1
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O'Connor DB, Wilding S, Ferguson E, Cleare S, Wetherall K, McClelland H, Melson AJ, Niedzwiedz C, O'Carroll RE, Platt S, Scowcroft E, Watson B, Zortea T, Robb KA, O'Connor RC. Effects of COVID-19-related worry and rumination on mental health and loneliness during the pandemic: longitudinal analyses of adults in the UK COVID-19 mental health & wellbeing study. J Ment Health 2023; 32:1122-1133. [PMID: 35579054 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2069716] [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: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lasting effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic are likely to be significant. AIMS This study tracked worry and rumination levels during the pandemic and investigated whether periods with higher COVID-related worry and rumination were associated with more negative mental health and loneliness. METHODS A quota survey design and a sampling frame that permitted recruitment of a national sample were employed. Findings for waves 1 (March 2020) to 6 (November 2020) are reported (N = 1943). RESULTS Covid-related worry and rumination levels were highest at the beginning of the first lockdown, then declined but increased when the UK returned to lockdown. Worry levels were higher than rumination levels throughout. High levels of COVID-related worry and rumination were associated with a five- and ten-fold increase in clinically meaningful rates of depression and anxiety (respectively) together with lower well-being and higher loneliness. The effects of COVID-related worry on depression and anxiety levels were most marked and clinically meaningful in individuals living with a pre-existing mental health condition. CONCLUSIONS Psychological interventions should include components that specifically target COVID-related worry and rumination. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions should be prioritised as we emerge from the current pandemic and in any future public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Wilding
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, England
| | | | - Seonaid Cleare
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Karen Wetherall
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Heather McClelland
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Ambrose J Melson
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Claire Niedzwiedz
- Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | | | - Steve Platt
- Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | | | - Billy Watson
- Scottish Association for Mental Health, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Tiago Zortea
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Kathryn A Robb
- Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
| | - Rory C O'Connor
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland
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2
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Parlak Sert H, Başkale H. Students' increased time spent on social media, and their level of coronavirus anxiety during the pandemic, predict increased social media addiction. Health Info Libr J 2023; 40:262-274. [PMID: 35797092 PMCID: PMC9350299 DOI: 10.1111/hir.12448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic period, the level of anxiety and the duration of social media use increased in university students. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine the relationship between coronavirus anxiety and social media addiction in university students. METHODS The sample consisted of 346 university students in Turkey. The data were collected online using the Sociodemographic Data Form, the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale Short Form and the Social Network Addiction Scale. The data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance, Mann-Whitney U test, Pearson correlation analysis, chi-square analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS The results showed that the mean coronavirus anxiety score was higher in men than in women. Social media addiction increased as the daily time spent by the students on social media increased. A positive correlation was found between the daily time spent on social media before the pandemic and social media usage during the pandemic. It was concluded that students use social media more during the pandemic than before it and that social media addiction increases as the students' coronavirus anxiety increases. CONCLUSION It is important to plan initiatives to reduce coronavirus anxiety to prevent social media addiction in young people. STUDY LOCATION AND SAMPLE The research population consisted of 1st and 2nd year students who are studying in the Medical Services and Techniques Department of Vocational School of Health Services at a university located in the west of Turkey, during the Fall Term of academic year 2020-2021. Students in this department are studying in anaesthesia, dialysis, first and emergency aid, medical laboratory techniques, medical imaging technique, and medical documentation and secretarial programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilal Parlak Sert
- Denizli Healthcare Vocational SchoolPamukkale UniversityDenizliTurkey
| | - Hatice Başkale
- Faculty of Health SciencesPamukkale UniversityDenizliTurkey
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3
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Miyazaki A, Deguchi NK, Omiya T. Difficulties and distress experienced by Japanese public health nurses specializing in quarantine services when dealing with COVID-19: A qualitative study in peri-urban municipality. AIMS Public Health 2023; 10:235-251. [PMID: 37304587 PMCID: PMC10251047 DOI: 10.3934/publichealth.2023018] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Public health nurses (PHNs) are among the few municipal civil servants who lead community infection control and prevention initiatives in Japanese public health centers (PHCs). This study aims to investigate the distress faced by PHNs and clarify their difficulties and working environment relative to infection prevention control activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. We adopted a qualitative description methodology in this study of 12 PHNs who were involved in COVID-19 prevention and control in PHCs in Prefecture A. The distress during the early phase of the pandemic was due to the uncertainty of the SARS-CoV-2 related disease, which caused panic in medical institutions and among residents. PHNs were overwhelmed, distressed and exhausted by their inability to control the 'pandemic', lack of patient cooperation for prevention control and the unsustainable organizational environment. They were also distressed because they were one of the specialized personnel responsible for saving residents' lives with limited medical resources and while having identity crises due to an inability to carry out the PHN's role of controlling infection in the community. For future crises, rapid, drastic innovation defying conventional organizational systems is critical to reform sustainable organizations so that they play an effective role in the community. Innovation in crisis communication and strengthening the medical system will help achieve a resilient community in a health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akari Miyazaki
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Program in Nursing Science, University of Tsukuba, 1–1–1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305–8575, Japan
| | - Naoko Kumada Deguchi
- Faculty of Education, Shizuoka University, 836 Ohya, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka-shi, Shizuoka, 422–8529, Japan
| | - Tomoko Omiya
- Faculty of Medicine, Division on Health Innovation and Nursing, Department of Public Health Nursing, University of Tsukuba, 1–1–1 Tennodai, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki, 305–8575, Japan
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4
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Leclère M, Hysenaj A, Meha R, Tahirbegolli B, Schwarz P, Steenblock C, Prekazi L, Isufi A, Shemsedini N. The Impact of Information About COVID-19 on the Endocrine Stress System and Cognitive Distortions. Horm Metab Res 2023; 55:89-95. [PMID: 36669522 PMCID: PMC9886441 DOI: 10.1055/a-1997-0550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is one of the major health concerns worldwide affecting not only human physical health but also contributing to the development of many mental disorders including impairment of the cognitive function. It is highly conceivable that elevation of the stress hormones, i.e., glucocorticoids and catecholamines, due to the infection, as well as the presence of psychosocial stressors, such as COVID-19 information, play a critical role in the development of these disorders. In the present study, the potential impact of exposure to COVID-19 information on the cognitive distortion and stress levels was analyzed in a population of 32 first-year medical sciences students using the stress assessment questionnaire (SAQ) and the posttraumatic cognitions inventory (PTCI) surveys. Both surveys demonstrated no acute change in the stress and post-traumatic cognition levels between medical sciences students who were either exposed or not to information about COVID-19. Interestingly, analysis of the stress and cognition points across the first and second measurements of the SAQ categories revealed a significant change in the control group but not in the experimental group. In addition, there was no significant difference among groups when considering the time*group factor. To conclude, we found that exposure to information about COVID-19 did not contribute acutely to cognitive distortion and stress levels among participating students. The previous exposure to COVID-19-related information from media and living during the COVID-19 pandemic era might have enhanced the awareness of the students to the situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariel Leclère
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
| | - Arben Hysenaj
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
| | - Rina Meha
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
| | | | - Peter Schwarz
- Department of Medicine III, Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav
Carus, Germany
| | - Charlotte Steenblock
- Department of Medicine III, Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav
Carus, Germany
| | - Lulejete Prekazi
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
| | - Albane Isufi
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
| | - Nevzat Shemsedini
- Psychology of Assessment and Intervention, College Heimerer, Pristina,
Kosovo
- Correspondence Mr. Nevzat
Shemsedini College
HeimererPsychology of Assessment and
InterventionCalabria Str. C and D
entry10000
PristinaAlbania0038345964677
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5
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Kumar S, Sharma B, Singh V. A multiscale modeling framework to study the interdependence of brain, behavior, and pandemic. NONLINEAR DYNAMICS 2023; 111:7729-7749. [PMID: 36710874 PMCID: PMC9857926 DOI: 10.1007/s11071-022-08204-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A major constraint of the behavioral epidemiological models is the assumption that human behavior is static; however, it is highly dynamic, especially in uncertain circumstances during a pandemic. To incorporate the dynamicity of human nature in the existing epidemiological models, we propose a population-wide multi-time-scale theoretical framework that assimilates neuronal plasticity as the basis of altering human emotions and behavior. For that, variable connection weights between different brain regions and their firing frequencies are coupled with a compartmental susceptible-infected-recovered model to incorporate the intrinsic dynamicity in the contact transmission rate ( β ). As an illustration, a model of fear conditioning in conjunction with awareness campaigns is developed and simulated. Results indicate that in the presence of fear conditioning, there exists an optimum duration of daily broadcast time during which awareness campaigns are most effective in mitigating the pandemic. Further, global sensitivity analysis using the Morris method highlighted that the learning rate and firing frequency of the unconditioned circuit are crucial regulators in modulating the emergent pandemic waves. The present study makes a case for incorporating neuronal dynamics as a basis of behavioral immune response and has further implications in designing awareness campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spandan Kumar
- School of Social Sciences, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, 110068 India
- National Institute of Public Cooperation and Child Development, New Delhi, 110016 India
| | - Bhanu Sharma
- Department of Biophysics, South Campus, University of Delhi, New Delhi, 110021 India
| | - Vikram Singh
- Centre for Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh 176215 India
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6
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Wilding S, O'Connor DB, Ferguson E, Wetherall K, Cleare S, O'Carroll RE, Robb KA, O'Connor RC. Information seeking, mental health and loneliness: Longitudinal analyses of adults in the UK COVID-19 mental health and wellbeing study. Psychiatry Res 2022; 317:114876. [PMID: 36215778 PMCID: PMC9526871 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Information seeking has generally been seen as an adaptive response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it may also result in negative outcomes on mental health. The present study tests whether reporting COVID-related information seeking throughout the pandemic is associated with subsequently poorer mental health outcomes. A quota-based, non-probability-sampling methodology was used to recruit a nationally representative sample. COVID-related information seeking was assessed at six waves along with symptoms of depression, anxiety, mental wellbeing and loneliness (N = 1945). Hierarchical linear modelling was used to assess the relationship between COVID-related information seeking and mental health outcomes. Information seeking was found to reduce over time. Overall, women, older and higher socioeconomic group individuals reported higher levels of information seeking. At waves 1-4 (March-June 2020) the majority of participants reported that they sought information on Covid 1-5 times per day, this decreased to less than once per day in waves 5 and 6 (July-November 2020). Higher levels of information seeking were associated with poorer mental health outcomes, particularly clinically significant levels of anxiety. Use of a non-probability sampling method may have been a study limitation, nevertheless, reducing or managing information seeking behaviour may be one method to reduce anxiety during pandemics and other public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Wilding
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Daryl B. O'Connor
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom,Corresponding author
| | - Eamonn Ferguson
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Wetherall
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Seonaid Cleare
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ronan E. O'Carroll
- Division of Psychology, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn A. Robb
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Rory C. O'Connor
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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7
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He J, Ding Y, Wong FY, He N. Health-care access and utilization among HIV-infected men who have sex with men in two Chinese municipalities with or without lockdown amidst early COVID-19 pandemic. AIDS Care 2022; 34:1390-1399. [PMID: 35179422 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2022.2041163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
City lockdown is critical to successfully contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of lockdown and COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare among vulnerable population has yet to be explicated. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) in Wuhan with city lockdown and Shanghai without lockdown, and healthcare interruptions were evaluated and compared. A logistic regression analysis was employed to examine associates of HIV-related healthcare interruptions and compromised mental health. Compared to participants in Shanghai (N = 440), HIV-infected MSM in Wuhan (N = 503) had significantly higher proportion of untimely availability of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) (20.6% vs. 8.4%), obtaining ARVs from outside institutions (29.1% vs. 8.1%), postponed non-AIDS treatment (6.4% vs. 2.8%) and untimely follow-up appointments (33.4% vs. 14.5%). HIV-related healthcare interruptions were positively associated with lockdown (OR = 4.89, 95% CI: 3.49-6.85) and non-local residence (OR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.37-2.64). Compromised mental health, including insomnia and generalized anxiety disorders, was associated with non-local residence (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.01-1.81) and healthcare interruptions (OR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.01-1.79). HIV-infected MSM are vulnerable to healthcare interruptions and mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the need for tailored intervention strategies to minimize deleterious health consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu He
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, and The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment of Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Ding
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, and The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Frank Y Wong
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, and The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Center for Population Sciences and Health Equity, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of Hawaìi at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Na He
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, and The Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment of Ministry of Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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8
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Price M, Legrand AC, Brier ZMF, van Stolk-Cooke K, Peck K, Dodds PS, Danforth CM, Adams ZW. Doomscrolling during COVID-19: The negative association between daily social and traditional media consumption and mental health symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA : THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE AND POLICY 2022; 14:1338-1346. [PMID: 35157484 PMCID: PMC10074257 DOI: 10.1037/tra0001202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Consumption of traditional and social media markedly increased at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic as new information about the virus and safety guidelines evolved. Much of the information concerned restrictions on daily living activities and the risk posed by the virus. The term doomscrolling is used to describe the phenomenon of elevated negative affect after viewing pandemic-related media. The magnitude and duration of this effect, however, is unclear. Furthermore, the effect of doomscrolling likely varies based on prior vulnerabilities for psychopathology, such as a history of childhood maltreatment. It was hypothesized that social and traditional media exposure were related to an increase in depression and PTSD and that this increase was moderated by childhood maltreatment severity. METHOD Participants completed a baseline assessment for psychopathology and 30 days of daily assessments of depression, PTSD, and pandemic-related media use. RESULTS Using multilevel modeling, social media exposure was associated with increased depression and PTSD. This association was stronger for those with more severe maltreatment histories. Furthermore, those with more severe baseline psychopathology used more social media during this period. These relations were not observed for traditional media sources. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that regular viewing of pandemic-related social media is associated with increases in psychopathology for those with existing vulnerabilities. Those with such vulnerabilities should adopt strategies to limit social media consumption. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Price
- Center for Research on Emotion, Stress, and Technology, Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Alison C. Legrand
- Center for Research on Emotion, Stress, and Technology, Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Zoe M. F. Brier
- Center for Research on Emotion, Stress, and Technology, Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Katherine van Stolk-Cooke
- Center for Research on Emotion, Stress, and Technology, Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Kelly Peck
- Vermont Center on Behavior and Health, Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Peter Sheridan Dodds
- Computational Story Lab, Vermont Complex Systems Center, MassMutual Center of Excellence for Complex Systems and Data Science, Vermont Advanced Computing Core, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
- Department of Computer Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Christopher M. Danforth
- Computational Story Lab, Vermont Complex Systems Center, MassMutual Center of Excellence for Complex Systems and Data Science, Vermont Advanced Computing Core, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
- Department of Mathematics & Statistics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05401
| | - Zachary W. Adams
- Adolescent Behavioral Health Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
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9
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Winters M, Biermann O, Bohlin G, Bergman M, Brounéus F, Zeebari Z, Nordenstedt H. Media use and trust during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from eight cross-sectional surveys in Sweden. Eur J Public Health 2022; 32:976-981. [PMID: 36223605 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckac145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While a lot has been written about Sweden's COVID-19 control strategy, less is known about Swedish residents' media use during the pandemic and trust in and perceived agreement among key stakeholders commenting in the media. METHODS Eight online, nationwide surveys were fielded between March and August 2020, during the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic in Sweden, with 8146 responses. Questions were asked on media usage, perceived tone of media, trust in key pandemic stakeholder groups commenting in the media (politicians, journalists, government officials, doctors/healthcare professionals and researchers) and perceived agreement among these key stakeholders about how the pandemic was handled in Sweden. RESULTS Using five or more information sources was associated with increased perceived alarmism in the media. Women and those with tertiary education were more likely to trust key pandemic actors. Trust in doctors/healthcare professionals and researchers remained high over the course of the study, trust in politicians and journalists was relatively low throughout the study period, with a slight increase in April 2020. Trust in key stakeholders was strongly associated with perceived agreement among the key stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that trust in stakeholders was strongly associated with perceived consistency of messages from those stakeholders. The inverse also holds: perceived conflicting messages among stakeholders was associated with low trust in them. Taken together, this could point to the importance of building trust before a crisis. Trust-building efforts could be targeted to men and those with lower educational attainment, as they had lower trust in key stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Winters
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olivia Biermann
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustav Bohlin
- Public & Science (V&A), Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | | | - Zangin Zeebari
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Economics, Finance and Statistics, Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Helena Nordenstedt
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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10
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Chen X, Liu Y, Yu G. Exploring factors that influence COVID-19 vaccination intention in China: Media use preference, knowledge level and risk perception. Front Psychol 2022; 13:954073. [PMID: 36172238 PMCID: PMC9511104 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.954073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccine is one of the most effective means to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic in many countries, but vaccine hesitancy has been always widespread among people due to individual differences in access to vaccine information. This research aims to empirically investigate the relationship between media use preference (video-based and text-based), knowledge level, risk perception and willingness to vaccinate among Chinese residents. A cross-sectional survey of a Chinese sample (N = 885) was carried out to explore factors that influence the COVID-19 vaccination intention of Chinese residents. The empirical results show that the knowledge level and risk perception of Chinese residents positively contribute to vaccination intention. People with video-usage preference have lower levels of knowledge about the COVID-19 vaccine than those with text-usage preference. People’s risk perception of the COVID-19 pandemic is not influenced by their media use preference or knowledge level, as COVID-19 is a global pandemic and a significant social risk. The current study yields health-related implications for the role of media use preference in vaccination intention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuejiao Chen
- Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience and Communication, School of Journalism and Communication, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuhan Liu
- Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience and Communication, School of Journalism and Communication, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoming Yu
- Lab of Cognitive Neuroscience and Communication, School of Journalism and Communication, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Media Convergence Production Technology and Systems, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Guoming Yu,
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11
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Garfin DR, Holman EA, Fischhoff B, Wong-Parodi G, Silver RC. Media exposure, risk perceptions, and fear: Americans' behavioral responses to the Ebola public health crisis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DISASTER RISK REDUCTION : IJDRR 2022; 77:103059. [PMID: 37275557 PMCID: PMC10237114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2022.103059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We examined media exposure, psychological fear and worry, perceptions of risk, and health protective behaviors surrounding the 2014 Ebola virus outbreak in a probability-based, representative, national sample of Americans (N = 3447). Structural equation models examined relationships between amount (hours/day) and content (e.g., graphic images of dead bodies) of media exposure and counts of self-reported health protective behaviors that participants performed or would perform if Ebola spread to their community. Ebola-related risk perceptions and fear and worry were potential mediators. Greater total hours and more graphic media exposure positively correlated with more fear and worry; greater total hours of media exposure also positively correlated with higher perceived risk. Higher risk perceptions were associated with more health protective behaviors performed and intended. Greater fear and worry were associated with more behaviors performed. Amount and content of media exposure exhibited indirect effects on behaviors performed; amount of media exposure had indirect effects on intentions. Media may help promote health protective behaviors during public health threats; the amount and content should be congruent with threat to minimize distress and maximize resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Rose Garfin
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - E. Alison Holman
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Baruch Fischhoff
- Department of Engineering and Public Policy and Institute for Politics and Strategy, Carnegie Mellon University, USA
| | - Gabrielle Wong-Parodi
- Department of Earth System Science and Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, USA
| | - Roxane Cohen Silver
- Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
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12
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Demkowicz O, Ashworth E, O’Neill A, Hanley T, Pert K. “Will My Young Adult Years be Spent Socially Distancing?”: A Qualitative Exploration of Adolescents’ Experiences During the COVID-19 UK Lockdown. JOURNAL OF ADOLESCENT RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/07435584221097132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
For older adolescents, the COVID-19 pandemic and UK restrictions arrived during a critical period in the transition to adulthood. Early research exploring impact of the pandemic paints a picture of worsened adolescent wellbeing and mental health. We explore the subjective experiences of 16- to 19-year-olds during the first UK lockdown, with an emphasis on wellbeing and coping, to complement quantitative evidence and inform strategies and provision for support. In May 2020, we invited UK-based 16- to 19-year-olds to share written accounts of their experiences of the initial UK lockdown for The TELL Study. A total of 109 participants engaged, submitting anonymous written accounts via an online survey portal. We used inductive reflexive thematic analysis to develop rich experiential themes. We constructed seven main themes: heightened emotionality; feelings of loss, change, and uncertainty; recognizing the value of self-care; efforts to think positively; opportunities for relief, growth, and development; the importance of togetherness; and frustration with government and media. Findings highlight the multifaceted nature of adolescents’ lockdown experiences, and offer insight into emotional impact and new concerns alongside the value placed on self-care and staying connected. We offer directions for supporting adolescents as pandemic consequences continue.
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13
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Sit RWS, Lai HHK, Dong D, Wang B, Wong MCS, Chung RYN, Wong SYS. Explaining the Psychosocial Effects of COVID-19 Among Older Hong Kong Chinese People-A Qualitative Analysis. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2022; 35:206-214. [PMID: 35245995 PMCID: PMC8899837 DOI: 10.1177/08919887221078563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social distancing and "stay-at-home" orders are essential to contain the coronavirus outbreak; however, there are growing concerns about physical and other mental distress in older people. Apart from quantitative data, their feelings, thoughts, and experience are essential to inform the implementation of patient-centered health care policy. AIM This study explained the psychosocial effects of COVID-19 on Hong Kong Chinese older people. DESIGN AND SETTING This was a qualitative study. Twenty-three participants aged between 63 and 86 were recruited in primary care through purposive sampling. METHOD Semi-structured in-depth telephone interviews were conducted to explore participants' experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Grounded theory was used to analyze the data. RESULTS Three themes, nine subthemes, and 24 quotes were identified. The 3 themes included the psychological response of fear, annoyance, and worrisome; social isolation leading to loneliness and physical exhaustion; and the coping strategies in adversity. Fear was the major emotional response, which was not entirely explained by the uncertainty of the disease, but also the embedded routines norms and values. Loneliness was aggravated by the depleted family and community support. Physical distancing had intensified ones physical demand on self-care, especially among those with comorbid illnesses. The use of digital tools and telecommunications maintained the social connection, but the overexposure had led to a vicious cycle of anxiety and distress. CONCLUSION Self-isolation has disproportionately affected older individuals whose only social contact is out of the home. Online technologies can be harnessed to provide social support networks and a sense of belonging, but its adaptive and positive uses should be encouraged. Interventions can also involve more frequent telephone contact with significant others, close family and friends, voluntary organizations, or health-care professionals, or community outreach teams. Enhancing the values of older people's in calamity through active engagement may also potentially reduce the detrimental effect of social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina W.-S. Sit
- Division of Family Medicine and
Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong,Regina W.-S. Sit, Division of Family
Medicine and Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty
of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 4/F, School of Public Health,
Prince of Wales Hospital, New Town, Hong Kong.
| | - Harmony Hoi Ki Lai
- Division of Family Medicine and
Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
| | - Dong Dong
- Division of Health System, Policy
and Management, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
| | - Bo Wang
- Division of Family Medicine and
Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
| | - Martin Chi-sang Wong
- Division of Family Medicine and
Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
| | - Roger Yat-Nork Chung
- Division of Health System, Policy
and Management, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
| | - Samuel Y.-S. Wong
- Division of Family Medicine and
Primary Health Care, Jockey Club School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine,
The
Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong
Kong
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14
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Gunasekeran D, Chew AMK, Chandrasekar E, Rajendram P, Kandarpa V, Rajendram M, Chia A, Smith H, Leong CK. The impact and applications of social media platforms for public health responses before and during COVID-19. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e33680. [PMID: 35129456 PMCID: PMC9004624 DOI: 10.2196/33680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Social media platforms have numerous potential benefits and drawbacks on public health, which have been described in the literature. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed our limited knowledge regarding the potential health impact of these platforms, which have been detrimental to public health responses in many regions. Objective This review aims to highlight a brief history of social media in health care and report its potential negative and positive public health impacts, which have been characterized in the literature. Methods We searched electronic bibliographic databases including PubMed, including Medline and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Xplore, from December 10, 2015, to December 10, 2020. We screened the title and abstracts and selected relevant reports for review of full text and reference lists. These were analyzed thematically and consolidated into applications of social media platforms for public health. Results The positive and negative impact of social media platforms on public health are catalogued on the basis of recent research in this report. These findings are discussed in the context of improving future public health responses and incorporating other emerging digital technology domains such as artificial intelligence. However, there is a need for more research with pragmatic methodology that evaluates the impact of specific digital interventions to inform future health policy. Conclusions Recent research has highlighted the potential negative impact of social media platforms on population health, as well as potentially useful applications for public health communication, monitoring, and predictions. More research is needed to objectively investigate measures to mitigate against its negative impact while harnessing effective applications for the benefit of public health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mallika Rajendram
- National University of Singapore (NUS), 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, SG
| | - Audrey Chia
- National University of Singapore (NUS), 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, SG
| | - Helen Smith
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine), Singapore, SG
| | - Choon Kit Leong
- National University of Singapore (NUS), 10 Medical Drive, Singapore, SG.,Mission Medical Clinic, Singapore, SG
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15
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Ghio D, Lawes-Wickwar S, Tang MY, Epton T, Howlett N, Jenkinson E, Stanescu S, Westbrook J, Kassianos AP, Watson D, Sutherland L, Stanulewicz N, Guest E, Scanlan D, Carr N, Chater A, Hotham S, Thorneloe R, Armitage CJ, Arden M, Hart J, Byrne-Davis L, Keyworth C. What influences people's responses to public health messages for managing risks and preventing infectious diseases? A rapid systematic review of the evidence and recommendations. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e048750. [PMID: 34764167 PMCID: PMC8587350 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-048750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual behaviour changes, such as hand hygiene and physical distancing, are required on a population scale to reduce transmission of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. However, little is known about effective methods of communicating risk reducing information, and how populations might respond. OBJECTIVE To synthesise evidence relating to what (1) characterises effective public health messages for managing risk and preventing infectious disease and (2) influences people's responses to messages. DESIGN A rapid systematic review was conducted. Protocol is published on Prospero CRD42020188704. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases were searched: Ovid Medline, Ovid PsycINFO and Healthevidence.org, and grey literature (PsyarXiv, OSF Preprints) up to May 2020. STUDY SELECTION All study designs that (1) evaluated public health messaging interventions targeted at adults and (2) concerned a communicable disease spread via primary route of transmission of respiratory and/or touch were included. Outcomes included preventative behaviours, perceptions/awareness and intentions. Non-English language papers were excluded. SYNTHESIS Due to high heterogeneity studies were synthesised narratively focusing on determinants of intentions in the absence of measured adherence/preventative behaviours. Themes were developed independently by two researchers and discussed within team to reach consensus. Recommendations were translated from narrative synthesis to provide evidence-based methods in providing effective messaging. RESULTS Sixty-eight eligible papers were identified. Characteristics of effective messaging include delivery by credible sources, community engagement, increasing awareness/knowledge, mapping to stage of epidemic/pandemic. To influence intent effectively, public health messages need to be acceptable, increase understanding/perceptions of health threat and perceived susceptibility. DISCUSSION There are four key recommendations: (1) engage communities in development of messaging, (2) address uncertainty immediately and with transparency, (3) focus on unifying messages from sources and (4) frame messages aimed at increasing understanding, social responsibility and personal control. Embedding principles of behavioural science into public health messaging is an important step towards more effective health-risk communication during epidemics/pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ghio
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Society, University of Salford, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sadie Lawes-Wickwar
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mei Yee Tang
- Behavioural Science Policy Research Unit, Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Tracy Epton
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Neil Howlett
- Department of Psychology, Sports, and Geography, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Elizabeth Jenkinson
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, University of West England, Bristol, UK
| | - Sabina Stanescu
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Angelos P Kassianos
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daniella Watson
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lisa Sutherland
- Behavioural Insight for Public Affairs, Ipsos Mori, Edinburgh & London, UK
| | - Natalia Stanulewicz
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Applied Social Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Ella Guest
- Centre for Appearance Research,Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Daniel Scanlan
- Department of Communication, Policy, and Research, Education Support, London, UK
| | - Natalie Carr
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Faculty of Health, Psychology, and Social Care, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Angel Chater
- Centre for Health, Wellbeing and Behaviour Change, University of Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Sarah Hotham
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Rachael Thorneloe
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied Psychology, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Christopher J Armitage
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; and NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Madelynne Arden
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied Psychology, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jo Hart
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lucie Byrne-Davis
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher Keyworth
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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16
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Tejamaya M, Widanarko B, Erwandi D, Putri AA, Sunarno SDAM, Wirawan IMA, Kurniawan B, Thamrin Y. Risk Perception of COVID-19 in Indonesia During the First Stage of the Pandemic. Front Public Health 2021; 9:731459. [PMID: 34746079 PMCID: PMC8566751 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.731459] [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: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Community perceptions of early-stage pandemics may have significant implications for subsequent disease control and management. Perceptions of COVID-19 among Indonesian citizens were assessed 2 months after the first reported case in the country. The study used an online survey tool, which was adapted from a standardized questionnaire for risk perception of an infectious disease outbreak. The questions of the survey involved respondents' perceived level of knowledge, preparedness, efficacy of control measures, newness, infectiousness, seriousness, motivating and hindering factors, and effectiveness of prevention methods, as well as questions that assessed actual level of knowledge of respondents such as causative agents, modes of transmission, number of total cases, and available control measures. A total of 1,043 respondents participated in this study. The main sources of information of respondents were social media (85.2%) and online news (82.2%). Nearly all respondents were aware that COVID-19 is a viral disease with saliva droplets (97.1%) and contaminated surfaces (86.5%) being its main modes of transmission. Participants showed a good level of knowledge pertaining to control measures, an adequate level of belief toward their efficacy, and a willingness to implement such measures. More than 95% of the respondents perceived COVID-19 to be either serious or very serious. However, the level of anxiety among respondents was moderate, suggesting the presence of risk tolerance in the community. Individual characteristics such as gender, educational background, and occupation were found to have a statistically significant relationship with risk perception and tolerance, but voluntary participation in control measures was high and similar. This indicates that the COVID-19 health campaign during early pandemic in Indonesia was a success. This research also revealed certain areas where health promotion, education, and awareness might be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mila Tejamaya
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok City, Indonesia
| | - Baiduri Widanarko
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok City, Indonesia
| | - Dadan Erwandi
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok City, Indonesia
| | - Amelia Anggarawati Putri
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok City, Indonesia
| | - Stevan D A M Sunarno
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia, Depok City, Indonesia
| | - I Made Ady Wirawan
- Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Udayana University, Denpasar City, Indonesia
| | - Bina Kurniawan
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Faculty of Public Health, Diponegoro University, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Yahya Thamrin
- Department of Occupational Safety and Health, Faculty of Public Health, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
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17
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Tronco Hernández YA, Parente F, Faghy MA, Roscoe CMP, Maratos FA. Influence of the COVID-19 Lockdown on the Physical and Psychosocial Well-being and Work Productivity of Remote Workers: Cross-sectional Correlational Study. JMIRX MED 2021; 2:e30708. [PMID: 34898665 PMCID: PMC8641476 DOI: 10.2196/30708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lockdowns imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the living and working habits of millions of people, with potentially important implications for their physical, mental, and social well-being. OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on remote workers who were not directly affected by COVID-19. METHODS This was a correlational cross-sectional study (with an additional qualitative component) of 184 remote workers surveyed during the first COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom. Standard measures of mental health (Kessler-6 Distress Scale), productivity (Brief Instrument to Assess Workers' Productivity During a Working Day), and physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire) were used, and respondents were further surveyed on changes to their dietary, exercise, smoking, drinking, and socialization habits to produce a well-being change index. RESULTS The results revealed associations between sedentary behavior and poorer mental health (τ b=0.14) and between poorer mental health and low work productivity (τ b=-0.39). However, both positive and negative lifestyle changes were reported; a self-reported increase in well-being (with respect to diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and socialization) since the start of the pandemic was associated with both better mental health (τ b=-0.14) and better work productivity (τ b=0.14). Of note, among respondents without a mental health diagnosis (137/184, 74.4%), we observed rates of moderate (76/137, 55.5%) and severe (17/137, 12.4%) psychological distress, which were markedly higher than those reported in large prepandemic studies; moreover, 70.1% (129/184) of our respondents reported more sedentary behavior, 41% (69/168) increased their alcohol consumption, and 38.6% (71/184) increased their overall food intake. However, 46% (75/163), 44.8% (39/87) and 51.8% (57/110) of respondents reported spending more time walking and engaging in more moderate and vigorous exercise, respectively. Qualitative analysis revealed many positive adaptations to lockdowns (eg, decreased commuting expenses, flexibility) but also a number of structural obstacles to remote working (eg, lack of support and high expectations from employers, childcare duties). CONCLUSIONS These findings may be of practical importance for policy makers and employers in a world in which work involves long-term remote or hybrid employment arrangements; strategies to promote more sustainable remote working are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabio Parente
- School of Psychology College of Health, Psychology and Social Care University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Mark A Faghy
- School of Human Sciences College of Science and Engineering University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Clare M P Roscoe
- School of Human Sciences College of Science and Engineering University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
| | - Frances A Maratos
- School of Psychology College of Health, Psychology and Social Care University of Derby Derby United Kingdom
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18
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Bliźniewska-Kowalska KM, Halaris A, Wang SC, Su KP, Maes M, Berk M, Gałecki P. A Review of the Global Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Public Mental Health, with a Comparison Between the USA, Australia, and Poland with Taiwan and Thailand. Med Sci Monit 2021; 27:e932220. [PMID: 33972496 PMCID: PMC8122850 DOI: 10.12659/msm.932220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus may have a negative impact not only on physical, but also on mental wellbeing. Despite the different approaches of countries to stop the spread of the virus and different infection rates, the dynamically developing pandemic has already affected the entire world. The consequences of the coronavirus for our mental health can be divided into those related to strategies for the prevention of infection, like isolation, quarantine, limitation of social contacts, and remote work, and those related to the direct impact of infection on our nervous system. This review aims to highlight the global effects of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on public mental health following social restrictions, to identify how infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may have direct neurophysiological effects and to compare the impact on public mental health between the USA, Australia, and Poland with Taiwan and Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelos Halaris
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Shao-Cheng Wang
- Department of Forensic and Addiction Psychiatry, Jianan Psychiatric Center, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Pin Su
- Mind-Body Interface Laboratory (MBI-Lab) and Department of Psychiatry, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan.,An-Nan Hospital, China Medical University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.,Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, The Department of Psychiatry, and The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Piotr Gałecki
- Department of Adult Psychiatry, Medical University of Łódź, Łódź, Poland
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19
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Wang Y, Jiang L, Ma S, Chen Q, Liu C, Ahmed F, Shahid M, Wang X, Guo J. Media Exposure Related to the PTSS During COVID-19 Pandemic: The Mediating Role of Risk Perception. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:654548. [PMID: 33967858 PMCID: PMC8100214 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.654548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The objectives of this study are to assess the relationship between media exposure and post-traumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and to highlight the underlying mechanisms mediated by risk perception. Methods: This survey was conducted online in China from February 1st to February 10th, 2020. A total of 2,858 Chinese citizens aged ≥18 years from 31 provinces and autonomous regions were recruited to participate in a cross-sectional study. Self-report questionnaires were used to assess media exposure, PTSS, and risk perception. Results: The prevalence of respondents with heightened PTSS scores was 22.2%. After controlling for covariates, media exposure (more than five times a day) was significantly and positively associated with a high level of PTSS (B = 4.11, p < 0.001), and risk perception (worry and severity) significantly mediated the relationship between media exposure and PTSS (all 95% CIs did not include 0). Conclusions: Based on these findings, the frequency of media exposure was associated with PTSS. Risk perception (worry and severity) mediated the relationship between media exposure and PTSS. The mental health, particularly PTSS, of the general population should be closely monitored and "infodemics" should be combatted while addressing the COVID-19 outbreak; cognitive interventions may be promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqing Wang
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Jiang
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Ma
- School of Management, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Qinian Chen
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- School of Sociology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Farooq Ahmed
- Department of Anthropology, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Xiaohua Wang
- School of Social Development and Public Policy, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Guo
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China
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20
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Neshige S, Aoki S, Shishido T, Morino H, Iida K, Maruyama H. Socio-economic impact on epilepsy outside of the nation-wide COVID-19 pandemic area. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 117:107886. [PMID: 33714184 PMCID: PMC9760559 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2021.107886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify people with epilepsy (PWE) who required extensive care before the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that had world-wide impacts on medical care and on socio-economic conditions. METHODS Consecutive PWE who were treated at the epilepsy center of Hiroshima University Hospital, which was located in the COVID-19 non-pandemic area, between March 2019 and August 2020 were enrolled. We evaluated clinical and socioeconomic factors that were associated with seizure exacerbation (an increase in seizure frequency) during the first 6 months after the COVID-19 pandemic started compared with the previous 6 months. RESULTS Among the 196 PWE who were evaluated (mean age was 37.8 ± 16.2 years), there were 33 PWE (16.8%) whose seizure frequency had increased after the pandemic began. People with epilepsy with a seizure increase showed a significant association with living alone (p < 0.001), a higher seizure frequency (p < 0.001), negative findings on MRI (p = 0.020), history of dissociative seizure (p < 0.001), mood disorders (p < 0.001), insomnia (p < 0.001), and high psychological stress levels (p = 0.024) at baseline compared with PWE without seizure exacerbation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that "living alone" (odds ratio (OR) 3.69; 95%CI 1.29-10.52), "high seizure frequency at baseline" (OR 4.53; 95%CI 1.63-12.57), and "comorbidity of insomnia" (OR 9.55; 95%CI 3.71-24.55) were independently associated with seizure exacerbation. CONCLUSIONS Even in the non-pandemic area, PWE had seizure exacerbation, suggesting that clinicians should screen patients' mental health before the outbreak to provide care, reduce the burden, and prevent social isolation in PWE. This should be addressed particularly in patients with medically refractory seizures with insomnia who live alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuichiro Neshige
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan; Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan.
| | - Shiro Aoki
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Takeo Shishido
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Morino
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Koji Iida
- Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan,Department of Neurosurgery, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Maruyama
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Hiroshima University, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Japan,Epilepsy Center, Hiroshima University Hospital, Japan
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21
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Madad S, Spencer C. The USA's response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak could have informed its COVID-19 response. Lancet 2021; 397:965-966. [PMID: 33684353 PMCID: PMC7952086 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00433-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Syra Madad
- System Special Pathogens Program, NYC Health + Hospitals, New York, NY 10016, USA.
| | - Craig Spencer
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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22
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Bäuerle A, Teufel M, Musche V, Weismüller B, Kohler H, Hetkamp M, Dörrie N, Schweda A, Skoda EM. Increased generalized anxiety, depression and distress during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Germany. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 42:672-678. [PMID: 32657323 PMCID: PMC7454766 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdaa106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 351] [Impact Index Per Article: 117.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Since the first cases of the novel coronavirus disease SARS-CoV-2 were reported in December 2019 in China, the virus has spread in most countries. The aim of the present study was to assess initial data on the mental health burden of the German public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Germany and collected complete datasets from 15 704 German residents aged 18 years and over. Besides demographics, generalized anxiety (GAD-7), depression (PHQ-2) and psychological distress (DT) were assessed. Furthermore, COVID-19-related fear, trust in governmental actions to face COVID-19 and the subjective level of information regarding COVID-19 were covered. Results Significantly increased symptoms were highly prevalent in all dimensions: generalized anxiety (44.9%), depression (14.3%), psychological distress (65.2%) and COVID-19-related fear (59%). Females and younger people reported higher mental burden. Trust in governmental actions to face COVID-19 and the subjective level of information regarding COVID-19 are negatively associated with mental health burden. However, the subjective level of information regarding COVID-19 is positively associated with increased COVID-19-related fear. Conclusions The provision of appropriate psychological interventions for those in need and the provision of transparency and comprehensible information are crucial during the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bäuerle
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Teufel
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Venja Musche
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Weismüller
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Hannah Kohler
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Madeleine Hetkamp
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Nora Dörrie
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Adam Schweda
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Eva-Maria Skoda
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
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Maciaszek J, Lenart M, Misiak B, Grzebieluch J, Gawłowski P, Ciułkowicz M, Łuc D, Szcześniak D, Rymaszewska J. Unknown Enemy and Psychopathological Responses: A Cross-Sectional Nationwide Study Assessing the Knowledge About COVID-19. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:704558. [PMID: 34456761 PMCID: PMC8385268 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.704558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
There is evidence that a lack of appropriate knowledge regarding global changes might be associated with various psychopathological responses. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that knowledge about COVID-19 correlates with the severity of psychopathological symptoms as measured by standardized questionnaires. The questionnaires were obtained using the Computer Assisted Web Interviews (CAWI) method during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland using the original COVID-19 knowledge questionnaire and the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28). A series of bivariate tests and linear regression analyses were performed with a p < 0.05. All analyses were performed in Statistica 13.3. We enrolled 1,002 respondents. The rate of correct answers in the original questionnaire ranged from 44.6 to 84.1%, and the average was 60.1%. Four hundred and twenty participants (42%) met the criterion for the presence of relevant psychopathological symptoms. A significant negative correlation was found between the number of points obtained in the COVID-19 knowledge questionnaire and the GHQ-28 scores, both in relation to the total score and all its subscales. The following factors in the linear regression model were correlated with severity of somatic symptoms: knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic (B = -0.12, P = 0.000), sex (B = 0.12, P = 0.000), use of psychiatric or psychological care (B = 0.20, P < 0.000) and chronic diseases (B = 0.09, P = 0.002). In this study, we observed a negative correlation between the knowledge about the COVID-19 pandemic and the severity of psychopathological symptoms. The results clearly indicate that the complexity of the global problem of the current pandemic is related to the development of psychopathological symptoms. However, longitudinal studies are needed to identify the direction of causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Maciaszek
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marta Lenart
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Błazej Misiak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Paweł Gawłowski
- Department of Emergency Medical Service, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marta Ciułkowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Łuc
- Practice of Family Doctors M.V. Domanscy, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Szcześniak
- Department of Psychiatry, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
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24
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Zhong Y, Liu W, Lee TY, Zhao H, Ji J. Risk perception, knowledge, information sources and emotional states among COVID-19 patients in Wuhan, China. Nurs Outlook 2021; 69:13-21. [PMID: 32980153 PMCID: PMC7442898 DOI: 10.1016/j.outlook.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapidly evolving COVID-19 pandemic has become a global health crisis. Several factors influencing risk perception have been identified, including knowledge of the disease, information sources, and emotional states. Prior studies on COVID-19-related risk perception primarily focused on the general public, with little data available on COVID-19 patients. PURPOSE To investigate COVID-19 patients' risk perception, knowledge of the disease, information sources, and emotional states in the epicenter, Wuhan, during the COVID-19 outbreak in China. METHODS Data were collected online using self-administered electronic questionnaire developed with reference to previous relevant studies and publications by the World Health Organization. FINDINGS A higher level of perceived risk was found in relation to COVID-19 as compared to other potential health threats. Knowledge gaps existed regarding transmission and prevention of COVID-19. Additionally, risk perception was negatively related to knowledge and positively related to depressive states. Moreover, social media was a primary source for COVID-19 information, whereas the most trusted sources were health professionals. DISCUSSION Realistic perception of risk should be encouraged considering both physical and mental health while developing relevant strategies. Furthermore, risk communication needs to be specifically tailored for various target groups, such as the elderly and mentally vulnerable individuals, with the adoption of popular media platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaping Zhong
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Nursing, Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Weihua Liu
- Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong, PR China
| | | | - Huan Zhao
- School of Health & Life Sciences, Federation University, Berwick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ji Ji
- Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong, PR China; Department of Nursing, Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, PR China.
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25
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Radovanović Nenadić U, Teodorović S. Public Understanding, Perceptions, and Information Sources about Bioterrorism: Pilot Study from the Republic of Serbia. Health Secur 2020; 18:29-35. [PMID: 32078418 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2019.0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bioterrorism presents a complex national, international, and human security threat, which requires a multidisciplinary approach to preparation and planning. Although the public plays an integral part of every aspect of bioterrorism, their understanding of and attitudes toward bioterrorism have not been extensively researched in the past, but are important for efficient knowledge communication. This study examines the baseline public comprehension and perceptions of bioterrorism, as well as the underpinning, trusted information sources in the Republic of Serbia. Results demonstrate overall poor understanding of bioterrorism and a notable lack of distinction between bioterrorism and infectious agents in general. These findings represent the first such body of knowledge in Europe and are in agreement with previous data from North America and Australia. Interestingly, the idea that bioterrorism agents are an intentional laboratory product of genetic engineering and synthetic biology approaches is significantly present among the surveyed population, but with contradicting views on whether such actions would be malicious or well-intended. These ideas, coupled with substantial mistrust in government institutions and news media, could inflict serious consequences and, therefore, should be taken into consideration when designing prevention and preparedness strategies, as well as interventions through knowledge communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Radovanović Nenadić
- Una Radovanović Nenadić, MSc, MA, is a doctoral candidate, Department of Military Mechanical Engineering, University of Defence, Military Academy, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Smilja Teodorović
- Smilja Teodorović, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Criminal Investigation and Police Studies, Belgrade, Serbia
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26
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Arora T, Grey I, Östlundh L, Lam KBH, Omar OM, Arnone D. The prevalence of psychological consequences of COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. J Health Psychol 2020; 27:805-824. [PMID: 33118376 DOI: 10.1177/1359105320966639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A systematic review and a meta-analysis were conducted to examine the overall prevalence of psychological health outcomes during COVID-19. Seven databases were systematically searched to include studies reporting on at least one psychological outcome. The pooled prevalence of primary psychological outcomes was 26% (95%CI: 21-32). Pooled prevalence for symptoms of PTSD was 33% (0-86), anxiety 28% (21-36), stress 27% (14-43), and depression 22% (13-33). The prevalence of psychological outcomes was similar in healthcare workers and in the general population (34% [24-44] and 33% [27-40] respectively). High prevalence figures support the importance of ensuring adequate provision of resources for mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Arora
- Zayed University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ian Grey
- Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Linda Östlundh
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kin Bong Hubert Lam
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Omar M Omar
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham Clinical Trials Unit, Birmingham, UK
| | - Danilo Arnone
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,Centre for Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
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27
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Zhang L, Ma M, Li D, Xin Z. The psychological typhoon eye effect during the COVID-19 outbreak in China: the role of coping efficacy and perceived threat. Global Health 2020; 16:105. [PMID: 33109228 PMCID: PMC7590565 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-020-00626-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The influence of COVID-19 on mental health problems has received considerable attention. However, only a few studies have examined the relationship between exposure to COVID-19 and mental health problems, and no empirical study has tested the mechanisms between them. Methods We conducted a survey in 31 provinces of China during 3–13 March 2020 to test the effect of the exposure level on mental health problems. Our sample comprised 2987 participants who reported their perceived threat, coping efficacy, mental health problems and other demographic variables. Multiple mediators path analysis was used in the data analysis. Results The results showed that the level of exposure to COVID-19 in China was negatively associated with mental health problems, which confirmed the “Psychological Typhoon Eye” effect. Further analyses indicated that both perceived threat and coping efficacy partially mediated the relationship between them. However, coping efficacy explained the “Psychological Typhoon Eye” effect. Perceived threat mediated the positive relationship between exposure level and mental health problems. Conclusion This study detected the psychological typhoon eye effect and demonstrated the mediating role of coping efficacy and perceived threat between exposure to COVID-19 and mental health problems. Our findings suggest that policy makers and psychological workers should provide enough psychological services to low-risk areas as the high-risk areas. An important means of alleviating mental health problems is to improve coping efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Central University of Finance and Economics, 39 Xueyuan South Road, Beijing, China.
| | - Min Ma
- Central University of Finance and Economics, 39 Xueyuan South Road, Beijing, China
| | - Danfeng Li
- Central University of Finance and Economics, 39 Xueyuan South Road, Beijing, China.
| | - Ziqiang Xin
- Central University of Finance and Economics, 39 Xueyuan South Road, Beijing, China
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28
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Winters M, Jalloh MF, Sengeh P, Jalloh MB, Zeebari Z, Nordenstedt H. Risk perception during the 2014-2015 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1539. [PMID: 33046052 PMCID: PMC7549333 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09648-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perceived susceptibility to a disease threat (risk perception) can influence protective behaviour. This study aims to determine how exposure to information sources, knowledge and behaviours potentially influenced risk perceptions during the 2014-2015 Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in Sierra Leone. METHODS The study is based on three cross-sectional, national surveys (August 2014, n = 1413; October 2014, n = 2086; December 2014, n = 3540) that measured Ebola-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Sierra Leone. Data were pooled and composite variables were created for knowledge, misconceptions and three Ebola-specific behaviours. Risk perception was measured using a Likert-item and dichotomised into 'no risk perception' and 'some risk perception'. Exposure to five information sources was dichotomised into a binary variable for exposed and unexposed. Multilevel logistic regression models were fitted to examine various associations. RESULTS Exposure to new media (e.g. internet) and community-level information sources (e.g. religious leaders) were positively associated with expressing risk perception. Ebola-specific knowledge and hand washing were positively associated with expressing risk perception (Adjusted OR [AOR] 1.4, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.2-1.8 and AOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1-1.7 respectively), whereas misconceptions and avoiding burials were negatively associated with risk perception, (AOR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6-0.8 and AOR 0.8, 95% CI 06-1.0, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our results illustrate the complexity of how individuals perceived their Ebola acquisition risk based on the way they received information, what they knew about Ebola, and actions they took to protect themselves. Community-level information sources may help to align the public's perceived risk with their actual epidemiological risk. As part of global health security efforts, increased investments are needed for community-level engagements that allow for two-way communication during health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maike Winters
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 17717, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Mohamed F Jalloh
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 17717, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | - Zangin Zeebari
- Jönköping International Business School, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Helena Nordenstedt
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18A, 17717, Stockholm, Sweden
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29
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Gozzi N, Tizzani M, Starnini M, Ciulla F, Paolotti D, Panisson A, Perra N. Collective Response to Media Coverage of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Reddit and Wikipedia: Mixed-Methods Analysis. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e21597. [PMID: 32960775 PMCID: PMC7553788 DOI: 10.2196/21597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The exposure and consumption of information during epidemic outbreaks may alter people's risk perception and trigger behavioral changes, which can ultimately affect the evolution of the disease. It is thus of utmost importance to map the dissemination of information by mainstream media outlets and the public response to this information. However, our understanding of this exposure-response dynamic during the COVID-19 pandemic is still limited. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study is to characterize the media coverage and collective internet response to the COVID-19 pandemic in four countries: Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. METHODS We collected a heterogeneous data set including 227,768 web-based news articles and 13,448 YouTube videos published by mainstream media outlets, 107,898 user posts and 3,829,309 comments on the social media platform Reddit, and 278,456,892 views of COVID-19-related Wikipedia pages. To analyze the relationship between media coverage, epidemic progression, and users' collective web-based response, we considered a linear regression model that predicts the public response for each country given the amount of news exposure. We also applied topic modelling to the data set using nonnegative matrix factorization. RESULTS Our results show that public attention, quantified as user activity on Reddit and active searches on Wikipedia pages, is mainly driven by media coverage; meanwhile, this activity declines rapidly while news exposure and COVID-19 incidence remain high. Furthermore, using an unsupervised, dynamic topic modeling approach, we show that while the levels of attention dedicated to different topics by media outlets and internet users are in good accordance, interesting deviations emerge in their temporal patterns. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our findings offer an additional key to interpret public perception and response to the current global health emergency and raise questions about the effects of attention saturation on people's collective awareness and risk perception and thus on their tendencies toward behavioral change.
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30
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Nekliudov NA, Blyuss O, Cheung KY, Petrou L, Genuneit J, Sushentsev N, Levadnaya A, Comberiati P, Warner JO, Tudor-Williams G, Teufel M, Greenhawt M, DunnGalvin A, Munblit D. Excessive Media Consumption About COVID-19 is Associated With Increased State Anxiety: Outcomes of a Large Online Survey in Russia. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e20955. [PMID: 32788143 PMCID: PMC7490003 DOI: 10.2196/20955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has potentially had a negative impact on the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. Anxiety levels and risk factors within particular populations are poorly described. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate confidence, understanding, trust, concerns, and levels of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in the general population and assess risk factors for increased anxiety. METHODS We launched a cross-sectional online survey of a large Russian population between April 6 and 15, 2020, using multiple social media platforms. A set of questions targeted confidence, understanding, trust, and concerns in respondents. The State-Trait Anxiety Inventory was used to measure anxiety. Multiple linear regressions were used to model predictors of COVID-19-related anxiety. RESULTS The survey was completed by 23,756 out of 53,966 (44.0% response rate) unique visitors; of which, 21,364 were residing in 62 areas of Russia. State Anxiety Scale (S-Anxiety) scores were higher than Trait Anxiety Scale scores across all regions of Russia (median S-Anxiety score 52, IQR 44-60), exceeding published norms. Time spent following news on COVID-19 was strongly associated with an increased S-Anxiety adjusted for baseline anxiety level. One to two hours spent reading COVID-19 news was associated with a 5.46 (95% CI 5.03-5.90) point difference, 2-3 hours with a 7.06 (95% CI 6.37-7.74) point difference, and more than three hours with an 8.65 (95% CI 7.82-9.47) point difference, all compared to less than 30 minutes per day. Job loss during the pandemic was another important factor associated with higher S-Anxiety scores (3.95, 95% CI 3.31-4.58). Despite survey respondents reporting high confidence in information regarding COVID-19 as well as an understanding of health care guidance, they reported low overall trust in state and local authorities, and perception of country readiness. CONCLUSIONS Among Russian respondents from multiple social media platforms, there was evidence of higher levels of state anxiety associated with recent job loss and increased news consumption, as well as lower than expected trust in government agencies. These findings can help inform the development of key public health messages to help reduce anxiety and raise perceived trust in governmental response to this current national emergency. Using a similar methodology, comparative surveys are ongoing in other national populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita A Nekliudov
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Child's Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Oleg Blyuss
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Child's Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,School of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Ka Yan Cheung
- Inflammation, Repair and Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Loukia Petrou
- Inflammation, Repair and Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Genuneit
- Pediatric Epidemiology, Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nikita Sushentsev
- Department of Radiology, Addenbrooke's Hospital and University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Levadnaya
- National Medical Research Center for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - John O Warner
- Inflammation, Repair and Development Section, National Heart and Lung Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth Tudor-Williams
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Teufel
- Clinic for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, LVR University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Matthew Greenhawt
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Allergy/Immunology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Audrey DunnGalvin
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Child's Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,Applied Psychology and Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Daniel Munblit
- Department of Paediatrics and Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Child's Health, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Solov'ev Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry, Moscow, Russian Federation
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31
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Thomas T, Wilson A, Tonkin E, Miller ER, Ward PR. How the Media Places Responsibility for the COVID-19 Pandemic-An Australian Media Analysis. Front Public Health 2020; 8:483. [PMID: 32974266 PMCID: PMC7472525 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Global pandemics are likely to increase in frequency and severity, and media communication of key messages represents an important mediator of the behavior of individuals in response to public health countermeasures. Where the media places responsibility during a pandemic is therefore important to study as blame is commonly used as a tool to influence public behavior but can also lead to the subjective persecution of groups. The aim of this paper is to investigate where the media places responsibility for COVID-19 in Australia. Specifically, we identify the key themes and frames that are present and observe how they changed over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to government actions and progression of the pandemic. Understanding media representations of the COVID-19 pandemic will provide insights into ways in which responsibility is framed in relation to health action. Newspaper articles from the Australian and the Sydney Morning Herald were sampled between January 20 and March 31 2020 on every second Monday. Factiva was used to identify and download newspaper articles using the following search criteria: "COVID-19" OR coronavirus OR "Wuhan virus" OR "corona virus" OR "Hebei virus" OR "wet market" OR (Wuhan AND virus) OR (market AND Wuhan and virus) or (China AND Virus) or (Novel AND Virus). Articles were imported into Nvivo and thematic and framing analyses were used. The results show that framing of the pandemic was largely based on societal issues with the theme of economic disruption prevalent throughout the study time period. Moral evaluations of the pandemic were infrequent initially but increased co-incident with the first signs of "flattening of the curve." Explicit examples of blame were very rare but were commonly implied based on the causal origin of the virus. The Australian printed media were slow to report on the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition they were reluctant to apportion blame until the end of the study period, after confirmed case rates had begun to slow. This is interpreted as being due to an evaluation of the pandemic risks as low by the media and therefore the tools of othering and blame were not used until after the study period when the actual risks had begun to abate, more consistent with an inquiry than a mediating mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Paul R. Ward
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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32
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Abstract
Politics, rather than disease characteristics, complicated the United States response to Ebola virus disease and Zika virus. We analyze how media and political elites shaped public opinion of the two outbreaks. We conducted a retrospective analysis of media coverage, Congressional floor speech, and public opinion polls to explain elite cueing and public perceptions of Ebola and Zika. We find evidence of elite cueing by Congress and the media on public opinion. Public opinion of both disease outbreaks initially followed partisan patterns. However, while Ebola public opinion remained partisan, ultimately, opinion emerged of a bipartisan nature for Zika, mirroring elite framing. Public health officials should be aware of how elite cueing shapes policy and prioritizes partisan strategies. Politics and public opinion can focus attention on or away from infectious disease; it can also undermine public health responses by biasing the public's view of a diseases' relative risk.
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33
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Effects of Covid-19 Lockdown on Mental Health and Sleep Disturbances in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17134779. [PMID: 32630821 PMCID: PMC7369943 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 395] [Impact Index Per Article: 98.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Italy was the first European country that entered a nationwide lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since quarantine can impact on mental health, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms and sleeping disturbances in the Italian population during lockdown. The factors that might influence such outcomes were explored. A national cross-sectional survey was performed during the last 14 days of the Italian lockdown. Questionnaires assessed socio-demographics characteristic, behaviors and healthcare access. The outcomes were assessed using Patient Health Questionnaire-2 and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-2. Participants with sleep disturbances completed the Insomnia Severity Index. The sample size was 1515. Depression and anxiety symptom prevalence was 24.7% and 23.2%; 42.2% had sleep disturbances and, among them, 17.4% reported moderate/severe insomnia. Being female, an increased time spent on the internet and an avoidance of activities through peer pressure increased the likelihood of at least one mental health outcome. Increasing age, an absence of work-related troubles and being married or being a cohabitant reduced such a probability. Females and participants with chronic conditions were associated with a higher prevalence of sleep disturbances. It is crucial to study effective interventions, specifically planning strategies, for more vulnerable groups and to consider the role of the internet.
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Multidisciplinary research priorities for the COVID-19 pandemic: a call for action for mental health science. Lancet Psychiatry 2020. [PMID: 32304649 DOI: 10.1016/s2115-0366(20)30168-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is having a profound effect on all aspects of society, including mental health and physical health. We explore the psychological, social, and neuroscientific effects of COVID-19 and set out the immediate priorities and longer-term strategies for mental health science research. These priorities were informed by surveys of the public and an expert panel convened by the UK Academy of Medical Sciences and the mental health research charity, MQ: Transforming Mental Health, in the first weeks of the pandemic in the UK in March, 2020. We urge UK research funding agencies to work with researchers, people with lived experience, and others to establish a high level coordination group to ensure that these research priorities are addressed, and to allow new ones to be identified over time. The need to maintain high-quality research standards is imperative. International collaboration and a global perspective will be beneficial. An immediate priority is collecting high-quality data on the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic across the whole population and vulnerable groups, and on brain function, cognition, and mental health of patients with COVID-19. There is an urgent need for research to address how mental health consequences for vulnerable groups can be mitigated under pandemic conditions, and on the impact of repeated media consumption and health messaging around COVID-19. Discovery, evaluation, and refinement of mechanistically driven interventions to address the psychological, social, and neuroscientific aspects of the pandemic are required. Rising to this challenge will require integration across disciplines and sectors, and should be done together with people with lived experience. New funding will be required to meet these priorities, and it can be efficiently leveraged by the UK's world-leading infrastructure. This Position Paper provides a strategy that may be both adapted for, and integrated with, research efforts in other countries.
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Multidisciplinary research priorities for the COVID-19 pandemic: a call for action for mental health science. Lancet Psychiatry 2020; 7:547-560. [PMID: 32304649 PMCID: PMC7159850 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30168-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3077] [Impact Index Per Article: 769.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is having a profound effect on all aspects of society, including mental health and physical health. We explore the psychological, social, and neuroscientific effects of COVID-19 and set out the immediate priorities and longer-term strategies for mental health science research. These priorities were informed by surveys of the public and an expert panel convened by the UK Academy of Medical Sciences and the mental health research charity, MQ: Transforming Mental Health, in the first weeks of the pandemic in the UK in March, 2020. We urge UK research funding agencies to work with researchers, people with lived experience, and others to establish a high level coordination group to ensure that these research priorities are addressed, and to allow new ones to be identified over time. The need to maintain high-quality research standards is imperative. International collaboration and a global perspective will be beneficial. An immediate priority is collecting high-quality data on the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic across the whole population and vulnerable groups, and on brain function, cognition, and mental health of patients with COVID-19. There is an urgent need for research to address how mental health consequences for vulnerable groups can be mitigated under pandemic conditions, and on the impact of repeated media consumption and health messaging around COVID-19. Discovery, evaluation, and refinement of mechanistically driven interventions to address the psychological, social, and neuroscientific aspects of the pandemic are required. Rising to this challenge will require integration across disciplines and sectors, and should be done together with people with lived experience. New funding will be required to meet these priorities, and it can be efficiently leveraged by the UK's world-leading infrastructure. This Position Paper provides a strategy that may be both adapted for, and integrated with, research efforts in other countries.
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Sell TK, Hosangadi D, Trotochaud M. Misinformation and the US Ebola communication crisis: analyzing the veracity and content of social media messages related to a fear-inducing infectious disease outbreak. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:550. [PMID: 32375715 PMCID: PMC7202904 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-08697-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Ebola communication crisis of 2014 generated widespread fear and attention among Western news media, social media users, and members of the United States (US) public. Health communicators need more information on misinformation and the social media environment during a fear-inducing disease outbreak to improve communication practices. The purpose of this study was to describe the content of Ebola-related tweets with a specific focus on misinformation, political content, health related content, risk framing, and rumors. Methods We examined tweets from a random 1% sample of all tweets published September 30th - October 30th, 2014, filtered for English-language tweets mentioning “Ebola” in the content or hashtag, that had at least 1 retweet (N = 72,775 tweets). A randomly selected subset of 3639 (5%) tweets were evaluated for inclusion. We analyzed the 3113 tweets that meet inclusion criteria using public health trained human coders to assess tweet characteristics (joke, opinion, discord), veracity (true, false, partially false), political context, risk frame, health context, Ebola specific messages, and rumors. We assessed the proportion of tweets with specific content using descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests. Results Of non-joke tweets, 10% of Ebola-related tweets contained false or partially false information. Twenty-five percent were related to politics, 28% contained content that provoked reader response or promoted discord, 42% contained risk elevating messages and 72% were related to health. The most frequent rumor mentioned focused on government conspiracy. When comparing tweets with true information to tweets with misinformation, a greater percentage of tweets with misinformation were political in nature (36% vs 15%) and contained discord-inducing statements (45% vs 10%). Discord-inducing statements and political messages were both significantly more common in tweets containing misinformation compared with those without(p < 0.001). Conclusions Results highlight the importance of anticipating politicization of disease outbreaks, and the need for policy makers and social media companies to build partnerships and develop response frameworks in advance of an event. While each public health event is different, our findings provide insight into the possible social media environment during a future epidemic and could help optimize potential public health communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Kirk Sell
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, USA. .,Department of Environmental Health and Engineering Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA.
| | - Divya Hosangadi
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, USA.,Department of Environmental Health and Engineering Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Marc Trotochaud
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, USA.,Department of Environmental Health and Engineering Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA
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Leigh L, Taylor C, Glassman T, Thompson A, Sheu JJ. A Cross-Sectional Examination of the Factors Related to Emergency Nurses' Motivation to Protect Themselves Against an Ebola Infection. J Emerg Nurs 2020; 46:814-826. [PMID: 32800328 PMCID: PMC7200349 DOI: 10.1016/j.jen.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The 2014-2016 West African Ebola outbreak impacted the United States. Owing to the sporadic occurrence of the Ebola infection, there is insufficient research regarding how US emergency nurses provide care to patients potentially infected with the Ebola virus and the nurses’ motivation to protect themselves when providing care to these patients. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of emergency nurses’ protection motivation. Methods A cross-sectional design was employed. A survey developed based on a modified Protection Motivation Theory was administered to randomly selected members of the Emergency Nurses Association. Descriptive statistics, nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis H test (as well as post hoc Dunn-Bonferroni test), Spearman rho correlation, and stepwise multiple linear regression were conducted for data analysis. Results Protection motivation was found in 2 components: proactive and passive protection motivation. Regression analysis indicated that response efficacy (β = 0.27, P < 0.001) and self-efficacy (β = 0.17, P < 0.01) significantly predict emergency nurses’ proactive protection motivation, whereas perceived vulnerability (β = 0.26, P < 0.001), response cost (β = 0.19, P = 0.001), and knowledge (β = −0.15, P < 0.01) significantly predict emergency nurses’ passive protection motivation. Discussion The results indicate the need for interventions to improve emergency nurses’ response efficacy, self-efficacy, and knowledge, while simultaneously reducing the nurses’ perceived vulnerability and response cost. Such interventions would be expected to proactively motivate nurses to protect themselves when providing care to patients who exhibit the signs and symptoms of an Ebola infection and reduce their passive protection motivation.
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Public Health Resilience Checklist for High-Consequence Infectious Diseases-Informed by the Domestic Ebola Response in the United States. JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2019; 24:510-518. [PMID: 29595573 DOI: 10.1097/phh.0000000000000787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The experiences of communities that responded to confirmed cases of Ebola virus disease in the United States provide a rare opportunity for collective learning to improve resilience to future high-consequence infectious disease events. DESIGN Key informant interviews (n = 73) were conducted between February and November 2016 with individuals who participated in Ebola virus disease planning or response in Atlanta, Georgia; Dallas, Texas; New York, New York; or Omaha, Nebraska; or had direct knowledge of response activities. Participants represented health care; local, state, and federal public health; law; local and state emergency management; academia; local and national media; individuals affected by the response; and local and state governments. Two focus groups were then conducted in New York and Dallas, and study results were vetted with an expert advisory group. RESULTS Participants focused on a number of important areas to improve public health resilience to high-consequence infectious disease events, including governance and leadership, communication and public trust, quarantine and the law, monitoring programs, environmental decontamination, and waste management. CONCLUSIONS Findings provided the basis for an evidence-informed checklist outlining specific actions for public health authorities to take to strengthen public health resilience to future high-consequence infectious disease events.
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Sell TK, Shearer MP, Meyer D, Leinhos M, Carbone EG, Thomas E. Influencing Factors in the Development of State-Level Movement Restriction and Monitoring Policies in Response to Ebola, United States, 2014-15. Health Secur 2019; 17:364-371. [PMID: 31593507 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2019.0053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
During the 2014-15 domestic Ebola response, US states developed monitoring and movement restriction policies for potentially exposed individuals. We describe decision-making processes and factors in the development of these policies. Results may help health officials anticipate potential concerns and policy influencers in future infectious disease responses. Thirty individuals with knowledge of state-level Ebola policy development participated in semi-structured interviews conducted from January to May 2017. Interviewees represented 18 jurisdictions from diverse census regions, state political affiliations, and public health governance structures as well as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Limited and/or changing guidance and unique state-level public health, legal, and operational environments resulted in variation in policy responses. Federal guidance developed by the CDC was an important information source influencing state-level policy responses, as was available scientific evidence; however, other external factors, such as local events, contributing experts, political environment, public concern, news media, and the influence of neighboring states, contributed to additional variation. Improvements in timing, consistency, and communication of federal guidance for monitoring and movement restrictions at the state level-along with balanced approaches to addressing ethical concerns, scientific evidence, and public concern at the state level-are considerations for policy development for future disease responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Kirk Sell
- Tara Kirk Sell, PhD, MA, is a Senior Scholar and Assistant Professor; Matthew P. Shearer, MPH, is a Senior Analyst and Research Associate; and Diane Meyer, RN, MPH, is Managing Senior Analyst and Research Associate; all at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Matthew P Shearer
- Tara Kirk Sell, PhD, MA, is a Senior Scholar and Assistant Professor; Matthew P. Shearer, MPH, is a Senior Analyst and Research Associate; and Diane Meyer, RN, MPH, is Managing Senior Analyst and Research Associate; all at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Diane Meyer
- Tara Kirk Sell, PhD, MA, is a Senior Scholar and Assistant Professor; Matthew P. Shearer, MPH, is a Senior Analyst and Research Associate; and Diane Meyer, RN, MPH, is Managing Senior Analyst and Research Associate; all at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Mary Leinhos
- Mary Leinhos, PhD, MS, is a Senior Health Scientist, Office of Applied Research, Center for Preparedness and Response; Eric G. Carbone, PhD, MBA, is Chief, Disability & Health Promotion Branch, Division of Human Development and Disability; and Erin Thomas, PhD, is a Health Scientist, Program Performance and Evaluation Office; all at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Eric G Carbone
- Mary Leinhos, PhD, MS, is a Senior Health Scientist, Office of Applied Research, Center for Preparedness and Response; Eric G. Carbone, PhD, MBA, is Chief, Disability & Health Promotion Branch, Division of Human Development and Disability; and Erin Thomas, PhD, is a Health Scientist, Program Performance and Evaluation Office; all at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Erin Thomas
- Mary Leinhos, PhD, MS, is a Senior Health Scientist, Office of Applied Research, Center for Preparedness and Response; Eric G. Carbone, PhD, MBA, is Chief, Disability & Health Promotion Branch, Division of Human Development and Disability; and Erin Thomas, PhD, is a Health Scientist, Program Performance and Evaluation Office; all at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
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Maves RC, Jamros CM, Smith AG. Intensive Care Unit Preparedness During Pandemics and Other Biological Threats. Crit Care Clin 2019; 35:609-618. [PMID: 31445608 PMCID: PMC7134984 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccc.2019.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Maves
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Medical Center, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134, USA.
| | - Christina M Jamros
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Medical Center, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
| | - Alfred G Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Naval Medical Center, 34800 Bob Wilson Drive, San Diego, CA 92134, USA
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Greenberg A, Michlig GJ, Larson E, Varallyay I, Chang K, Enobun B, Schenk E, Whong B, Surkan PJ, Kennedy CE, Harvey SA. "I Knew I Could Make a Difference": Motivations and Barriers to Engagement in Fighting the West African Ebola Outbreak Among U.S.-Based Health Professionals. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2019; 29:522-532. [PMID: 29683039 DOI: 10.1177/1049732318771306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The 2014 West African Ebola outbreak was unprecedented in scale and required significant international assistance. Many U.S.-based health professionals traveled to West Africa to participate in the response, whereas others considered participation, but ultimately decided against it. This study explores motivators, facilitators, and barriers to international health care worker mobilization. We conducted 24 semistructured in-depth interviews and one focus group discussion with clinical and nonclinical responders and nonresponders. Responders reported feeling duty-bound to help, confidence in their training, and prior experience in humanitarian response. Media coverage was perceived to create environments of stigma and misinformation. Supportive workplaces and clear leave of absence policies facilitated engagement, whereas unsupportive workplaces posed barriers. Although nonresponders were included in the study, the dynamics of nonresponse were less clear and warrant further exploration. Understanding how to support health professionals in responding to outbreak situations may improve mobilization in future public health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Georgia J Michlig
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Elizabeth Larson
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ilona Varallyay
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Karen Chang
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Blessing Enobun
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ellen Schenk
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Benjamin Whong
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Pamela J Surkan
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Caitlin E Kennedy
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Steven A Harvey
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Sell TK, Watson C, Meyer D, Kronk M, Ravi S, Pechta LE, Lubell KM, Rose DA. Frequency of Risk-Related News Media Messages in 2016 Coverage of Zika Virus. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2018; 38:2514-2524. [PMID: 29314118 DOI: 10.1111/risa.12961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
News media plays a large role in the information the public receives during an infectious disease outbreak, and may influence public knowledge and perceptions of risk. This study analyzed and described the content of U.S. news media coverage of Zika virus and Zika response during 2016. A random selection of 800 Zika-related news stories from 25 print and television news sources was analyzed. The study examined 24 different messages that appeared in news media articles and characterized them using theories of risk perception as messages with characteristics that could increase perception of risk (risk-elevating messages; n = 14), messages that could decrease perception of risk (risk-minimizing messages; n = 8), or messages about travel or testing guidance (n = 2). Overall, 96% of news stories in the study sample contained at least one or more risk-elevating message(s) and 61% contained risk-minimizing message(s). The frequency of many messages changed after local transmission was confirmed in Florida, and differed between sources in locations with or without local transmission in 2016. Forty percent of news stories included messages about negative potential outcomes of Zika virus infection without mentioning ways to reduce risk. Findings from this study may help inform current federal, state, and local Zika responses by offering a detailed analysis of how news media are covering the outbreak and response activities as well as identifying specific messages appearing more or less frequently than intended. Findings identifying the types of messages that require greater emphasis may also assist public health communicators in responding more effectively to future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Kirk Sell
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Crystal Watson
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Diane Meyer
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marissa Kronk
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sanjana Ravi
- Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura E Pechta
- Division of Emergency Operations, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Keri M Lubell
- Division of Emergency Operations, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Dale A Rose
- Division of Emergency Operations, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Morin C, Bost I, Mercier A, Dozon JP, Atlani-Duault L. Information Circulation in times of Ebola: Twitter and the Sexual Transmission of Ebola by Survivors. PLOS CURRENTS 2018; 10:ecurrents.outbreaks.4e35a9446b89c1b46f8308099840d48f. [PMID: 30254789 PMCID: PMC6128679 DOI: 10.1371/currents.outbreaks.4e35a9446b89c1b46f8308099840d48f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The 2013-2015 outbreak of Ebola was by far the largest to date, affecting Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and secondarily, Nigeria, Senegal and the United States. Such an event raises questions about the circulation of health information across social networks. This article presents an analysis of tweets concerning a specific theme: the sexual transmission of the virus by survivors, at a time when there was a great uncertainty about the duration and even the possibility of such transmission. METHODS This article combines quantitative and qualitative analysis. From a sample of 50,000 tweets containing the words "Ebola" in French and English, posted between March 15 and November 8, 2014, we created a graphic representation of the number of tweets over time, and identified two peaks: the first between July 27 and August 16, 2014 (633 tweets) and the second between September 28 and November 8, 2014 (2,577 tweets). This sample was divided into two parts, and every accessible publication was analyzed and coded according to the authors' objectives, feelings expressed and/or publication type. RESULTS While the results confirm the significant role played by mainstream media in disseminating information, media did not create the debate around the sexual transmission of Ebola and Twitter does not fully reflect mainstream media contents. Social media rather work like a "filter": in the case of Ebola, Twitter preceded and amplified the debate with focusing more than the mainstream media on the sexual transmission, as expressed in jokes, questions and criticism. DISCUSSION Online debates can of course feed on journalistic or official information, but they also show great autonomy, tinged with emotions or criticisms. Although numerous studies have shown how this can lead to rumors and disinformation, our research suggests that this relative autonomy makes it possible for Twitter users to bring into the public sphere some types of information that have not been widely addressed. Our results encourage further research to understand how this "filter" works during health crises, with the potential to help public health authorities to adjust official communications accordingly. Without a doubt, the health authorities would be well advised to put in place a special watch on the comments circulating on social media (in addition to that used by the health monitoring agencies).
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Morin
- Media Studies Department, HAR/IRMECCEN, Paris Nanterre University, Paris, France
| | - Ida Bost
- Anthropology Department, LESC, Paris Nanterre University, Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Mercier
- Media Studies Department, Institut Français de Presse, Paris Assas University, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Dozon
- CEMAF (IRD - EHESS), Fondation Maison des Sciences de l'Homme, Paris, France
| | - Laetitia Atlani-Duault
- Fondation Maison des Sciences de l'Homme, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; IRD, CEPED, Université Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France; School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, United States
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Walz E, Wilson D, Stauffer JC, Wanduragala D, Stauffer WM, Travis DA, Alpern JD. Incentives for Bushmeat Consumption and Importation among West African Immigrants, Minnesota, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2017; 23:2095-2097. [PMID: 29148387 PMCID: PMC5708257 DOI: 10.3201/eid2312.170563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The knowledge, attitudes, and practices surrounding bushmeat consumption and importation in the United States are not well described. Focus groups of West African persons living in Minnesota, USA, found that perceived risks are low and unlikely to deter consumers. Incentives for importation and consumption were multifactorial in this community.
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