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Reangsing C, Moonpanane K, Pittchalard K, Schneider JK. Efficacy of a Mind Space Application intervention on psychological outcomes in Thai university students with depression: A pilot randomized controlled trial. J Affect Disord 2024; 362:317-322. [PMID: 38986875 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of the Mind Space Application on psychological outcomes among Thai-university students with depression. METHOD Thai-university students with depression (N = 50) were recruited between November 2021 and January 2022. Participants were randomly assigned to either an 8-week mindfulness-based intervention via the Mind Space Application intervention or a waitlist control group. Stress, anxiety, depression, and mindfulness were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS Post-intervention, compared to waitlist control group, participants using the Mind Space Application reported large effects in the reduction of stress (d = 1.46, p < .001) and depression (d = 1.88, p < .001), small to moderate effects in reduction of anxiety (d = 0.35, p = .35), but no significant. Also, mindfulness scores were significantly higher (d = 1.90, p < .001) compared to the waitlist control group. CONCLUSION Thai-university students with depression who used the Mind Space Application showed lower stress and depression and higher mindfulness compared to the waitlist group among. Similar applications may be useful as an alternative or combined with other treatments to improve psychological outcomes in other university student populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuntana Reangsing
- School of Nursing, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiangrai, Thailand; Nursing Innovation Research and Resource Unit, Mae Fah Luaung University, Thailand.
| | - Katemanee Moonpanane
- School of Nursing, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiangrai, Thailand; Nursing Innovation Research and Resource Unit, Mae Fah Luaung University, Thailand
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Chapman HE, Stewart AE. Interoceptive awareness in a Southeastern US college sample: validation of the multidimensional assessment of interoceptive awareness - version 2. BMC Res Notes 2024; 17:236. [PMID: 39192368 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-024-06894-6] [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: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, version 2 (MAIA-2) is a commonly utilized self-report instrument to assess individuals' ability to perceive bodily sensations. The MAIA-2 has displayed variable psychometric properties across samples. Thus, we examine the psychometric properties of the MAIA-2 in a Southeastern United States college sample. PARTICIPANTS Our studies consisted of 710 (study 1) and 66 (study 2) college students. METHODS Study 1 used a cross-sectional research design where we investigated the factor structure, and measurement invariance (e.g., measured similarly across genders). Study 2 examined the test-retest reliability across a three-week period. RESULTS The MAIA-2 displayed adequate to good internal consistencies and factor loadings, strict invariance, and questionable temporal stability. CONCLUSION The MAIA-2 demonstrates adequate psychometric properties in this college sample that were similar to the original MAIA sample characteristics. Contextual and cultural factors may influence the subjective experience of interpreting bodily sensations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison E Chapman
- Department of Counseling and Human Development Services, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
| | - Alan E Stewart
- Department of Counseling and Human Development Services, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
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Mason TB. Loneliness as a moderator of the association of affective symptoms and binge eating among college women. Eat Behav 2024; 54:101903. [PMID: 39002467 DOI: 10.1016/j.eatbeh.2024.101903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Affective symptoms (e.g., depression, anxiety, shame) are a potent risk factor for binge eating. However, less is known on the role of loneliness as a moderator of affective symptoms and binge eating. This objective of the current study was to investigate main effects and interactions of affective symptoms and loneliness in relation to binge eating in college women. A sample of 556 undergraduate women completed self-report questionnaires of affective symptoms, loneliness, and binge eating. Results revealed significant interactions between each affective symptom variable and loneliness in relation to binge eating, such that loneliness strengthened the positive association of affective symptoms and greater binge eating. The findings of this study demonstrate an important role of loneliness to binge eating among college women, especially those with underlying affective vulnerabilities. More theoretical and treatment-oriented work on the role of loneliness in binge eating is needed to understand mechanisms and interventions/preventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler B Mason
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Zafar M, H Zaidi T, Zaidi NH, Ahmed MWN, Memon S, Ahmed F, Siddiqui A, Fatima A, Shahid A, Hussain B, Salam A. Attitude towards seeking professional help for mental health among medical students In Karachi, Pakistan. Future Sci OA 2024; 10:FSO916. [PMID: 38817368 PMCID: PMC11137801 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2023-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: In Pakistan, seeking help for mental health is considered a social stigma and a large number of medical students are suffering from mental health. This study aimed to investigate the attitude toward seeking professional care for mental health issues among medical students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 316 students selected through multistage stratified cluster sampling. With each academic year 500 students were enrolled. Linear regression analysis was used to find the association of outcome and independent variables. Results: Around 56% of students had a negative attitude toward seeking professional help. Common predictors associated with a negative attitude were age (p < 0.001), academic year (p < 0.001) and with self-harm behavior (p < 0.001). Conclusion: University students generally had moderate intentions to seek counseling regarding mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubashir Zafar
- Family and Community Medicine Department, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Tafazzul H Zaidi
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Nadira H Zaidi
- Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science & Technology, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad WN Ahmed
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sobia Memon
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Faheem Ahmed
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Amal Siddiqui
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Abeen Fatima
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Shahid
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Balaj Hussain
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Anosha Salam
- Department of Community Medicine, Sindh Medical College, Jinnah Sind Medical university, Karachi, Pakistan
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Nogueira-Leite D, Marques-Cruz M, Cruz-Correia R. Individuals' attitudes toward digital mental health apps and implications for adoption in Portugal: web-based survey. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2024; 24:99. [PMID: 38637866 PMCID: PMC11025147 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-024-02488-1] [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: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature is consensual regarding the academic community exhibiting higher levels of mental disorder prevalence than the general population. The potential of digital mental health apps for improving access to resources to cope with these issues is ample. However, studies have yet to be performed in Portugal on individuals' attitudes and perceptions toward digital mental health applications or their preferences and decision drivers on obtaining mental health care, self-assessment, or treatment. OBJECTIVE This study aims to understand the determinants of digital mental health applications use in the Portuguese academic community of Porto, along with potential adoption barriers and enablers. METHODS A cross-sectional, web-based survey was delivered via dynamic email to the University of Porto's academic community. Data collection occurred between September 20 and October 20, 2022. We used structural equation modeling to build three models, replicating a peer-reviewed and published study and producing a newly full mediation model shaped by the collected data. We tested the relationships between use of digital mental health apps and perceived stress, perceived need to seek help for mental health, perceived stigma, past use of mental health services, privacy concerns, and social influence. RESULTS Of the 539 participants, 169 (31.4%) reported having used digital mental health apps. Perceived stress and a latent variable, comprising perceptions of mental health problems and coping strategies, were positively associated with mental health app use, while privacy concerns regarding one's information being accessible to others were negatively associated. Perceived stigma, need to seek help, and close relationships did not have a statistically significant direct effect. CONCLUSIONS These findings can inform product and policy development of new, better-targeted digital mental health app interventions, with implications for researchers and academia, industry, and policymakers. Our study concludes that, to maximize adherence to these apps, they should have low to no financial charges, demonstrate evidence of their helpfulness and focus on the timely delivery of care. We also conclude that to foster digital mental health app use, there is a need to improve mental health literacy, namely regarding self-awareness of one's conditions, acceptable stress levels, and overall behavior towards mental health. TRIAL REGISTRATION RR2-10.2196/41040.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Nogueira-Leite
- Health Data Science Ph.D. Program, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision-Making, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, Porto, 4200-450, Portugal.
- Nova School of Business and Economics Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center, New University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Manuel Marques-Cruz
- Health Data Science Ph.D. Program, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision-Making, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, Porto, 4200-450, Portugal
- Nova School of Business and Economics Health Economics & Management Knowledge Center, New University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ricardo Cruz-Correia
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision-Making, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, Porto, 4200-450, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research, Porto, Portugal
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González-Martín AM, Aibar-Almazán A, Rivas-Campo Y, Castellote-Caballero Y, Carcelén-Fraile MDC. Mindfulness to improve the mental health of university students. A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1284632. [PMID: 38111480 PMCID: PMC10726040 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1284632] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This systematic review and meta-analysis was to analyze the effects of a mindfulness program on mental health in university students. Methods A systematic review was conducted using the databases Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science and CINAHL. The selected studies had to incorporate a mindfulness intervention in university students. The methodological quality of the collected articles was evaluated using the PEDro scale. Results We initially identified 321 studies, of which 21 were included in this review. The interventions focused on mindfulness with durations ranging from 8 weeks to 3 months. The results demonstrated significant effects of a mindfulness intervention on mental health in university students. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analysis found that mindfulness is effective for improving the mental health of college students. Systematic Review Registration identifier: CRD42023441453.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana María González-Martín
- Department of Education and Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Atlántico Medio, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
- Department of Psychology, Higher Education Center for Teaching and Educational Research, Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín Aibar-Almazán
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Yulieth Rivas-Campo
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, University of San Buenaventura-Cali, Santiago de Cali, Colombia
| | | | - María del Carmen Carcelén-Fraile
- Department of Education and Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Atlántico Medio, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
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Juszczyk-Kalina A, Holas P, Farchione TJ. Effectiveness and mediators of change of an online CBT intervention for students with adjustment disorder-study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2023; 24:777. [PMID: 38041148 PMCID: PMC10691050 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07744-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adjustment problems and disorders are highly prevalent among university students worldwide. These problems can cause significant interference in academic and social functioning and increase vulnerability to other mental health disorders. Unfortunately, only half of students in need receive psychological help. Furthermore, few studies have evaluated psychological interventions for adjustment disorders in students. New, more scalable forms of treatment for students with an adjustment disorder need to be developed, evaluated, and implemented. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of an online transdiagnostic cognitive behavioural intervention for students experiencing adjustment disorder and to assess mediators of change. METHOD/DESIGN In this three-arm randomized controlled trial, we plan to recruit 214 Polish students diagnosed with an adjustment disorder. Participants who meet initial eligibility criteria will be randomly assigned to one of three 6-week conditions: (1) online cognitive behavioural therapy intervention based on an existing, empirically supported transdiagnostic protocol, the unified protocol; (2) online progressive muscle relaxation training as an active control group; or (3) waiting-list control group. Both interventions are asynchronous, interactive, and include minimal amount of therapist support. Assessments will consist of self-report questionnaires, daily diary measures, and neurocognitive tasks for evaluating cognitive functioning. These will be conducted at baseline, post-treatment, and 1-month follow-up. Daily diary measures will be taken during the first and last week of treatment (or waitlist period). Primary outcome measures will include adjustment disorder severity; secondary outcome measures will consist of other negative (psychopathology: depression, anxiety, and stress) and positive (life satisfaction) indexes of mental health as well as process measures (e.g. mindfulness, experiential avoidance, cognitive fusion). DISCUSSION To our knowledge, the current study is the first to evaluate the effectiveness of a psychological intervention for students with adjustment disorder. Therefore, it may have important practical implications for students with this disorder. It can potentially guide the development of a scalable, validated treatment option. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials, NCT05768308, registered 14 March 2023, https://www. CLINICALTRIALS gov/ct2/show/NCT05768308.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - P Holas
- Department of Psychology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Frajerman A, Chevance A, Chaumette B, Morvan Y. Prevalence and factors associated with depression and suicidal ideation among French students in 2016: A national study. Psychiatry Res 2023; 326:115263. [PMID: 37295352 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2023.115263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Depression is one of the leading causes of morbidity worldwide and increases the risk of suicide. Students are known as a population at risk for depression. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of 12 months major depressive episode (MDE) and suicidal thoughts in French students and investigate associated factors. A questionnaire was sent by email to a representative sample of the French student population between April 28th and June 27th 2016. MDE was assessed using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview Short Form (CIDI-SF). The response rate was 18.7% (N= 18,875). Prevalence of 12 months MDE was 15.8%, and suicidal thoughts was 9%. Factors associated with MDE were being a woman, study field (law/eco, human/social sciences, and medical), having failed midterms exams or dropout, refusal or stop social scholarship, and subjective financial difficulties. Factors associated with suicidal thoughts were study field (human/social sciences), having failed midterms exams or dropout, and important subjective financial difficulties. The use of CIDI-SF allows comparison with the 2017 French national study, and showed more MDE in students than in the general population. This is the only national study on French students before COVID 19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariel Frajerman
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurosciences de Paris, INSERM UMR 1266, Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Diseases, University of Paris, 75014 Paris, France; Institute of Psychiatry GDR 3557 of Psychiatry, 75014 Paris, France; MOODS Team, INSERM U1178, CESP, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Médecine Paris- Saclay, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, F-94275, France; Service Hospitalo-Universitaire de Psychiatrie de Bicêtre, Mood Center Paris Saclay, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Saclay, Hôpital de Bicêtre, F-94275, France.
| | - Astrid Chevance
- Center for Research and Epidemiology and Statistics, Université de Paris, Inserm UMR 1153 Hôtel Dieu, Paris; Service d'épidémiologie clinique, Hôpitaux Paris Centre, APHP, Paris
| | - Boris Chaumette
- Institute of Psychiatry and Neurosciences de Paris, INSERM UMR 1266, Pathophysiology of Psychiatric Diseases, University of Paris, 75014 Paris, France; Institute of Psychiatry GDR 3557 of Psychiatry, 75014 Paris, France; PEPIT, GHU Paris Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, 75014 Paris, France; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Yannick Morvan
- Université Paris Nanterre, UFR SPSE, laboratoire CLIPSYD, UR4430; Inserm U1018, CESP, Equipe Psychiatrie du développement et trajectoires
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Wu QL, Street RL. How communicative environments affect college students' mental health help-seeking during COVID-19: a cross-sectional study. JOURNAL OF AMERICAN COLLEGE HEALTH : J OF ACH 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37399517 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2023.2224435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study explores how interpersonal communication environments (eg family, patient-provider, and online communication environments) affect college students' mental help-seeking during COVID-19. Methods: Based on Social Cognitive Theory, we conducted a cross-sectional survey assessing participants' mental help-seeking attitudes, self-stigma, self-efficacy, and readiness, as well as their communication experiences with their families, healthcare providers, and online environments. Four hundred fifty-six student participants were recruited. Structural equation modeling was used to explore relationships among the assessed variables. Results: About one-third of the participants (N = 137) had signs of mental distress, and most of them (N = 71) did not intend to seek help soon. Patient-centered communication experiences with healthcare providers were associated with reduced help-seeking stigma, whereas online and family communication predicted help-seeking readiness through changes in attitude, self-stigma, and self-efficacy. Conclusions: This study's results help identify risk factors of help-seeking reluctance. It suggests that communicative environments affect help-seeking by influencing individual predictors. This study may inform interventions targeting college students' use of mental health services during health crises like COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiwei Luna Wu
- School of Communication, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Richard L Street
- Department of Communication and Journalism, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Anto A, Asif RO, Basu A, Kanapathipillai D, Salam H, Selim R, Zaman J, Eisingerich AB. Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Anxiety Among University Students in the United Kingdom: Qualitative Study. JMIR Form Res 2023; 7:e43037. [PMID: 37327030 DOI: 10.2196/43037] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid surge in social media platforms has significant implications for users' mental health, particularly anxiety. In the case of social media, the impact on mental well-being has been highlighted by multiple stakeholders as a cause for concern. However, there has been limited research into how the association between social media and anxiety arises, specifically among university students-the generation that has seen the introduction and evolution of social media, and currently lives through the medium. Extant systematic literature reviews within this area of research have not yet focused on university students or anxiety, rather predominantly investigating adolescents or generalized mental health symptoms and disorders. Furthermore, there is little to no qualitative data exploring the association between social media and anxiety among university students. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic literature review of the existing literature and a qualitative study that aims to develop foundational knowledge around the association of social media and anxiety among university students and enhance extant knowledge and theory. METHODS A total of 29 semistructured interviews were conducted, comprising 19 male students (65.5%) and 10 female students (34.5%) with a mean age of 21.5 years. All students were undergraduates from 6 universities across the United Kingdom, with most students studying in London (89.7%). Participants were enrolled through a homogenous purposive sampling technique via social media channels, word of mouth, and university faculties. Recruitment was suspended at the point of data saturation. Participants were eligible for the study if they were university students in the United Kingdom and users of social media. RESULTS Thematic analysis resulted in 8 second-order themes: 3 mediating factors that decrease anxiety levels and 5 factors that increase anxiety levels. Social media decreased anxiety through positive experiences, social connectivity, and escapism. Social media increased anxiety through stress, comparison, fear of missing out, negative experiences, and procrastination. CONCLUSIONS This qualitative study sheds critical light on how university students perceive how social media affects their anxiety levels. Students revealed that social media did impact their anxiety levels and considered it an important factor in their mental health. Thus, it is essential to educate stakeholders, including students, university counselors, and health care professionals, about the potential impact of social media on students' anxiety levels. Since anxiety is a multifactorial condition, pinpointing the main stressors in a person's life, such as social media use, may help manage these patients more effectively. The current research highlights that there are also many benefits to social media, and uncovering these may help in producing more holistic management plans for anxiety, reflective of the students' social media usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ailin Anto
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rafey Omar Asif
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Arunima Basu
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Haadi Salam
- Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rania Selim
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jahed Zaman
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Cheung K, Ma KY, Tsang H, Leung NH, Lui KY, Ho SW. Mixed-mode Zentangle and Pastel Nagomi artwork for improving mental well-being in university students during COVID-19 pandemic - a randomized controlled feasibility trial. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1132923. [PMID: 37292499 PMCID: PMC10244775 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1132923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background University students are identified as a high-risk group for mental health problems. Artworks have been found effective in enhancing individuals' mental well-being in different populations, but none have been conducted on university students. This study was to address this research gap to determine the feasibility and estimate the preliminary effects of Zentangle and Pastel Nagomi on the mental well-being of undergraduate students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method This was a 3-arm randomized controlled trial, with 33 undergraduates allocated to two 8-week artworks (Zentangle or Pastel Nagomi Art group) and a control group. Data were collected at baseline, and weeks 4, 6, 8, and 12. Focus group interviews were conducted at the 12-week follow-up. Results The consent and attrition rates were 80.5 and 6.06%, respectively. The attendance rate ranged from 83.3 to 100%. Compared with the control group, the Pastel Nagomi art group had a significant improvement in retaining positive affect at week 6. This retention could be further observed at week 12. Moreover, the Zentangle group had a significant increase in positive affect at week 4, with better retention at week 12. In addition, the within-group analyses showed that the Pastel Nagomi art group had significantly decreased negative affect at weeks 6 and week 12; and the Zentangle group had significantly decreased depression at week 8. The qualitative findings suggested that the intervention resulted in the participants enjoying the artwork process, and being proud of their artwork and personal growth. Limitation The study included an imbalance number of online vs. face-to-face sessions, and repeated measures may have affected the results. Conclusion The study suggests that both artworks are effective in improving undergraduates' mental well-being and that it is feasible to conduct future large-scale studies (263 words).
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Sulla F, Camia M, Scorza M, Giovagnoli S, Padovani R, Benassi E. The Moderator Effect of Subthreshold Autistic Traits on the Relationship between Quality of Life and Internet Addiction. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11020186. [PMID: 36673554 PMCID: PMC9858939 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
People with sub-threshold autistic traits (SATs) are more prone to develop addictive behaviors such the ones linked to Internet abuse. The restrictions for anti-COVID-19 distancing measures encourage social isolation and, consequently, increase screen time, which may lead to Internet addiction (IA). However, a better quality of life (QoL) may have function as a protective factor against the development of IA. This study wanted to investigate the relation between SATs, QoL, and the overuse of the Internet in a group of 141 university students in the North of Italy. Participants completed a battery of tests. Results suggest that QoL is a predictive factor of IA and that the relationship between QoL and IA is significantly moderated by SATs. This could mean that SATs might represent a risk factor for IA, even when people have a better quality of life. Differences between female and male students are discussed, as well as possible implications for practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sulla
- Department of Human Studies, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Michela Camia
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Maristella Scorza
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Sara Giovagnoli
- Department of Psychology “Renzo Canestrari”, University of Bologna, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberto Padovani
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service, AUSL Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Erika Benassi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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Bantjes J, Hunt X, Stein DJ. Public Health Approaches to Promoting University Students' Mental Health: A Global Perspective. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2022; 24:809-818. [PMID: 36399235 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-022-01387-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Provide a critical overview of recent global advances in student mental health from a public health perspective, highlighting key challenges and gaps in the literature. RECENT FINDINGS Mental disorders and suicidality are common among university students globally. However, there is a significant treatment gap even though evidence-based treatments are available. To overcome barriers to treatment, public health interventions should be conceptualized within a developmental paradigm that takes cognizance of the developmental tasks of young adulthood. Traditional one-on-one treatment approaches will not be a cost-effective or sustainable way to close the treatment gap among students. A range of evidence-based interventions is available to promote students' mental health; however, novel approaches are needed to scale up services and adapt intervention delivery to suit student specific contexts. Digital interventions and peer-to-peer interventions could be a cost-effective way to scale-up and expand the range of services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Bantjes
- Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa.,Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Xanthe Hunt
- Institute for Life Course Health Research, Department of Global Health, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Dan J Stein
- SAMRC Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa. .,Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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14
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Sarwar A, Islam MA, Mohiuddin M, Tareq MA, Siddika A. Social Connections and Self-Perceived Depression: An Enhanced Model for Studying Teenagers' Mental Wellbeing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15791. [PMID: 36497866 PMCID: PMC9739207 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192315791] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The rising prevalence of depression among teenagers in Malaysia as well as globally makes it a vital issue to study. The purpose of this research is to examine the effects of social connection and self-perceived depression towards the improved mental wellbeing of the teenagers of Malaysia. Moreover, the mediating role of self-perceived depression on the improvement of the mental wellbeing of teenagers is examined in this study. This study followed a questionnaire-based approach. The sample of this study included 289 students aged between 15 and 19 years from Klang Valley, Malaysia. Prior permission was obtained from school authorities as well as from parents to allow their children to participate in the survey. To find out the structural relationship between the variables, PLS-SEM was utilized. This study finds that stronger social connections with family and friends may result in reduced self-perceived depression among Malaysian teenagers. Moreover, self-perceived depression among the teenagers surveyed had a negative effect on their improved mental wellbeing. The findings of this study will significantly affect how depression theories are currently understood and have consequences for social work, services, and policy interventions regarding teenagers in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Sarwar
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya 63100, Malaysia
| | - Md. Amirul Islam
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya 63100, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Mohiuddin
- Faculty of Business Administration, Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V0A6, Canada
| | - Mohammad Ali Tareq
- Department of Finance, Faculty of Business and Economics, University Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Aysa Siddika
- Faculty of Management, Multimedia University, Cyberjaya 63100, Malaysia
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15
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Becoming Safe, Legal, Mature, Moderate, and Self-Reflexive: Trajectories of Drinking and Abstinence among Young People. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063591. [PMID: 35329278 PMCID: PMC8953176 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, a vast body of research has investigated trends of declining alcohol consumption among youths. However, the extent to which restrictive-youth approaches towards drinking are maintained into adulthood is unclear. The aim of this study is to explore how young people's relation to alcohol changes over time. Our data are based on longitudinal qualitative in-depth interviews with 28 participants aged 15 to 23 conducted over the course of three years (2017-2019). The study draws on assemblage thinking by analysing to what kinds of heterogeneous elements young people's drinking and abstinence are related and what kinds of transformations they undergo when they get older. Five trajectories were identified as influential. Alcohol was transformed from unsafe to safe assemblages, from illegal to legal drinking assemblages, from performance-orientated to enjoyment-orientated assemblages, and from immature to mature assemblages. These trajectories moved alcohol consumption towards moderate drinking. Moreover, abstinence was transformed from authoritarian assemblages into self-reflexive assemblages. Self-control, responsibility, and performance orientation were important mediators in all five trajectories. As the sober generation grows older, they will likely start to drink at more moderate levels than previous generations.
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