1
|
Amini-Rarani M, Azami-Aghdash S, Mousavi Isfahani H, Mohseni M. Estimation of the prevalence of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: A meta-analysis of meta-analyses. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2831. [PMID: 39407138 PMCID: PMC11476206 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19729-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 10/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pandemics such as COVID-19, can lead to psychiatric symptoms like anxiety. It seems that meta-analysis of meta-analysis studies can provide more comprehensive information regarding the needs for post-COVID-19 services. Therefore, this umbrella review and meta-analysis of meta-analyses aimed to estimate the precise prevalence of anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for published meta-analyses using relevant keywords, such as Anxiety, Prevalence, COVID-19, and Meta-analysis up to November 1, 2023. Google Scholar, reference check, citation check, and grey literature were manually searched. A random-effect model was used for the analysis. All analyses were conducted using STATA: 17. RESULTS Out of the 4263 records, Finally, 75 meta-analyses were included. The overall prevalence of anxiety was 30.4% [95% CI: 29-31.8] with a high heterogeneity (I2: 86.76%). The highest prevalence of anxiety according to population type was 41.3% in patients and then in students (30.8), pregnant women (30.6%), and health care workers (30.5%). The Result of meta-regression showed that "Time" (based on the time between the start of COVID-19 and the last search date in articles) was not a significant predictor of the prevalence of anxiety (R Coefficient = 0.000149, P = 0.61). CONCLUSIONS Considering the prevalence of anxiety among patients, students, pregnant women, and healthcare workers, special attention should be paid to these groups in case of the re-occurrence of COVID-19 or occurrence of other pandemics. As quarantine due to pandemics causes reduced social interactions, reduced income, and increased worry about severe illness and death, there is a need for large-scale mobilization of political measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Amini-Rarani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Saber Azami-Aghdash
- Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Haleh Mousavi Isfahani
- Health Management and Economics Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mohseni
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lorvellec MA, Sipahimalani G, Lahutte B, Delacour H, Baldacci A, Saguin E. Pharmacogenetics testing for poor response to antidepressants: a transnosographic case series. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1440523. [PMID: 39444600 PMCID: PMC11496244 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1440523] [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: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 09/24/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pharmacogenetics (PGx) holds promise for optimizing psychotropic medication use, with CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 identified as key genes in antidepressant treatment. However, few studies have explored the genetic variants of these genes in real-world settings for patients experiencing ineffectiveness or adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to antidepressants. Methods This case series includes 40 patients who underwent PGx testing due to antidepressant ineffectiveness or ADRs between June 2020 and April 2022. We describe the patients' demographic, clinical, and genetic characteristics and assess the value of PGx testing based on feedback from their psychiatrists. Results The most common diagnoses were major depressive disorder (60.0%) and post-traumatic stress disorder (30.0%). Ineffectiveness was reported in 65.0% of patients, ADRs in 2.5%, and both in 32.5%. The antidepressants involved included SSRIs (45.0%), SNRIs (27.5%), atypical antidepressants (20.0%), and tricyclics (17.5%). Only 17.5% of patients had normal CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 metabolic activity. Actionable genetic variants were identified in 22.0% of CYP2D6/CYP2C19-antidepressant-response pairs. PGx recommendations were followed in 92.7% of cases, with significant improvement in ADRs reported in 71.4% of patients and efficacy improvement in 79.5%. Discussion Our findings suggest that PGx testing can guide prescribing decisions for patients with antidepressant ineffectiveness or ADRs. The relatively high prevalence of genetic variants affecting pharmacokinetics supports the broader adoption of PGx testing in psychiatric practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Agnès Lorvellec
- Department of Psychiatry, Bégin National Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
| | - Gilles Sipahimalani
- Department of Psychiatry, Bégin National Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
| | - Bertrand Lahutte
- Department of Psychiatry, Bégin National Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
- Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, French Military Medical Academy, Paris, France
| | - Hervé Delacour
- Ecole du Val-de-Grâce, French Military Medical Academy, Paris, France
- Biological Unit, Bégin Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
| | - Antoine Baldacci
- Department of Psychiatry, Bégin National Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
| | - Emeric Saguin
- Department of Psychiatry, Bégin National Military Teaching Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France
- UMR 7330 VIFASOM, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bulamba RM, Nalugoda F, Nkale J, Kigozi G, Ochieng AM, Kyasanku E, Watya S, Olwa VO, Daama A, Nkwanzi V, Kiwanuka D, Mugamba S, Kigozi G, Wagman J, Ekström AM, Nakigozi G, Miller AP. Examining associations between mental health and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (C-NCDs) among older adults in Wakiso, Uganda. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293993. [PMID: 38885211 PMCID: PMC11182548 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globally, the prevalence of chronic non-communicable diseases (C-NCDs) and occurrence of multi-morbidity specifically, has been increasing and will continue to rise as life expectancy increases. The burden of mental health disorders has also been rising globally. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), literature on these health issues, which are interrelated, is scarce. This study assesses the prevalence of C-NCDs, and depressive and anxiety symptomology and examines the relationship between these issues among a sample of older adults in Uganda. METHODS Between 2021-2022, 604 consenting adults aged 35 years and older were surveyed on a broad range of health issues for the ongoing AMBSO Population Health Surveillance (APHS) cohort study in Wakiso district. Descriptive analyses were performed to characterize the burden of C-NCDs (e.g. diabetes, hypertension), depression (PHQ-9 using a cutoff of <5 scores for minimal/no and 5+ for mild to severe symptomology) and anxiety (GAD-7 using a cutoff of 5+ scores for mild to severe symptomology). Bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression models were built using STATA software version 16.0 to examine associations between mental health disorders and having at least one C-NCD. Our exposures of interest were depressive and anxiety symptoms and our outcomes of interest was presence of C-NCDs. RESULTS Majority of participants were females (63.6%), median age was 46 (IQR: 39-54). Any C-NCDs prevalence was 18.7%, while 18.9% and 11.4%, had screening scores indicative of depressive and anxiety symptomology, respectively. Three percent (3.2%) had PHQ-9 scores indicative of moderate to severe depressive symptomology. In models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, there was 12% increased odds of suffering from C-NCDs for every unit increase in PHQ-9 score (AOR = 1.12, 95% CI: 1.10-1.20). Participants with any anxiety symptoms had 2.1 greater odds of suffering from C-NCD compared to those who did not have anxiety symptoms (AOR = 2.10, 95% CI: 1.21-3.70). CONCLUSION C-NCDs were prevalent in older adults, particularly among those experiencing mental health symptoms. Screening for C-NCDs and mental health disorders should be integrated into routine health care for older adults in the country. Early screening and identification of these health issues through primary health care could significantly reduce the public health burden attributable to mental health disorders and the incidence of multi-morbidity in Uganda.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M. Bulamba
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Fred Nalugoda
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - James Nkale
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Godfrey Kigozi
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Emmanuel Kyasanku
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Watya
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Vitalis Ofumbi Olwa
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alex Daama
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Violet Nkwanzi
- East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States of America
| | - Deusdedit Kiwanuka
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Stephen Mugamba
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Grace Kigozi
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Jennifer Wagman
- University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Gertrude Nakigozi
- Africa Medical and Behavioral Sciences Organization (AMBSO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Amanda P. Miller
- San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Beck J, Koebach A, Abreu L, Regassa MD, Hoeffler A, Stojetz W, Brück T. COVID-19 Pandemic and Food Insecurity Fuel the Mental Health Crisis in Africa. Int J Public Health 2024; 68:1606369. [PMID: 38283859 PMCID: PMC10811217 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1606369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective: Providing country-level estimates for prevalence rates of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), COVID-19 exposure and food insecurity (FI) and assessing the role of persistent threats to survival-exemplified by exposure to COVID-19 and FI-for the mental health crisis in Africa. Methods: Original phone-based survey data from Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda (12 consecutive cross-sections in 2021; n = 23,943) were analyzed to estimate prevalence rates of GAD. Logistic regression models and mediation analysis using structural equation models identify risk and protective factors. Results: The overall prevalence of GAD in 2021 was 23.3%; 40.2% in Mozambique, 17.0% in Sierra Leone, 18.0% in Tanzania, and 19.1% in Uganda. Both COVID-19 exposure (ORadj. 1.4; CI 1.3-1.6) and FI (ORadj 3.2; CI 2.7-3.8) are independent and significant predictors of GAD. Thus, the impact of FI on GAD was considerably stronger than that of COVID-19 exposure. Conclusion: Persistent threats to survival play a substantial role for mental health, specifically GAD. High anxiety prevalence in the population requires programs to reduce violence and enhance social support. Even during a pandemic, addressing FI as a key driver of GAD should be prioritized by policymakers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jule Beck
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Anke Koebach
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Liliana Abreu
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | | | - Anke Hoeffler
- Development Research Group, Department of Politics and Public Administration, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Stojetz
- ISDC—International Security and Development Center, Berlin, Germany
| | - Tilman Brück
- Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops, Großbeeren, Germany
- ISDC—International Security and Development Center, Berlin, Germany
- Albrecht Daniel Thaer Institute for Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Salameh G, Marais D, Khoury R. Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health among the Population in Jordan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6382. [PMID: 37510614 PMCID: PMC10379603 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mental health is a key indicator for public health measures. Jordan is one of the countries that has a high prevalence of mental illness and disorders. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all health services in the country with a high refugee population. The aim of this review is to assess the impact of the pandemic on mental health in Jordan and identify key factors affecting it, in addition to addressing lessons learned from the pandemic. METHODS A systematic search was conducted on Medline Plus, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCOHost Psycinfo and Cinhal, following the PRISMA guidelines. Articles were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were extracted and synthesized using narrative descriptive analysis. RESULTS The pandemic had a significant impact on PTSD, psychological distress, anxiety, depression and stress. Predictors of a higher impact on mental health were related to gender, socio-economic status and comorbidities. The healthcare workers group was the most affected by mental disorders. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic's impact on mental health was associated with high levels of PTSD, anxiety, depression and stress. In a country with a high prevalence of mental disorders, prompt and quick measures are needed to support the health system to absorb the effect of the pandemic and be responsive to dealing with the existing high prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ghaith Salameh
- School of Health, University of Essex, Colchester CO4 3SQ, UK
| | - Debbi Marais
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kotera Y, Kirkman A, Beaumont J, Komorowska MA, Such E, Kaneda Y, Rushforth A. Self-Compassion during COVID-19 in Non-WEIRD Countries: A Narrative Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2016. [PMID: 37510457 PMCID: PMC10378945 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11142016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted people's mental health negatively worldwide, including in non-WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialised, Rich and Democratic) countries. Self-compassion, kindness and understanding towards oneself in difficult times have received increasing attention in the field of mental health. Self-compassion is strongly associated with good mental health in various populations. This narrative review aimed to synthesise the evidence on self-compassion and mental health in non-WEIRD countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. MEDLINE and PsycINFO were searched for empirical studies. Self-compassion was consistently associated with positive mental health in non-WEIRD countries too. However, how, and to what degree, each component of self-compassion impacts mental health remains to be evaluated across different cultures. Future research such as multi-national intervention studies, or component network meta-analysis, is needed to advance our understanding of how self-compassion improves mental health in different populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Kotera
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
| | - Ann Kirkman
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Julie Beaumont
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Such
- School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2HA, UK
| | - Yudai Kaneda
- School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Annabel Rushforth
- College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Valladares-Garrido MJ, Picón-Reátegui CK, Zila-Velasque JP, Grados-Espinoza P, Vera-Ponce VJ, Pereira-Victorio CJ, Valladares-Garrido D, Failoc-Rojas VE. Depression and anxiety in peruvian military personnel during the pandemic context: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:691. [PMID: 37055833 PMCID: PMC10100618 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15612-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased workload and stress could have increased mental health problems (anxiety and depression) in military personnel. However, the number of studies in military members is scarce, especially in regard to mental health. The objective of this study was determine the prevalence and factors associated with depression and anxiety in Peruvian military personnel. METHODS We undertook an analytical cross-sectional study. The survey was distributed face to face between November 02 and 09, 2021, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic among the military personnel. We used some instruments to measure depression (Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-9), anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, GAD-7), insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index, ISI), food insecurity (Household Food Insecurity Access Scale, HFIAS), physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaires, IPAQ-S), resilience (abbreviated CD-RISC), and fear of COVID-19 scale. The exclusion criteria included those who did not completely fill out the evaluation instruments. RESULTS We analyzed the data of 615 military personnel that participated in the survey. Of them, 93.7% were male and the median age was 22 years old. There was a prevalence of 29.9% and 22.0% in regard to depression and anxiety symptoms, respectively. In addition, it was found that being married (PR: 0.63; 95% IC: 0.42-0.94), having a relative with mental health problems (PR: 2.16), having experienced food insecurity (PR: 1.48), insomnia (PR: 2.71), fear of COVID-19 (PR: 1.48), and a high level of resilience (PR: 0.65) were factors associated with depression. In regard to anxiety, the factors associated were working for more than 18 months since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic (PR: 0.52), a high level of resilience (PR: 0.50; 95% IC: 0.33-0.77), insomnia (PR: 3.32), fear of COVID-19 (PR: 2.43). CONCLUSION We found a prevalence of symptoms of depression and anxiety of 29.9% and 22.0%, respectively. In regard to the factors that attenuate depression, we can mention being married and having resilience; and among the aggravating factors, having a relative with mental health problems, food insecurity, insomnia, and fear of COVID-19. Finally, anxiety increased through working time, insomnia, and fear of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mario J. Valladares-Garrido
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Cesar Vallejo, Piura, Peru
- Oficina de Epidemiología, Hospital Regional Lambayeque, Chiclayo, Peru
| | | | - J. Pierre Zila-Velasque
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión, Pasco, Peru
- Red Latinoamericana de Medicina en la Altitud e Investigación (REDLAMAI), Pasco, Peru
| | - Pamela Grados-Espinoza
- Facultad de Medicina Humana, Universidad Nacional Daniel Alcides Carrión, Pasco, Peru
- Red Latinoamericana de Medicina en la Altitud e Investigación (REDLAMAI), Pasco, Peru
| | - Víctor J. Vera-Ponce
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad Ricardo Palma, Lima, 15039 Peru
- Universidad Tecnológica del Perú, Lima, 15046 Peru
| | | | - Danai Valladares-Garrido
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Cesar Vallejo, Piura, Peru
- Unidad de Epidemiología y Salud Ambiental, Hospital de Apoyo II Santa Rosa, Piura, Peru
| | - Virgilio E. Failoc-Rojas
- Research Unit for Generation and Synthesis Evidence in Health, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Witteveen AB, Young SY, Cuijpers P, Ayuso-Mateos JL, Barbui C, Bertolini F, Cabello M, Cadorin C, Downes N, Franzoi D, Gasior M, Gray B, Melchior M, van Ommeren M, Palantza C, Purgato M, van der Waerden J, Wang S, Sijbrandij M. COVID-19 and common mental health symptoms in the early phase of the pandemic: An umbrella review of the evidence. PLoS Med 2023; 20:e1004206. [PMID: 37098048 PMCID: PMC10129001 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There remains uncertainty about the impact of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on mental health. This umbrella review provides a comprehensive overview of the association between the pandemic and common mental disorders. We qualitatively summarized evidence from reviews with meta-analyses of individual study-data in the general population, healthcare workers, and specific at-risk populations. METHODS AND FINDINGS A systematic search was carried out in 5 databases for peer-reviewed systematic reviews with meta-analyses of prevalence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms during the pandemic published between December 31, 2019 until August 12, 2022. We identified 123 reviews of which 7 provided standardized mean differences (SMDs) either from longitudinal pre- to during pandemic study-data or from cross-sectional study-data compared to matched pre-pandemic data. Methodological quality rated with the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews checklist scores (AMSTAR 2) instrument was generally low to moderate. Small but significant increases of depression, anxiety, and/or general mental health symptoms were reported in the general population, in people with preexisting physical health conditions, and in children (3 reviews; SMDs ranged from 0.11 to 0.28). Mental health and depression symptoms significantly increased during periods of social restrictions (1 review; SMDs of 0.41 and 0.83, respectively) but anxiety symptoms did not (SMD: 0.26). Increases of depression symptoms were generally larger and longer-lasting during the pandemic (3 reviews; SMDs depression ranged from 0.16 to 0.23) than those of anxiety (2 reviews: SMDs 0.12 and 0.18). Females showed a significantly larger increase in anxiety symptoms than males (1 review: SMD 0.15). In healthcare workers, people with preexisting mental disorders, any patient group, children and adolescents, and in students, no significant differences from pre- to during pandemic were found (2 reviews; SMD's ranging from -0.16 to 0.48). In 116 reviews pooled cross-sectional prevalence rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms ranged from 9% to 48% across populations. Although heterogeneity between studies was high and largely unexplained, assessment tools and cut-offs used, age, sex or gender, and COVID-19 exposure factors were found to be moderators in some reviews. The major limitations are the inability to quantify and explain the high heterogeneity across reviews included and the shortage of within-person data from multiple longitudinal studies. CONCLUSIONS A small but consistent deterioration of mental health and particularly depression during early pandemic and during social restrictions has been found in the general population and in people with chronic somatic disorders. Also, associations between mental health and the pandemic were stronger in females and younger age groups than in others. Explanatory individual-level, COVID-19 exposure, and time-course factors were scarce and showed inconsistencies across reviews. For policy and research, repeated assessments of mental health in population panels including vulnerable individuals are recommended to respond to current and future health crises.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anke B. Witteveen
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Susanne Y. Young
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- South African PTSD Research Programme of Excellence, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - José Luis Ayuso-Mateos
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Training in Mental Health Services at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Federico Bertolini
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Cabello
- Department of Psychiatry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Training in Mental Health Services at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, CIBERSAM, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Camilla Cadorin
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Naomi Downes
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, Paris, France
| | - Daniele Franzoi
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Gasior
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Brandon Gray
- World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maria Melchior
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, Paris, France
| | - Mark van Ommeren
- World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and Substance Use, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Christina Palantza
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marianna Purgato
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Judith van der Waerden
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, Institut Pierre Louis d’Epidémiologie et de Santé Publique, Equipe de Recherche en Epidémiologie Sociale, Paris, France
| | - Siyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marit Sijbrandij
- Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Institute and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Research and Dissemination of Psychological Interventions, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fukase Y, Ichikura K, Tagaya H. Symptoms and risk factors of depression and PTSD in the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic: a longitudinal survey conducted from 2020 to 2022 in Japan. BMC Psychiatry 2023; 23:180. [PMID: 36941574 PMCID: PMC10026201 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-023-04670-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study aimed to explore changes in depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among the general population during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic and to investigate risk factors and adaptive/nonadaptive strategies. METHODS A web-based longitudinal survey was conducted across five timepoints from 2020 to 2022 in Japan. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), PTSD was measured using Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IESR), and coping strategies were measured using Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief COPE). Higher scores of PHQ-9 and IESR indicate more symptoms and Higher score of Brief COPE indicate that these means of coping are used very frequently. RESULTS A total of 1,366 participants (mean age = 52.76, SD = 15.57) were analyzed. Regarding levels of depression, PHQ-9 scores in 2022 were lower than in 2020 and 2021 (all p < 0.01). Regarding levels of PTSD, IESR scores in 2022 were lower than in 2021 among females (p < 0.001). Being younger (β = -0.08 and - 0.13, both p < 0.01) and engaging in self-blame (β = 0.12 and 0.18, both p < 0.01) increased PHQ-9 scores regardless of sex. For males, not working (β = 0.09, p = 0.004) and having suffered an economic impact (β = 0.07, p = 0.003) were risk factors for depressive symptoms, and active coping (β = -0.10, p = 0.005) was associated with decreased depressive symptoms. For females, substance use (β = 0.07, p = 0.032) and behavioral disengagement (β = 0.10, p = 0.006) increased depressive symptoms, and females did not show strategies that decreased the symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Levels of depression might have increased in the early stages of the pandemic and decreased in January 2022. Although males need to improve their economic situation to decrease depressive symptoms, adaptive strategies might be difficult to identify due to the prolonged pandemic among both sexes. In addition, the pandemic might be a depressive event but not a traumatic event among the general population, at least in Japan.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Fukase
- Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitazato 1-15-1, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan.
| | - Kanako Ichikura
- Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitazato 1-15-1, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| | - Hirokuni Tagaya
- Kitasato University School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitazato 1-15-1, Minami-ku, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252-0373, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chippaux JP. [Impact of COVID-19 on public health in sub-Saharan Africa]. BULLETIN DE L'ACADEMIE NATIONALE DE MEDECINE 2023; 207:150-164. [PMID: 36628105 PMCID: PMC9816877 DOI: 10.1016/j.banm.2022.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Objective This work aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare supply in sub-Saharan Africa except South Africa. Method A search through PubMed® between April 2020 and August 2022 selected 135 articles. The impact of COVID-19 was assessed on comparisons with the months prior to the onset of COVID-19 or an identical season in previous years. Results The decline of health services, associated with a reduction in their quality, and the closure of specialized health units have been reported. Many control programs and public health interventions have been interrupted, with the risk of an increase of the corresponding diseases. Social disorganization has generated mental health issues among the population, including health personnel. The impact was heterogeneous in space and time. The main causes were attributed to containment measures (transport restrictions, trade closures) and the lack of human and material resources. The increase in costs, in addition to the impoverishment of the population, and the fear of being contaminated or stigmatized have discouraged patients from going to health centres. The studies mention the gradual return to normal after the first epidemic wave and the resilience of the healthcare system. Conclusion Several articles make recommendations aimed at reducing the impact of future epidemics: support for community workers, training of health workers and reorganization of services to improve the reception and care of patients, technological innovations (use of telephones, drones, etc.) and better information monitoring.
Collapse
|
11
|
Assefa N, Abdullahi YY, Hemler EC, Lankoande B, Madzorera I, Wang D, Ismail A, Chukwu A, Workneh F, Mapendo F, Millogo O, Abubakari SW, Febir LG, Lyatuu I, Dianou K, Baernighausen T, Soura A, Asante KP, Smith E, Vuai S, Worku A, Killewo J, Mwanyika-Sando M, Berhane Y, Sie A, Tajudeen R, Oduola A, Fawzi WW. COVID-19 Preventive Practices, Psychological Distress, and Reported Barriers to Healthcare Access during the Pandemic among Adult Community Members in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Phone Survey. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 108:124-136. [PMID: 36509058 PMCID: PMC9833061 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.22-0349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had serious negative health and economic impacts in sub-Saharan Africa. Continuous monitoring of these impacts is crucial to formulate interventions to minimize the consequences of COVID-19. This study surveyed 2,829 adults in urban and rural sites among five sub-Saharan African countries: Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Ghana. Participants completed a mobile phone survey that assessed self-reported sociodemographics, COVID-19 preventive practices, psychological distress, and barriers to healthcare access. A modified Poisson regression model was used to estimate adjusted prevalence ratios (aPRs) and 95% CIs to investigate potential factors related to psychological distress and barriers to reduced healthcare access. At least 15.6% of adults reported experiencing any psychological distress in the previous 2 weeks, and 10.5% reported that at least one essential healthcare service was difficult to access 2 years into the pandemic. The majority of participants reported using several COVID-19 preventive methods, with varying proportions across the sites. Participants in the urban site of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso (aPR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.74-3.03) and in the rural site of Kintampo, Ghana (aPR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.21-2.34) had a higher likelihood of experiencing any psychological distress compared with those in the rural area of Nouna, Burkina Faso. Loss of employment due to COVID-19 (aPR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.47-2.11) was also associated with an increased prevalence of psychological distress. The number of children under 5 years in the household (aPR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.14-1.33) and participant self-reported psychological distress (aPR: 1.83; 95% CI: 1.48-2.27) were associated with an increased prevalence of reporting barriers to accessing health services, whereas wage employment (aPR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.49-0.90) was associated with decreased prevalence of reporting barriers to accessing health services. Overall, we found a high prevalence of psychological distress and interruptions in access to healthcare services 2 years into the pandemic across five sub-Saharan African countries. Increased effort and attention should be given to addressing the negative impacts of COVID-19 on psychological distress. An equitable and collaborative approach to new and existing preventive measures for COVID-19 is crucial to limit the consequences of COVID-19 on the health of adults in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nega Assefa
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yasir Y Abdullahi
- College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Elena C Hemler
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bruno Lankoande
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population, University of Ouagadougou, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Isabel Madzorera
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Dongqing Wang
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Abbas Ismail
- College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Angela Chukwu
- Department of Statistics, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | | | - Frank Mapendo
- Africa Academy for Public Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Sulemana Watara Abubakari
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Kintampo North Municipality, Bono East Region, Ghana
| | - Lawrence Gyabaa Febir
- Kintampo Health Research Centre, Research and Development Division, Ghana Health Service, Kintampo North Municipality, Bono East Region, Ghana
| | - Isaac Lyatuu
- Africa Academy for Public Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Kassoum Dianou
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population, University of Ouagadougou, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Till Baernighausen
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts.,Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Abdramane Soura
- Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Population, University of Ouagadougou, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Emily Smith
- Department of Global Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia.,Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Said Vuai
- College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.,Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Japhet Killewo
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institute of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ali Sie
- Nouna Health Research Center, Nouna, Burkina Faso
| | - Raji Tajudeen
- Division of Public Health Institutes and Research, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Ayo Oduola
- University of Ibadan Research Foundation, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Wafaie W Fawzi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li S, Yu S, Yang Q, Yin J, Zhu H, Jiang Y, Ji Y. Prevalence of suicide ideation among HIV/AIDS patients in China: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1082521. [PMID: 36908478 PMCID: PMC9996003 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1082521] [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: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the prevalence of suicide ideation among HIV/AIDS patients in China. Methods Systematic search of CNKI, Wanfang, China biology medicine database, Weipu, EMBASE, Web of science and PubMed for studies related to the suicide ideation of HIV/AIDS patients. The incidence of suicide ideation of HIV / AIDS patients in China was investigated by meta-analysis. Results A total of 16 studies were included (n = 6,174). The incidence of suicidal ideation in HIV/AIDS patients was 30.6% (95%CI: 21.4-39.9%). The results of subgroup analysis showed that the incidence of suicidal ideation in male was 36.1%, which was higher than that in female (32.8%), homosexual patients (39.7%) higher than heterosexual patients (27.1%), 2013-2021 survey (35.2%) higher than 2003-2012 survey (26.5%), the unmarried patients (39.6%) were higher than the married patients (34.5%), the patients diagnosed >1 year (28.4%) were higher than the patients diagnosed <1 year (27.6%), and the depression patients (34.3%) were higher than patients without depression (20.5%) and CD4 cell counts ≤200 cells/ul group (20.6%) were higher than those in >400 cells/ul group (19.8%). Conclusion The incidence of suicide ideation in HIV/AIDS patients in China is relatively high.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiming Li
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shui Yu
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Queping Yang
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jieyun Yin
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haohao Zhu
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ying Jiang
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yingying Ji
- The Affiliated Mental Health Center of Jiangnan University, Wuxi Central Rehabilitation Hospital, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Li W, Zhao YJ, Zhang SF, Yang B, Cheung T, Jackson T, Sha S, Xiang YT. Mapping post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and quality of life among residents of Wuhan, China after the COVID-19 outbreak: A network perspective. J Affect Disord 2022; 318:80-87. [PMID: 36030998 PMCID: PMC9420032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak may have a long-term impact on mental health in the general population. This study examined inter-relationships between post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSS) and quality of life (QOL) in Wuhan residents after the COVID-19 outbreak using network approach. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted between May 25 and June 18, 2020. PTSS and QOL were measured using Chinese versions of the Post -Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist - Civilian Version and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire - brief version, respectively. RESULTS A total of 2598 participants were included. A network analysis revealed "Avoiding reminders", "Feeling emotionally numb", "Avoiding thoughts", "Hypervigilance", and "Reliving experiences" as the most central (influential) nodes in PTSS network models both before and after controlling for covariates. The connection between "Avoiding thoughts" and "Avoiding reminders" had the strongest edge. Three symptom communities were detected and can be summarized as "re-experiencing and avoidance", "negative changes in thinking and mood", and "hyperarousal". The bridge symptoms connecting PTSS and QOL were "Sleep disturbances", "Irritability", and "Loss of interest". LIMITATIONS Limitations included the cross-sectional study design, self-report measures in data collection, and lack of follow-ups beyond the initial phase of the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS PTSS were common among Wuhan residents even after the initial COVID-19 outbreak had passed. Attention should be paid to lingering symptoms of avoiding reminders, emotional numbness, avoiding thoughts, hypervigilance, and reliving experiences in treating PTSS related to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Key Laboratory of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice China, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Jie Zhao
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao; Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Macau, Macao
| | - Shu-Fang Zhang
- Research Center for Psychological and Health Sciences, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan, Hubei, China,; Department of Psychiatry, Wuhan Mental Health Center, Wuhan, Hubei province, China
| | - Bingxiang Yang
- School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Teris Cheung
- School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong kong
| | - Todd Jackson
- Department of Psychology, University of Macau, Macao
| | - Sha Sha
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao; Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences, University of Macau, Macao; Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Macau, Macao.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cui J, Cheung VHM, Huang W, Kan WS. Mental Distress during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study of Women Receiving the Comprehensive Social Security Allowance in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10279. [PMID: 36011912 PMCID: PMC9407927 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Welfare recipients were often considered the least deserving of COVID-related support. Despite the recent attention paid to the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, few studies have explored the mental distress experienced by welfare recipients. This cross-sectional study on female Comprehensive Social Security Allowance recipients in Hong Kong aimed to explore their level of mental distress and its association with a range of risk factors specific to welfare recipients. Hence, 316 valid cases from a local community center responded to our online survey. We found that 52.3%, 23.4%, and 78% of the participants showed moderate to extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms, respectively. A higher level of mental distress was associated with having a psychiatric diagnosis, poorer social, and greater concerns over disciplining children, the living environment, daily expenses and being infected by COVID-19. Unexpectedly, being married, having a permanent residence, and having a job were not significant protective factors for this group. The models explained 45.5%, 44.6%, and 52.5% of the overall variance in the level of depression, anxiety, and stress (p < 0.01), respectively. Our findings have important implications for supporting female welfare recipients during a public health crisis and may help frontline staff and professionals provide prompt assistance to this group in need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialiang Cui
- Department of Social Work, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Vanessa Hoi Mei Cheung
- Felizberta Lo Padilla Tong School of Social Sciences, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong
| | | | - Wan Sang Kan
- Department of Social and Behavioural Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kim C, Ahmed O, Silva WAD, Park CHK, Yoo S, Chung S. Applicability and Psychometric Comparison of the General-Population Viral Anxiety Rating Scales among Healthcare Workers in the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:9946. [PMID: 36011584 PMCID: PMC9407985 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19169946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to explore the reliability and validity of viral anxiety rating scales (developed for the general population) among healthcare workers. In addition, we compared the psychometric properties of rating scales in accordance with the Generalized Anxiety Scale-7 items (GAD-7) during this COVID-19 pandemic. The viral anxiety of 330 healthcare workers was measured with Stress and Anxiety to Viral Epidemics-9 items (SAVE-9), SAVE-6, Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), and COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS-7). Factor analyses, item response theory, and Rasch model analyses were conducted to confirm the construct validities of the scales and compare the psychometric properties of rating scales. The receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis examined the cutoff scores of rating scales in accordance with a mild degree of generalized anxiety. The SAVE-9, SAVE-6, CAS, FCV-19S, and CAS-7 scales showed good reliability of internal consistency among healthcare workers. Their construct validity and convergent validity of each scale were similarly good. Furthermore, in comparing the psychometric properties of rating scales, we observed that the CAS scale was the most discriminating and difficult among the scales. The CAS and FCV-19S provided more information and were more efficient than the SAVE-9, SAVE-6, and CAS-7 scales when they were used to measure healthcare workers' viral anxiety. Viral anxiety rating scales can be applied to healthcare workers with good reliability and validity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changnam Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Changwon Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University of Medicine, Changwon 06351, Korea
| | - Oli Ahmed
- Department of Psychology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram 4331, Bangladesh
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra 2601, Australia
| | | | - C. Hyung Keun Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Soyoung Yoo
- Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Seockhoon Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul 05505, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wegner L, Liu S. Positive and negative experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic among lonely and non-lonely populations in Germany. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1067038. [PMID: 36937827 PMCID: PMC10017861 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1067038] [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: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is causing an epidemic of loneliness. Previous studies have shown the differences in positive and negative experiences of lonely and non-lonely people in a non-pandemic setting. However, it is unclear how the drastic alteration of the COVID-19 pandemic may influence peoples' reactions and beliefs, especially among those who feel lonely. Our study aims to examine the positive and negative experiences among lonely and non-lonely people. We undertook a cross-sectional online survey of the general population in Germany (N = 1,758) from May 2020 to May 2022. We assessed their feelings of loneliness with the short eight-item UCLA Loneliness Scale (ULS-8), their positive and negative experience of living in the COVID-19 pandemic as well as their psychological distress regarding the pandemic with the COVID-19 Peritraumatic Distress Index (CPDI). We found lonely individuals (ULS-8 score ≥ 16) reported fewer positive experiences of living in the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, less time with loved ones [z (1, 756) = -2.5, p = 0.012] and less sense of togetherness [z (1, 756) = -2.39, p = 0.017] as compared to non-lonely individuals. Meanwhile, they experienced more negative experiences, for example, worry and fear [z (1, 756) = 6.31, p < 0.001] compared with non-lonely individuals. Interestingly, lonely people were less likely to view the pandemic as a conspiracy than non-lonely people were [z (1, 756) = -3.35, p < 0.001]. Our results may give insight into attribution bias and the negative affect of lonely people during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as highlight the experience of non-lonely people and raise the question of differences in conspiracy beliefs. For pandemic preparedness and response, decision-makers may focus on interventions to foster social cohesion, empower people, build resilience, and most importantly provide timely social care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Wegner
- Department of Education and Psychology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Campus Charité Mitte), Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Luisa Wegner ;
| | - Shuyan Liu
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin (Campus Charité Mitte), Berlin, Germany
- Shuyan Liu ;
| |
Collapse
|