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Ryan SC, Sugg MM, Runkle JD, Wertis L, Singh D, Green S. Short-term changes in mental health help-seeking behaviors following exposure to multiple social stressors and a natural disaster. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116843. [PMID: 38603916 PMCID: PMC11134597 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
In 2020, unprecedented circumstances led to significant mental health consequences. Individuals faced mental health stressors that extended beyond the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including widespread social unrest following the murder of George Floyd, an intense hurricane season in the Atlantic, and the politically divisive 2020 election. The objective of this analysis was to consider changes in help-seeking behavior following exposure to multiple social stressors and a natural disaster. Data from Crisis Text Line (CTL), a national text-based mental health crisis counseling service, was used to determine how help-seeking behavior changed in the wake of each event. Wilcoxon rank sum tests assessed changes in help-seeking behavior for each event in 2020 as compared to the same period in 2019. AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) models examined if changes in crisis conversation volumes following each event differed. Higher median conversation volumes noted for the COVID-19 pandemic (+1 to +5 conversations), Hurricane Laura (+1 to +7 conversations) and the 2020 Election (+1 to +26 conversations). ARIMA models show substantial increases in help-seeking behavior following the declaration of a national emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic (+4.3 to +38.2%) and following the 2020 election (+3 to +24.44%). Our analysis found that the mental health response following social stressors may be distinct from natural events, especially when natural disasters occur in the context of multiple social stressors. This analysis adds to the growing body of literature considering the mental health impact of exposure to multiple co-occurring societal stressors, like police violence and a global pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia C Ryan
- Department of Geography and Planning, Appalachian State University, Boone NC, 28607, USA.
| | - Margaret M Sugg
- Department of Geography and Planning, Appalachian State University, Boone NC, 28607, USA
| | - Jennifer D Runkle
- North Carolina Institute for Climate Studies, North Carolina State University, Raleigh NC, 27695, USA
| | - Luke Wertis
- Department of Geography and Planning, Appalachian State University, Boone NC, 28607, USA
| | - Devyani Singh
- Data Team, Crisis Text Line, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Shannon Green
- Data Team, Crisis Text Line, New York City, New York, USA
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2
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Foremny D, Sorribas-Navarro P, Vall Castelló J. Income insecurity and mental health in pandemic times. ECONOMICS AND HUMAN BIOLOGY 2024; 53:101351. [PMID: 38306727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2024.101351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
This paper contributes to the literature on the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on mental health by providing novel evidence of its interaction with labor market conditions and the long-term persistence of these effects. We run four waves of a large-scale representative survey in Spain between April 2020 and April 2022, and benchmark our data against a decade of pre-pandemic information. We document an increase in the share of individuals reporting depressive feelings from 16% prior to the pandemic to 46% in April 2020. We show that this effect is more pronounced for women, younger individuals and those with unstable incomes. We apply machine learning techniques, mediation analysis and event studies to document the role of the labor market as an important driver of these effects. Our results are crucial for the design of targeted policies that proof useful in overcoming the long lasting consequences of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Foremny
- Universitat de Barcelona, Facultat d'Economia i Empresa, C/ John M. Keynes, 1-11, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Pilar Sorribas-Navarro
- Universitat de Barcelona, Facultat d'Economia i Empresa, C/ John M. Keynes, 1-11, 08034 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Judit Vall Castelló
- Universitat de Barcelona, Facultat d'Economia i Empresa, C/ John M. Keynes, 1-11, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; IEB, CRES-UPF, Spain.
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3
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Coronado-Vázquez V, Ramírez-Durán MDV, Barrio-Cortes J, Benito-Alonso E, Holgado-Juan M, Dorado-Rabaneda MS, Gómez-Salgado J. The Influence of Socioeconomic and Educational Factors on the Level of Anxiety and Fear of COVID-19. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:99. [PMID: 38201005 PMCID: PMC10778703 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were reports of heightened levels of anxiety and fear of contagion in the general population. Such psychological responses may be influenced by the socio-environmental context in which individuals reside. This study aimed to examine the relationship between socioeconomic and educational factors and the level of anxiety and fear related to COVID-19. A multicenter, cross-sectional design was used, including patients aged 18 years or older who attended primary care physician consultations at various primary health centers in Toledo, Spain, between October 2020 and January 2021. By means of a non-probabilistic sampling, a total of 150 participants were selected for the study, with 146 of them providing responses to the AMICO questionnaire The level of fear and anxiety associated with COVID-19 was assessed using the validated Anxiety and Fear of COVID-19 Assessment Scale (AMICO). A significant linear relationship was revealed between social class, employment status, and anxiety levels. Specifically, as social class decreased (p = 0.001) and employment situation worsened (unemployment) (p = 0.037), the proportion of participants reporting a high level of anxiety increased. During the second phase of the pandemic, more than half of the patients attending family medicine consultations exhibited a high level of fear and anxiety towards COVID-19, which was significantly associated with lower social class and unemployment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valle Coronado-Vázquez
- Las Cortes Health Centre, Madrid Health Service, 28014 Madrid, Spain
- Investigacion facultad de Medicina, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, 28223 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Jaime Barrio-Cortes
- Fundación para la Investigación e Innovación Biosanitaria en Atención Primaria (FIIBAP), 28003 Madrid, Spain;
- Faculty of Health, Universidad Camilo José Cela, 28013 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), 28009 Madrid, Spain
- Red de Investigación en Cronicidad, Atención Primaria y Prevención y Promoción de la Salud (RICAPPS), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Benito-Alonso
- El Viso de San Juan Health Centre, Servicio de Salud de Castilla La Mancha, 45215 Toledo, Spain
| | - Marina Holgado-Juan
- Illescas Health Centre, Servicio de Salud de Castilla La Mancha, 45200 Illescas, Spain
| | | | - Juan Gómez-Salgado
- Department of Sociology, Social Work and Public Health, Faculty of Labour Sciences, University of Huelva, 21007 Huelva, Spain
- Safety and Health Postgraduate Programme, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Guayaquil 092301, Ecuador
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Schoeps K, Tamarit A, De la Barrera U, Lacomba-Trejo L, Montoya-Castilla I. Social and Psychological Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on Adolescents' and Young Adults' Mental Health: A Cross-Cultural Mediation Study. Psychol Rep 2023; 126:2729-2756. [PMID: 35531784 PMCID: PMC9098395 DOI: 10.1177/00332941221100451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing pandemic has dramatically disrupted daily life, increasing the risk of developing psychiatric disorders and poor mental wellbeing. The compound effects of social, political and psychological stressors have increased psychological symptoms among adolescents and young people, with worries about COVID-19 playing a central role in the clinical course of their mental health problems caused by the pandemic. The aim of this cross-cultural study was to examine the social psychological effects of COVID-19 on adolescents' and young people's mental health and wellbeing in Ibero-American population. Participants involved 6,283 adolescents and young adults from five different Spanish-Speaking countries (83.7% female) aged between 12 and 30 years (M = 18.79; SD = 3.48). Participants completed the Worries about COVID-19 and its Consequences Scale (W-COV), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Descriptive analyses, multivariate ANOVAs and Pearson correlations were performed, as well as Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) testing a mediational model. The results indicate cross-cultural difference in COVID-19 related worries, emotional symptoms and life satisfaction. Results from SEM confirmed the overall indirect effects of COVID-19 cases, political response and participants' conditions during lockdown on depression, anxiety, stress and life satisfaction mediated by COVID-19 related worries. These findings suggest that the social psychological factors underlying psychological symptoms could be partly explained by increased worries about COVID-19 and its personal, social, economic and political consequences, which may offer guidance to policy makers and health services for safeguarding youth mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstanze Schoeps
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment
and Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia,
Spain
| | - Alicia Tamarit
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment
and Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia,
Spain
| | - Usue De la Barrera
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment
and Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia,
Spain
| | - Laura Lacomba-Trejo
- Department of Personality, Psychological Assessment
and Treatment, Universitat de València, Valencia,
Spain
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Sánchez-Cantalejo Garrido C, Yucumá Conde D, Rueda MDM, Olry-de-Labry-Lima A, Martín-Ruiz E, Higueras-Callejón C, Cabrera-León A. Scoping review of the methodology of large health surveys conducted in Spain early on in the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1217519. [PMID: 37601190 PMCID: PMC10438850 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1217519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The use of health surveys has been key in the scientific community to promptly communicate results about the health impact of COVID-19. But what information was collected, where, when and how, and who was the study population? Objective To describe the methodological characteristics used in large health surveys conducted in Spain early on in the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Scoping review. Inclusion criteria: observational studies published between January 2020 and December 2021, with sample sizes of over 2,000 persons resident in Spain. Databases consulted: PubMed, CINAHL, Literatura Latinoamericana y del Caribe en CC de la Salud, Scopus, PsycINFO, Embase, Sociological Abstracts, Dialnet and Web of Science Core Collection. We analyzed the characteristics of the literature references, methodologies and information gathered in the surveys selected. Fifty five studies were included. Results Sixty percentage of the studies included had mental health as their main topic and 75% were conducted on the general adult population. Thirteen percentage had a longitudinal design, 93% used the internet to gather information and the same percentage used non-probability sampling. Thirty percentage made some type of sampling correction to reduce coverage or non-response biases, but not selection biases. Sixty seven percentage did not state the availability of their data. Conclusions Consistent with the extensive use of non-probability sampling without any bias correction in the extraordinary setting created by COVID-19, quality population frameworks are required so that probability and representative samples can be extracted quickly to promptly address other health crises, as well as to reduce potential coverage, non-response and particularly selection biases by utilizing reweighting techniques. The low data accessibility despite the huge opportunity that COVID-19 provided for Open Science-based research is striking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Sánchez-Cantalejo Garrido
- Department of Public Health, Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network, Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María del Mar Rueda
- Department of Statistics and Operative Research, and Institute of Mathematics, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Antonio Olry-de-Labry-Lima
- Department of Public Health, Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network, Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
- Granada Biosanitary Research Institute, Granada, Spain
| | - Eva Martín-Ruiz
- Department of Public Health, Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Andrés Cabrera-León
- Department of Public Health, Andalusian School of Public Health, Granada, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network, Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII), Madrid, Spain
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Scafuto F, Ciacchini R, Orrù G, Crescentini C, Conversano C, Mastorci F, Porricelli M, Gemignani A. COVID-19 Pandemic and Internet Addiction in Young Adults: A Pilot Study on Positive and Negative Psychosocial Correlates. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2023; 20:240-251. [PMID: 37791079 PMCID: PMC10544255 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20230403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective During and after the lockdowns of the COVID-19 pandemic period, a strain was put on young adults who have taken refuge in the problematic use of internet, social media, gaming, and gambling. This paper aims to investigate possible correlates of Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), hypothesizing anxiety, depression and perceived stress would promote addiction, while mindfulness skills, resilience and socialization would, conversely, hamper IAD, and promote, consequently, a more functional internet use. Method A pilot study was carried out with a sample of 31 young adults, recruited through a snowball sampling using social networks. Participants filled out an online questionnaire including the following measures: Internet Use, Abuse and Addiction (UADI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II); State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y); Perceived Stress Scale (PSS); Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ); Mindfulness Attention and Awareness Scale (MAAS); Resilience Scale (RS-14). It was also administered an ad hoc questionnaire for the assessment of socialization behaviour (6 items) and gambling (2 items). Results All the measures, but socialization, showed adequate reliability. Our sample showed high levels of anxiety, stress, IA and gambling, while presenting low levels of resilience, the mindful skill of no-reactivity and socialization. The first hypothesis was confirmed, finding positive and significant correlations between Internet Addiction on one side and PSS, STAI-Y1, STAY-2, and BDI II on the other side. We also partially confirmed the second hypothesis about UADI negatively correlated with both RS-14 and Mindful Acting. Finally, no correlations were found between Gambling and IA. Conclusions In conclusion, the more one perceives an emotional overload with less stress-control, high anxiety, and depression, and the less one can leverage on the skills of mindful acting and resilience, the more one uses the internet as a strategy to escape from a threatening reality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Scafuto
- Department of Language, Literature, Communication, Education and Society-University of Udine
| | - Rebecca Ciacchini
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
| | - Graziella Orrù
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
| | - Cristiano Crescentini
- Department of Language, Literature, Communication, Education and Society-University of Udine
| | - Ciro Conversano
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
| | - Francesca Mastorci
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
| | - Marika Porricelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
| | - Angelo Gemignani
- Department of Surgical, Medical, Molecular and Critical Area Pathology-University of Pisa
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7
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Rahman MS, Paul KC, Rahman MM, Samuel J, Thill JC, Hossain MA, Ali GGMN. Pandemic vulnerability index of US cities: A hybrid knowledge-based and data-driven approach. SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND SOCIETY 2023; 95:104570. [PMID: 37065624 PMCID: PMC10085879 DOI: 10.1016/j.scs.2023.104570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Cities become mission-critical zones during pandemics and it is vital to develop a better understanding of the factors that are associated with infection levels. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many cities severely; however, there is significant variance in its impact across cities. Pandemic infection levels are associated with inherent features of cities (e.g., population size, density, mobility patterns, socioeconomic condition, and health & environment), which need to be better understood. Intuitively, the infection levels are expected to be higher in big urban agglomerations, but the measurable influence of a specific urban feature is unclear. The present study examines 41 variables and their potential influence on the incidence of COVID-19 infection cases. The study uses a multi-method approach to study the influence of variables, classified as demographic, socioeconomic, mobility and connectivity, urban form and density, and health and environment dimensions. This study develops an index dubbed the pandemic vulnerability index at city level (PVI-CI) for classifying the pandemic vulnerability levels of cities, grouping them into five vulnerability classes, from very high to very low. Furthermore, clustering and outlier analysis provides insights on the spatial clustering of cities with high and low vulnerability scores. This study provides strategic insights into levels of influence of key variables upon the spread of infections, along with an objective ranking for the vulnerability of cities. Thus, it provides critical wisdom needed for urban healthcare policy and resource management. The calculation method for the pandemic vulnerability index and the associated analytical process present a blueprint for the development of similar indices for cities in other countries, leading to a better understanding and improved pandemic management for urban areas, and more resilient planning for future pandemics in cities across the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Shahinoor Rahman
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, New Jersey City University, Jersey City, NJ, 07305, USA
| | - Kamal Chandra Paul
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Md Mokhlesur Rahman
- The William States Lee College of Engineering, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
- Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET), Khulna, Khulna, 9203, Bangladesh
| | - Jim Samuel
- E.J. Bloustein School of Planning & Public Policy, Rutgers University, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Jean-Claude Thill
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
- School of Data Science, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC, 28223, USA
| | - Md Amjad Hossain
- Department of Accounting, Information Systems, and Finance, Emporia State University, Emporia, KS, 66801, USA
| | - G G Md Nawaz Ali
- Department of Computer Science and Information Systems, Bradley University, Peoria, IL, 61625, USA
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Di Quirico R. Uncertainty, Anxiety and the Post-Pandemic Economic Environment. CLINICAL NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2023; 20:227-232. [PMID: 37791078 PMCID: PMC10544235 DOI: 10.36131/cnfioritieditore20230401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
There is ample evidence from medical and social sciences that economic crises impact on individual mental health. This makes neuro-psychiatric dynamics and individual mental health, particularly that of entrepreneurs, relevant for economic policy designers. At the same time, economic policies can have an impact on mental health, reducing or increasing economic uncertainty and, consequently, changing the level of anxiety in individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a severe economic crisis and a drastic transformation of the European economic environment. However, the severity and impact of this crisis differ from many other economic and financial setbacks of the past, including the one resulting from the 2008 crisis. Moreover, the consequences of the pandemic on mental health will add to the long-term consequences of the 2010s crisis and the effects of the war at Europe's Eastern borders. Together, the three crises may increase economic uncertainty in the post-pandemic World and its impact on mental health. This essay examines the connections between economic uncertainty, anxiety, and mental health. It suggests considering some relevant elements to estimate the impact of economic uncertainty on individual mental health. Also, hypotheses about the consequences of the "three crises shock" on mental health in the post-pandemic World are advanced. Finally, the essay helps anticipate how the EU anti-crisis economic policies may generate needs and opportunities for mental health care in national health systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Di Quirico
- Dipartimento di Ingegneria meccanica, chimica e dei materiali Università degli studi di Cagliari (Dept. Of Mechanical, Chemical, and Materials Engineering, University of Cagliari) via Marengo, 2 - 09123 Cagliari, Italy
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Costa-Font J, Knapp M, Vilaplana-Prieto C. The 'welcomed lockdown' hypothesis? Mental wellbeing and mobility restrictions. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2023; 24:679-699. [PMID: 35960372 PMCID: PMC9371965 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-022-01490-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and its mobility restrictions have been an external shock, influencing mental wellbeing. However, does risk exposure to COVID-19 affect the mental wellbeing effect of lockdowns? This paper examines the 'welcomed lockdown' hypothesis, namely the extent to which there is a level of risk where mobility restrictions are not a hindrance to mental wellbeing. We exploit the differential timing of exposure the pandemic, and the different stringency of lockdown policies across European countries and we focus on the effects on two mental health conditions, namely anxiety and depression. We study whether differences in the individual symptoms of anxiety and depression are explained by the combination of pandemic mortality and stringency of lockdown. We draw on an event study approach, complemented with a Difference-in-Difference (DiD), and Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD). Our estimates suggest an average increase in depression (3.95%) and anxiety (10%) symptoms relative to the mean level on the day that lockdown took effect. However, such effects are wiped out when a country's exhibits high mortality ('pandemic category 5'). Hence, we conclude that in an environment of high mortality, lockdowns no longer give rise to a reduction in mental wellbeing consistent with the 'welcome lockdown' hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Costa-Font
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), CESIFo & IZA, London, UK.
| | - Martin Knapp
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science, London, UK
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10
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Camisasca E, Covelli V, Cafagna D, Manzoni GM, Cantoia M, Bavagnoli A, Crescenzo P, Marsicovetere V, Pesce M, Visco MA. From economic difficulties to psychological maladjustment in Italian women during the Covid-19 pandemic: does marital dissatisfaction moderate or mediate this association? Front Psychol 2023; 14:1166049. [PMID: 37425147 PMCID: PMC10325667 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1166049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The empirical study about the negative impact of economic difficulties due to Covid- 19 on the psychological well-being of Italian women by considering perceived stress and marital satisfaction is an area worthy of investigation. The study explored these variables by hypothesizing that marital satisfaction (DAS) could moderate or mediate the links between economic difficulties, perceived stress (PSS), and psychological maladjustment (PGWBI). Methods A total of 320 Italian women completed an online survey about the study's variables during the lockdown period. Women's perceptions of economic difficulties due to COVID- 19 restrictions were detected through an ad-hoc specific question. Perceived stress, marital satisfaction and psychological maladjustment were assessed by standardized questionnaires (Perceived Stress Scale 10, Dyadic Satisfaction Scale and Psychological General Well-being Inventory). Results 39.7% of women who answered the online survey said that the Covid-19 significantly impacted their family income. Results indicated that marital satisfaction did not moderate the associations investigated. Conversely, data showed how economic difficulties (X) predicted lower psychological maladjustment through the mediation of perceived Stress (M1), which, in turn, was associated with higher levels of marital dissatisfaction (M2). Conclusion The results of the present study confirm the significant role of marital dissatisfaction in explaining the indirect effects of economic difficulties on psychological maladjustment in women. In particular, they indicated a significant spillover effect which transmitted strains experienced in one domain (economic difficulties) to another (the dissatisfaction of the couple), which in turn affected the psychological maladjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Camisasca
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
| | - Venusia Covelli
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
| | - Dario Cafagna
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Cantoia
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
| | | | - Pietro Crescenzo
- Department of Education, Psychology and Communication, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Mario Pesce
- Faculty of Psychology, eCampus University, Novedrate, Como, Italy
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11
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Bogliacino F, Codagnone C, Folkvord F, Lupiáñez-Villanueva F. The impact of labour market shocks on mental health: evidence from the Covid-19 first wave. ECONOMIA POLITICA (BOLOGNA, ITALY) 2023; 40:1-32. [PMID: 37361479 PMCID: PMC10213601 DOI: 10.1007/s40888-023-00304-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we estimate the effect of a negative labour market shock on individuals' levels of stress, anxiety, and depression. We use a dataset collected during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, on a representative sample of citizens from Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom, interviewed on three occasions. We measure stress, anxiety and depression and labour shocks using validated scales. Our research design is a standard difference-in-differences model: we leverage the differential timing of shocks to identify the impact on mental health. In our estimations, a negative labour shock increases the measure of stress, anxiety, and depression by 16% of a standard deviation computed from the baseline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bogliacino
- Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche, Università Degli Studi Di Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Cristiano Codagnone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Sociali e Politiche, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Frans Folkvord
- Tillburg School of Humanities and Digital Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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12
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What factors explain the changes in major depressive disorder symptoms by age group during the COVID-19 pandemic? A longitudinal study. J Affect Disord 2023; 328:72-80. [PMID: 36806591 PMCID: PMC9933581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data collected during the COVID-19 pandemic suggest an increase in major depressive disorder (MDD) among younger adults. The current study aims to assess the association of age groups and MDD risk before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and quantify the effect of potential mediating variables such as loneliness, social support, resilience, and socioeconomic factors. METHODS A representative sample of Spanish adults was interviewed before (2019, N = 1880) and during (2020, N = 1103) the COVID-19 pandemic. MDD was assessed using the CIDI, loneliness through the UCLA scale, social support through the OSSS-3, resilience with the 6-BRS, and worsened economic circumstances and unemployment through a single question. Mixed-models were used to study changes in MDD by age group. Regression models were constructed to quantify the association between age and potential mediators, as well as their mediating effect on the association between age group and MDD. RESULTS Among the younger age cohorts (18-29 and 30-44 years) the probability of having MDD during the pandemic increased from 0.04 (95 % CI: 0.002-0.09) to 0.25 (0.12-0.39) and from 0.02 (-0.001-0.03) to 0.11 (0.04-0.17), respectively. Some 36.6 % of the association between age and risk of MDD during the pandemic was explained by loneliness (12.0 %), low resilience (10.7 %), and worsened economic situation (13.9 %). LIMITATIONS Reliance on self-report data and generalizability of the findings limited to the Spanish population. CONCLUSIONS Strategies to decrease the impact of a pandemic on depressive symptoms among young adults should address loneliness, provide tools to improve resilience, and enjoy improved financial support.
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Brucki BM, Bagade T, Majeed T. A health impact assessment of gender inequities associated with psychological distress during COVID19 in Australia's most locked down state-Victoria. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:233. [PMID: 36732738 PMCID: PMC9894749 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14356-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since March 2020, when the COVID19 pandemic hit Australia, Victoria has been in lockdown six times for 264 days, making it the world's longest cumulative locked-down city. This Health Impact Assessment evaluated gender disparities, especially women's mental health, represented by increased levels of psychological distress during the lockdowns. METHODS A desk-based, retrospective Health Impact Assessment was undertaken to explore the health impacts of the lockdown public health directive with an equity focus, on the Victorian population, through reviewing available qualitative and quantitative published studies and grey literature. RESULTS Findings from the assessment suggest the lockdown policies generated and perpetuated avoidable inequities harming mental health demonstrated through increased psychological distress, particularly for women, through psychosocial determinants. CONCLUSION Ongoing research is needed to elucidate these inequities further. Governments implementing policies to suppress and mitigate COVID19 need to consider how to reduce harmful consequences of these strategies to avoid further generating inequities towards vulnerable groups within the population and increasing inequalities in the broader society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda M Brucki
- School of Medicine & Public Health, College of Health Medicine & Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.
| | - Tanmay Bagade
- School of Medicine & Public Health, College of Health Medicine & Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Public Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Tazeen Majeed
- School of Medicine & Public Health, College of Health Medicine & Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Public Health Research Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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Sung N, Kim M. COVID-19 and changes in content usage behavior: The case of South Korea. TELECOMMUNICATIONS POLICY 2023; 47:102461. [PMID: 36246454 PMCID: PMC9550668 DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2022.102461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study examines changes in content usage time due to the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea using Korean Media Panel data for the period 2011-2020 and explores the reasons for these changes. This study focuses on four principal contents: television programs, movies/videos/user-created content, traditional telecommunication services, and chatting/messenger/social network services. The empirical results indicate an increase in usage time for the four principal contents, as well as total content usage time because of the pandemic. The results also show that average Korean people stayed longer at home after the onset of the pandemic, leading to an increase in the time spent on all the principal contents, except for traditional telecommunication services, as well as an increase in total content usage time. Furthermore, this study suggests that whereas the effect of the pandemic on television program viewing time was mainly attributable to changes in time spent at home because of the pandemic, the effect on other contents was mainly caused by non-location-related factors. This study predicts changes in content usage time after the end of the pandemic and provides strategic suggestions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakil Sung
- Nakil Sung, Department of Economics, University of Seoul, Seoulsiripdaero 163, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul, 02504, South Korea
| | - Minchang Kim
- Minchang Kim, Department of Economics, Gangneung-wonju National University, Jukheon-gil 7, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do, 25457, South Korea
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First access to mental health services during COVID-19 pandemic: A multicenter study. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2023; 11:100460. [PMID: 36506487 PMCID: PMC9726655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health is complex and affects a broad segment of the population. Several studies indicate that depressive, anxious and post-traumatic symptoms are common in people exposed to SARS-Cov2. METHODS 458 subjects were recruited during their first consultation in outpatient psychiatric services between June 2020 and October 2021. Post-traumatic, depressive and anxious symptoms were assessed using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), the Beck Depression Inventory Scale-second edition (BDI-II), and the Self Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS). A specific set of questions was developed, with the aim of evaluating socio-demographic variables and work, environmental and personal characteristics related to the pandemic. RESULTS Prevalence rates of clinically significant depressive, anxious and post-traumatic symptoms were 57.6%, 63.5% and 54.8%, respectively. Female gender, worsening of relationship status and financial consequences due to the pandemic were the conditions most strongly associated with the presence of psychopathology. LIMITATION The cross-sectional design of the study doesn't allow an evaluation over time of the sample. No assumption of causality can be made due to the lack of pre-pandemic assessments for the investigated variables. CONCLUSIONS The impact of the pandemic involves depressive, anxious and post-traumatic dimensions. The investigated psychopathology correlates with several variables expressing the personal and environmental changes that occurred in the population due to the COVID-19 emergency. The study is multicentric and the recruitment of participants was held in a clinical setting, providing a realistic picture of the consequences of the pandemic in clinical practice within mental health services.
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Grané A, Albarrán I, Peran D. Looking for COVID side effects in the EU through the analysis of health and behavioural profiles. QUALITY & QUANTITY 2022:1-31. [PMID: 36597556 PMCID: PMC9801163 DOI: 10.1007/s11135-022-01606-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
More than two years after the great outbreak of COVID suffered in almost the whole world, and in particular in Europe, we have gradually learned about the direct effects of this virus on our health and what consequences it can have if we become infected. However, this pandemic also had great economic and social consequences that affected people in an indirect way, which we can call COVID side effects. In this work we carried out an innovative type of analysis based on the concept of archetypoids in order to find extreme observations in a database of mixed-type data and used them to classify individuals yielding to different health and behavioural profiles in coping with the COVID outbreak in the EU. We use data from the first COVID-19 Survey of the SHARE project (Survey on Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe). The resulting profiles are easier to interpret than others based on central observations, and help to understand how the situations of restrictions and lock-downs affected people since the outbreak of the pandemic. Another key point of the work was to analyse how determinant are some aspects such as gender, age group or even geographical location in how each person experienced the pandemic. The method that we propose is wide enough to be used in other health and wellbeing surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurea Grané
- Statistics Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, C/ Madrid 126, 28903 Getafe, Spain
| | - Irene Albarrán
- Statistics Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, C/ Madrid 126, 28903 Getafe, Spain
| | - Diego Peran
- Statistics Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, C/ Madrid 126, 28903 Getafe, Spain
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Zhang Y, Wu Q, Zhang T, Yang L. Vulnerability and fraud: evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic. HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 9:424. [PMID: 36466703 PMCID: PMC9707139 DOI: 10.1057/s41599-022-01445-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study examines consumer fraud at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and provides novel evidence for the opportunity model of predatory victimization. Scammers have taken advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic shock to exploit victims who are already vulnerable and suffering. The number of fraud cases has greatly increased as COVID-19 spread across the U.S., consistent with the vulnerable-to-become-victimization hypothesis based on the opportunity model of predatory victimization. A Google Trends analysis shows that the increase in fraud and scams is attributable to victims' increased vulnerability rather than to their awareness of fraud and increased motivation to report scams. An improvement in financial literacy is associated with the reduction of finance-related fraud and scams. Finally, we provide important policy implications to protect people from fraud victimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- School of Finance, Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, Shanghai, China
| | - Qun Wu
- College of Business, University of Nevada, Reno, NV USA
| | - Ting Zhang
- School of Business Administration, University of Dayton, Dayton, OH USA
| | - Lingxiao Yang
- School of Finance, Shanghai Lixin University of Accounting and Finance, Shanghai, China
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“Freedom and Dignity Are Worth More than Life”: The Dramatic Suicide of an Anti-Vax Man. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10112141. [PMID: 36360482 PMCID: PMC9690759 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10112141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 public health emergency, we have witnessed an increase in psychiatric problems and pathologies, such as depression, anxiety, isolation, posttraumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and burnout. The world’s collective sentiment finally turned toward optimism after authorization was granted for the COVID-19 vaccines’ emergency use by the FDA in December 2020. With the increase in vaccine coverage in Western countries, case counts and deaths gradually plummeted while activity restrictions were progressively lifted. At the same time, however, a new COVID-19-related public health issue has arisen, as a substantial number of eligible individuals refused vaccination. Behaviors assumed by the so-called anti-vax people in manifesting their own opposition towards COVID-19 vaccination are various, and sometimes assume the forms of dramatic gestures with symbolic value, such as suicide. Here, we present the case of a healthy, convinced anti-vax, 58-year-old man, who allowed himself to be run over by a moving train in the presence of eyewitnesses, bringing with him a demonstrative note of his reasons. The present article aims to raise awareness against the social and psychological impact of COVID-19 vaccination refusal and to point out the need of a specific support net to avoid the spread of psychological impairment, social isolation and suicidal behaviors among the “anti-vax community”.
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Vezzoli M, Valtorta RR, Mari S, Durante F, Volpato C. Effects of objective and subjective indicators of economic inequality on subjective well‐being: Underlying mechanisms. JOURNAL OF APPLIED SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jasp.12928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Vezzoli
- Department of Psychology University of Milano‐Bicocca Milan Italy
| | | | - Silvia Mari
- Department of Psychology University of Milano‐Bicocca Milan Italy
| | - Federica Durante
- Department of Psychology University of Milano‐Bicocca Milan Italy
| | - Chiara Volpato
- Department of Psychology University of Milano‐Bicocca Milan Italy
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20
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Halimi M, Bararpour P. Natural inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 main protease: structure based pharmacophore modeling, molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation studies. J Mol Model 2022; 28:279. [PMID: 36031629 PMCID: PMC9420677 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-022-05286-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Main protease (Mpro) plays a key role in replication of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This study was designed for finding natural inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro by in silico methods. To this end, the co-crystal structure of Mpro with telaprevir was explored and receptor-ligand pharmacophore models were developed and validated using pharmit. The database of “ZINC Natural Products” was screened, and 288 compounds were filtered according to pharmacophore features. In the next step, Lipinski’s rule of five was applied and absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) of the filtered compounds were calculated using in silico methods. The resulted 15 compounds were docked into the active site of Mpro and those with the highest binding scores and better interaction including ZINC61991204, ZINC67910260, ZINC61991203, and ZINC08790293 were selected. Further analysis by molecular dynamic simulation studies showed that ZINC61991203 and ZINC08790293 dissociated from Mpro active site, while ZINC426421106 and ZINC5481346 were stable. Root mean square deviation (RMSD), radius of gyration (Rg), number of hydrogen bonds between ligand and protein during the time of simulation, and root mean square fluctuations (RMSF) of protein and ligands were calculated, and components of binding free energy were calculated using the molecular mechanic/Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM/PBSA) method. The result of all the analysis indicated that ZINC61991204 and ZINC67910260 are drug-like and nontoxic and have a high potential for inhibiting Mpro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Halimi
- Department of Biology, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran.
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21
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Borrescio-Higa F, Droller F, Valenzuela P. Financial Distress and Psychological Well-Being During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604591. [PMID: 36090842 PMCID: PMC9453756 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We examine the impact of financial distress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and psychological well-being. Methods: We analyze cross-sectional survey data (n = 2,545) from the Life during Pandemic study in Chile. We estimate linear probability models to analyze the relationship between economic fragility, financial distress, and psychological well-being. Results: Our findings show unemployment and income loss are highly predictive of experiencing a range of financial problems, such as a lack of savings, as well as difficulties paying bills, consumer debt, and mortgage loans. In turn, financial distress leads to a higher prevalence of poor well-being and mental health deterioration, and sleep problems. Conclusion: Expansion of mental health assistance services are needed, as new diagnosis of mental health conditions has increased, but treatment has not, pointing to a barrier in the access to some mental health care services during the pandemic. Policies designed with the objective of improving financial education are necessary to increase precautionary savings and financial resilience, and alleviate the psychological burden of debt in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Borrescio-Higa
- Business School, Universidad Adolfo Ibañez, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: Florencia Borrescio-Higa,
| | - Federico Droller
- Departamento de Economía, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Patricio Valenzuela
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Aplicadas, Universidad de los Andes, Santiago, Chile
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22
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Costa-Font J, Vilaplana-Prieto C. Risky restrictions? Mobility restriction effects on risk awareness and anxiety. Health Policy 2022; 126:1090-1102. [PMID: 36058776 PMCID: PMC9392659 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2022.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Although mobility restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic were intended to change behaviours by influencing risk awareness, they might have prompted a rise in risk anxiety (‘worry for one's health’) both among individuals exposed to such restrictions and those living in border countries. This paper studies this question by examining survey data from 22 European countries in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 20th and April 6th 2020). Drawing on an event study analysis we show that COVID-19 mobility restrictions raised individuals COVID-19 risk awareness both in the exposed and border countries for almost a week after the announcement. The spillover effect on border countries accounts for about 67% of the effect in the exposed country. However, mobility restrictions gave rise to an increase in risk anxiety in low-risk countries (which is between 4 and 7 times higher than moderate and high-risk countries). These effects are heterogeneous across age, education and socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joan Costa-Font
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics, CESIFo & IZA, Houghton Street, WC2A 2AE, United Kingdom.
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23
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Moro GL, Bert F, Catozzi D, Scacchi A, Siliquini R. Emotional eating and depression during the pandemic: QuarantEat, an Italian nationwide survey. Nutrition 2022; 103-104:111825. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2022.111825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Facente SN, De Zuzuarregui M, Frank D, Gomez-Aladino S, Muñoz A, Williamson S, Wang E, Hunter L, Packel L, Reingold A, Petersen M. Risky business: A mixed methods study of decision-making regarding COVID-19 risk at a public university in the United States. Front Psychol 2022; 13:926664. [PMID: 35967656 PMCID: PMC9372553 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.926664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionUntil vaccines became available in late 2020, our ability to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within countries depended largely on voluntary adherence to mitigation measures. However, individual decision-making regarding acceptable COVID-19 risk is complex. To better understand decision-making regarding COVID-19 risk, we conducted a qualitative substudy within a larger Berkeley COVID-19 Safe Campus Initiative (BCSCI) during the summer of 2020, and completed a mixed-methods analysis of factors influencing decision-making.Materials and methodsWe interviewed 20 participants who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and 10 who remained negative, and analyzed quantitative survey data from 3,324 BCSCI participants. The BCSCI study enrolled university-affiliated people living in the local area during summer of 2020, collected data on behaviors and attitudes toward COVID-19, and conducted SARS-CoV-2 testing at baseline and endline.ResultsAt baseline, 1362 students (57.5%) and 285 non-students (35.1%) said it had been somewhat or very difficult to comply with COVID-19-related mandates. Most-cited reasons were the need to go out for food/essentials, difficulty of being away from family/friends, and loneliness. Eight interviewees explicitly noted they made decisions partially because of others who may be at high risk. We did not find significant differences between the behaviors of students and non-students.DiscussionDespite prevailing attitudes about irresponsibility of college students during the COVID-19 pandemic, students in our study demonstrated a commitment to making rational choices about risk behavior, not unlike non-students around them. Decision-making was driven by perceived susceptibility to severe disease, need for social interaction, and concern about risk to others. A harm reduction public health approach may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley N. Facente
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Facente Consulting, Richmond, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Shelley N. Facente,
| | - Mariah De Zuzuarregui
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Darren Frank
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Sarah Gomez-Aladino
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Ariel Muñoz
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Sabrina Williamson
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Emily Wang
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Lauren Hunter
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Laura Packel
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Arthur Reingold
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Maya Petersen
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
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Fucito LM, Bold KW, Cannon S, Serrantino A, Marrero R, O’Malley SS. Cigarette Smoking in Response to COVID-19: Examining Co-Morbid Medical Conditions and Risk Perceptions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8239. [PMID: 35886090 PMCID: PMC9317071 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the initial wave of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in the U.S., information was mixed about the relative COVID-19 risks and potential benefits associated with cigarette smoking. Therefore, we sought to understand individual differences in the impact of COVID-19 on cigarette smoking in a sample of adults who reported recent use, with a particular focus on chronic medical conditions likely associated with increased COVID-19 risk. Participants completed an online survey of smoking behavior, demographic variables, medical history, and COVID-19 risk perceptions between July and August 2020 (N = 286). We examined whether medical conditions, COVID-19 risk perceptions and/or demographic characteristics were related to smoking changes in response to the pandemic (i.e., no change, decrease, increase) using multinomial logistical regression. Younger age, higher COVID-19 risk perceptions and Black versus White race were associated with greater odds of decreased smoking compared to no smoking change. Moreover, having at least one chronic medical condition was associated with greater odds of increased smoking relative to no change. The results have important implications for tobacco cessation treatment and preventive healthcare during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and other public health threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M. Fucito
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
- Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale-New Haven, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
| | - Krysten W. Bold
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Sydney Cannon
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
| | - Alison Serrantino
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
| | - Rebecca Marrero
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
| | - Stephanie S. O’Malley
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06511, USA; (K.W.B.); (S.C.); (A.S.); (R.M.); (S.S.O.)
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Kapetanios G, Neuteboom N, Ritsema F, Ventouri A. How did consumers react to the COVID-19 pandemic over time? OXFORD BULLETIN OF ECONOMICS AND STATISTICS 2022; 84:OBES12507. [PMID: 35942152 PMCID: PMC9349652 DOI: 10.1111/obes.12507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) have been the key policy instrument utilized to contain the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper disentangles the effects of NPIs from that of the virus and looks at the specific channels through which the virus impacts consumption. Using geo-located transaction data, we find that consumers' behaviour towards the virus has explanatory power for the drop in consumption in the early stages of the pandemic. This effect disappears in the later stages of the pandemic, suggesting that consumers have adapted their behaviour. As the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, consumers tended to make 'safer' consumption decisions, by avoiding crowded places.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Kapetanios
- Kings Business SchoolKings College London, Bush House30 Aldwych WC2B 4BGLondonWC2B 4BGUnited Kingdom
| | - Nora Neuteboom
- Kings Business SchoolKings College London, Bush House30 Aldwych WC2B 4BGLondonWC2B 4BGUnited Kingdom
- ABN AMRO BankGustav Mahlerlaan 10Amsterdam1082 PPNetherlands
| | - Feiko Ritsema
- ABN AMRO BankGustav Mahlerlaan 10Amsterdam1082 PPNetherlands
| | - Alexia Ventouri
- Kings Business SchoolKings College London, Bush House30 Aldwych WC2B 4BGLondonWC2B 4BGUnited Kingdom
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Economic crisis and mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. J Affect Disord 2022; 306:28-31. [PMID: 35306120 PMCID: PMC8924027 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.03.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The economic crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic can have a serious impact on population mental health. This study seeks to understand whether the economic shocks associated with the pandemic have a differential impact by sex because the current pandemic may have disproportionally affected women compared to men. METHODS We analyzed data from original online monthly surveys of the general population in Japan conducted between April 2020 and February 2021 (N = 9000). We investigated whether individuals who had experienced a major job-related adverse change were more likely to have experienced depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) and anxiety disorders (GAD-7) during the pandemic and also if its effect varied by sex. RESULTS The results of logistic regression suggest that depressive and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent among those who had recently experienced drastic changes in employment and working conditions, as well as among individuals with low income and those without college education. We also found that both female and male respondents who had experienced a major employment-related change exhibited depression and anxiety disorders. LIMITATIONS We do not have data on the pre-COVID mental health conditions of our respondents, and our findings are descriptive. Some segments of the population may not be represented in our sample because our surveys were conducted online. CONCLUSIONS COVID-induced economic shocks can have a detrimental effect on mental health among both economically vulnerable female and male workers.
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YALÇIN M, ÖZDEMİR D, CAKİROGLU S, ARPACIOĞLU S. Gelir düzeyi ve mesleki faktörlerin Türkiye'de COVID-19 kapanması döneminde ruh sağlığı üzerindeki etkisi. CUKUROVA MEDICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.17826/cumj.1022808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
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Ehtezazi T. The Potential Use of Cyclosporine Ultrafine Solution Pressurised Metered- Dose Inhaler in the Treatment of COVID-19 Patients. RECENT ADVANCES IN DRUG DELIVERY AND FORMULATION 2022; 16:3-15. [PMID: 34809553 DOI: 10.2174/2772574x12666211122113318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Serious COVID-19 respiratory problems start when the virus reaches the alveolar level, where type II cells get infected and die. Therefore, virus inhibition at the alveolar level would help preventing these respiratory complications. METHOD A literature search was conducted to collect physicochemical properties of small molecule compounds that could be used for the COVID-19 treatment. Compounds with low melting points were selected along with those soluble in ethanol, hydrogen-bond donors, and acceptors. RESULTS There are severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus inhibitors with physicochemical properties suitable for the formulation as an ultrafine pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI). Mycophenolic acid, Debio 025, and cyclosporine A are prime candidates among these compounds. Cyclosporine A (hereafter cyclosporine) is a potent SARS-CoV-2 inhibitor, and it has been used for the treatment of COVID-19 patients, demonstrating an improved survival rate. Also, inhalation therapy of nebulised cyclosporine was tolerated, which was used for patients with lung transplants. Finally, cyclosporine has been formulated as a solution ultrafine pMDI. Although vaccine therapy has started in most countries, inhalation therapies with non-immunological activities could minimise the spread of the disease and be used in vaccine-hesitant individuals. CONCLUSION Ultrafine pMDI formulation of cyclosporine or Debio 025 should be investigated for the inhalation therapy of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Touraj Ehtezazi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool, L3 3AF, UK
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Duarte F, Jiménez-Molina Á. A Longitudinal Nationwide Study of Psychological Distress During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Chile. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:744204. [PMID: 35280180 PMCID: PMC8907540 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.744204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite numerous efforts to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, there are few longitudinal studies that examine the change in the burden of psychological distress over time and its associated factors, especially in developing countries. OBJECTIVE The primary aim of this study was to assess the levels of psychological distress at two time points during the COVID-19 outbreak based on a representative community sample in Chile. The secondary aim was to identify groups that are more vulnerable to psychological distress during the pandemic. METHODS A nationally representative, longitudinal telephone survey of Chilean adults was conducted. This study analyses panel data from two waves in 2020: May 30 to June 10 and September 15 to October 9. A total of 823 people participated in both surveys. Changes in mental health outcomes (anxiety and depressive symptoms) were assessed, estimating the effect of demographic characteristics, psychosocial and economic factors, household conditions, and health status. RESULTS There was a significant increase in psychological distress (PHQ-4 ≥ 6) between Waves 1 (22.6%) and 2 (27.0%), especially among younger participants. Overall, the results of this study show that being female, living in or near the capital, living in overcrowded households and having a perceived lack of space in the home, loneliness or perceived social isolation, and having received mental health treatment within the last year are significantly associated with psychological distress over time (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION This study highlights the need to implement psychosocial programs to protect people's psychological well-being, as well as social policies to improve household living conditions and levels of social connectedness during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabián Duarte
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Millennium Nucleus in Social Development (DESOC), Santiago, Chile
| | - Álvaro Jiménez-Molina
- Millennium Nucleus in Social Development (DESOC), Santiago, Chile.,Millennium Nucleus to Improve the Mental Health of Adolescents and Youths (Imhay), Santiago, Chile.,Millennium Institute for Research in Depression and Personality (MIDAP), Santiago, Chile.,Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
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Bazzana D, Cohen JJ, Golinucci N, Hafner M, Noussan M, Reichl J, Rocco MV, Sciullo A, Vergalli S. A multi-disciplinary approach to estimate the medium-term impact of COVID-19 on transport and energy: A case study for Italy. ENERGY (OXFORD, ENGLAND) 2022; 238:122015. [PMID: 34518723 PMCID: PMC8426115 DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2021.122015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to estimate the potential impacts of different COVID-19 scenarios on the Italian energy sector through 2030, with a specific focus on transport and industry. The analysis takes a multi-disciplinary approach to properly consider the complex interactions of sectors across Italy. This approach includes the assessment of economic conditions using macroeconomic and input-output models, modelling the evolution of the energy system using an energy and transport model, and forecasting the reaction of travel demand and modal choice using econometric models and expert interviews. Results show that the effect of COVID-19 pandemic may lead to mid-term effects on energy consumption. The medium scenario, which assumes a stop of the emergency by the end of 2021, shows that energy-related emissions remain 10% lower than the baseline in the industry sector and 6% lower in the transport sector by 2030, when compared with a pre-COVID trend. Policy recommendations to support a green recovery are discussed in light of the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Bazzana
- Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei, Milano, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Jed J Cohen
- Salt River Project, Integrated System Planning and Support, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - Nicolò Golinucci
- Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei, Milano, Italy
- Politecnico di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Manfred Hafner
- Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei, Milano, Italy
- SciencesPo - Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA), Paris, France
- Johns Hopkins University - School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS-Europe), Bologna, Italy
| | - Michel Noussan
- Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei, Milano, Italy
- SciencesPo - Paris School of International Affairs (PSIA), Paris, France
| | - Johannes Reichl
- Energieinstitut an der Johannes Kepler Universität Linz, Linz, Austria
| | | | - Alessandro Sciullo
- IRES Piemonte - Istituto di Ricerche Economico Sociali del Piemonte, Torino, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Sergio Vergalli
- Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei, Milano, Italy
- Università degli Studi di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Canale N, Marino C, Lenzi M, Vieno A, Griffiths MD, Gaboardi M, Giraldo M, Cervone C, Massimo S. How Communication Technology Fosters Individual and Social Wellbeing During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Preliminary Support For a Digital Interaction Model. JOURNAL OF HAPPINESS STUDIES 2022; 23:727-745. [PMID: 34177363 PMCID: PMC8214064 DOI: 10.1007/s10902-021-00421-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to test an explanatory model for individual and social wellbeing which incorporates the advantages of using digital technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was carried out in Italy, one of the countries that has been most severely affected by the pandemic worldwide. The study was designed to include variables that might be specifically pertinent to the uniqueness of the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. Adults living in Italy (n = 1412) completed an online survey during the lockdown period in March 2020. Results showed two distinct digital interaction processes highlighted by the facilitating use of online emotions ("e-motions") and online social support ("e-support"). In short, e-motions were positively related to posttraumatic growth, which in turn was positively associated with positive mental health and higher engagement in prosocial behaviors. Moreover, individuals who perceived themselves as having greater e-support were characterized by higher levels of positive mental health, which it turn was positively associated with prosocial behaviors. Collectively, these two digital interaction processes suggest that digital technologies appear to be critical resources in helping individuals cope with difficulties raised by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natale Canale
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Claudia Marino
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Michela Lenzi
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Alessio Vieno
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Marta Gaboardi
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Matteo Giraldo
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Carmen Cervone
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Santinello Massimo
- Department of Developmental Psychology and Socialisation, University of Padova, Via Venezia 8, 35131 Padova, Italy
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Obschonka M, Cai Q, Chan ACY, Marsalis S, Basha SAJ, Lee SK, Gewirtz AH. International psychological research addressing the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic: A rapid scoping review and implications for global psychology. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 57:1-19. [PMID: 34904220 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. Given that keeping abreast of international perspectives and research results is of particular importance for such massive global emergencies, we employed a scoping review methodology to rapidly map the field of international psychological research addressing this important early phase of the pandemic. We included a total of 79 studies, with data mostly collected between March and June 2020. This review aimed to systematically identify and map the nature and scope of international studies examining psychological aspects of the unfolding COVID-19 pandemic. We mapped key research themes, subfields of psychology, the nature and extent of international research collaboration, data methods employed, and challenges and enablers faced by psychological researchers in the early stages of the pandemic. Among the wide range of themes covered, mental health and social behaviours were the key themes. Most studies were in clinical/health psychology and social psychology. Network analyses revealed how authors collaborated and to what extent the studies were international. Europe and the United States were often at the centre of international collaboration. The predominant study design was cross-sectional and online with quantitative analyses. We also summarised author reported critical challenges and enablers for international psychological research during the COVID pandemic, and conclude with implications for the field of psychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Obschonka
- School of Management, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Qiyue Cai
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Athena C Y Chan
- Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Scott Marsalis
- University Libraries, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sydni A J Basha
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Sun-Kyung Lee
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Abigail H Gewirtz
- Department of Psychology, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA.,Department of Family Social Science, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Siddique AB, Nath SD, Islam MS, Khan TH, Pardhan S, Amin MZ, Amin MIA, Shawon ZBZ, Koly KN. Financial Difficulties Correlate With Mental Health Among Bangladeshi Residents Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings From a Cross-Sectional Survey. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:755357. [PMID: 34955916 PMCID: PMC8692668 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.755357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic is a global threat which has challenged mental resilience and impacted the psychological well-being of people across all age groups globally. The present study aimed to investigate how financial difficulties during the pandemic correlate with mental health among residents of Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 4,020 residents from different parts of Bangladesh between July and September 2020, during a period of elevated risk of COVID-19 infection. A self-reported online questionnaire comprising socio-demographic, financial difficulties and psychometric measures (to assess depression, anxiety and stress) was used to gather information from participants. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with mental health consequences. Results: The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress in the sample were 71.1%, 62.3%, and 56.7%, respectively. Levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were significantly higher among participants who reported female sex, being unmarried, smaller families, higher monthly family income, poor self-perceived health status, living near people who had been infected by COVID-19, probability of decreased income, food scarcity (both during the pandemic and in the future) and the possibility of unemployment. However, due to the nature of the cross-sectional study performed with a convenience sampling method, the causal relationship between variables cannot be justified. Conclusions: After several months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh, more than half of the respondents rated their mental health concerns as moderate to severe. The findings highlight the contributing factors of poor mental health which warrant the creation of interventions that address the economic, financial and mental health impacts of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abu Bakkar Siddique
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Centre for Advanced Research Excellence in Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md. Saiful Islam
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Centre for Advanced Research Excellence in Public Health, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tausif Hasan Khan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shahina Pardhan
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - M. Ziaul Amin
- Department of Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science & Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Kamrun Nahar Koly
- Health System and Population Studies Division, International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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La Torre D, Liuzzi D, Maggistro R, Marsiglio S. Mobility Choices and Strategic Interactions in a Two-Group Macroeconomic-Epidemiological Model. DYNAMIC GAMES AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 12:110-132. [PMID: 34873456 PMCID: PMC8637520 DOI: 10.1007/s13235-021-00413-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We analyze the implications of strategic interactions between two heterogeneous groups (i.e., young and old, men and women) in a macroeconomic-epidemiological framework. The interactions between groups determine the overall prevalence of a communicable disease, which in turn affects the level of economic activity. Individuals may lower their disease exposure by reducing their mobility, but since changing mobility patterns is costly, each group has an incentive to free ride negatively affecting the chances of disease containment at the aggregate level. By focusing on an early epidemic setting, we explicitly characterize the cooperative and noncooperative equilibria, determining how the inefficiency induced by noncooperation (i.e., failure to internalize epidemic externalities) depends both on economic and epidemiological parameters. We show that long-run eradication may be possible even in the absence of coordination, but coordination leads to a faster reduction in the number of infectives in finite time. Moreover, the inefficiency induced by noncooperation increases (decreases) with the factors increasing (decreasing) the pace of the disease spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide La Torre
- SKEMA Business School and Université Côte d’Azur, Sophia Antipolis, France
| | - Danilo Liuzzi
- Department of Economics, Management and Quantitative Methods, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosario Maggistro
- Department of Economics, Business, Mathematics and Statistics “B. de Finetti”, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Simone Marsiglio
- Department of Economics and Management, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Consumers’ Preferences for Wood Furniture: An Accounting Perspective. FORESTS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/f12121637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on forest product markets and the forest product industry, and has also seriously affected the sales of forest products. This research aimed to analyze people’s preference for wood furniture and make policy recommendations. We examined the impact of the pandemic on consumers’ preferences for wood furniture from the perspective of accounting. Taking the accounting data of wood furniture enterprises as the research object, through the translog revenue function, and using the relationship between revenue and consumption in economics, we found that the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced consumers’ preferences for wood furniture, but the decline in preference is smaller for wood furniture produced by extra-large furniture manufacturers. This study contributes to the literature and in view of our research results and the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, we provide policy suggestions for the related governmental agencies and wood furniture manufacturers, in this special environment, that can reduce the negative impact of a pandemic on the wood furniture industry.
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Behavioral and Mental Responses towards the COVID-19 Pandemic among Chinese Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study. JOURNAL OF RISK AND FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jrfm14120568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The novel COVID-19 pandemic spread quickly and continuously influenced global societies. As a vulnerable population that accounted for the highest percentage of deaths from the pandemic, older adults have experienced huge life-altering challenges and increased risks of mental problems during the pandemic. Empirical evidence is needed to develop effective strategies to promote preventive measures and mitigate the adverse psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to investigate the behavioral responses (i.e., preventive behaviors, physical activity, fruit and vegetable consumption) and mental responses (i.e., depression and loneliness) towards the COVID-19 pandemic among Chinese older adults. A further aim was to identify the associations among demographics, behavioral responses, and mental responses. Using a convenience sampling approach, 516 older adults were randomly recruited from five cities of Hubei province in China. Results of the cross-sectional survey showed that 11.7% of participants did not adhere to the WHO recommended preventive measures, while 37.6% and 8.3% of participants decreased physical activity and fruit–vegetable consumption respectively. For mental responses, 30.8% and 69.2% of participants indicated significantly depressive symptoms and severe loneliness, respectively. Participants’ behavioral and mental responses differed significantly in several demographics, such as age group, living situation, marital status, education levels, household income, medical conditions, and perceived health status. Demographic correlates and behavioral responses could significantly predicate the mental response with small-to-moderate effect sizes. This is the first study to investigate the characteristics of behavioral and mental responses of Chinese older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research findings may give new insights into future developments of effective interventions and policies to promote health among older adults in the fight against the pandemic.
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Pagé MG, Dassieu L, Develay É, Roy M, Vachon-Presseau É, Lupien S, Rainville P. Stress and Pain Before, During and After the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Exploratory Longitudinal Mixed Methods Study. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:725893. [PMID: 35295411 PMCID: PMC8915720 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.725893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: This study explores the association between subjective feeling of stress and pain experience in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic with a focus on characteristics known to trigger a physiological stress response [sense of low control, threat to ego, unpredictability and novelty (STUN)].Methods: This exploratory longitudinal convergent mixed methods design consisted of online questionnaires over three time points (before, during and after the 1st wave of the COVID-19 pandemic) (N = 49) and qualitative interviews (N = 27) during the 1st wave of the pandemic on distinct samples of individuals living with chronic pain (CP). Both types of data sources were mixed upon integration using joint display.Results: Mean pain intensity scores remained stable across time points, while pain unpleasantness and pain interference scores significantly improved. Global impression of change scores measured during the first wave of the pandemic do not entirely concord with pain scores evolution. Two thirds of participants reported a global deterioration of their pain condition at the beginning of the pandemic. Stress and pain catastrophizing before the pandemic were associated with pain scores throughout the pandemic; while most specific measures of stress due to the novel, uncontrollable, unpredictable and threatening nature of the pandemic were not. Qualitative data demonstrated that the deterioration reported in pain status reflected additional dimensions, including spatial expansion of the painful area, reduced access to treatments and challenges in adapting pain management strategies.Conclusions: Helping individuals to negotiate stressful aspects of the pandemic might help offset the negative impacts of stress on pain status in this context or other important life events.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Gabrielle Pagé
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Arts and Science, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: M. Gabrielle Pagé
| | - Lise Dassieu
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Élise Develay
- Research Center of the Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mathieu Roy
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Science, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Étienne Vachon-Presseau
- Alan Edwards Centre for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Sonia Lupien
- Centre for Studies on Human Stress, Montreal Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Pierre Rainville
- Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, CIUSSS Centre-sud-de l'île de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Stomatology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Greenglass E, Chiacchia D, Fiskenbaum L. Investigating COVID-19 stress and coping: Substance use and behavioural disengagement. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 57:325-335. [PMID: 34792195 PMCID: PMC8653265 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this online empirical study was to examine the relationship between COVID‐19 stress, coping including substance use and behavioural disengagement, and avoidance behaviour early on in the COVID‐19 pandemic. Participants, recruited from Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk, N = 730), were adults from Canada, the United States, Italy, Germany and the United Kingdom. Results of path analysis showed that feeling threatened by the virus, predicted greater COVID‐19 anxiety, which was related to greater substance use to cope with the virus, as well as more behavioural disengagement, which predicted less avoidance behaviour. Implications of the results are discussed, particularly the relationship between coping and avoidance behaviour during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lisa Fiskenbaum
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Psychological distress during the COVID-19 epidemic in Chile: The role of economic uncertainty. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251683. [PMID: 34731175 PMCID: PMC8565721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has shown that the COVID-19 outbreak, social distancing, and lockdown can affect people’s psychological well-being. The aims of this study were (1) to estimate the extent to which perceptions and expectations regarding the social, economic, and domestic effects of the COVID-19 outbreak are associated with psychological distress and (2) to identify some demographic, psychosocial, and economic factors associated with increased vulnerability to psychological distress during the COVID-19 outbreak in Chile. 1078 people participated in a telephone survey between May 30 and June 10, 2020. The sample is representative of the Chilean adult population. Psychological distress was assessed through a questionnaire of anxious and depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-4). We analyzed the data set using ordinary least-squares regression models, first estimating models for the entire sample, and then stratifying the sample into different groups to explore differences by gender and age. 19.2% of participants displayed significant psychological distress (PHQ-4 ≥ 6), with moderate to severe anxiety-depression symptoms being more prevalent in women than in men (23.9% vs 14.1%, χ2 16.78, p<0.001). The results of this study suggest that being a woman, feeling lonely and isolated, living in the areas hit hardest by the pandemic and lockdown, expecting a lack of income due to having to stop working as a consequence of the pandemic, and having a history of diagnosed mental disorders are significantly associated with psychological distress (p<0.05). The results of this study highlight the need to implement psychosocial programs to guard people’s psychological well-being and social policies to address economic uncertainty during the current COVID-19 outbreak in Chile.
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Kulcar V, Straganz C, Kreh A, Siller H, File N, Canazei M, Bork-Hüffer T, Juen B. University students' adherence and vaccination attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic: Focusing on costs and benefits. Appl Psychol Health Well Being 2021; 14:572-590. [PMID: 34734472 PMCID: PMC9297983 DOI: 10.1111/aphw.12320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Numerous measures were implemented to contain the COVID‐19 pandemic. Adhering to these measures as well as getting vaccinated is associated with subjective costs and benefits. Since young people like university students largely feel less vulnerable to the virus, other costs and benefits than health might be more decisive for them. This article combines the results of a qualitative and a quantitative longitudinal study conducted with university students mainly living in Tyrol, Austria. The studies focused on the second wave of infections of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Health concerns, altruistic concerns, worrying about the economic consequences of the measures and reactance played an important role for students in deciding what measures to follow and their vaccination attitudes. The effects were partially mediated by understanding the measures' necessity. Qualitative results enabled further insights into thought processes during these decisions and revealed additional aspects, such as concerns about mental health consequences. This research suggests that students make their decisions about adherence and vaccinations based on a variety of aspects that they weigh against each other. Understanding the individual assessments of costs and benefits is crucial to promote both adherence to the measures against the COVID‐19 pandemic and vaccination readiness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Kulcar
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Alexander Kreh
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heidi Siller
- Gender Medicine and Diversity Unit, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Norbert File
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Markus Canazei
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Tabea Bork-Hüffer
- Department of Geography, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Barbara Juen
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Gabriele-Rivet V, Spence KL, Ogden NH, Fazil A, Turgeon P, Otten A, Waddell LA, Ng V. Modelling the impact of age-stratified public health measures on SARS-CoV-2 transmission in Canada. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:210834. [PMID: 34737875 PMCID: PMC8562391 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Public health measures applied exclusively within vulnerable populations have been suggested as an alternative to community-wide interventions to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission. With the population demography and healthcare capacity of Canada as an example, a stochastic age-stratified agent-based model was used to explore the progression of the COVID-19 epidemic under three intervention scenarios (infection-preventing vaccination, illness-preventing vaccination and shielding) in individuals above three age thresholds (greater than or equal to 45, 55 and 65 years) while lifting shutdowns and physical distancing in the community. Compared with a scenario with sustained community-wide measures, all age-stratified intervention scenarios resulted in a substantial epidemic resurgence, with hospital and ICU bed usage exceeding healthcare capacities even at the lowest age threshold. Individuals under the age threshold were severely impacted by the implementation of all age-stratified interventions, with large numbers of avoidable deaths. Among all explored scenarios, shielding older individuals led to the most detrimental outcomes (hospitalizations, ICU admissions and mortality) for all ages, including the targeted population. This study suggests that, in the absence of community-wide measures, implementing interventions exclusively within vulnerable age groups could result in unmanageable levels of infections, with serious outcomes within the population. Caution is therefore warranted regarding early relaxation of community-wide restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Gabriele-Rivet
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Kelsey L. Spence
- Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nicholas H. Ogden
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Aamir Fazil
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Patricia Turgeon
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Ainsley Otten
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Lisa A. Waddell
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
| | - Victoria Ng
- Public Health Risk Sciences Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Branch, Public Health Agency of Canada, Guelph, Ontario and St-Hyacinthe, Québec, Canada
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Ongaro G, Cincidda C, Sebri V, Savioni L, Triberti S, Ferrucci R, Poletti B, Dell’Osso B, Pravettoni G. A 6-Month Follow-Up Study on Worry and Its Impact on Well-Being During the First Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic in an Italian Sample. Front Psychol 2021; 12:703214. [PMID: 34721150 PMCID: PMC8549434 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.703214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The Italian state adopted serious safety measures to manage the COVID-19 pandemic in the year 2020. The lockdown was associated with negative psychological consequences in healthy populations, mostly in terms of anxiety, distress, depression, and even traumatic symptoms. This longitudinal study aimed at briefly documenting the psychological impact among an Italian sample, in terms of worry and its impact on psychological well-being levels, of the first wave of COVID-19, taking into account the changes in the lockdown scenario. A three-time follow-up survey was administered to 177 subjects (Female: 78%, M age = 36.33), during (T0), at the end (T1), and 3 months after the end of the first lockdown (T2). Since the first wave of COVID-19, results showed a decrease in worry and the perception of virus diffusion's controllability over time while psychological well-being increased. Furthermore, factors such as personality traits (neuroticism and agreeableness) and dysfunctional coping strategies predicted increases in worry levels at the end of the lockdown and 3 months after in the Italian context. However, worry levels during and at the end of the lockdown did not predict well-being levels 3 months after the end of the lockdown. Based on these findings, mental health policymakers should design tailored interventions able to improve the perception of virus diffusion management, as well as address the psychological needs of Italian citizens and support it, including a plan for the follow-up evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Ongaro
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Clizia Cincidda
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Valeria Sebri
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Savioni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Triberti
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Ferrucci
- Aldo Ravelli Center for Neurotechnology and Experimental Brain Therapeutics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Neurology Clinic III, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Ca’ Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Barbara Poletti
- Department of Neurology and Laboratory of Neuroscience, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Milan, Italy
| | - Bernardo Dell’Osso
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Department of Mental Health, University of Milan, ASST Fatebenefratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
- CRC Aldo Ravelli, Milan, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States
| | - Gabriella Pravettoni
- Applied Research Division for Cognitive and Psychological Science, IEO, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Midões C, Seré M. Living with Reduced Income: An Analysis of Household Financial Vulnerability Under COVID-19. SOCIAL INDICATORS RESEARCH 2021; 161:125-149. [PMID: 34642535 PMCID: PMC8500469 DOI: 10.1007/s11205-021-02811-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis has led to substantial reductions in earnings. We propose a new measure of financial vulnerability, computable through survey data, to determine whether households can withstand a certain income shock for a defined period of time. Using data from the ECB Household Finance and Consumption Survey (HFCS) we analyse financial vulnerability in seven EU countries. We find that, out of the 243 million individuals considered, 47 million are vulnerable to a three month long income shock (the average length of the first wave COVID-19 lockdown), i.e., they cannot afford food and housing expenses for three months without privately earned income. Differences across countries are stark. Individuals born outside the EU are especially likely to be vulnerable. Being younger, a single parent, and a woman are also statistically significant risk factors. Through a tax-benefit microsimulation exercise, we look into the COVID-19 employment protection benefits, the largest income support measure in the countries considered. Considering as our sample individuals in households where someone receives a salary, we derive household net income when employees are laid-off and awarded the COVID-19 employment protection benefits enacted. Our findings suggest that the employment protection schemes are extremely effective in reducing the number of vulnerable individuals. The relative importance of rent and mortgage suspensions, (likewise, widespread COVID-19 policies), in alleviating vulnerability, is highly country dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Midões
- Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, Venice, Italy
- Bruegel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mateo Seré
- University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
- Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
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Lansiaux E, Tchagaspanian N, Arnaud J, Durand P, Changizi M, Forget J. Side-Effects of Public Health Policies Against Covid-19: The Story of an Over-Reaction. Front Public Health 2021; 9:696818. [PMID: 34589461 PMCID: PMC8473612 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.696818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juliette Arnaud
- Global Variations, Genève, Switzerland.,Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Joachim Forget
- Global Variations, Genève, Switzerland.,Assemblée Nationale, Paris, France
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Santana CLA, Manfrinato CV, Souza PRP, Marino A, Condé VF, Stedefeldt E, Tomita LY, do Carmo Franco M. Psychological distress, low-income, and socio-economic vulnerability in the COVID-19 pandemic. Public Health 2021; 199:42-45. [PMID: 34537575 PMCID: PMC8390360 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2021.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Although literature broadly reports the impact of COVID-19 on global mental health, little is known about the extent of its deleterious impact on the most vulnerable individuals. The present study aimed to evaluate the level of psychological distress of adult's residents of two urban shantytown communities located in São Paulo city, Brazil. STUDY DESIGN This was a cross-sectional study. METHODS An online questionnaire was divided into four sections: (1) informed consent, (2) socio-economic data, (3) 12-item general health questionnaire, and (4) Brazilian food insecurity scale was applied. RESULTS Of the 495 family headship (448 females and 47 males), the mean age was 36.1 years, 85% have an indication of psychological distress, 61.4% had a monthly income less than or equal to $70, and the incidence of households experiencing moderate or severe food insecurity was 40%. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that respondents who experienced moderate or severe food insecurity (odds ratio [OR] = 2.701, confidence interval [CI] 95% = 1.265-5.769; P = 0.010) and lower monthly income (OR = 2.031, CI 95% = 1.056-3.908; P = 0.034) had a higher risk of psychological distress. On the other hand, having an employment is a protective factor against the stressful situations caused by COVID-19 pandemic (P = 0.029). CONCLUSION The present study identified low-income younger women residents of urban slums who suffer from food insecurity as high-risk groups to have psychological distress. Our findings are of particular importance because they showed the intersection of vulnerabilities during the COVID-19 outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L A Santana
- Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C V Manfrinato
- Preventive Medicine Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - P R P Souza
- Division of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A Marino
- Federal University of ABC, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - V F Condé
- Paulista School of Nursing, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E Stedefeldt
- Preventive Medicine Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - L Y Tomita
- Preventive Medicine Department, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M do Carmo Franco
- Division of Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Institute of Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Diaz Hernandez L, Giezendanner S, Fischer R, Zeller A. The effect of COVID-19 on mental well-being in Switzerland: a cross-sectional survey of the adult Swiss general population. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:181. [PMID: 34507540 PMCID: PMC8432273 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01532-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic to physical health, mental health is challenged by the emotional response to the situation and the official measures taken to stop the pandemic. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of impaired mental well-being due to COVID-19 and explore associated factors. METHODS The study was an observational, population-based, nationwide, cross-sectional online survey of a representative sample of the general Swiss population performed between March and April 2020. Participants reported on mental well-being, self-isolation/quarantine, their risk for developing severe COVID-19, and their work situation. Multivariable logistic regression analyses assessed risk factors for impaired mental well-being due to the pandemic. RESULTS Data from 1022 individuals were analysed. The median age was 44 years (range 18 to 78) and 49% were women. A third of respondents reported that the COVID-19 pandemic impaired their mental well-being and almost half reported specific mental health concerns. Impaired mental well-being was associated with having health problems (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.29-2.74, vs no problems), being or living with someone at risk for severe COVID-19 (OR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1-1.9,), smoking (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.24-2.61), living in urban residential environments (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.13-2.32, vs rural), not being able to work due to closed workplace (OR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.04-2.67), aged between 18 and 29 years old (OR = 1.99, 95% CI: 1.32-3.01, vs 45 to 59 years old), and living in a single household (living with someone, OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44-0.97,vs single household). Overall, the most significant covariates of impaired mental well-being were specific mental health concerns: feeling depressed (OR = 7.21, 95% CI: 4.5-11.55), feeling less pleasure in doing things than before (OR = 6.28, 95% CI: 4.1-9.62), feeling anxious (OR = 6.13, 95% CI: 3.91-9.59) and feeling lonely (OR = 4.08, 95% CI: 2.53-6.58). CONCLUSION Impaired mental well-being can carry long-term consequences. We encourage policymakers to implement strategies to promote mental health during this pandemic situation. Special attention should be addressed to the youngest, those at risk for severe COVID-19 and those with government-imposed work restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Diaz Hernandez
- Centre for Primary Health Care, University of Basel, Kantonsspital Baselland, Rheinstrasse 26, 4410, Liestal, Switzerland.
| | - Stéphanie Giezendanner
- Centre for Primary Health Care, University of Basel, Kantonsspital Baselland, Rheinstrasse 26, 4410, Liestal, Switzerland
| | - Roland Fischer
- Centre for Primary Health Care, University of Basel, Kantonsspital Baselland, Rheinstrasse 26, 4410, Liestal, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Zeller
- Centre for Primary Health Care, University of Basel, Kantonsspital Baselland, Rheinstrasse 26, 4410, Liestal, Switzerland
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Şentürk E, Sağaltıcı E, Geniş B, Günday Toker Ö. Predictors of depression, anxiety and stress among remote workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Work 2021; 70:41-51. [PMID: 34487006 DOI: 10.3233/wor-210082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has had a massive impact on work and home life, changing all daily routines of remote workers. It is extremely important to figure out some changes in home and work life that may affect the mental health of remote workers more. OBJECTIVES The first aim of the study was to investigate the predictors of depression, anxiety, and stress among first-time remote workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second aim was to explore sex differences regarding work and home life during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS The sample consisted of 459 participants who have been working from home for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey used included questions relating to sociodemographic characteristics, changes in work and home life, Depression Anxiety Stress Questionnaire-Short Form, Jenkins Sleep Scale, and Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. RESULTS The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 17.9%, 19.6%, and 19.6% of the participants, respectively. Poor sleep quality, trouble focusing at work, being female, workplace loneliness, low levels of control over working hours, and low levels of physical activity were predictors of depression. Poor sleep quality, increased workload, and being female were predictors of anxiety. Poor sleep quality, trouble focusing at work, being female, financial concern, and workplace loneliness were predictors of stress. It was observed a higher increase in both housework and working hours during the COVID-19 pandemic in women. CONCLUSION Determining the variables that can affect the mental health of remote workers is highly important for timely psychological intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erman Şentürk
- Department of Psychiatry, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Eser Sağaltıcı
- Department of Psychiatry, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bahadır Geniş
- Department of Psychiatry, Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Ömür Günday Toker
- Department of Psychiatry, Bagcilar Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
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Brodeur A, Gray D, Islam A, Bhuiyan S. A literature review of the economics of COVID-19. JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC SURVEYS 2021; 35:1007-1044. [PMID: 34230772 PMCID: PMC8250825 DOI: 10.1111/joes.12423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this piece is to survey the developing and rapidly growing literature on the economic consequences of COVID-19 and the governmental responses, and to synthetize the insights emerging from a very large number of studies. This survey: (i) provides an overview of the data sets and the techniques employed to measure social distancing and COVID-19 cases and deaths; (ii) reviews the literature on the determinants of compliance with and the effectiveness of social distancing; (iii) mentions the macroeconomic and financial impacts including the modelling of plausible mechanisms; (iv) summarizes the literature on the socioeconomic consequences of COVID-19, focusing on those aspects related to labor, health, gender, discrimination, and the environment; and (v) summarizes the literature on public policy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Brodeur
- Department of EconomicsUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - David Gray
- Department of EconomicsUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Anik Islam
- Department of EconomicsUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
| | - Suraiya Bhuiyan
- Department of EconomicsUniversity of OttawaOttawaOntarioCanada
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Marinaci T, Venuleo C, Gennaro A, Sammut G. Making sense of the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative longitudinal study investigating the first and second wave in Italy. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07891. [PMID: 34493989 PMCID: PMC8413190 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic further highlighted the crucial role of people's compliance for the success of measures designed to protect public health. Within the frame of Semiotic Cultural Psycho-social Theory, we discuss how the analysis of people's ways of making sense of the crisis scenario can help to identify the resources or constraints underlying the ways the citizens evaluate and comply with the anti-covid measures. This study aimed to examine how Italian adults interpreted what was happening in the first wave of the pandemic and how the interpretation varied in the period up to the beginning of the second wave. Diaries were collected for six months, from 11 April to 3 November 2020. Participants were periodically asked to talk about their life 'in the last few weeks'. A total number of 606 diaries were collected. The Automated Method for Content Analysis (ACASM) procedure was applied to the texts to detect the factorial dimensions - interpreted as the markers of latent dimensions of meanings- underpinning (dis)similarities in the respondents' discourses. ANOVA were applied to examine the dissimilarities in the association between factorial dimensions and production time. Findings show that significant transitions occurred over time in the main dimensions of meaning identified. Whereas the first phase was characterized by a focus on one's own daily life and the attempt to make sense of the changes occurring in the personal sphere, in the following phases the socio-economic impact of the crisis was brought to the fore, along with the hope to returning to the "normality" of the pre-rupture scenario. We argued that, despite the differences, a low sense of the interweaving between the personal and public sphere emerged in the accounts of the pandemic crisis throughout the sixth months considered; a split that, we speculate, can explain the "free for all" movement that occurred at the end of the first wave and the beginning of the second wave.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Marinaci
- Laboratory of Applied Psychology and Intervention, Department of History, Society and Human Studies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Claudia Venuleo
- Laboratory of Applied Psychology and Intervention, Department of History, Society and Human Studies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gennaro
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Gordon Sammut
- Department of Psychology, University of Malta, Malta
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