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Dinhof C, Humer E, Haider K, Rabenstein R, Jesser A, Pieh C, Probst T, Gächter A. Comprehensive examination of support needs and mental well-being: a mixed-method study of the Austrian general population in times of crisis. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1345796. [PMID: 38813409 PMCID: PMC11133677 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1345796] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the recent years, the Austrian general population has faced a confluence of multiple crises. This study investigates the support wishes and mental health parameters of the Austrian general population aiming to comprehending the unmet needs and providing guidance for future psychosocial interventions and research endeavors. Methods 1,031 participants attended the online survey and one third (n = 332) wished for further support to improve mental well-being in April 2022. A total of 280 participants accompanied their support wish with written accounts. Participants' mental health status was evaluated using the PHQ-9 (depression), GAD-7 (anxiety), ISI (insomnia), PSS-10 (perceived stress), CAGE (alcohol abuse), WHO-5 (well-being), and the SCOFF (eating disorder) questionnaires. Data analysis employed a mixed-methods approach. Results The preeminent support wish identified was the need for professional mental support (29.3%), followed by communication (21.6%), other professional support except mental and medical support (13.9%). In line with these findings, participants expressing a support wish experienced increased mental health distress across all assessed parameters. Conclusion The findings indicate the presence of a vulnerable population within the Austrian general population, which may benefit from targeted support interventions. Consequently, this study contributes to the identification of unmet support needs among the Austrian populace during times of crisis, facilitating the development and enhancement of precisely tailored intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Dinhof
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katja Haider
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Rafael Rabenstein
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Andrea Jesser
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
| | - Thomas Probst
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Afsaneh Gächter
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University of Continuing Education Krems (Danube University Krems), Krems an der Donau, Austria
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Gächter A, Zauner B, Haider K, Schaffler Y, Probst T, Pieh C, Humer E. Areas of Concern and Support among the Austrian General Population: A Qualitative Content Analytic Mapping of the Shift between Winter 2020/21 and Spring 2022. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2539. [PMID: 37761736 PMCID: PMC10530781 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11182539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze areas of concern and support of the Austrian general population two years into the COVID-19 pandemic. A representative sample (N = 1031) of the Austrian general population was surveyed online between 19 April 2022 and 26 April 2022. A qualitative study design was used to explore the factors of most considerable current concern (Question 1) and the most important sources of support (Question 2). The responses to the two open-ended questions were evaluated using a conventional content analysis, and categories were formed according to the frequency of the answers. The analysis revealed that inflation and finances (30% of participants) and the war in Ukraine (22%) were the greatest sources of concern, followed by mental health (11%), and physical health (11%). Factors such as social contacts within and outside the family were mentioned most frequently as sources of support (36% of participants), followed by recreational activities (23%) and attitudes and abilities (22%). Compared to data collected at the end of the first year of the pandemic (between 23 December 2020 and 4 January 2021), concern about one's financial situation was now mentioned more frequently (30% vs. 8,5%). On the other hand, different types of pandemic-related concerns were mentioned less often. Social contacts and recreation were mentioned as the most important sources of support at both time points (46% and 36% of the participants). The results suggest that the economic concerns are lagging behind the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. In addition, the impending war in Ukraine seems to have a relevant impact on mental health in Austria. Further nuanced qualitative research, particularly involving vulnerable groups such as low-income individuals and the unemployed, is crucial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsaneh Gächter
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Barbara Zauner
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Katja Haider
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Yvonne Schaffler
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Thomas Probst
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, 5020 Salzburg, Austria;
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (B.Z.); (K.H.); (Y.S.); (C.P.); (E.H.)
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, 1020 Vienna, Austria
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Schaffler Y, Bauer M, Schein B, Jesser A, Probst T, Pieh C, Humer E. Understanding pandemic resilience: a mixed-methods exploration of burdens, resources, and determinants of good or poor well-being among Austrian psychotherapists. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1216833. [PMID: 37693716 PMCID: PMC10483144 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1216833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health burden on the general population, resulting in increased demands on mental healthcare professionals, including psychotherapists. This cross-sectional study assessed the challenges and resources encountered by 513 psychotherapists based on an online survey conducted between April and May 2022. Methods Qualitative methods content analysis of written reports was employed to investigate the emerging challenges and sources of support during the pandemic. A comparative analysis of burdens, resources, sociodemographic factors and daily physical activity was conducted to discern patterns of good and poor well-being. Results The predominant burden identified was mental health-related issues, followed by global crises and government-imposed restrictions to mitigate virus transmission. Essential resources encompassed social connections, mindfulness, work satisfaction, and internal processes. Notably, psychotherapists demonstrating good well-being were older, more physically active, had a lower proportion of females, were employed in private practices rather than in institutionalized settings, had more years of professional experience and treated more patients weekly than their counterparts with poor well-being. Furthermore, they exhibited greater optimism, health focus, and satisfaction with their coping methods. Discussion These findings can help develop support systems, policies, and educational programs to better support mental health professionals during global crises and offer strategies for individual practitioners to maintain their well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Schaffler
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Monika Bauer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Barbara Schein
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Andrea Jesser
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Thomas Probst
- Division of Psychotherapy, Department of Psychology, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
- Faculty of Psychotherapy Science, Sigmund Freud University Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Rosa RJ, de Araújo JST, Berra TZ, Ramos ACV, Moura HSD, do Nascimento MC, Tártaro AF, Silva RVDS, Delpino FM, Fiorati RC, Teibo TKA, Alves YM, de Paiva JQR, Arcoverde MAM, Scholze AR, Arcêncio RA. Factors associated with status and self-perceived mental health changes in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001636. [PMID: 37594925 PMCID: PMC10437945 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2-triggered Public Health Emergency of International Importance has significantly contributed to emotional and mental health issues. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with self-perceived mental health changes while facing the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. This was a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study that collected data via a web survey using a validated instrument. The study included individuals over 18 years old residing in the 26 federal units and the Federal District from August 2020 to November 2022. The sample was recruited using the snowball technique. Two logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with the outcomes of interest. The first analysis considered individuals who rated their mental health condition as poor as the dependent variable, while the second analysis considered individuals who reported changes in their mental health during the pandemic as the dependent variable. The study found that individuals with complete college education and those using tranquilizers or antidepressants were more likely to perceive their mental health as poor (1.97 and 2.04 times higher likelihood, respectively). Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods during the pandemic was associated with a 2.49 higher likelihood of reporting mental health changes. Participants also reported more difficulty sleeping. The negative self-perception of mental health varied across Brazil's regions and changed over time, with different patterns observed before and after the vaccination period. In 2022, most regions of Brazil classified their mental health as "poor." The study highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, with increased prevalence of mental disorders and emotional problems among the population. The results highlight the presence of mental disorders and increased reporting of emotional problems among the population due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rander Junior Rosa
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Soares Tenório de Araújo
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thaís Zamboni Berra
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Antônio Carlos Vieira Ramos
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Heriederson Sávio Dias Moura
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Murilo César do Nascimento
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ariela Fehr Tártaro
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ruan Victor dos Santos Silva
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Mendes Delpino
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina Célia Fiorati
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavioral Sciences, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Titilade Kehinde Ayandeyi Teibo
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Yan Mathias Alves
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Juliana Queiroz Rocha de Paiva
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcos Augusto Moraes Arcoverde
- Center for Education, Letters and Health, Western Paraná State University, Campus Foz do Iguaçu, Foz do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Alexandre Arcêncio
- Department of Maternal-Infant Nursing and Public Health, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Schaffler Y, Kaltschik S, Probst T, Jesser A, Pieh C, Humer E. Mental health in Austrian psychotherapists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1011539. [PMID: 36424964 PMCID: PMC9679414 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1011539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health has been reported in different communities, little is known about the mental health of psychotherapists during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to assess mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Austrian psychotherapists and compare it with the general population. A total of n = 513 psychotherapists (80.5% women; mean age: 53.06 ± 9.94 years) took part in an online survey conducted from April to June 2022. At the same time, a representative sample (N = 1,031) of the Austrian general population was surveyed online. Indicators of mental health were mental wellbeing (WHO-5), depression (PHQ-2), anxiety (GAD-2), insomnia (ISI-2), and stress (PSS-10). The general population sample was matched according to age and gender with the psychotherapist's data using propensity scores, yielding a final sample of n = 513 (80.5% women; mean age: 52.33 ± 13.39 years). Psychotherapists showed lower odds for exceeding cut-offs for clinically relevant depressive, anxiety, insomnia and stress symptoms (0.34-0.58) compared to the general population. Further studies should elucidate the protective factors underlying these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
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Jesser A, Schaffler Y, Gächter A, Dale R, Humer E, Pieh C. School Students’ Concerns and Support after One Year of COVID-19 in Austria: A Qualitative Study Using Content Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10071334. [PMID: 35885859 PMCID: PMC9315779 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10071334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescents suffer severely from the psychological consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Using qualitative content analysis, this study examined open-ended responses to a survey on the mental health of school students in Austria in February 2021. A representative sample (n = 214) was drawn from a total survey sample of 3052 adolescents aged 14–20. The analysis revealed several areas of concern, including school-related concerns, concerns about restrictions, self-related concerns, and interpersonal problems. School-related concerns associated with distance learning were mentioned most frequently. Compared with research conducted at the beginning of the pandemic, it appeared that concerns about educational and professional futures increased. The analysis also indicated young people’s most important sources of support, such as social contacts, recreational activities, attitudes and abilities, distraction, and escape. Of concern is the proportion of young people citing maladaptive coping strategies and the reluctance to seek professional support. Ideas for practice-oriented measures were developed from the study results, such as embedding youth-led peer interventions in traditional mental health services.
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Schaffler Y, Kuska M, Barke A, Doering BK, Gossmann K, Meier Z, Kascakova N, Tavel P, Humer E, Pieh C, Stippl P, Schimböck W, Haid B, Probst T. Psychotherapists' Reports regarding the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Their Patients: A Cross-National Descriptive Study Based on the Social-Ecological Model (SEM). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6825. [PMID: 35682406 PMCID: PMC9180390 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 outbreak has raised questions about how vulnerable groups experience the pandemic. Research that focuses on the view of individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions is still limited, and so are cross-country comparative surveys. We gathered our sample of qualitative data during the first lockdown after governmental measures against the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus came into force in Austria, Czechia, Germany, and Slovakia. A total of n = 1690 psychotherapists from four middle European countries answered the question of how the COVID-19 pandemic was addressed in sessions by their patients during the early stage of unprecedented public health conditions. We employed a descriptive qualitative methodology to determine themes following levels of the social-ecological model (SEM) regarding how the COVID-19 pandemic affected patients. At the public policy level, stressful environmental conditions concerned the governmental mitigation efforts. At the level of community/society, reported key themes were employment, restricted access to educational and health facilities, socioeconomic consequences, and the pandemic itself. Key themes at the interpersonal level regarded forced proximity, the possibility of infection of loved ones, childcare, and homeschooling. Key themes at the individual level were the possibility of contracting COVID-19, having to stay at home/isolation, and a changing environment. Within the SEM framework, adaptive and maladaptive responses to these stressors were reported, with more similarities than differences between the countries. A quantification of word stems showed that the maladaptive reactions predominated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Schaffler
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Danube University Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (M.K.); (E.H.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Martin Kuska
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Danube University Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (M.K.); (E.H.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
- College of Applied Psychology, 41155 Terezin, Czech Republic
| | - Antonia Barke
- Clinical and Biological Psychology, Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, 85072 Eichstätt, Germany; (A.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Bettina K. Doering
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, 16861 Neuruppin, Germany;
| | - Katharina Gossmann
- Clinical and Biological Psychology, Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, 85072 Eichstätt, Germany; (A.B.); (K.G.)
| | - Zdenek Meier
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute (OUSHI), Palacky University Olomouc, 77111 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (Z.M.); (N.K.); (P.T.)
| | - Natalia Kascakova
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute (OUSHI), Palacky University Olomouc, 77111 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (Z.M.); (N.K.); (P.T.)
- Psychiatric-Psychotherapeutic Outpatient Clinic, Pro Mente Sana, 81108 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Peter Tavel
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute (OUSHI), Palacky University Olomouc, 77111 Olomouc, Czech Republic; (Z.M.); (N.K.); (P.T.)
| | - Elke Humer
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Danube University Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (M.K.); (E.H.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Danube University Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (M.K.); (E.H.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
| | - Peter Stippl
- Austrian Federal Association for Psychotherapy, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (P.S.); (W.S.); (B.H.)
| | - Wolfgang Schimböck
- Austrian Federal Association for Psychotherapy, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (P.S.); (W.S.); (B.H.)
| | - Barbara Haid
- Austrian Federal Association for Psychotherapy, 1030 Vienna, Austria; (P.S.); (W.S.); (B.H.)
| | - Thomas Probst
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Danube University Krems, 3500 Krems, Austria; (M.K.); (E.H.); (C.P.); (T.P.)
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Kulnik ST, Sareban M, Höppchen I, Droese S, Egger A, Gutenberg J, Mayr B, Reich B, Wurhofer D, Niebauer J. Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Closure and Home-Based Exercise Training During the First COVID-19 Lockdown in Austria: A Mixed-Methods Study. Front Psychol 2022; 13:817912. [PMID: 35242082 PMCID: PMC8887562 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.817912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of the closure of group-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) training during the first COVID-19 lockdown in spring 2020 on patients' physical activity, cardiorespiratory fitness, and cardiovascular risk, and to describe the patient experience of lockdown and home-based exercise training during lockdown. DESIGN Mixed methods study. Prospectively collected post-lockdown measurements were compared to pre-lockdown medical record data. Quantitative measurements were supplemented with qualitative interviews about the patient experience during lockdown. SETTING Outpatient CR centre in Salzburg, Austria. PARTICIPANTS Twenty-seven patients [six female, mean (SD) age 69 (7.4) years] who attended weekly CR training sessions until the first COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020. OUTCOME MEASURES Quantitative: exercise capacity (maximal ergometer test, submaximal ergometer training), cardiovascular risk (Framingham risk score, blood pressure, body mass index, lipids). Qualitative: individual semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Exercise capacity had significantly reduced from pre- to post-lockdown: mean (SD) power (W) in maximal ergometry 165 (70) vs. 151 (70), p < 0.001; submaximal ergometer training 99 (40) vs. 97 (40), p = 0.038. There was no significant difference in Framingham risk score and other cardiovascular risk factors. Qualitative data showed that almost all patients had kept physically active during lockdown, but 17 (63%) said they had been unable to maintain their exercise levels, and 15 (56%) felt their cardiorespiratory fitness had deteriorated. Many patients missed the weekly CR training and the motivation and sense of community from training together with others. Several patients stated that without professional supervision they had felt less confident to carry out home-based exercise training at high intensity. CONCLUSION This study highlights the importance of group-based supervised exercise training for patients who engage well in such a setting, and the detrimental impact of disruption to this type of CR service on physical activity levels and exercise capacity. Additionally, learning from the COVID-19 pandemic may inform the development and implementation of remote CR modalities going forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Tino Kulnik
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Mahdi Sareban
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Isabel Höppchen
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
- Institute of Nursing Science and Practice, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Silke Droese
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Egger
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Johanna Gutenberg
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Barbara Mayr
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Bernhard Reich
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- REHA Zentrum Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniela Wurhofer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Josef Niebauer
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Digital Health and Prevention, Salzburg, Austria
- University Institute of Sports Medicine, Prevention and Rehabilitation, Salzburg, Austria
- Research Institute of Molecular Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- REHA Zentrum Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
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Moshammer H, Poteser M, Weitensfelder L. COVID-19: Regional Differences in Austria. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:1644. [PMID: 35162665 PMCID: PMC8835493 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In the turbulent year 2020, overshadowed by the global COVID-19 pandemic, Austria experienced multiple waves of increased case incidence. While governmental measures to curb the numbers were based on current knowledge of infection risk factors, a retrospective analysis of incidence and lethality at the district level revealed correlations of relative infection risk with socioeconomic, geographical, and behavioral population parameters. We identified unexpected correlations between political orientation and smoking behavior and COVID-19 infection risk and/or mortality. For example, a decrease in daily smokers by 2.3 percentage points would be associated with an increase in cumulative incidence by 10% in the adjusted model, and an increase in voters of the right-wing populist party by 1.6 percentage points with an increase in cumulative mortality by 10%. While these parameters are apparently only single elements of complex causal chains that finally lead to individual susceptibility and vulnerability levels, our findings might have identified ecological parameters that can be utilized to develop fine-tuned communications and measures in upcoming challenges of this and other pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanns Moshammer
- Department of Environmental Health, Center for Public Health, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (H.M.); (M.P.)
- Department of Hygiene, Medical University of Karakalpakstan, Nukus 230100, Uzbekistan
| | - Michael Poteser
- Department of Environmental Health, Center for Public Health, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (H.M.); (M.P.)
| | - Lisbeth Weitensfelder
- Department of Environmental Health, Center for Public Health, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (H.M.); (M.P.)
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Humer E, Schaffler Y, Jesser A, Probst T, Pieh C. Mental health in the Austrian general population during COVID-19: Cross-sectional study on the association with sociodemographic factors. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:943303. [PMID: 36506423 PMCID: PMC9729349 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.943303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The impact of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and the associated governmental restrictions on mental health have been reported in different countries. This cross-sectional study evaluated mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Austria and the association with sociodemographic factors (i.e., age, sex, education, income, employment status, partnership status, and migration background). METHODS A representative sample (N = 1,031) of the Austrian general population was surveyed online end of April 2022. Indicators of mental health were depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), insomnia (ISI), alcohol abuse (CAGE), eating disorders (SCOFF), and stress (PSS-10). RESULTS 1,031 participants completed the online survey (50.3% women; mean age: 45.6 ± 17.23 years). Cut-offs for clinically relevant depression were exceeded by 28%. 16% scored above the cut-off for clinically relevant anxiety symptoms, 15% for clinical insomnia, 18% for alcohol abuse, 26% for eating disorders, and 65% for moderate to high stress. Comparisons with another cross-sectional representative Austrian sample recruited during the first weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic in Austria (April 2020) revealed increases in depression (from 21 to 28%) but no significant changes in anxiety, insomnia, and moderate to high stress. Multivariable logistic regression showed the strongest associations of mental health indicators with age, income, and sex. Increasing age and income were associated with lower odds of mental health symptoms. Being female compared to male increased the odds of depressive symptoms while decreasing the odds of alcohol abuse. DISCUSSION The COVID-19 crisis seems particularly stressful for younger adults (<35 years) and people with low income (<€2,000 net household income per month). Policymakers need to consider the high social and economic costs of lockdowns and think of optimal intervention methods for mental disorders among young and low-income individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Humer
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Yvonne Schaffler
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Andrea Jesser
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Thomas Probst
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
| | - Christoph Pieh
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University for Continuing Education Krems, Krems, Austria
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