges that were considered ASD-specific included the exacerbation of those associated with in-person delivery in ASD, alongside difficulties with trust and appropriate remote social behaviour. On average, clinicians indicated a preference for 50% TMH interventions post-pandemic. Clinicians' perceived technological competence and extent of professional experience with ASD were not significantly associated with levels of concern, nor number of experienced challenges, with TMH interventions in ASD. CONCLUSION In support of the existing TMH literature, challenges/barriers were more likely to be predicted than experienced and were considered to be case/presentation-specific, though this may be more variable in ASD owing to the well-established marked heterogeneity in this population. Remote provision of interventions exacerbated in-person ASD-associated challenges, as predicted, but clinician-level factors appeared not to impact TMH perceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Adams
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Nicoletta Adamo
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Matthew J Hollocks
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Lucia Valmaggia
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Aylana Brewster
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Jennifer Watson
- Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Maisie Krisson
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Emily Simonoff
- Service for Complex Autism and Associated Neurodevelopmental Disorders, Maudsley Hospital, Michael Rutter Centre, De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AZ, UK
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, 16 De Crespigny Park, London SE5 8AF, UK
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Wan Mohd Yunus WMA, Kauhanen L, Sourander A, Brown JSL, Peltonen K, Mishina K, Lempinen L, Bastola K, Gilbert S, Gyllenberg D. Registered psychiatric service use, self-harm and suicides of children and young people aged 0-24 before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health 2022; 16:15. [PMID: 35216630 PMCID: PMC8874300 DOI: 10.1186/s13034-022-00452-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on psychiatric symptoms of children and young people, but many psychiatric services have been disrupted. It is unclear how service use, self-harm and suicide has changed since the pandemic started. To gain timely information, this systematic review focused on studies based on administrative data that compared psychiatric service use, self-harm and suicide before and during the pandemic among children and young people. METHODS AND FINDING A systematic review of studies published in English from 1 January 2020 to 22 March 2021 was conducted, using the Web of Science, PubMed, Embase and PsycINFO databases. Increases or reductions in service use were calculated and compared using percentages. Of the 2,676 papers retrieved, 18 were eligible for the review and they provided data from 19 countries and regions. Most studies assessed changes during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, from March to July 2020, and three assessed the changes until October 2020. Fifteen studies reported a total of 21 service use outcomes that were quantitively examined. More than three-quarters of the 21 outcomes (81%) fell by 5-80% (mean reduction = 27.9%, SD = 35%). Ten of the 20 outcomes for psychiatric emergency department (ED) services reduced by 5% to 80% (mean = 40.1%, SD = 34.9%) during the pandemic. Reductions in service use were also recorded for ED visits due to suicide ideation and self-harm, referrals to secondary mental health services, psychiatric inpatient unit admissions and patients receiving treatment for eating disorders. However, there were also some increases. Suicide rate and the number of ED visits due to suicide attempts have increased, and there was an increase in the number of treatment sessions in a service that provided telemedicine. CONCLUSION Most of the studies showed reductions in the use of psychiatric services by children and young people during the early phase of the pandemic and this highlighted potential delays or unmet needs. Suicide rate has increased during the second wave of the pandemic. Further studies are needed to assess the pattern of service use in the later phases of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Mohd Azam Wan Mohd Yunus
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland ,grid.410877.d0000 0001 2296 1505Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, Johor Malaysia
| | - Laura Kauhanen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Andre Sourander
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland ,grid.410552.70000 0004 0628 215XDepartment of Child Psychiatry, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - June S. L. Brown
- grid.13097.3c0000 0001 2322 6764Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN), King’s College London, London, England, UK
| | - Kirsi Peltonen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Kaisa Mishina
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lotta Lempinen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Kalpana Bastola
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.502801.e0000 0001 2314 6254Unit of Health Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Sonja Gilbert
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014 Turku, Finland ,grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - David Gyllenberg
- Research Centre for Child Psychiatry, Department of Child Psychiatry, University of Turku, Lemminkäinenkatu 3, 3rd. floor, 20014, Turku, Finland. .,INVEST Research Flagship, University of Turku, Turku, Finland. .,National Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland. .,Department of Adolescent Psychiatry, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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22
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Orsolini L, Bellagamba S, Marchetti V, Menculini G, Tempia Valenta S, Salvi V, Volpe U. A Preliminary Italian Cross-Sectional Study on the Level of Digital Psychiatry Training, Knowledge, Beliefs and Experiences among Medical Students, Psychiatry Trainees and Professionals. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10020390. [PMID: 35207004 PMCID: PMC8871870 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10020390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to the implementation of digital psychiatry (DP), resulting in the need for a new skilled healthcare workforce. The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of training, knowledge, beliefs, and experiences of young mental health professionals and medical students in DP. An ad hoc cross-sectional survey was administered and descriptive analyses, Student’s t and ANOVA tests were conducted, together with an exploratory factor analysis, bivariate correlations and linear regression. Most of the sample (N = 239) declared that DP was never discussed within their academic training (89.1%), mainly revealing an overall lack of knowledge on the issue. Nevertheless, subjects mostly declared that DP represents a valuable therapeutic tool in mental health (80%) and that their training should include this topic (54.4%). Moreover, most subjects declared that digital interventions are less effective than face-to-face ones (73.2%), despite the emerging evidence that being trained in DP is significantly associated with the belief that digital and in-person interventions are comparable in their effectiveness (p ≤ 0.05). Strong positive correlations were found between the knowledge score (KS) and perceived significance index (PSI) (r = 0.148, p < 0.001), and KS and Digital Psychiatry Opinion (DPO) index (r = 0.193, p < 0.001). PSI scores statistically significantly predicted KS total scores (F(1, 237) = 5.283, R2 = 0.022, p = 0.022). KS scores statistically significantly predicted DPO total scores (F(1, 237) = 9.136, R2 = 0.037, p = 0.003). During the current pandemic, DP represented an ideal response to the forced physical distancing by ensuring the advantage of greater access to care. However, this kind of intervention is still uncommon, and mental health professionals still prove to be skeptical. The lack of formal training on DP during the academic years could be a limiting factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Orsolini
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (S.B.); (S.T.V.); (V.S.)
| | - Silvia Bellagamba
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (S.B.); (S.T.V.); (V.S.)
| | - Virginia Marchetti
- School of Medicine and Surgery, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Giulia Menculini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, 06100 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Silvia Tempia Valenta
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (S.B.); (S.T.V.); (V.S.)
| | - Virginio Salvi
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (S.B.); (S.T.V.); (V.S.)
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Neurosciences/DIMSC, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (S.B.); (S.T.V.); (V.S.)
- Correspondence:
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23
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Medved S, Imširagić AS, Salopek I, Puljić D, Handl H, Kovač M, Peleš AM, Štimac Grbic D, Romančuk L, MuŽić R, Zeeman LS, Kuzman MR. Case Series: Managing Severe Mental Illness in Disaster Situation: the Croatian Experience After 2020 Earthquake. Front Psychiatry 2022; 12:795661. [PMID: 35185639 PMCID: PMC8847377 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.795661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
On the 29th of December 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Petrinja in the Croatian Sisak-Moslavina County experienced a strong earthquake, resulting in a severe disruption in mental health service delivery. Specialized care community mental health teams were introduced days within the event with the aim to bridge the gap in psychiatric care that was severely disturbed in the region affected by the earthquake. Through a case series of patients with SMI, we describe how care was quickly deployed and delivered after a natural disaster and during a pandemic resulting in their functional recovery. Community mental health teams have the potential to provide feasible, comprehensive, and accessible mental health services, and their continued implementation in the post-disaster period in Croatia could be beneficial for care management of people with severe mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Medved
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Igor Salopek
- Department of Psychiatry, General Hospital Karlovac, Karlovac, Croatia
| | - Dragan Puljić
- Neuropsychiatric Hospital “Dr Ivan Barbot”, Popovača, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Handl
- University Psychiatric Clinic “Sveti Ivan”, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Kovač
- Neuropsychiatric Hospital “Dr Ivan Barbot”, Popovača, Croatia
| | - Alma Mihaljević Peleš
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Danijela Štimac Grbic
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Luka Romančuk
- Department of Psychiatry, General Hospital Karlovac, Karlovac, Croatia
| | - Roberto MuŽić
- Croatian Institute of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Laura Shields Zeeman
- Department of Mental Health Prevention, Trimbos Institute (Netherlands Institute of Mental Health and Addiction), Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Martina Rojnić Kuzman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Zagreb University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Volpe U, Orsolini L, Salvi V, Albert U, Carmassi C, Carrà G, Cirulli F, Dell’Osso B, Luciano M, Menculini G, Nanni MG, Pompili M, Sani G, Sampogna G, Group W, Fiorillo A. COVID-19-Related Social Isolation Predispose to Problematic Internet and Online Video Gaming Use in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031539. [PMID: 35162568 PMCID: PMC8835465 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic and its related containment measures have been associated with increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression in the general population. While the use of digital media has been greatly promoted by national governments and international authorities to maintain social contacts and healthy lifestyle behaviors, its increased access may also bear the risk of inappropriate or excessive use of internet-related resources. The present study, part of the COVID Mental hEalth Trial (COMET) study, aims at investigating the possible relationship between social isolation, the use of digital resources and the development of their problematic use. A cross sectional survey was carried out to explore the prevalence of internet addiction, excessive use of social media, problematic video gaming and binge watching, during Italian phase II (May-June 2020) and III (June-September 2020) of the pandemic in 1385 individuals (62.5% female, mean age 32.5 ± 12.9) mainly living in Central Italy (52.4%). Data were stratified according to phase II/III and three groups of Italian regions (northern, central and southern). Compared to the larger COMET study, most participants exhibited significant higher levels of severe-to-extremely-severe depressive symptoms (46.3% vs. 12.4%; p < 0.01) and extremely severe anxiety symptoms (77.8% vs. 7.5%; p < 0.01). We also observed a rise in problematic internet use and excessive gaming over time. Mediation analyses revealed that COVID-19-related general psychopathology, stress, anxiety, depression and social isolation play a significant role in the emergence of problematic internet use, social media addiction and problematic video gaming. Professional gamers and younger subjects emerged as sub-populations particularly at risk of developing digital addictions. If confirmed in larger and more homogenous samples, our findings may help in shedding light on possible preventive and treatment strategies for digital addictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Volpe
- Clinical Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (V.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-71-596-3301; Fax: +39-71-596-3540
| | - Laura Orsolini
- Clinical Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (V.S.)
| | - Virginio Salvi
- Clinical Psychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126 Ancona, Italy; (L.O.); (V.S.)
| | - Umberto Albert
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste and Department of Mental Health, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Giuliano Isontina—ASUGI, 34148 Trieste, Italy;
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milan Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy;
| | | | - Bernardo Dell’Osso
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Brain Therapeutic, University of Milan, 20157 Milano, Italy;
| | - Mario Luciano
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.L.); (G.S.); (A.F.)
| | - Giulia Menculini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Maria Giulia Nanni
- Department of Neurosciences and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy;
| | - Maurizio Pompili
- Department of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Organs, Faculty of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00100 Rome, Italy;
| | - Gabriele Sani
- Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, University Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00100 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00100 Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.L.); (G.S.); (A.F.)
| | | | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (M.L.); (G.S.); (A.F.)
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De Hert M, Mazereel V, Stroobants M, De Picker L, Van Assche K, Detraux J. COVID-19-Related Mortality Risk in People With Severe Mental Illness: A Systematic and Critical Review. Front Psychiatry 2022; 12:798554. [PMID: 35095612 PMCID: PMC8793909 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.798554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increasing clinical evidence suggests that people with severe mental illness (SMI), including schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder (BD), and major depressive disorder (MDD), are at higher risk of dying from COVID-19. Several systematic reviews examining the association between psychiatric disorders and COVID-19-related mortality have recently been published. Although these reviews have been conducted thoroughly, certain methodological limitations may hinder the accuracy of their research findings. Methods: A systematic literature search, using the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases (from inception to July 23, 2021), was conducted for observational studies assessing the risk of death associated with COVID-19 infection in adult patients with pre-existing schizophrenia spectrum disorders, BD, or MDD. Methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Results: Of 1,446 records screened, 13 articles investigating the rates of death in patients with pre-existing SMI were included in this systematic review. Quality assessment scores of the included studies ranged from moderate to high. Most results seem to indicate that patients with SMI, particularly patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, are at significantly higher risk of COVID-19-related mortality, as compared to patients without SMI. However, the extent of the variation in COVID-19-related mortality rates between studies including people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders was large because of a low level of precision of the estimated mortality outcome(s) in certain studies. Most studies on MDD and BD did not include specific information on the mood state or disease severity of patients. Due to a lack of data, it remains unknown to what extent patients with BD are at increased risk of COVID-19-related mortality. A variety of factors are likely to contribute to the increased mortality risk of COVID-19 in these patients. These include male sex, older age, somatic comorbidities (particularly cardiovascular diseases), as well as disease-specific characteristics. Conclusion: Methodological limitations hamper the accuracy of COVID-19-related mortality estimates for the main categories of SMIs. Nevertheless, evidence suggests that SMI is associated with excess COVID-19 mortality. Policy makers therefore must consider these vulnerable individuals as a high-risk group that should be given particular attention. This means that targeted interventions to maximize vaccination uptake among these patients are required to address the higher burden of COVID-19 infection in this already disadvantaged group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc De Hert
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Clinical Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium
- Antwerp Health Law and Ethics Chair, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Victor Mazereel
- Department of Neurosciences, Center for Clinical Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium
| | - Marc Stroobants
- Biomedical Library, University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium
| | - Livia De Picker
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- University Psychiatric Hospital Campus Duffel, Duffel, Belgium
| | - Kristof Van Assche
- Antwerp Health Law and Ethics Chair, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Group Personal Rights and Property Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Johan Detraux
- Department of Neurosciences, Public Health Psychiatry, University Psychiatric Center, KU Leuven, Kortenberg, Belgium
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Vai B, Mazza MG, Marisa CD, Beezhold J, Kärkkäinen H, Saunders J, Samochowiec J, Benedetti F, Leboyer M, Fusar-Poli P, De Picker L. Joint European policy on the COVID-19 risks for people with mental disorders: An umbrella review and evidence- and consensus-based recommendations for mental and public health. Eur Psychiatry 2022; 65:e47. [PMID: 35971656 PMCID: PMC9486830 DOI: 10.1192/j.eurpsy.2022.2307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
As COVID-19 becomes endemic, identifying vulnerable population groups for severe infection outcomes and defining rapid and effective preventive and therapeutic strategies remains a public health priority. We performed an umbrella review, including comprehensive studies (meta-analyses and systematic reviews) investigating COVID-19 risk for infection, hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and mortality in people with psychiatric disorders, and outlined evidence- and consensus-based recommendations for overcoming potential barriers that psychiatric patients may experience in preventing and managing COVID-19, and defining optimal therapeutic options and current research priorities in psychiatry. We searched Web of Science, PubMed, and Ovid/PsycINFO databases up to 17 January 2022 for the umbrella review. We synthesized evidence, extracting when available pooled odd ratio estimates for the categories “any mental disorder” and “severe mental disorders.” The quality of each study was assessed using the AMSTAR-2 approach and ranking evidence quality. We identified four systematic review/meta-analysis combinations, one meta-analysis, and three systematic reviews, each including up to 28 original studies. Although we rated the quality of studies from moderate to low and the evidence ranged from highly suggestive to non-significant, we found consistent evidence that people with mental illness are at increased risk of COVID-19 infection, hospitalization, and most importantly mortality, but not of ICU admission. The risk and the burden of COVID-19 in people with mental disorders, in particular those with severe mental illness, can no longer be ignored but demands urgent targeted and persistent action. Twenty-two recommendations are proposed to facilitate this process.
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Reali L, Nijman RG, Hadjipanayis A, Del Torso S, Calamita P, Rafele I, Katz M, Barak S, Grossman Z. Repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on child and adolescent mental health: A matter of concern-A joint statement from EAP and ECPCP. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:1006596. [PMID: 36518772 PMCID: PMC9742603 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.1006596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic and the consequent rigid social distancing measures implemented, including school closures, have heavily impacted children's and adolescents' psychosocial wellbeing, and their mental health problems significantly increased. However, child and adolescent mental health were already a serious problem before the Pandemic all over the world. COVID-19 is not just a pandemic, it is a syndemic and mentally or socially disadvantaged children and adolescents are the most affected. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and previous mental health issues are an additional worsening condition. Even though many countries have responded with decisive efforts to scale-up mental health services, a more integrated and community-based approach to mental health is required. EAP and ECPCP makes recommendations to all the stakeholders to take action to promote, protect and care for the mental health of a generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Reali
- Primary Care Pediatrician, Italian National Health System (INHS), ASL Rm1, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Division of Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital - Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Pediatrics and Child Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - R G Nijman
- European Society of Emergency Paediatrics, European Society of Emergency Medicine, Brussels, Belgium.,European Academy of Paediatrics (EAP), Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Hadjipanayis
- Medical School, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,Department of Paediatrics, Larnaca General Hospital, Larnaca, Cyprus
| | - S Del Torso
- Medical School, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.,ChildCare WorldWide-CCWWItalia OdV, Padova, Italy
| | - P Calamita
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Division of Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital - Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Pediatrics and Child Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Medical School, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - I Rafele
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Division of Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital - Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Pediatrics and Child Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Primary Care Pediatrician, Italian National Health System (INHS), ASL Rm 6, Rome, Italy.,Primary Care Pediatrician, Italian National Health System (INHS), ASL Rm 3, Rome, Italy
| | - M Katz
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Division of Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital - Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Pediatrics and Child Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Patient Safety Department, Meuhedet Health Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - S Barak
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Division of Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital - Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, London, United Kingdom.,Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Centre for Pediatrics and Child Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tamsc, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Z Grossman
- European Academy of Paediatrics (EAP), Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Pediatrics, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University Pediatrics, Ariel, Israel.,Department of Pediatrics, Maccabi Health Care Services Pediatrics, Tel Aviv, Israel
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28
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Orsolini L, Jatchavala C, Noor IM, Ransing R, Satake Y, Shoib S, Shah B, Ullah I, Volpe U. Training and education in digital psychiatry: A perspective from Asia-Pacific region. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2021; 13:e12501. [PMID: 34873845 PMCID: PMC9285069 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital mental health interventions and digital psychiatry have been rapidly implemented over the past decade, particularly with the intent to offer a cost-effective solution in those circumstances in which the current mental health services and infrastructure are not able to properly accommodate the patients' needs. However, mental health workforce is often poorly theoretical/practical trained in digital psychiatry and in delivering remote consultations safely and effectively, not being common to own curricula-specific training requirements in digital psychiatry and skills. METHODS A web-based international cross-sectional survey was carried out by a working group constituted by one or two national representative(s) of each WHO South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions (APAC), with the aim to evaluate the level of training, knowledge, experience, and perception regarding the topic of digital psychiatry in a sample constituted by medical students, psychiatry trainees, and early career psychiatrists from APAC. RESULTS An overall lack of theoretical and/or practical training on new digital tools and digital health interventions in psychiatry was observed. The level of training influences knowledge background, which, in turns, influences young professionals' perceptions and opinions regarding digital psychiatry and interventions in mental health. CONCLUSION Implementing psychiatry training programs may significantly improve the level of knowledge and use of digital tools in mental healthcare. Moreover, mental health services and infrastructures should be properly adapted to the digital era, considering the overall weak and heterogeneous technical support and equipment, issues of internet connectivity, and other administrative-related challenges observed in APAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Orsolini
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Neurosciences/DIMSC, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | - Ramdas Ransing
- Department of Psychiatry, BKL Walawalkar Rural Medical College, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India
| | - Yuto Satake
- Department of Psychiatry, Course of Integrated Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka, Japan
| | - Sheikh Shoib
- Department of Psychiatry, Jawahar Lal Nehru Memorial Hospital (JLNMH), Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Bigya Shah
- Department of Psychiatry, Patan Academy of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Irfan Ullah
- Kabir Medical College, Gandhara University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Umberto Volpe
- Unit of Clinical Psychiatry, Department of Clinical Neurosciences/DIMSC, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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29
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Baessler F, Sartorius N, Javed A, Tasman A, Coskun B, Frydecka D, Kazakova O, Sampogna G, Zhabenko O, Koelkebeck K, Hepdurgun C, Zafar A, Fiorillo A. Training the trainers: Finding new educational opportunities in the virtual world. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2021; 13:e12499. [PMID: 34873842 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted scientific gatherings and conferences, opening up opportunities for virtual learning platforms. Realizing the potential of online academic exchanges, the World Psychiatric Association (WPA) also developed virtual avenues and information systems for capacity building of mental health professionals across the world. Among its first such initiatives, the WPA organized a virtual Train the Trainers workshop, where 123 psychiatrists, psychiatric trainees, and educators from 45 countries participated. The innovative and interactive workshop allowed participants to get to know each other, exchange educational and professional experiences, and ask questions or receive advice from experts. Keynote speakers, including WPA President Prof. Afzal Javed and Prof. Norman Sartorius, stressed upon the importance of finding innovative solutions in psychiatry training and the need to improve teaching and training in the field of psychiatry, especially in the provision of leadership and communication skills. Online training methods can provide easy access to academics and students while reducing the organizational and logistical costs. They have the potential to improve educational equality and allow the voice of the underprivileged scientists to be heard across the globe. The devastating impact on access to mental health services during COVID-19 underscores the urgent need for online training, particularly in countries where the ratio of psychiatrists to patients is inadequate and doctors concentrate more on treatment than on research and education. Virtual educational interventions could prove incredibly useful in the future just as they are being successfully utilized in local and regional contexts during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Baessler
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General, Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norman Sartorius
- Association for the Improvement of Mental Health Programmes (AMH), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Afzal Javed
- Pakistan Psychiatric Research Centre, Fountain House, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Allan Tasman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Bulent Coskun
- Association for Community Mental Health Promotion, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Dorota Frydecka
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Olga Kazakova
- Master's Programme in Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Gaia Sampogna
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Katja Koelkebeck
- LVR-Hospital Essen, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical Faculty, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Cenan Hepdurgun
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ali Zafar
- Center for Psychosocial Medicine, Department of General, Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Academy of Sciences and Humanities, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andrea Fiorillo
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Campania L. Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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