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Foti G, Merlo L, Finstad GL, Giorgi G. COVID-19 Symptoms and Mental Health Outcomes among Italian Healthcare Workers: A Latent Class Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1403. [PMID: 39057546 PMCID: PMC11275353 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12141403] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to long-lasting consequences for workers leading to what has been termed a "psychological pandemic". Some categories, such as healthcare workers (HCWs), are considered high risk due to factors such as increased exposure and stressful working conditions. In this study, we investigate whether levels of posttraumatic stress symptoms and COVID-19-related fear (IES-6 and PSI-4) are associated with illness severity in a sample of 318 infected HCWs in Italy. To investigate the presence of different profiles of COVID-19 severity, Latent Class Analysis (LCA) was performed based on 11 symptoms. Differences in the IES-6 and PSI-4 scores across the latent classes were compared using the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis (KW) test with Dunn's multiple comparison post hoc testing. Our analyses show that the LCA identified three classes of symptoms, reflecting no/low, mild and severe symptoms. The classes include vomiting, confusion, conjunctivitis, diarrhea, dyspnea, headache, ageusia, fever, anosmia, osteo muscle articular pain and asthenia. We found that HCWs who experienced more intense symptoms reported significantly higher IES-6 and PSI-4 scores. Moreover, we found gender-related differences in IES-6 and PSI-4 scores as females exhibited higher levels than males. Indeed, these findings are useful for developing health prevention and emergency management programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Foti
- Department of Human Sciences, European University of Rome, 00163 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (G.L.F.); (G.G.)
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Vitorino C, Canavarro MC, Carona C. Six-month psychopathological symptom trajectories following the COVID-19 outbreak: Contrasting mental health outcomes between nurses and the general population. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301527. [PMID: 38626159 PMCID: PMC11020497 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a social, economic and health crisis that had a major impact on the mental health of the global community, particularly nurses. The objective of the current study is to conduct a longitudinal evaluation of the trajectory of depressive, anxiety, trauma, and fear of COVID-19 symptoms, comparing self-reports of nurses and the general population over a six-month period. Self-report questionnaires were administered online to a sample of 180 nurses and 158 individuals from the general population for the baseline assessment (T1) and follow-up at 6 months (T2). Levels of symptoms reported by nurses were generally greater and tended to worsen over time, as opposed to the levels of symptoms reported by the general population that tended to improve. Levels of depressive, anxiety, and trauma symptoms were significantly different between nurses and the general population over time. Levels of fear of COVID-19 declined significantly from T1 to T2 in both groups. These results suggest that it is crucial to monitor the longer-term effects of COVID-19 and to develop resilience-promoting interventions tailored to the unique needs of this vulnerable group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Vitorino
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Cristina Canavarro
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlos Carona
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Solomou I, Nikolaou F, Michaelides MP, Constantinidou F. Long-term psychological impact of the pandemic COVID-19: Identification of high-risk groups and assessment of precautionary measures five months after the first wave of restrictions was lifted. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0002847. [PMID: 38394160 PMCID: PMC10889631 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Critical facets of our lives have been disrupted by the COVID-19 outbreak for almost three years. During this time, there has been a lot of clinical and research interest in issues related to mental health. However, few have examined the pandemic's long-term psychological effects. The aims of the present study were to assess the long-term psychological impact of the pandemic COVID -19, five months after the first wave restriction measures were lifted, to identify high-risk groups and to address the use of precautionary measures (PM). Information about sociodemographic characteristics, mental health, coping mechanisms, and compliance with precautionary measures (PM) were all gathered in Cyprus through an anonymous online survey. The poll was completed by 1128 people (73% of whom were female). For the purposes of the present study, descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling were used. 32.3% of participants experienced moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms, where 16.4% and 23% reported moderate-to-severe depression and post-traumatic stress symptoms respectively. Lower levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress symptoms as well as greater compliance to PM were linked to higher levels of resilience. Additionally, subgroups of participants, at a higher risk for negative psychological effects were identified, such as women and young adults. Our findings demonstrate the long-lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and provide guidance on how to deal with similar situations. It also raises questions about the concurrent effects on people with the long COVID syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioulia Solomou
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Center for Applied Neuroscience, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Flora Nikolaou
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Center for Applied Neuroscience, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | | | - Fofi Constantinidou
- Department of Psychology, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
- Center for Applied Neuroscience, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Seehuus M, Fertig M, Handy AB, Clifton J, Stanton AM. The impact of COVID-19 and long COVID on sexual function in cisgender women. J Sex Med 2024; 21:129-144. [PMID: 38055615 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad155] [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: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research suggests that COVID-19 impairs sexual function in men, but little is known about the impact of COVID-19 (or long COVID) on sexual function in women. AIM We sought to compare the sexual function of cisgender women who had never had COVID-19, who had COVID-19 but not long COVID, and who had long COVID, and assessed whether long COVID symptoms and/or emotional distress mediate the relationship between COVID-19 history and sexual function. METHODS In total, 2329 adult cisgender women were recruited online as study participants. Half of these women reported having had COVID-19, and the other half reported never having had COVID-19. Of those who had COVID-19, 25% (n = 170) reported having long COVID. We compared the mean Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores by using t-tests for each of the primary comparison categories (never COVID vs COVID and only COVID vs long COVID). Four path models were used to test the hypotheses that (1) long COVID symptoms or (2) depression, anxiety, and/or stress assessed with the subscales of the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) mediated the relationship between COVID-19 and sexual function. OUTCOMES Sexual function was measured with the FSFI, long COVID symptoms were assessed using the Centers for Disease Control working symptom set, and emotional distress was measured with the DASS-21. RESULTS In total, 1313 participants provided data suitable for analysis. The never-COVID group (n = 645, 49.1%) had higher scores on the Desire, Arousal, Lubrication, and Satisfaction subscales of the FSFI (mean [M] [SD] FSFI total Mnever COVID = 27.98 [4.84] vs MCOVID = 27.05 [5.21]) than the combined only-COVID (n = 498, 37.9%) and long-COVID (n = 170, 12.9%) groups. The FSFI subscale scores were significantly higher in the only-COVID group than in the long-COVID group for the Arousal, Lubrication, and Orgasm and lower for the Pain subscales and higher for overall sexual function (FSFI total Monly COVID = 27.49 [5.00] vs Mlong COVID = 25.77 [5.61]. None of the proposed mediation models had adequate model fit. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Clinicians treating cisgender women who have COVID-19 should consider proactively discussing sexual function with their patients and offering available resources. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS In this study we used a large and diverse sample, but this sample did not include transgender or gender-diverse persons. This study was also correlational; as such, causal conclusions cannot be drawn. Further, the mechanism of action remains unexplained. CONCLUSIONS The study findings suggest the following: (1) COVID-19 infection is associated with impaired sexual function in cisgender women, and (2) that women with long COVID experienced incrementally more impaired sexual function than women with COVID-19 who did not develop long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Seehuus
- Department of Psychology, Middlebury College, Middlebury, VT, United States
- Vermont Psychological Services, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
| | - Madison Fertig
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Jessica Clifton
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
- Parhelia Wellness, Santa Rosa, CA, United States
| | - Amelia M Stanton
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA, United States
- Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States
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Cen Y, He J, Zhong Y, Zhou J, Zeng J, Huang G, Luo J. The mediating role of sleep problems and depressed mood between psychological abuse/neglect and suicidal ideation in adolescent childhood: a multicentred, large sample survey in Western China. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:64. [PMID: 38262997 PMCID: PMC10804755 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05503-x] [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: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent suicidal ideation are associated with factors including psychological abuse/neglect, sleep problems, and depressed mood, but the systematic effects of these factors on suicidal ideation remain unclear, which is a research gap this work aims to fill. METHODS A multi-center, the cluster sampling method was employed to collect general demographic data, such as age, gender, the experience of being left behind, and parents' marital status, from 12,192 students across 17 secondary schools in China. The Child Psychological Abuse and Neglect Scale (CPANS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the Chinese version of the Depressed mood, Anxiety and Stress Scale - 21 Items (DASS-21) and Chinese version of Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation Inventory (PANSI) were utilized. Data were analyzed using t-tests, chi-square tests, correlation analyses, and structural equation modeling mediation analyses. RESULTS The prevalence of psychological abuse/neglect and adolescent suicidal ideation was 34.8% and 13%, respectively. This mediation analysis suggests that, in the relationship between psychological abuse/neglect and suicidal ideation, sleep problems and depressed mood play both parallel and sequential mediating roles. CONCLUSION Sleep problems and depressed mood play a mediating role in the development of suicidal ideation in adolescents. Good sleep habits and depressed mood interventions help reduce the risk of suicidal ideation in adolescents who experience psychological neglect/abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Cen
- Mental Health Center, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jinlong He
- Mental Health Center, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Yunling Zhong
- Mental Health Center, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jinhui Zhou
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jiaxin Zeng
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Guoping Huang
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Jiaming Luo
- Mental Health Center, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.
- School of Psychiatry, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China.
- Department of Psychiatry, Nanchong Psychosomatic Hospital, Nanchong, China.
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Zhao M, Liu FX, Wang XL, Gao YH, Li X. A Cross-Sectional Survey on Psychological Health and Influencing Factors Among 2628 Asymptomatic and Mild COVID-19 Patients in Fangcang Shelter Hospital. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2024; 20:69-81. [PMID: 38249525 PMCID: PMC10799643 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s446223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains a global public health concern. Many people have been forced to change their lifestyles, which has led to psychological and sleep problem. This study aims to investigate the psychological health problems and factors among patients in the Fangcang Shelter Hospital (FSH) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and Methods A Cross-Sectional survey was conducted to investigate the sleep, anxiety, depression and stress disorders of 2628 asymptomatic and mild patients treated in FSH of Zhengzhou, Henan Province, from 30 October to 6 December 2022, by scanning a WeChat two-dimensional code. Sociodemographic data and influencing factors in FSH were collected, Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) were administered. Descriptive statistics, t-tests or analysis of variance, Spearman or Pearson correlation analysis, and multivariate regression analysis were used to explore the relationships between different variables and their impact on psychological health indicators. Results The proportions of patients with insomnia, depressive disorder, anxiety, and stress disorders were 33.49%, 35.80%, 31.74%, and 43.57%, respectively. Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated that factors such as gender, higher education level, positive nucleic acid test results, longer illness duration, underlying diseases, and extended electronic device use were associated with elevated psychological distress scores. Notably, within FSH, extended exposure to light, a noisy environment, and sleep schedule management significantly impacted the prevalence of insomnia, depression, anxiety, and stress disorders (p<0.01). Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis identified higher education level, light exposure, noisy environment, sleep management, and electronic device usage as the primary risk factors for psychological distress. Conclusion Patients in FSH face psychological distress influenced by sociodemographic factors, environment, and lifestyle, highlighting the need for integrated psychological support in healthcare, particularly in temporary medical facilities during crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei-xiang Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-lin Wang
- The First Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ya-hui Gao
- The First Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Research Units of Infectious Disease and Microecology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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Veldhuis CB, Kreski NT, Usseglio J, Keyes KM. Are Cisgender Women and Transgender and Nonbinary People Drinking More During the COVID-19 Pandemic? It Depends. Alcohol Res 2023; 43:05. [PMID: 38170029 PMCID: PMC10760999 DOI: 10.35946/arcr.v43.1.05] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This narrative review of research conducted during the first 2 years of the COVID-19 pandemic examines whether alcohol use among cisgender women and transgender and nonbinary people increased during the pandemic. The overarching goal of the review is to inform intervention and prevention efforts to halt the narrowing of gender-related differences in alcohol use. SEARCH METHODS Eight databases (PubMed, APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Gender Studies Database, GenderWatch, and Web of Science) were searched for peer-reviewed literature, published between March 2020 and July 2022, that reported gender differences or findings specific to women, transgender or nonbinary people, and alcohol use during the pandemic. The search focused on studies conducted in the United States and excluded qualitative research. SEARCH RESULTS A total 4,132 records were identified, including 400 duplicates. Of the remaining 3,732 unique records for consideration in the review, 51 were ultimately included. Overall, most studies found increases in alcohol use as well as gender differences in alcohol use, with cisgender women experiencing the most serious consequences. The findings for transgender and nonbinary people were equivocal due to the dearth of research and because many studies aggregated across gender. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Alcohol use by cisgender women seems to have increased during the pandemic; however, sizable limitations need to be considered, particularly the low number of studies on alcohol use during the pandemic that analyzed gender differences. This is of concern as gender differences in alcohol use had been narrowing before the pandemic; and this review suggests the gap has narrowed even further. Cisgender women and transgender and nonbinary people have experienced sizable stressors during the pandemic; thus, understanding the health and health behavior impacts of these stressors is critical to preventing the worsening of problematic alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy B Veldhuis
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Noah T Kreski
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - John Usseglio
- Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, Columbia Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, New York
| | - Katherine M Keyes
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York
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Daoust AR, Green H, Vandermeer MRJ, Liu P, Stanton K, Harkness KL, Hayden EP. Total cortisol output during an acute stressor predicts youths' internalizing symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Biol Psychol 2023; 184:108714. [PMID: 37839519 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108714] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Individual differences in cortisol output may influence adolescents' adjustment to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, boys and girls may differ in terms of associations between cortisol output and internalizing symptoms in the context of COVID-19-related stress. We examined whether pre-pandemic cortisol output during an acute stressor, assessed approximately three years prior to the pandemic, predicted change in adolescents' internalizing symptoms early during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consistent with previous work on other life stressors, girls' cortisol output was positively associated with anxious and somatic symptoms early in the pandemic. Conversely, cortisol output and depressive symptoms were negatively associated for boys; boys with higher cortisol had depressive symptoms which significantly decreased over time. Findings suggest that hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis stress functioning plays a role in shaping differences between adolescent boys' and girls' adjustment during the experience of a ubiquitous chronic stressor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew R Daoust
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Haley Green
- Department of Psychology, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew R J Vandermeer
- Anxiety Treatment & Research Centre, St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Psychology, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Kasey Stanton
- Department of Psychology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Kate L Harkness
- Department of Psychology, Queens University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Constantinidou F, Sander A, Bergquist T, Zimmerman AS, Kingsley K. Strategies to Manage the Thinking and Emotional Difficulties of Long COVID: A Guide for Patients and Families. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2023:S0003-9993(23)00547-6. [PMID: 37906246 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2023.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
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Mansoori A, Tahat K, Tahat D, Habes M, Salloum SA, Mesbah H, Elareshi M. Gender as a moderating variable in online misinformation acceptance during COVID-19. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19425. [PMID: 37810004 PMCID: PMC10558500 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Misinformation remained a critical consideration during the COVID-19 that further cultivated fears leading to strong unrest among the public globally. This study clarifies certain misconceptions related to the pandemic by investigating whether factors such as altruism, entertainment, information-sharing, information-seeking, comprehensibility have impact on COVID-19 misinformation acceptance and sharing it in the UAE culture, with gender as a moderating factor. An online survey (google.com) was used, with a sample of 200 university students, and analyzed using PLS-SEM software to determine the effects of constructed factors. The findings indicated that entertainment, information-sharing, and information-seeking factors have impact on sharing COVID-19 misinformation, while comprehensibility has impact on acceptance of misinformation. Interestingly, gender was found to have no impact on all the constructed factors, suggesting that other moderating factors (e.g., age) need to be considered in future research. Generally, online users need to learn how to verify online information that they receive/share on other social media, especially regarding health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Mansoori
- Media & Creative Industries Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khalaf Tahat
- Media & Creative Industries Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Dina Tahat
- Education & Humanities Sciences College, Al Ain University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad Habes
- Radio & TV Department, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Said A. Salloum
- Media & Creative Industries Department, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- School of Science, Engineering, and Environment, University of Salford, UK
| | - Hesham Mesbah
- Dpartment of Communication, Rollins College, Florida, USA
| | - Mokhtar Elareshi
- Communication College, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Ma H, Ma Y, Chiu JSY, Christensen M. Psychological experience of home-quarantined older women with COVID-19 in Hong Kong: A qualitative study. Int J Older People Nurs 2023; 18:e12559. [PMID: 37408163 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12559] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The surge of positive COVID-19 cases taxed the local health care system and left many older adults initiating home self-care practices. The study aimed to explore the psychological experiences of home-quarantined older women diagnosed with COVID-19 in Hong Kong. METHODS Ten semi-structured telephone interviews were held among older women from March to April 2022. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS Older women experienced psychological distress, anxiety and depression after being infected with COVID-19. The source of their psychological difficulties included fear of losing control over one's health and dignity, feeling a burden to one's family, conflict in balancing risks and responsibilities, and being overwhelmed by the tragic news reported in media. Meanwhile, the participants demonstrated resilience following the infection and found meaning in their experiences, and grew mentally. CONCLUSIONS The older women in this study have identified the negative impact having a diagnosis and being home-quarantine means to them and their family. Yet, they were also able to take some positives from this. Importantly, the older women report being able to build greater resilience, optimism and wisdom towards COVID-19 in general and feel better prepared for the potential of future positive diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Ma
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Ho Man Tin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yajing Ma
- School of Public Policy and Management, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jonie Sum Yu Chiu
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
| | - Martin Christensen
- School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Qualitative Research, School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong, China
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Mohamad N, Ismail R, Ibrahim MF, Abdul Shukor IH, Mohamad MZ, Mahmud MF, Yaacob SS. Assessing Mental Health Outcomes in Quarantine Centres: A Cross-Sectional Study during COVID-19 in Malaysia. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2339. [PMID: 37628536 PMCID: PMC10454547 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162339] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, persons under surveillance (PUS) were isolated in quarantine centres instead of at home. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the mental health issues experienced by these persons. This study aimed to assess mental health outcomes and associated factors among PUS and frontline workers at quarantine centres. This study conducted an analysis of secondary data from a cross-sectional survey carried out by the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS). The MHPSS employed the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to evaluate mental health outcomes across 49 quarantine centres in Malaysia. The study included a total of 4577 respondents. The prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression was found to be 0.9%, 11.4%, and 10.2%, respectively. Frontline workers and being part of the younger age group were found to be associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Other factors associated with mental health issues were being female, staying at an institution-type centre, and a longer duration of the stay or work at the centre. In conclusion, assessing the mental health status and its associated factors among quarantine centre occupants is crucial for developing future strategies to safeguard their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Mohamad
- Environmental Health Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rohaida Ismail
- Environmental Health Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Faiz Ibrahim
- Environmental Health Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Imanul Hassan Abdul Shukor
- Environmental Health Research Centre, Institute for Medical Research, National Institutes of Health, Shah Alam 40170, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Zulfinainie Mohamad
- Non-Communicable Disease Control Sector, Selangor State Health Department, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Farhan Mahmud
- Non-Communicable Disease Control Sector, Selangor State Health Department, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Shah Alam 40100, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Siti Sara Yaacob
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia
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Alfarajat L, Alnjadat R, Salem A, Alnawafleh A, Hadid LA. Psychological impact of COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Jordan: A cross-sectional study. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1476. [PMID: 37575204 PMCID: PMC10416708 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Psychopathology could be brought on by an immune system disruption triggered by an infection. Psychiatric residual effects have been noted following prior coronavirus outbreaks. Method This study is a cross-sectional study that examined the psychopathological influence of the COVID-19 pandemic among survivor students compared to students who have never been diagnosed as positive COVID-19 patients (i.e., healthy students). Further, the study identified the relationship between sociodemographic profiles and mental health. To examine the significance of psychological health differences we used the DASS-21, to measure depression, anxiety, and stress scales. There were seven questions to assess each dimension within the psychological scales. The respondents were selected randomly via online sources and completed the online self-reporting questionnaire between August 23 and October 2, 2021. Results A total of 750 students completed the online questionnaire, with 677 participants (90.27% of those originally surveyed) included in the final analysis of this study. The mean score of the stress scale for healthy students (M = 16.88, SD = 12.3, N = 537) demonstrated a significantly lower mean compared to COVID-19 survival students (M = 21.7, SD = 11.01, N = 140), t(675) = -4.22, p < 0.001. The mean of the depression scale for healthy students (M = 16.18, SD = 11.94) demonstrated significantly lower mean compared to COVID-19 survival students (M = 20.91, SD = 11. 90), t(675) = -4.18, p < 0.001. The mean of the anxiety scale for healthy students (M = 12.50, SD = 10.72) demonstrated significantly lower mean compared to COVID-19 survival students (M = 19.43, SD = 11. 25), t(675) = -6.74, p < 0.001. Conclusion University students who were infected with COVID-19 had a traumatic experience, and thus developed psychological symptoms greater than students with no history of this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loai Alfarajat
- Irbid University CollegeAl‐Balqa Applied UniversityAmmanJordan
| | - Rafi Alnjadat
- Irbid University CollegeAl‐Balqa Applied UniversityAmmanJordan
| | - Aziza Salem
- Nursing school, Kingdome of Saudi ArabiaTabuk UniversityTabukSaudi Arabia
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14
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Lewicka M, Hamilton JG, Waters EA, Orom H, Schofield E, Kiviniemi MT, Kanetsky PA, Hay JL. Associations between social COVID-19 exposure and psychological functioning. J Behav Med 2023; 46:472-482. [PMID: 36334169 PMCID: PMC9638199 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-022-00374-7] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The negative consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health have been widely reported, but less is known about how the impact of COVID-19 on others in one's social circle shapes these high distress levels. This study examines associations between social COVID-19 exposure-knowing someone who had a COVID-19 infection-and psychological functioning, as well as whether socio-demographic factors moderate these relationships. In June 2020, respondents (N = 343) from clinics in Tampa, Florida, U.S.A. reported whether they had social COVID-19 exposure, anxiety, depression, and stress, and other COVID-19-related concerns. Social COVID-19 exposure was associated with increased anxiety, stress, and concerns about a family member getting sick, and concerns about drinking and substance use. Several associations between exposure and psychological functioning were stronger in women, younger people, and people with lower income, implying these groups face elevated psychological risks due to the pandemic, and should be prioritized in mental health recovery efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malwina Lewicka
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 USA
| | - Jada G. Hamilton
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 USA
| | - Erika A. Waters
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Washington University in St. Louis, 4590 Children’s Place, Suite 9600, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Heather Orom
- Department of Community Health and Health Behavior, University at Buffalo, 304 Kimball, Buffalo, NY 14214 USA
| | - Elizabeth Schofield
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 USA
| | - Marc T. Kiviniemi
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, University of Kentucky, 1000 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY 40536 USA
| | - Peter A. Kanetsky
- Department of Cancer Epidemiology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612 USA
| | - Jennifer L. Hay
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 641 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022 USA
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15
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Mussone L, Changizi F. The relationship between subjective well-being and individual characteristics, personality traits, and choice of transport mode during the first lock-down in Milan, Italy. JOURNAL OF TRANSPORT & HEALTH 2023; 30:101600. [PMID: 36937248 PMCID: PMC10014291 DOI: 10.1016/j.jth.2023.101600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Concerning the adverse effect of COVID-19 virus pandemic on subjective well-being and daily travel, this research sought to analyse which personal characteristics, personality traits, and transport modes are related to positive and negative affect, and satisfaction with life during the first lock-down in Milan, Italy. Method In the spring of 2020, an online survey was conducted in Milan, and 1025 responses were collected. Then, three Multinomial Ordinal Regression models (MNOR) are carried out to examine the relationship between the data. Results Results show that women were more likely to feel fewer positive emotions than men. More physical activity, and income were positively associated with the models. Significant relevance of personality traits with subjective well-being is reported Regarding daily mobility during the pandemic, transport mode after lock-down, satisfaction with public transport, and worry about using public transport were found relevant to subjective wellbeing. Conclusions Whereas the feeling of worry about using public transport increased the negative affect. Transport mode during lock-down was not related to subjective well-being, though the preferred mode of transport after lock-down was related to satisfaction with life. Respondents who chose to use private cars more than other modes of transport were more likely to have higher satisfaction with life. Findings are discussed to improve transport and mobility planning during pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Mussone
- Politecnico di Milano, Department of Architecture, Building Environment and Civil Constructions, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, Milano, Italy
| | - Farzaneh Changizi
- Politecnico di Milano, Department of Architecture, Building Environment and Civil Constructions, Piazza L. da Vinci 32, Milano, Italy
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16
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Karimov Z, Ozgiray E. The Effect of COVID-19 in a University Hospital Neurosurgery Clinic Comparison to Prepandemic Period: A Retrospective Study with 6 months of Data. World Neurosurg 2023; 173:e616-e621. [PMID: 36870446 PMCID: PMC9981517 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.02.114] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic affected all countries' health systems and people's lifestyles. In this study, we aimed to investigate its effects in a university hospital neurosurgery clinic. METHODS The 2019 year's 6 months' data as a prepandemic period compared to the 2020 year's same period as a pandemic date. Demographic data were collected. Operations were divided into seven groups: tumor, spinal, vascular, cerebrospinal fluid disorders, hematoma, local, and minor surgery, respectively. We classified the hematoma cluster into subgroups to evaluate the etiology: epidural, acute subdural, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, depressed skull fractures, and others. Patients' COVID-19 test results were collected. RESULTS Total operations decreased from 972 to 795 (Δ18.2%) during the pandemic. All groups, except minor surgery cases, decreased compared to the prepandemic period. Also, vascular procedures for females increased during the pandemic period. While focusing on the hematoma subgroups, there was decreasing in epidural and subdural hematomas, depressed skull fractures, and total case numbers; an increase in subarachnoid hemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage. Overall mortality significantly increased to 9.6% from 6.8% during the pandemic (P = 0.033). Eight (1.0%) of 795 patients were COVID-19-positive; three of them died. Neurosurgery residents and academicians were unsatisfied with decreased number of operations, training, and research productivity. CONCLUSIONS The pandemic and restrictions affected negatively the health system and people's access to healthcare. Our retrospective observational study aimed to evaluate these effects and take lessons for the next similar situations. People's access to health care should be considered when lockdown restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziya Karimov
- Medicine Program, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkiye.
| | - Erkin Ozgiray
- Department of Neurosurgery, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkiye
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17
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Liozidou A, Varela V, Vlastos DD, Giogkaraki E, Alzueta E, Perrin PB, Ramos-Usuga D, Arango-Lasprilla JC. Forced social isolation and lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic: depression, anxiety, trauma-distress and coping mechanisms of a Greek sample. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023:1-10. [PMID: 37361299 PMCID: PMC10097449 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Aim The COVID-19 outbreak escalated into a global pandemic, pushing many governments around the world to impose measures affecting all aspects of life. Similar to other countries, Greece adopted social restriction, lockdowns, and quarantines to reduce transmission from person-to-person. This cross-sectional study investigated the association between social restriction measures, an mental health and coping strategies employed by a Greek adult sample. Subject and methods An online questionnaire was used to collect data during the second national lockdown (February to May 2021). A total of 650 participants (M age 33.13, 71.5% female) comprised the final sample. Results The results show 21.3% of respondents reported moderate-to-extremely severe anxiety, 33% moderate-to-extremely severe depression, 31.8% moderate-to-severe stress, and 38% clinically significant trauma-related distress. Hierarchical linear regression analyses revealed that the strongest contributors to adverse mental health outcomes were being female, of younger age, experiencing increases in verbal arguments at home, being separated from family and close friends, and being unable to afford enough or healthy food. Lastly, participants reported moving away from social support and into more individual strength and resilience-based coping strategies to cope with challenges. Conclusion These findings suggest that in addition to the detrimental effects on physical health, social restriction measures related to COVID-19 also imposed a heavy psychological burden on the population via forced social isolation, which, by design, increased not only physical distancing but also psychological distancing between people. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-023-01907-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasia Liozidou
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Neuropsychology, SCG - Scientific College of Greece, Athens, Greece
- Neuropsychology Department, 1st & 2nd Neurology Clinic, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychology, SCG – Scientific College of Greece in Collaboration with the University of Strasbourg, Athens, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Varela
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Neuropsychology, SCG - Scientific College of Greece, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychology, SCG – Scientific College of Greece in Collaboration with the University of Strasbourg, Athens, Greece
- 1st Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris D. Vlastos
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Neuropsychology, SCG - Scientific College of Greece, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychology, SCG – Scientific College of Greece in Collaboration with the University of Strasbourg, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Experimental and Applied Psychology, SCG - Scientific College of Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - Erasmia Giogkaraki
- Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Clinical Neuropsychology, SCG - Scientific College of Greece, Athens, Greece
- Department of Psychology, SCG – Scientific College of Greece in Collaboration with the University of Strasbourg, Athens, Greece
| | - Elisabet Alzueta
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, Menlo Park, CA USA
| | - Paul B. Perrin
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA USA
| | - Daniela Ramos-Usuga
- Biomedical Research Doctorate Program, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Spain
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18
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Varrasi S, Guerrera CS, Platania GA, Castellano S, Pirrone C, Caponnetto P, Nicolosi C, Insanguine F, Greco E, Perrone M, Pulvirenti C, Randazzo D, Ferro G, Consoli M, Di Nuovo S. Professional quality of life and psychopathological symptoms among first-line healthcare workers facing COVID-19 pandemic: an exploratory study in an Italian southern hospital. Health Psychol Res 2023; 11:67961. [PMID: 36777810 PMCID: PMC9907327 DOI: 10.52965/001c.67961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the mental health of healthcare workers, who have taken on the major problems triggered by the emergency. The mental consequences concern high levels of insomnia, anxiety, depression and burnout, which inevitably affect their professional quality of life too. Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between psychopathological symptoms (tested with the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, DASS-21) and professional quality of life (measured with the Professional Quality of Life Scale, ProQol) in a hospital of southern Italy. Methods 204 healthcare workers were recruited by non-probabilistic sampling and divided by age, gender, work roles (physicians, nurses and intermediate care technicians) and clinical departments (Cardio-medicine, Infectious Diseases, Emergency Medicine, First Aid, Obstetrics and Pneumology). Results The results showed higher levels of Secondary Traumatic Stress, Depression, Anxiety and Stress in women than in men. Physicians and nurses experienced lower levels of Compassion Satisfaction but higher Burnout than intermediate care technicians; likewise, nurses were more anxious than physicians. The Emergency Medicine had higher scores in Compassion Satisfaction than Infectious Disease, Pneumology, Obstetrics and Cardio-Medicine. Conclusion In light of what has been said so far, it appears essential to intervene on the first mild signs of Burnout and Secondary Traumatic Stress, because they precede the onset of Depression, Stress and Anxiety in healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Varrasi
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Costanza Nicolosi
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Francesca Insanguine
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Emanuela Greco
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Mariacatena Perrone
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Carmen Pulvirenti
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Diletta Randazzo
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Gabriele Ferro
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Maurizio Consoli
- Psychology Service, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico “G. Rodolico – San Marco” – P.O. “San Marco”
| | - Santo Di Nuovo
- Department of Educational Sciences, University of Catania
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19
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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.
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20
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Cholankeril R, Xiang E, Badr H. Gender Differences in Coping and Psychological Adaptation during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:993. [PMID: 36673747 PMCID: PMC9859033 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20020993] [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: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This population-based study investigated gender differences in the use of coping strategies and their relationship to anxiety symptoms during the initial COVID-19 lockdown period in the United States. A national online survey was administered between 13 April 2020 and 8 June 2020. The study sample comprised 1673 respondents (66% women). Overall, 46% reported high levels of anxiety, and women experienced significantly (p < 0.001) higher levels of anxiety than men. Women were significantly (p < 0.05) more likely to use acceptance, self-distraction, positive reframing, and emotional support than men. Significant interactions between gender and coping strategies were also identified. Women engaging in high (+1SD) vs. low (−1SD) levels of active coping were not found to have significantly different anxiety levels. In contrast, men reported higher levels of anxiety when they engaged in high levels of active coping and lower levels of anxiety when they engaged in low levels of active coping (b2 = 0.88, t = 3.33, p = 0.001). Additionally, women engaging in high levels of acceptance and positive reframing reported significantly lower anxiety levels than when engag-ing in low levels of acceptance (b1 = −1.03, t = −4.58, p < 0.001) and positive reframing (b1 = −0.72, t = −3.95, p < 0.001). No significant associations between acceptance and positive reframing levels and anxiety levels were found with men. Overall, these findings extend our understanding of the nature of gender differences in stress responsivity during periods of high psychological distress and can inform the development of mental health interventions to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosann Cholankeril
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- MPH@GW, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA
| | - Ellen Xiang
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Hoda Badr
- Department of Medicine, Section of Epidemiology and Population Science, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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21
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Gao S, Su S, Zhang E, Liu R, Zhang Y, Wang C, Liu J, Xie S, Yin C, Yue W. Psychological health status in postpartum women during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2022; 319:99-111. [PMID: 36087790 PMCID: PMC9450470 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.08.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis pooled the prevalence of psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined the effects of the pandemic on psychological health in postpartum women. METHODS A systematic literature search and identification were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases until June 16th, 2021. The fixed or random effect models to estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum psychological symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic and the odds ratio (OR) of COVID-19 for psychological symptoms. RESULTS A total of 29 articles including 20,225 postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic and 8312 before the COVID-19 pandemic were identified. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of postpartum depressive, anxiety, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms were 26.7 % (95 % CI: 22.0-31.9 %), 33.8 % (95 % CI: 21.1-49.4 %), 55.0 % (95%CI: 27.9-79.5 %), and 33.7 % (95%CI: 19.6-51.5 %), respectively. The ORs of COVID-19 pandemic for postpartum depressive and anxiety symptoms were 1.54 (95 % CI: 1.00-2.36) and 2.56 (95%CI: 1.62-4.04). Subgroup analyses revealed that women with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and without breastfeeding experienced a higher risk of depressive or anxiety symptoms after delivery. LIMITATIONS Only a few of prospective studies were included, and significant but inevitable heterogeneities were found in some analyses. CONCLUSION A significantly higher proportion of postpartum women were suffered from psychological symptoms during COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in those with >6 weeks after delivery, younger than 35 years old, low income, less education and formula feeding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chenghong Yin
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
| | - Wentao Yue
- Department of Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, China.
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22
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Ramos-Usuga D, Perrin PB, Bogdanova Y, Olabarrieta-Landa L, Alzueta E, Baker FC, Iacovides S, Cortes M, Arango-Lasprilla JC. Moderate, Little, or No Improvements in Neurobehavioral Symptoms among Individuals with Long COVID: A 34-Country Retrospective Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191912593. [PMID: 36231893 PMCID: PMC9564784 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191912593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Some people with COVID-19 develop a series of symptoms that last for several months after infection, known as Long COVID. Although these symptoms interfere with people's daily functioning and quality of life, few studies have focused on neurobehavioral symptoms and the risk factors associated with their development; (2) Methods: 1001 adults from 34 countries who had previously tested positive for COVID-19 completed the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory reporting the symptoms before their COVID-19 diagnosis, during the COVID-19 infection, and currently; (3) Results: Participants reported large-sized increases before vs. during COVID-19 in all domains. Participants reported a medium-sized improvement (during COVID-19 vs. now) in somatic symptoms, a small-sized improvement in affective symptoms, and very minor/no improvement in cognitive symptoms. The risk factors for increased neurobehavioral symptoms were: being female/trans, unemployed, younger age, low education, having another chronic health condition, greater COVID-19 severity, greater number of days since the COVID-19 diagnosis, not having received oxygen therapy, and having been hospitalized. Additionally, participants from North America, Europe, and Central Asia reported higher levels of symptoms across all domains relative to Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa; (4) Conclusions: The results highlight the importance of evaluating and treating neurobehavioral symptoms after COVID-19, especially targeting the higher-risk groups identified. General rehabilitation strategies and evidence-based cognitive rehabilitation are needed in both the acute and Long COVID phases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramos-Usuga
- Biomedical Research Doctorate Program, University of the Basque Country, Barrio Sarriena, s/n, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Paul B. Perrin
- Department of Psychology, School of Data Science, University of Virginia, 400 Brandon Ave., #177, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
| | - Yelena Bogdanova
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, VA Boston Healthcare System, 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E Concord St, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Laiene Olabarrieta-Landa
- Health Sciences Department, Public University of Navarre (UPNA), Cataluña, s/n, 31006 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Elisabet Alzueta
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
| | - Fiona C. Baker
- Center for Health Sciences, SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Ave, Menlo Park, CA 94025, USA
- School of Physiology, Brain Function Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Stella Iacovides
- School of Physiology, Brain Function Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Mar Cortes
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Pl, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Juan Carlos Arango-Lasprilla
- Departments of Psychology and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, 907 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
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23
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Calleja N, Mota C. Mothers in Lockdown Due to COVID-19 in Mexico: Does Having a Paid Job Make a Difference? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11014. [PMID: 36078730 PMCID: PMC9518464 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711014] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide lockdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had one thing in common between different countries: they highly affected family life in different ways. However, the way they affected women with young children has not been well studied. With the purpose of evaluating the experience of lockdown in Mexico in mothers with and without a paid job carried out at home, 220 Mexican women between 24 and 55 years of age, with one or more children under 15 years of age and who lived with their partner, answered online questionnaires. The results show that, although most of the domestic tasks were carried out by the mothers, the partners of those who had a paid job significantly collaborated more with them. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) were frequently used in both groups, but mothers working from home used them to a greater extent. For these mothers, work overload and confinement were among the main problems caused by the lockdown measures, while the economic situation was the main issue for the group with no paid jobs. Both groups considered family coexistence and the lack of the need to hurry as the advantages of lockdown. To face it, the participants mainly carried out coexistence and entertainment activities. To explain these differences between mothers with and without teleworking, new studies will need to be carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazira Calleja
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Mota
- Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
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Canal-Rivero M, Montes-García C, Garrido-Torres N, Moreno-Mellado A, Reguera-Pozuelo P, Ruiz-Veguilla M, Crespo-Facorro B. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the psychological well-being among health care workers: A 6-month cohort longitudinal survey study. REVISTA DE PSIQUIATRIA Y SALUD MENTAL 2022; 16:25-37. [PMID: 36039175 PMCID: PMC9400377 DOI: 10.1016/j.rpsm.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health care workers (HCW) have been identified as a risk group to suffer psychological burden derived from Coronavirus Disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, possible gender differences in the emotional reactions derived from COVID-19 pandemic have been suggested in this population. The aims of the study were to explore the impact of COVID-19 as well as possible gender differences on mental health status and suicidality in a cohort of HCW. MATERIALS AND METHODS One thousand four hundred and thirty-two HCW responded to an online survey including sociodemographic, clinical, and psychometric tests in May 2020 while 251 HCW answered in November 2020. Mental health status was measured by General Health Questionnaire 28 (GHQ-28) in both time periods. RESULTS HCW informed of a worsening in somatic symptomatology over the follow up period. Gender differences were found in all GHQ-28 dimensions as well in the total score of the questionnaire. Post-hoc analyses displayed significant interaction between the time and gender in somatic and anxiety dimensions as well as in GHQ-28 total score. Stress produced by COVID-19 spreading and the feeling of being overwhelmed at work resulted the main predictors of psychological distress although each domain is characterized by a specific set of predictors. CONCLUSIONS Somatic reactions represent the most sensitive dimension over the follow-up period. Moreover, women are characterized by a greater psychological distress at the beginning, although these differences tend to disappear over time. Finally, a complex network of factors predicted different dimensions of psychological distress, showing the complexity of prevention in high-risk populations facing major disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Canal-Rivero
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain,CIBERSAM, ISCIII (Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health), Spain
| | - Cristian Montes-García
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain
| | - Nathalia Garrido-Torres
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain,CIBERSAM, ISCIII (Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health), Spain
| | - Amanda Moreno-Mellado
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain
| | - Pablo Reguera-Pozuelo
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain
| | - Miguel Ruiz-Veguilla
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain,CIBERSAM, ISCIII (Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health), Spain,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Sevilla, Spain,Corresponding author
| | - Benedicto Crespo-Facorro
- University Hospital Virgen del Rocio-IBIS (Universidad de Sevilla, HUVR, Junta de Andalucía, CSIC), Seville, Spain,CIBERSAM, ISCIII (Spanish Network for Research in Mental Health), Spain,Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Sevilla, Spain
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Murayama K, Tatebayashi H, Kawaguchi T, Fujita K, Sashikata K, Nakao T. The Impact of Gender and Age Differences and Infectious Disease Symptoms on Psychological Distress in Quarantined Asymptomatic or Mildly Ill COVID-19 Patients in Japan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159083. [PMID: 35897455 PMCID: PMC9332173 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Quarantine imposed due to COVID-19 infection can exacerbate psychological distress, and it is important for a public mental health agency to identify factors that are predictive of high psychological distress in such situation. The aim of this study was to investigate whether gender, age, and the presence or absence of infectious disease symptoms affected psychological distress among asymptomatic or mildly ill COVID-19 patients who were quarantined. Participants were 436 asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic COVID-19-infected patients who were quarantined in a treatment facility between 1 May 2020 and 30 September 2021. We used Quantification Theory I analysis to investigate the effects of gender, age, and the nature of infectious disease symptoms on psychological distress. The results of the analysis showed that the contribution rate was 0.06. Among gender, age, presence of symptoms, and the nature of symptoms, age had the greatest effect on psychological distress, and being in one’s teens to thirties was considered to exacerbate psychological distress the most. According to the results, the psychological distress of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients isolated was affected by gender, age, and symptomology, especially due to age differences. However, the impact of these items on psychological distress was not considered significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keitaro Murayama
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyushu University Hospital, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Takako Kawaguchi
- Fukuoka City Mental Health Welfare Center, 2-5-1 Maizuru, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 8100073, Japan;
| | - Kousuke Fujita
- Kitakyushu Municipal Mental Health Welfare Center, 1-7-1 Basyaku, Kokurakita-ku, Kitakyushu 8020077, Japan;
| | - Kenta Sashikata
- Graduate School of Human-Environment Studies, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 8190395, Japan;
| | - Tomohiro Nakao
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 8128582, Japan;
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26
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Căilean AM, Beguni C, Avătămăniței SA, Dimian M, Popa V. Design, Implementation and Experimental Investigation of a Pedestrian Street Crossing Assistance System Based on Visible Light Communications. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:s22155481. [PMID: 35897984 PMCID: PMC9331235 DOI: 10.3390/s22155481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
In urban areas, pedestrians are the road users category that is the most exposed to road accident fatalities. In this context, the present article proposes a totally new architecture, which aims to increase the safety of pedestrians on the crosswalk. The first component of the design is a pedestrian detection system, which identifies the user's presence in the region of the crosswalk and determines the future street crossing action possibility or the presence of a pedestrian engaged in street crossing. The second component of the system is the visible light communications part, which is used to transmit this information toward the approaching vehicles. The proposed architecture has been implemented at a regular scale and experimentally evaluated in outdoor conditions. The experimental results showed a 100% overall pedestrian detection rate. On the other hand, the VLC system showed a communication distance between 5 and 40 m when using a standard LED light crosswalk sign as a VLC emitter, while maintaining a bit error ratio between 10-7 and 10-5. These results demonstrate the fact that the VLC technology is now able to be used in real applications, making the transition from a high potential technology to a confirmed technology. As far as we know, this is the first article presenting such a pedestrian street crossing assistance system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alin-Mihai Căilean
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation in Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, and Distributed Systems for Fabrication and Control, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (C.B.); (S.-A.A.); (M.D.)
- Department of Computers, Electronics and Automation, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
- Laboratoire D’ingénierie des Systèmes de Versailles (LISV), Paris-Saclay University, 78140 Velizy-Villacoublay, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Cătălin Beguni
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation in Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, and Distributed Systems for Fabrication and Control, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (C.B.); (S.-A.A.); (M.D.)
- Department of Computers, Electronics and Automation, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Sebastian-Andrei Avătămăniței
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation in Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, and Distributed Systems for Fabrication and Control, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (C.B.); (S.-A.A.); (M.D.)
- Department of Computers, Electronics and Automation, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Mihai Dimian
- Integrated Center for Research, Development and Innovation in Advanced Materials, Nanotechnologies, and Distributed Systems for Fabrication and Control, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania; (C.B.); (S.-A.A.); (M.D.)
- Department of Computers, Electronics and Automation, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
| | - Valentin Popa
- Department of Computers, Electronics and Automation, Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava, 720229 Suceava, Romania;
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Dal Santo T, Sun Y, Wu Y, He C, Wang Y, Jiang X, Li K, Bonardi O, Krishnan A, Boruff JT, Rice DB, Markham S, Levis B, Azar M, Neupane D, Tasleem A, Yao A, Thombs-Vite I, Agic B, Fahim C, Martin MS, Sockalingam S, Turecki G, Benedetti A, Thombs BD. Systematic review of mental health symptom changes by sex or gender in early-COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11417. [PMID: 35794116 PMCID: PMC9258011 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14746-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Women and gender-diverse individuals have faced disproportionate socioeconomic burden during COVID-19. There have been reports of greater negative mental health changes compared to men based on cross-sectional research that has not accounted for pre-COVID-19 differences. We compared mental health changes from pre-COVID-19 to during COVID-19 by sex or gender. MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science Core Collection: Citation Indexes, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, medRxiv (preprints), and Open Science Framework Preprints (preprint server aggregator) were searched to August 30, 2021. Eligible studies included mental health symptom change data by sex or gender. 12 studies (10 unique cohorts) were included, all of which reported dichotomized sex or gender data. 9 cohorts reported results from March to June 2020, and 2 of these also reported on September or November to December 2020. One cohort included data pre-November 2020 data but did not provide dates. Continuous symptom change differences were not statistically significant for depression (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.12, 95% CI -0.09–0.33; 4 studies, 4,475 participants; I2 = 69.0%) and stress (SMD = − 0.10, 95% CI -0.21–0.01; 4 studies, 1,533 participants; I2 = 0.0%), but anxiety (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI 0.07–0.22; 4 studies, 4,344 participants; I2 = 3.0%) and general mental health (SMD = 0.15, 95% CI 0.12–0.18; 3 studies, 15,692 participants; I2 = 0.0%) worsened more among females/women than males/men. There were no significant differences in changes in proportions above cut-offs: anxiety (difference = − 0.05, 95% CI − 0.20–0.11; 1 study, 217 participants), depression (difference = 0.12, 95% CI -0.03–0.28; 1 study, 217 participants), general mental health (difference = − 0.03, 95% CI − 0.09–0.04; 3 studies, 18,985 participants; I2 = 94.0%), stress (difference = 0.04, 95% CI − 0.10–0.17; 1 study, 217 participants). Mental health outcomes did not differ or were worse by small amounts among women than men during early COVID-19.
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Caycho-Rodríguez T, Tomás JM, Valencia PD, Ventura-León J, Vilca LW, Carbajal-León C, Reyes-Bossio M, White M, Rojas-Jara C, Polanco-Carrasco R, Gallegos M, Cervigni M, Martino P, Palacios DA, Moreta-Herrera R, Samaniego-Pinho A, Rivera MEL, Figares AB, Puerta-Cortés DX, Corrales-Reyes IE, Calderón R, Tapia BP, Ferrari IF, Flores-Mendoza C, Vivanco-Vidal A, Saroli-Araníbar D. COVID-19 anxiety, psychological well-being and preventive behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean: relationships and explanatory model. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03389-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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29
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Matud MP, Zueco J, Díaz A, del Pino MJ, Fortes D. Gender differences in mental distress and affect balance during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Spain. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-15. [PMID: 35693842 PMCID: PMC9166929 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03282-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a major threat to the health and well-being of people around the world that has impacted freedom of movement, social interaction and the economy. The aim of the present work was twofold: first, to study the presence of mental distress, positive and negative experiences and affect balance in women and men in Spain in two different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, the initial "first state of alarm" phase, characterized by maximum restrictions, and in the "new normal" phase with minimal restrictions, and second, to study the protective role of age, educational level, self-esteem, marital status and social support against mental distress, and as factors that increase the affect balance of women and men in the above mentioned phases of the first wave of the COVID- 19 pandemic in Spain. The study sample consisted of 652 women and 652 men from the general population, aged between 18 and 88 years, who were evaluated through self-reports. Results show greater mental distress in women than men but, strikingly, the magnitude of such differences were greater in the "new normal" phase than in the maximum restriction phase. In addition, in this last phase, women also experienced more negative feelings and less affect balance than men. High self-esteem and social support were also found to be protective factors for mental health, both in women and men, during the two phases of the pandemic studied. In conclusion, our study shows that the COVID-19 pandemic has especially impacted the well-being of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Pilar Matud
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Psychobiology and Methodology, Facultad de Psicología y Logopedia, Universidad de La Laguna, Apartado 456, 38200 La Laguna, Spain
| | - Jesús Zueco
- Department of Microbiology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Amelia Díaz
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatments, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mª José del Pino
- Department of Sociology, University Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
| | - Demelsa Fortes
- European University of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
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30
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The Fear of COVID-19: Gender Differences among Italian Health Volunteers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19116369. [PMID: 35681954 PMCID: PMC9180366 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the fear of being infected was a major concern, resulting in both physical and psychological effects. Despite several studies on fear of COVID-19 in the general population, the effects on healthy volunteers who face COVID-19 on the frontlines have not yet been investigated. Methods: An online survey on specific psychological variables related to COVID-19 was administered to 720 healthy volunteers, and gender differences were investigated. Results: The primary finding was that females showed higher scores in all dimensions assessed. A multiple linear regression conducted on both genders exhibited a similar pattern of predictors, highlighting the pivotal role of negative affect in the male group. Conclusions: The findings suggest that COVID-19 had significant effects on healthy volunteers, especially in the female group. Although the previous literature did not report the crucial role played by the negative affect in the male sample, these results highlight the need to deepen how both genders use different emotional strategies to cope with stressful situations. This study may be useful in the development of specific psychological support and ad hoc training for healthy volunteers.
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Caycho-Rodríguez T, Ventura-León J, Valencia PD, Vilca LW, Carbajal-León C, Reyes-Bossio M, White M, Rojas-Jara C, Polanco-Carrasco R, Gallegos M, Cervigni M, Martino P, Palacios DA, Moreta-Herrera R, Samaniego-Pinho A, Lobos Rivera ME, Buschiazzo Figares A, Puerta-Cortés DX, Corrales-Reyes IE, Calderón R, Pinto Tapia B, Arias Gallegos WL, Petzold O. What Is the Support for Conspiracy Beliefs About COVID-19 Vaccines in Latin America? A Prospective Exploratory Study in 13 Countries. Front Psychol 2022; 13:855713. [PMID: 35602688 PMCID: PMC9120924 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.855713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Conspiracy theories about COVID-19 began to emerge immediately after the first news about the disease and threaten to prolong the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by limiting people's willingness of receiving a life-saving vaccine. In this context, this study aimed to explore the variation of conspiracy beliefs regarding COVID-19 and the vaccine against it in 5779 people living in 13 Latin American countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela) according to sociodemographic variables such as gender, age, educational level and source of information about COVID-19. The study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic between September 15 and October 25, 2021. The Spanish-language COVID-19 Vaccine Conspiracy Beliefs Scale (ECCV-COVID) and a sociodemographic survey were used. The results indicate that, in most countries, women, people with a lower educational level and those who receive information about the vaccine and COVID-19 from family/friends are more supportive of conspiracy ideas regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. In the case of age, the results vary by country. The analysis of the responses to each of the questions of the ECCV-COVID reveals that, in general, the countries evaluated are mostly in some degree of disagreement or indecision regarding conspiratorial beliefs about COVID-19 vaccines. The findings could help open further study which could support prevention and treatment efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Ventura-León
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Privada del Norte, Lima, Peru
| | - Pablo D Valencia
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico, Tlalnepantla de Baz, Mexico
| | - Lindsey W Vilca
- South American Center for Education and Research in Public Health, Universidad Norbert Wiener, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Mario Reyes-Bossio
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | - Michael White
- Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Educación, Universidad Peruana Unión, Lima, Peru
| | - Claudio Rojas-Jara
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Psicología, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | | | - Miguel Gallegos
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Departamento de Psicología, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psicología, Pontificia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Mauricio Cervigni
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud y del Comportamiento, Universidad Adventista del Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Pablo Martino
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad de Psicología, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | | | | | - Antonio Samaniego-Pinho
- Carrera de Psicología, Facultad de Filosofía, Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Marlon Elías Lobos Rivera
- Escuela de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad Tecnológica de El Salvador, San Salvador, El Salvador
| | | | | | - Ibraín Enrique Corrales-Reyes
- Servicio de Cirugía Maxilofacial, Hospital General Universitario Carlos Manuel de Céspedes, Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Granma, Bayamo, Cuba
| | - Raymundo Calderón
- Carrera de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Valle de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Bismarck Pinto Tapia
- Carrera de Psicología, Universidad Católica Boliviana San Pablo, La Paz, Bolivia
| | | | - Olimpia Petzold
- Lone Star College-Conroe Center, Conroe, TX, United States
- Psychosomatic and Psycho-Oncological Research Unit, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
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Lelek-Kratiuk M, Szczygieł M. Stress appraisal as a mediator between the sense of coherence and the frequency of stress coping strategies in women and men during COVID-19 lockdown. Scand J Psychol 2022; 63:365-375. [PMID: 35358336 PMCID: PMC9115402 DOI: 10.1111/sjop.12813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The COVID‐19 lockdown experience is a unique and unexpected stressful life situation. In our research project, we explored gender differences in the mean level of stress appraisal (SAQ), the frequency of stress coping strategies (COPE), and the sense of coherence (SOC), as well as gender differences in the strength of the relationships between SAQ, COPE, and SOC during the COVID‐19 lockdown. Finally, we tested if stressor appraisal (as a threat, harm/loss, or challenge) mediates the relationship between SOC and COPE in women and men respectively. Data were collected during the first wave of the COVID‐19 lockdown in Poland in 2020. An online survey was conducted among 326 adults aged between 18 and 72. We observed gender differences in the level of SAQ, COPE, and SOC and gender differences in the significance and strength of the correlations between these variables. SOC had a twofold effect on COPE in men: direct and indirect through SOC‐threat and SOC‐harm/loss. In women, SOC did not directly predict COPE frequency but affected COPE in an indirect way through SAQ. SAQ is an important factor that modifies the strength of the SOC effect on COPE in women and men during the lockdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzena Lelek-Kratiuk
- Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Kraków, Poland
| | - Monika Szczygieł
- Department of Pedagogy and Psychology, Institute of Psychology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Kraków, Poland
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Noe-Grijalva M, Polo-Ambrocio A, Gómez-Bedia K, Caycho-Rodríguez T. Spanish Translation and Validation of the COVID Stress Scales in Peru. Front Psychol 2022; 13:840302. [PMID: 35418905 PMCID: PMC8995497 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.840302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the study was to translate and validate the COVID Stress Scales (CSS-36) into Spanish in Peru. Around 1,424 people, selected through a non-probabilistic sampling, participated in the study. Factor analysis confirmed an initial six-dimensional factorial structure of the CSS-36. Reliability by internal consistency was good for the dimensions of fear of danger, socioeconomic consequences, xenophobia, fear of contamination, traumatic stress, and compulsive control. In addition, the factorial structure of scale has been shown be strictly invariant for both males and females. The Spanish version of the CSS-36 has evidence of validity, reliability, and invariance to measure COVID-19 stress in a Peruvian sample.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karla Gómez-Bedia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad César Vallejo, Trujillo, Peru
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Prekazi L, Hajrullahu V, Bahtiri S, Kryeziu B, Hyseni B, Taganoviq B, Gallopeni F. The Impact of Coping Skills in Post-traumatic Growth of Healthcare Providers: When Mental Health Is Deteriorating Due to COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 12:791568. [PMID: 34925193 PMCID: PMC8678123 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.791568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Frontline healthcare providers are consistently exposed to potentially traumatic events while assisting patients with COVID-19. Post-traumatic growth (PTG) happens when a person can transform trauma and use adversity in one’s advantage. In response to limited studies on positive outcomes that may occur from the pandemic; this study aimed to elucidate the positive impact of coping with COVID-19 outbreak on mental health, such as PTG. Methodology: The study comprised a sample of 691 healthcare providers 59% female, including physicians (n = 138) and nurses (n = 550), working in public health facilities in Kosovo, with an average age of 41.6 years (SD = 10.79). They were asked to complete a questionnaire with four parts: Socio-demographic, GHQ-28, COPE and PTGI. A deterioration of mental health with somatic symptoms leading to the escalation due to COVID-19 outbreak was found. Results: Female healthcare providers reported more clinical symptoms as well as higher coping skills scores than men. The domains in which positive changes were most frequently observed were Relating to Others, New Possibilities and Personal Strength. There was no significant direct effect of mental health on PTG in the mediation model, though a significant indirect effect was observed for coping skills. Conclusion: The results suggest that levels of mental health exacerbation do not play a conclusive role in determining levels of PTG, as long coping mechanisms are in place. The development and implementation of interventions to minimize COVID-19-related mental health consequences, by fostering PTG among healthcare providers could be highly beneficial in pandemic response work.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Blerta Kryeziu
- Heimerer College, Prishtine, Kosovo.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Prishtina, Pristina, Kosovo
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Quality of Life, Insomnia and Coping Strategies during COVID-19 Pandemic in Hospital Workers. A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312466. [PMID: 34886191 PMCID: PMC8656884 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 became a pandemic in a few months, leading to adverse health outcomes, reducing the quality of life, affecting the sleep/wake cycle, and altering coping strategies, especially among hospital personnel. Life quality, insomnia, and coping strategies were thus assessed among hospital personnel during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy. This cross-sectional study was conducted from May to November 2020 through an online survey. There were 558 participants (28.5% males and 71.5% females) enrolled in two different metropolitan areas (in North and South of Italy, respectively). Three standardized questionnaires were administered: European Quality of life–5 Dimensions (EQ-5D), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS), and Brief COPE. Differences in sociodemographic characteristics and work-related factors were also investigated in order to identify possible predictors through a generalized linear model and logistic regression analysis. Results showed good perceived life quality and high insomnia prevalence. After sample stratification, the statistical analysis highlighted that personal (gender, age, educational level) and work-related factors (employment in COVID wards, remote working) played different roles in predicting quality of life, insomnia, and coping attitude. Active, Planning, and Acceptance were the most frequently adopted coping strategies. Despite women confirming their attitude in reacting to the difficulties, adopting emotion-focused coping strategies, they showed a higher probability to develop insomnia, so a gender perspective should be considered in the health protection of this working category. An integrated approach should be implemented at individual, interpersonal and organizational levels aiming to monitor psychological distress, favor regular sharing and communication between peers, and also allow conciliation of work with family life. At the organizational level, preventive and protective measures adequate to work-related risk to COVID-19 should be adopted.
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Gender and Place of Settlement as Predictors of Perceived Social Support, PTSD, and Insomnia among Internally Displaced Adolescents in North-East Nigeria. SOCIAL SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/socsci10110428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has shown that gender affects social support and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD). The present study explores the main and interaction effects of gender and place of settlement on social support, PTSD symptoms, and insomnia in internally displaced adolescents (IDAs) in North-east of Nigeria. A stratified sampling method was used to select 109 participants from IDAs living in the camp, while 27 additional IDAs were purposively recruited from those living in the host community. Participants completed measures of Harvard Trauma Questionnaire Part-II, Insomnia Severity Index, and Crisis Support. No significant effects of gender on perceived social support, PTSDs, and insomnia were observed. Place of settlement had a significant effect on social support, with IDAs living in the camp having a higher mean score, while place of settlement had no significant effects on PTSD and insomnia. A significant interaction effect of gender and place of settlements on insomnia was found, with males living in the community having a higher mean score than their female counterparts, as well as both males and females in the camp. In conclusion, there is a need to understand male IDAs who reside in non-camp settings better, including the nature of their challenges, the outcomes they desire, and the limitations they experienced.
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