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Rahman MA, Das P, Lam L, Alif SM, Sultana F, Salehin M, Banik B, Joseph B, Parul P, Lewis A, Statham D, Porter J, Foster K, Islam SMS, Cross W, Jacob A, Hua S, Wang Q, Chair SY, Chien WT, Widati S, Nurmala I, Puspaningsih NNT, Hammoud M, Omar K, Halim MASA, Gamal-Eltrabily M, Ortiz G, Al Maskari TS, Al Alawi SSM, Al-Rahbi BS, Arulappan J, Ahmad A, Al Laham N, Mahmud I, Alasqah I, Noorbhai H, Chang SL, Chen YL, Comlekci MF, Basol O, Saddik B, Hayman R, Polman R. Health and wellbeing of staff working at higher education institutions globally during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period: evidence from a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1848. [PMID: 38992680 PMCID: PMC11238394 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19365-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ongoing global crisis of Higher Education (HE) institutions during the post-COVID-19 pandemic period has increased the likelihood of enduring psychological stressors for staff. This study aimed to identify factors associated with job insecurity, burnout, psychological distress and coping amongst staff working at HE institutions globally. METHODS An anonymous cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 with staff at HE institutions across 16 countries. Job insecurity was measured using the Job Insecurity Scale (JIS), burnout using the Perceived Burnout measure question, psychological distress using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and coping using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Multivariable logistic regression with a stepwise variable selection method was used to identify associations. RESULTS A total of 2,353 staff participated; the mean age (± SD) was 43(± 10) years and 61% were females. Most staff (85%) did not feel job insecurity, one-third (29%) perceived burnout in their jobs, more than two-thirds (73%) experienced moderate to very high levels of psychological distress, and more than half (58%) exhibited medium to high resilient coping. Perceived job insecurity was associated with staff working part-time [Adjusted Odds Ratio 1.53 (95% Confidence Intervals 1.15-2.02)], having an academic appointment [2.45 (1.78-3.27)], having multiple co-morbidities [1.86 (1.41-2.48)], perceived burnout [1.99 (1.54-2.56)] and moderate to very high level of psychological distress [1.68 (1.18-2.39)]. Perceived burnout was associated with being female [1.35 (1.12-1.63)], having multiple co-morbidities [1.53 (1.20-1.97)], perceived job insecurity [1.99 (1.55-2.57)], and moderate to very high levels of psychological distress [3.23 (2.42-4.30)]. Staff with multiple co-morbidities [1.46 (1.11-1.92)], mental health issues [2.73 (1.79-4.15)], perceived job insecurity [1.61 (1.13-2.30)], and perceived burnout [3.22 (2.41-4.31)] were associated with moderate to very high levels of psychological distress. Staff who perceived their mental health as good to excellent [3.36 (2.69-4.19)] were more likely to have medium to high resilient coping. CONCLUSIONS Factors identified in this study should be considered in reviewing and updating current support strategies for staff at HE institutions across all countries to reduce stress and burnout and improve wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Aziz Rahman
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia.
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia.
| | - Pritimoy Das
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia
| | - Louisa Lam
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sheikh M Alif
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Masudus Salehin
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia
| | - Biswajit Banik
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
| | - Bindu Joseph
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia
| | - Parul Parul
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia
- School of Nursing, Institute of Health & Management, North Melbourne, VIC, 3051, Australia
| | - Andrew Lewis
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
| | - Dixie Statham
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
| | - Joanne Porter
- Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre (CERC), Federation University Australia, Churchill, Australia
| | - Kim Foster
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Wendy Cross
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
| | - Alycia Jacob
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susan Hua
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Qun Wang
- School of Nursing, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Sek Ying Chair
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wai Tong Chien
- The Nethersole School of Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sri Widati
- Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Majeda Hammoud
- Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Khatijah Omar
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity & Sustainable Development, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Georgina Ortiz
- División de Ciencias de La Salud, Universidad Anáhuac Querétaro, Querétaro, México
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Nahed Al Laham
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Al Azhar University-Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine
| | - Ilias Mahmud
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
- BRAC James P. Grant School of Public Health, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Ibrahim Alasqah
- School of Health, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
- Department of Community, Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Habib Noorbhai
- BEAHT Research Centre, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | | | | | - Oguz Basol
- Kirklareli University, Kirklareli, Turkey
| | - Basema Saddik
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- School of Population Health, University of New South Wales, Kennington, Australia
| | - Rick Hayman
- Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Remco Polman
- Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Berwick, VIC, 3806, Australia
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Misra AV, Mamdouh HM, Dani A, Mitchell V, Hussain HY, Ibrahim GM, Kotb R, Alnakhi WK. Understanding the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health among a Sample of University Workers in the United Arab Emirates. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1153. [PMID: 38891228 PMCID: PMC11172320 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on the mental health of university staff during the COVID-19 pandemic has uncovered a high prevalence of probable anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder among academic and non-academic staff in many parts of the world. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anxiety, depressive symptoms, and resilience among a sample of faculty and staff members working in the Higher College of Technology campuses in the UAE. From September to November 2021, a cross-sectional study was carried out using an online survey. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale, The Patient Health Questionnaire (9-items), and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale were used to assess anxiety, depression, and resilience. The impact of COVID-19 was assessed using a designated list of questions. The results demonstrated that the COVID-19 pandemic had impacted the mental health of the studied sample of university workers, with almost 16% of the participants having moderate-to-severe depression and anxiety symptoms. This study highlighted significant differences in the participants' depressive and anxiety symptoms due to sociodemographic differences. Depression and anxiety symptoms were most prevalent among females, those of UAE nationality, and never-married workers, with females scoring 5.81 on the PHQ-9 compared to only 4.10 in males, p = 0.004 *. UAE-national participants had significantly higher mean PHQ-9 scores than their non-national counterparts (6.37 ± 5.49 SD versus 4.77 ± 5.1 SD, respectively, p = 0.040 *). Overall, the total mean scores of all participants were below the assumed cut-off threshold of having a high resilience level (29.51 ± 7.53 SD). The results showed a significant difference in severe depression symptoms as a result of the impact of COVID-19. These results could imply that the COVID-19 pandemic might have augmented negative mental health impacts on this sample of university workers. This study highlighted some areas where the responsible authorities can intervene to further protect and enhance the mental health of university workers, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika V. Misra
- Department of Health Sciences—Social Work Program, Higher Colleges of Technology, Sharjah P.O. Box 7946, United Arab Emirates; (A.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Heba M. Mamdouh
- Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai P.O. Box 4545, United Arab Emirates (G.M.I.)
- Department of Family Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria 5424041, Egypt
| | - Anita Dani
- Department of Health Sciences—Social Work Program, Higher Colleges of Technology, Sharjah P.O. Box 7946, United Arab Emirates; (A.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Vivienne Mitchell
- Department of Health Sciences—Social Work Program, Higher Colleges of Technology, Sharjah P.O. Box 7946, United Arab Emirates; (A.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Hamid Y. Hussain
- Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai P.O. Box 4545, United Arab Emirates (G.M.I.)
| | - Gamal M. Ibrahim
- Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai P.O. Box 4545, United Arab Emirates (G.M.I.)
| | - Reham Kotb
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Abu Dhabi University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 59911, United Arab Emirates;
- Primary Health Care Department, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria 5424041, Egypt
| | - Wafa K. Alnakhi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine and Behavioural Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates;
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Ward KL, Pham M, Wong R, Francis B, Smith M. Chiropractic faculty experiences of burnout and the COVID-19 pandemic. THE JOURNAL OF CHIROPRACTIC EDUCATION 2024; 38:96-103. [PMID: 38180120 PMCID: PMC11097226 DOI: 10.7899/jce-22-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) is frequently used to assess occupational burnout and the Epidemic-Pandemic Impacts Inventory (EPII) is a new tool for assessing pandemic impacts. This study's objective is to describe chiropractic faculty members' experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, their burnout as professional educators, and their strategies for coping with stress. METHODS A Qualtrics survey link was emailed to 73 current faculty and 10 previously employed faculty from 1 chiropractic school. The survey included 22 MBI, 31 EPII, and 2 questions about coping strategies. Faculty were given several weeks to complete the survey, were reminded via emails and meeting announcements, and were given paper surveys to increase participation. Responses were analyzed in STATA17. RESULTS Forty-three faculty completed the survey (response rate = 52%). Of these, 25.8% reported testing positive for COVID-19, 30.23% reported difficulties transitioning to working from home, and 25.5% scored high on the MBI subscale for emotional exhaustion (EE) (mean 15.79, SD 13.68). Higher EE was associated with pandemic-related increases in mental health and sleep problems. Common coping strategies included self-care and social support. CONCLUSION The majority of faculty reported neither contracting COVID-19 nor having difficulty transitioning to work from home. Average EE for participating faculty was lower than previous reports although a quarter scored high in EE, which may be associated with pandemic-related mental health and sleep problems. These results suggest chiropractic faculty might need support coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic and indicate the need for future research on burnout among faculty from other chiropractic institutions.
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Fichten CS, Wing S, Costin G, Jorgensen M, Havel A, Wileman S, Bailes S, Creti L, Libman E. Sleep and Well-Being during the COVID-19 Remote and In-Person Periods: Experiences of College Faculty and Staff with and without Disabilities. Behav Sci (Basel) 2023; 13:844. [PMID: 37887493 PMCID: PMC10604366 DOI: 10.3390/bs13100844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
We explored the impacts of the remote and return-to-in-person work periods on sleep and well-being as reported by faculty (n = 22) and non-teaching staff (n = 21) with and without disabilities. Participants were recruited through college platforms and personal contacts. Our results show that contrary to expectations, the COVID-19 remote teaching/working period resulted in better sleep, as well as greater well-being, than the return-to-in-person work period. With respect to sleep, faculty members had slightly more negative outcomes than staff, most evident in heightened anxiety and work aspects. Faculty with disabilities had somewhat worse sleep and well-being during the remote period than faculty without disabilities. During the return to in-person work, both faculty and non-teaching staff reported more negative than positive sleep and well-being outcomes. In particular, during the in-person period, faculty members experienced slightly more negative sleep outcomes related to anxiety and work, while staff members experienced slightly more negative sleep outcomes related to the need to commute and lifestyle. Our findings show that there were benefits and disadvantages to both remote and in-person work periods, suggesting a hybrid work schedule should be considered in more detail, particularly as an optional reasonable accommodation for faculty and staff with disabilities. Our study highlights that training to keep faculty abreast of the latest technological innovations, ways to promote work-life balance, and steps to remedy classroom size and building ventilation to prevent the spread of disease all need urgent attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine S. Fichten
- Department of Psychology, Dawson College, 3040 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC H3Z 1A4, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; (S.B.); (L.C.); (E.L.)
- Behavioural Psychotherapy and Research Unit, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Cote Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4, Canada
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
| | - Samantha Wing
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
- McGill Cognitive Science Program, McGill University, 845 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Georgiana Costin
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, 845 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - Mary Jorgensen
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
| | - Alice Havel
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
- Scholars in Residence Program, Dawson College, 3040 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC H3Z 1A4, Canada
| | - Susie Wileman
- Adaptech Research Network, 4001 de Maisonneuve W., Montreal, QC H3Z 3G4, Canada; (S.W.); (G.C.); (M.J.); (A.H.); (S.W.)
- Scholars in Residence Program, Dawson College, 3040 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC H3Z 1A4, Canada
| | - Sally Bailes
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; (S.B.); (L.C.); (E.L.)
- Behavioural Psychotherapy and Research Unit, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Cote Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4, Canada
| | - Laura Creti
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; (S.B.); (L.C.); (E.L.)
- Behavioural Psychotherapy and Research Unit, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Cote Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4, Canada
| | - Eva Libman
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 1033 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Canada; (S.B.); (L.C.); (E.L.)
- Behavioural Psychotherapy and Research Unit, Jewish General Hospital, 4333 Cote Ste Catherine Road, Montreal, QC H3T 1E4, Canada
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Arponen H, Zou-Kopsa Q, Karaharju-Suvanto T. Examination performance of dentistry students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Acta Odontol Scand 2023; 81:124-130. [PMID: 35811471 DOI: 10.1080/00016357.2022.2096922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
CONCLUSIONS Our results imply that online teaching did not systematically improve or worsen the examination performance of undergraduate students of dentistry. Our findings have important policy implications for educational practices in the future. The observed annual grade variation might reflect the effectiveness of remote teaching, changes in students' performance, or non-systematic grading. MATERIALS AND METHODS Using administrative data from the University of Helsinki, the examination performance during the years 2018 and 2019 was compared with that of 2020. OBJECTIVE The global COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in remote teaching and online assessment in higher education. The examination performance of undergraduate students of dentistry was evaluated to assess any possible association between the altered learning environment and learners' performance. RESULTS In 16 out of 22 courses (73%) taught remotely during the pandemic, a statistically significant difference (p < .05) between the awarded grades was observed, as compared to the two previous years. Annual variation in examination grades was common even before the onset of remote teaching, but more so after it. The grade variation during the pandemic was nearly as prevalent towards falling grades (26%) as towards rising grades (36%), implying a multifactorial cause possibly unrelated to remote teaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Arponen
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Qing Zou-Kopsa
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Terhi Karaharju-Suvanto
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Bocanegra JO, Gallup J, Hou M, Gubi AA, Fan CH, Yang NJ, Perihan C. COVID-19, Mental Health, Technology Use, and Job Satisfaction Among School Psychology Trainers. CONTEMPORARY SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY 2023:1-12. [PMID: 36747888 PMCID: PMC9893972 DOI: 10.1007/s40688-023-00449-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic threatens to exacerbate the school psychology personnel crisis. There is a dearth of knowledge regarding how the pandemic has impacted school psychology trainers and course delivery. In this national study, 92 school psychology trainers completed an online questionnaire regarding technological instructional changes, job satisfaction, and their own mental health well-being during the pandemic. Findings suggest that during the portion of the pandemic assessed most trainers reported that they: (a) switched from in-person instruction to primarily online instruction, (b) were mostly satisfied with their jobs, and (c) generally experienced a positive sense of well-being. Furthermore, a sizable portion of those that switched to a mixture of hybrid and online instruction during the pandemic endorsed that they are likely to continue to use these modalities after the pandemic subsides. Unfortunately, although school psychology trainers presented as generally resilient workforce during the pandemic, almost 20% participants screened positive for possible depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel O. Bocanegra
- Department of School Psychology and Educational Leadership, Idaho State University, 921 S 8Th Ave, Stop 8059,
, Pocatello, ID USA
| | - Jennifer Gallup
- Teaching and Educational Studies, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
| | - Minghui Hou
- Educational Foundations and Leadership, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, USA
| | - Aaron A. Gubi
- Advanced Studies in Psychology, Kean University, Union and Hillside, USA
| | - Chung-Hau Fan
- Department of School Psychology and Educational Leadership, Idaho State University, 921 S 8Th Ave, Stop 8059,
, Pocatello, ID USA
| | - Nai-Jiin Yang
- Department of Psychology, Utah State University, Logan, USA
| | - Celal Perihan
- Teaching and Educational Studies, Idaho State University, Pocatello, USA
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Hamid AARM, Miskry ASAA, Darweesh AHM. The relationship between coping and distress among faculty members and students during COVID-19 pandemic lockdown: The moderating effect of gender. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1103049. [PMID: 36911133 PMCID: PMC9992169 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1103049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Previous research has documented significant associations between the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, various mental health problems, and coping strategies. However, literature on the moderating role of gender on the relationship between distress and coping strategies during COVID-19 is almost nonexistent. Hence, the main objective of this study was two folds. To examine gender differences in distress and coping strategies, and to test the moderating effect of gender on the relationship between distress and coping among university faculty members and students during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A cross-sectional web-based study design was used to collect data from the participants. A sample of 649 participants (68.9% university students and 31.1% faculty members) was selected. The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations (CISS) were used to collect data from the participants. The survey was sent out during the COVID-19 lockdown from May 12th to June 30th, 2020. RESULTS The results showed significant gender differences in distress and the three coping strategies. Women consistently scored higher on distress (p < 0.01), task-focused (p < 0.05), emotion-focused (p < 0.001), and avoidance coping (p < 0.01) compared to men. Gender moderated the relationship between emotion-focused coping and distress (p < 0.001) but not the relationship between distress and task-focused or avoidance coping. CONCLUSION Increased emotion-focused coping is associated with decreased distress among women while the use of emotion-focused coping by men predicted more distress. Workshops and programs focused on providing skills and techniques on how to cope with stressful situations induced by the COVID-19 pandemic are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla A R M Hamid
- Department of Clinical Psychology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Abdel Hameed M Darweesh
- Department of Cognitive Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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Innstrand ST, Christensen M, Grødal K, Banks C. Within- and between-person changes in work practice and experiences due to COVID-19: Lessons learned from employees working from home, hybrid working, and working at the office. Front Psychol 2022; 13:948516. [PMID: 36619129 PMCID: PMC9812551 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.948516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction In response to the requirement of keeping social distance during the COVID-19 outbreak a lot of employees needed to change from a regular office to a home-office at short notice. The aim of the present study is to explore these employees' experiences and evaluate changes in their work situation during the pandemic. Method A mixed-method design was used with panel data collected twice in an insurance company in Norway. The first dataset was collected in December 2020 (Time 1; N = 558), with a follow up in March 2021 (Time 2; N = 601). Results Our study indicated that employees' main reasons for working from home were to keep social distance, avoid contagion and protect their loved ones. Flexibility, timesaving and more time with family and friends were also motivators. Most employees reported that they had the necessary technical equipment to work from home and wanted more opportunity to use their home office in the future. General Linear Models (GLM) indicated that work-family balance and workload were the same across age, gender, and worksites. Women and employees working from home reported more fear of being infected by COVID-19 at work. Younger employees reported experiencing less social contact with colleagues than normal during the pandemic, compared to the older employees. Overall, employees working at home were more positive toward digital solutions and digital meetings than those at the office. Repeated measures MANOVA showed that the work motivation and digital competence decreased over time for all worksites. Productivity increased for home-office employees but decreased for the hybrid and work-office employees. Discussion This paper contributes to knowledge of employees' experiences with different worksite solutions, which will be useful for anticipating employees experience in the future with more hybrid work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siw Tone Innstrand
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Marit Christensen
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Karoline Grødal
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Educational Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Cristina Banks
- School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
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Vajpeyi Misra A, Mamdouh HM, Dani A, Mitchell V, Hussain HY, Ibrahim GM, Alnakhi WK. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of university students in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:312. [PMID: 36527101 PMCID: PMC9756732 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-00986-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the mental well-being of students worldwide. There is a scarcity of information on the mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on university students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to investigate the mental health impact of the COVID-19, including depression, anxiety and resilience among a sample of university students in the UAE. METHODS A cross-sectional study using an online survey was conducted from September to November 2021. The patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), generalized anxiety disorder-7 (GAD-7) and Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) were used to assess depression, anxiety, and resilience. The COVID-19 impact was assessed using a list of questions. RESULTS Only, 798 students completed the survey and were analyzed for this study. Overall, 74.8% of the students were females, 91.2% were never married, and 66.3% were UAE-nationals. Based on PHQ-9 and GAD-7 cut-off scores (≥ 10), four out of ten of the students self-reported moderate to severe depression (40.9%) and anxiety (39.1%). Significantly higher mean PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores were found among students who were impacted by COVID-19 than those non-impacted (mean PHQ-9 = 9.51 ± 6.39 and 6.80 ± 6.34; p = 0.001, respectively) and (mean GAD-7 = 9.03 ± 6.00 and 8.54 ± 6.02; respectively, p < 0.001). Female students who were impacted by COVID-19 had statistically significant higher depression and anxiety scores (mean PHQ-9 of 9.14 ± 5.86 vs. 6.83 ± 6.25, respectively; p < 0.001) than the non-impacted females (mean GAD-7 of 9.57 ± 6.32 vs. 5.15 ± 3.88, respectively; p = 0.005). Never married students had significantly higher PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores than ever-married (9.31 ± 6.37 vs. 6.93 ± 5.47, P = 0.003) and (8.89 ± 6.11 vs. 7.13 ± 5.49, respectively; p = 0.017). CONCLUSIONS The results of this study demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of this sample of university students in terms of depression and anxiety. The results highlight the need to adopt culturally appropriate interventions for university students and focus on vulnerable groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anamika Vajpeyi Misra
- grid.444463.50000 0004 1796 4519Department of Health Sciences- Social Work Program, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Heba M. Mamdouh
- grid.414167.10000 0004 1757 0894Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE ,grid.7155.60000 0001 2260 6941Department of Family Health, High Institute of Public Health, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Anita Dani
- grid.444463.50000 0004 1796 4519General Academic Requirement (General Studies), Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Vivienne Mitchell
- grid.444463.50000 0004 1796 4519Department of Health Sciences- Social Work Program, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Hamid Y. Hussain
- grid.414167.10000 0004 1757 0894Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE
| | - Gamal M. Ibrahim
- grid.414167.10000 0004 1757 0894Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE
| | - Wafa K. Alnakhi
- grid.414167.10000 0004 1757 0894Department of Data Analysis, Research and Studies, Dubai Health Authority, Dubai, UAE ,grid.510259.a0000 0004 5950 6858Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, UAE
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Thompson L, Christian C. "…It just broke me…": exploring the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academics. BMC Psychol 2022; 10:289. [PMID: 36471439 PMCID: PMC9724325 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-022-01008-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The declaration of COVID-19 as a global pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2020 catapulted institutions of higher education into an emergency transition from face-to-face to online teaching. Given the nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the continuing after-effects thereof, the study explored the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academics. METHODS A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to explore the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on academics. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews from a sample of 11 full-time academics permanently employed at six public and private higher education institutions in South Africa in 2020 and 2021. The data were analysed by means of thematic analysis. RESULTS The study found that the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown restrictions had a largely negative psychological impact on academics in higher education. The most dominant negative emotions reported by participants included stress, anxiety, fear and guilt either due to the threat of the virus itself, potential for loss of life, lockdown restrictions, a new working environment, and/or their perceived inability to assist their students. Participants also reported feelings of emotional isolation and an increase in levels of emotional fatigue. CONCLUSION In conclusion, institutions of higher education need to be aware of the negative psychological impact of COVID-19 on academics, and ensure they create and foster environments that promote mental well-being. Institutions may offer psychological services and/or emotional well-being initiatives to their academic staff. They must create spaces and cultures where academics feel comfortable to request and seek well-being opportunities. In addition to mental and emotional well-being initiatives, institutions must provide academics with tangible teaching and learning support as this would go a long way in reducing much of the stress experienced by academics during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynette Thompson
- grid.442346.30000 0004 0419 6602School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, The Independent Institute of Education, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Cindy Christian
- grid.442346.30000 0004 0419 6602School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, The Independent Institute of Education, Cape Town, South Africa
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11
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Barredo R, Kanu M, Gishe J, Raynes E, Cosby B, Tolleson T. Stress and Stressors: The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Students, Faculty and Staff at a Historically Black College/University. J Community Health 2022; 48:269-285. [PMID: 36385595 PMCID: PMC9668210 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01161-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, academic institutions have changed their modus operandi, particularly in adopting distance learning in lieu of face-to-face instruction. This has sometimes produced unanticipated effects on students. The purpose of this study was to determine COVID-19 pandemic stressors and coping mechanisms utilized as relief measures by students, faculty, and staff in the College of Health Sciences at a historically Black institution. Cross-sectional study. SAMPLING A convenience sample of 209 students, 34 faculty, and 9 staff from the College of Health Sciences at a historically Black institution participated in this study. INSTRUMENT A 32-item Qualtrics survey was utilized to gather demographic data, COVID-19-related stressors, and coping mechanisms. ANALYSIS Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test for categorical variables, and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel tests for ordinal variables were used. Female students, African American students (AAS), and undergraduates perceived stress related to the risk of contagion during the pandemic higher than the male students (P-value = 0.0096), other races (P-value = 0.0249) and graduate students (P-value = 0.0141) respectively. Female students perceived more stress related to relationships with relatives (P-value = 0.0128). Caucasian students compared to others (P-value = 0.0240) and graduate students compared to undergraduate students (P-value = 0.0011) reported less perceived stress related to the relationships with other colleagues. Top coping strategies of students and staff included interaction with family and friends, social media, hand hygiene, and meditation/spiritualty. Except for "avoidance of public spaces/transportation", all other mechanisms were the same for faculty.
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Blake H, Somerset S, Mahmood I, Mahmood N, Corner J, Ball JK, Denning C. A Qualitative Evaluation of the Barriers and Enablers for Implementation of an Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Testing Service at the University of Nottingham: A Multi-Site Higher Education Setting in England. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:13140. [PMID: 36293719 PMCID: PMC9603241 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Asymptomatic testing for SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been used to prevent and manage COVID-19 outbreaks in university settings, but few studies have explored their implementation. The aim of the study was to evaluate how an accredited asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 testing service (ATS) was implemented at the University of Nottingham, a multi-campus university in England, to identify barriers and enablers of implementation and to draw out lessons for implementing pandemic response initiatives in higher education settings. A qualitative interview study was conducted with 25 ATS personnel between May and July 2022. Interviews were conducted online, audio-recorded, and transcribed. Participants were asked about their experience of the ATS, barriers and enablers of implementation. Transcripts were thematically analysed. There were four overarching themes: (1) social responsibility and innovation, (2) when, how and why people accessed testing, (3) impact of the ATS on the spread of COVID-19, and (4) lessons learned for the future. In establishing the service, the institution was seen to be valuing its community and socially responsible. The service was viewed to be broadly successful as a COVID-19 mitigation approach. Challenges to service implementation were the rapidly changing pandemic situation and government advice, delays in service accreditation and rollout to staff, ambivalence towards testing and isolating in the target population, and an inability to provide follow-up support for positive cases within the service. Facilitators included service visibility, reduction in organisational bureaucracy and red tape, inclusive leadership, collaborative working with regular feedback on service status, flexibility in service delivery approaches and simplicity of saliva testing. The ATS instilled a perception of early 'return to normality' and impacted positively on staff feelings of safety and wellbeing, with wider benefits for healthcare services and local communities. In conclusion, we identified common themes that have facilitated or hindered the implementation of a SARS-CoV-2 testing service at a university in England. Lessons learned from ATS implementation will inform future pandemic response interventions in higher education settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Blake
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Sarah Somerset
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ikra Mahmood
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Neelam Mahmood
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
| | - Jessica Corner
- Executive Office, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jonathan K. Ball
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Chris Denning
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
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Marquez NM, Saintila J, Castellanos-Vazquez AJ, Dávila-Villavicencio R, Turpo-Chaparro J, Sánchez-Tarrillo JA, Salinas Arias SA, Calizaya-Milla YE, Morales-García WC. Telehealth-based interventions on lifestyle, body mass index, and glucose concentration in university staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic: A pre-experimental study. Digit Health 2022; 8:20552076221129719. [PMID: 36211802 PMCID: PMC9537489 DOI: 10.1177/20552076221129719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has impacted the health of the population. Technological advances become alternative tools for the promotion of lifestyle and prevention of non-communicable diseases in university personnel. Objective: This study analyzed the effect of an intervention based on a telehealth program and investigated its efficacy in improving lifestyle, body mass index, and glucose concentration in university staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Methods: A pre-experimental study was conducted between August and December 2021 on 100 workers of a private university located in Tarapoto, Peru. Information was collected on lifestyle practices and beliefs, body mass index, and glucose contraction before and after the intervention. After the intervention, 78 participants were analyzed; 22 workers did not respond to the invitation. Results: Comparison between pretest and follow-up showed an increase in lifestyle practices and beliefs (from 93.33 ± 9.44 to 96.23 ± 9.32, p < 0.01), although this value is considered an unhealthy lifestyle. Moreover, a decrease in body mass index (from 25.23 ± 3.08 to 24.98 ± 2.98, p < 0.05) and glucose concentration (from 98.35 ± 6.70 to 97.45 ± 5.61, p < 0.01) was observed. Conclusion: Telehealth-based educational interventions could be effective in university staff during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which, in turn, would support improved lifestyles and adequate body mass index and glucose levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neidis M. Marquez
- Unidad de Salud Pública, Escuela de Posgrado, Universidad Peruana Unión, Lima, Perú
| | - Jacksaint Saintila
- Escuela de Medicina Humana, Universidad Señor de Sipán, Chiclayo, Perú,Jacksaint Saintila, Escuela de Medicina
Humana, Universidad Señor de Sipán, Km 5, Carretera Pimentel, Chiclayo, Perú.
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Liu M, Zhao S, Li J. Associations among perceived built environment, attitudes, walking behavior, and physical and mental state of college students during COVID-19. TRAVEL BEHAVIOUR & SOCIETY 2022; 28:170-180. [PMID: 35402164 PMCID: PMC8983485 DOI: 10.1016/j.tbs.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Owing to strict access control implemented on university campuses during COVID-19, college students experienced increased isolation, resulting in several physical and mental health issues. This study investigates the relationships among perceived built environment, walking attitudes, walking behavior, physical and mental state, and the impact of COVID-19. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate students (N = 429) at Dalian University of Technology, China, on September 20 (Sunday) and 21 (Monday), 2020. The survey questionnaire included questions related to socio-demographic factors, perceived environment (accessibility, road condition and safety, and aesthetics), walking attitudes, walking behavior (number of walking trips), physical and mental state, and the impact of pandemic. Subsequently, two structural equation models (SEMs) were developed to analyze the proposed conceptual framework. The empirical results indicated that the SEMs fit the data well, thereby validating the conceptual framework. Perceived environment (especially accessibility), attitudes, and walking behavior significantly influenced physical and mental state. Perceived environment mediated the effects between attitudes and walking behavior and physical and mental state. The pandemic negatively impacted attitudes and physical and mental state. The effect of perceived accessibility on walking behavior and that of walking behavior on physical and mental state were stronger on weekends, whereas the effects of attitudes and the pandemic on physical and mental state were stronger on weekdays. The findings indicate that universities should implement appropriate strategies to improve the objective and subjective built environment, especially accessibility, and cultivate positive attitudes among students to promote walking and improve physical and mental health during COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- School of Transportation and Logistics, Faculty of Infrastructure Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Shengchuan Zhao
- School of Transportation and Logistics, Faculty of Infrastructure Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Jingyao Li
- School of Transportation and Logistics, Faculty of Infrastructure Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
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