1
|
Lotzin A, Stahlmann K, Acquarini E, Ajdukovic D, Ajdukovic M, Anastassiou-Hadjicharalambous X, Ardino V, Bondjers K, Bragesjö M, Böttche M, Dragan M, Figueiredo-Braga M, Gelezelyte O, Grajewski P, Javakhishvili JD, Kazlauskas E, Lenferink L, Lioupi C, Lueger-Schuster B, Mooren T, Sales L, Tsiskarishvili L, Novakovic IZ, Schäfer I. A longitudinal study of risk and protective factors for symptoms of adjustment disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2024; 15:2318944. [PMID: 38644753 PMCID: PMC11036902 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2024.2318944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic caused multiple stressors that may lead to symptoms of adjustment disorder.Objective: We longitudinally examined relationships between risk and protective factors, pandemic-related stressors and symptoms of adjustment disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as whether these relationships differed by the time of assessment.Method: The European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS) ADJUST Study included N = 15,169 participants aged 18 years and above. Participants from 11 European countries were recruited and screened three times at 6-month intervals from June 2020 to January 2022. Associations between risk and protective factors (e.g. gender), stressors (e.g. fear of infection), and symptoms of adjustment disorder (AjD, ADNM-8) and their interaction with time of assessment were examined using mixed linear regression.Results: The following predictors were significantly associated with higher AjD symptom levels: female or diverse gender; older age; pandemic-related news consumption >30 min a day; a current or previous mental health disorder; trauma exposure before or during the pandemic; a good, satisfactory or poor health status (vs. very good); burden related to governmental crisis management and communication; fear of infection; restricted social contact; work-related problems; restricted activity; and difficult housing conditions. The following predictors were associated with lower AjD levels: self-employment or retirement; working in healthcare; and face-to-face contact ≥ once a week with loved ones or friends. The effects of the following predictors on AjD symptoms differed by the time of assessment in the course of the pandemic: a current or previous mental disorder; burden related to governmental crisis management; income reduction; and a current trauma exposure.Conclusions: We identified risk factors and stressors predicting AjD symptom levels at different stages of the pandemic. For some predictors, the effects on mental health may change at different stages of a pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annett Lotzin
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Psychology, MSH Medical School Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Stahlmann
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Dean Ajdukovic
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marina Ajdukovic
- Department of Social Work, Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Kristina Bondjers
- National Centre for Disaster Psychiatry, Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- National Centre for Violence and Traumatic Stress Studies, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Bragesjö
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Centre for Psychiatric Research, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Böttche
- Division of Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Margarida Figueiredo-Braga
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Trauma Observatory, Centre for Social Studies (CES), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Odeta Gelezelyte
- Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | | | | | - Evaldas Kazlauskas
- Center for Psychotraumatology, Institute of Psychology, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Lonneke Lenferink
- Department of Psychology, Health, & Technology, Faculty of Behavioural, Management, and Social Sciences, University of Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands
| | - Chrysanthi Lioupi
- Psychology Program, School of Ηumanities, Social Sciences and Law, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Brigitte Lueger-Schuster
- Unit of Psychotraumatology, Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Trudy Mooren
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Luisa Sales
- Trauma Observatory, Centre for Social Studies (CES), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Unit of Psychiatry, Hospital Militar, Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Irina Zrnic Novakovic
- Unit of Psychotraumatology, Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - ADJUST Study Consortium
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Metcalf CA, Johnson RL, Duffy KA, Freeman EW, Sammel MD, Epperson CN. Depressed, stressed, and inflamed: C-reactive protein linked with depression symptoms in midlife women with both childhood and current life stress. Stress Health 2024; 40:e3313. [PMID: 37679965 PMCID: PMC10918037 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
To determine whether the relationship between inflammatory factors and clinically significant depression symptoms is moderated by high exposure to adverse childhood experiences and current life stressors in a longitudinal community cohort of midlife women. Methods: Participants from the Penn Ovarian Ageing Study community cohort (age at baseline: M = 45.3 [SD = 3.8]) were included in analyses if they had a blood sample measuring basal inflammatory markers during at least one visit where depression symptom severity and current stressful life events were also assessed (N = 142, average number of visits per participant = 1.75 [SD = 0.92]). Approximately annually over the course of 16 years, participants self-reported depression symptom severity using the Centre for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CESD) Scale, provided menstrual diaries to determine menopause stage, and contributed blood samples. Residual blood samples were assayed for interleukin (IL)-6, IL 1-beta (IL-1β), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). Early life stress was quantified using the Adverse Childhood Experiences questionnaire (low [0-1 experience(s)] versus high [≥ 2 experiences]). Current stressful life events were assessed using a structured interview (low [0-1 events] vs. high [≥ 2 events]). Generalised estimating equation models were used to model associations with the outcome of interest-clinically significant depression symptoms (CESD ≥16)-and risk factors: inflammatory marker levels (log transformed), adverse childhood experiences group, and current life stressors group. Covariates included menopause stage, age at study baseline, body mass index, race, and smoking status. We found a significant three-way interaction between log hsCRP levels, adverse childhood experiences group, and current life stressors group on likelihood of experiencing clinically significant depression symptoms (OR: 4.33; 95% CI: 1.22, 15.46; p = 0.024) after adjusting for covariates. Solely for women with high adverse childhood experiences and with high current life stressors, higher hsCRP was associated with higher odds of having clinically significant depression symptoms (OR: 1.46; 95% CI 1.07, 1.98; p = 0.016). This three-way interaction was not significant for IL-6, IL-1β, or TNF-α. For women in midlife with exposure to high adverse childhood experiences and multiple current life stressors, elevated levels of CRP were uniquely associated with clinically significant depression symptoms. Early life adversity and current life stressors represent identifiable individual risk factors whose negative impact may be curtailed with inventions to target inflammation in midlife women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina A Metcalf
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Rachel L Johnson
- Department of Biostatistics & Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Korrina A Duffy
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Ellen W Freeman
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mary D Sammel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Biostatistics & Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - C Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jin Y, Bowers BJ, Cotton QD, Ersig AL. Self-identified culturally related stressors that influence self-care in older adults with multiple chronic conditions: A qualitative study. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:1550-1561. [PMID: 38151803 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
AIM To identify culturally related stressors that influence self-care in Chinese older adults with multiple chronic conditions. BACKGROUND Effective self-care can improve health outcomes for chronic conditions, but implementing self-care is challenging. Individuals with multiple chronic conditions face even more self-care complexity than those with single chronic conditions, generating additional stressors. Although stressors have been found to negatively influence self-care in multiple chronic conditions, the role of culture in generating stressors has been neglected. DESIGN This paper reports on the qualitative component of a larger mixed-methods study. Two free-response items in a survey were used to identify culturally related stressors that influence self-care. This report adhered to the SRQR guideline checklist. METHODS Data were collected between January and April 2022. One hundred and thirty-eight free text responses asking participants to identify stressors that influenced their self-care effectiveness were analysed sequentially using deductive content analysis and thematic analysis. RESULTS Findings from deductive content analysis largely confirmed published work in Western literature on stressors complicating self-care, including symptom burdens, financial strains, social disconnection, caregiving responsibilities and major life events. Findings from reflexive thematic analysis extended current literature by identifying three culturally relevant stressors: intergenerational obligations and commitments, ambivalence about receiving care and worries about potential problems. CONCLUSION Chinese older adults with multiple chronic conditions identified a wide range of stressors that impacted their day-to-day self-care. This study provided valuable insights into culturally related stressors in older adults with multiple chronic conditions. Findings deepened our knowledge of cultural influences on the success of self-care in older adults with multiple chronic conditions, suggesting the potential for reaching populations across different cultures and regions. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE Stressors that might influence self-care ability are important for nurses to assess in people with multiple chronic conditions. The design of self-care interventions should take a culturally tailored intergenerational family-centred approach to help mitigate the impact of stressors and ultimately improve patient outcomes. IMPACT What problem did the study address? Stressors documented in older adults with MCCs have all been generated from research with Western populations. China is now home to the largest population of older people in the world. Understanding the influence of culturally relevant stressors on self-care in Chinese older adults with MCCs is lacking. What were the main findings? Findings from deductive content analysis largely confirmed published work in Western literature on stressors that complicated self-care, including symptom burdens, financial strains, social disconnection, caregiving responsibilities and major life events. Findings from reflexive thematic analysis extended current literature by identifying three culturally relevant stressors in older adults with MCCs in China: intergenerational obligations and commitments, ambivalence about receiving care and worries about potential problems. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? The research will have an impact on guiding nurses' assessment of culturally relevant stressors' impact on self-care for older adults with MCCs. In addition, findings could inform research and policy development to aim at mitigating the impact of culturally based stressors on self-care. REPORTING METHOD This study adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) guideline checklist. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION During the member-checking process, the validation of findings for accuracy was carried out by 10 participants, who also found resonance between these findings and their own experiences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Jin
- School of Nursing, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Barbara J Bowers
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Quinton D Cotton
- School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Anne L Ersig
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dahlawi N, Milnes L, Swallow V. Children's behavioural and emotional reactions towards living with congenital heart disease in Saudi Arabia: A grounded theory study. Health Expect 2024; 27:e13959. [PMID: 38411365 PMCID: PMC10897868 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high incidence of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) was found in Saudi Arabia (SA). International literature reports that children with CHD exhibit behavioural and emotional issues due to experiencing hospitalisation and clinical treatments combined with a dearth of qualitative understanding of the experiences of younger children with CHD. Therefore, the aim was to explore the behaviour and emotions of 4-10-year-olds with CHD in SA through children's accounts of their own experiences and parental proxy reports of children's behaviour and emotions. METHODS Charmaz's constructivist grounded theory (GT) approach was used. Twenty single semi-structured interviews of 10 child/parent dyads were undertaken at a hospital clinic in SA. Children's interviews were combined with an arts-based approach using drawings, pictures and faces of emotions (emojis). Constant comparison analysis was undertaken. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines was followed in reporting this study. FINDINGS A substantive GT: children's behavioural and emotional reactions towards stressors related to living with CHD was developed and provides new insights into children's and parents' perceptions of the children's behavioural and emotional reactions to living with CHD in SA. The theory proposes that children's reactions to living with CHD relate to medical treatment stressors, sociocultural stressors and physical change stressors. Several further factors influenced children's responses to these stressors. CONCLUSION Children and parents in SA contributed to a new understanding of the relationship between CHD and children's behavioural and emotional reactions. In addition, findings support the need for early assessment of behaviour and emotions among children with CHD and the application of preventative and supportive measures for the children and their families in SA. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Before the research commenced, the developmental appropriateness of the proposed arts-based data collection tools was tested with three healthy children aged 6-9 years old; the tools were then revised accordingly before the interviews were undertaken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nada Dahlawi
- Nursing Faculty, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Linda Milnes
- School of Healthcare, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Veronica Swallow
- Department of Nursing and Midwifery, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xu J, Khanotia A, Juni S, Ku J, Sami H, Lin V, Walterson R, Payne E, Jo H, Rahimpoor-Marnani P. Effectiveness of Virtual Reality-Based Well-Being Interventions for Stress Reduction in Young Adults: Systematic Review. JMIR Ment Health 2024; 11:e52186. [PMID: 38551625 PMCID: PMC11015360 DOI: 10.2196/52186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescents can be especially vulnerable to various stressors as they are still in their formative years and transitioning into adulthood. Hence, it is important for them to have effective stress management strategies. OBJECTIVE This systematic review investigates current well-being interventions that are aimed at reducing stress among young adults. In particular, interventions using the medium of virtual reality (VR) are explored. METHODS This mixed methods systematic review follows the PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols) guidelines, and papers were gathered from databases such as PsycINFO, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, OpenGrey, and Edutopia. Predetermined criteria and specific keywords were used to search for the papers. Search results were screened and extracted with all article screening or extraction delegated among all authors. Any disagreements after reconciliation were settled by a third author. The quality and risk of bias of included studies were assessed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) Tool for Quantitative Studies. Studies were analyzed qualitatively. RESULTS In total, 20 studies were included, and qualitative analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of VR-based interventions in 3 domains: nature, stress, and academics. CONCLUSIONS Studies using VR interventions, overall, promoted a reduction in stress and an increase in well-being. The findings suggest that VR may serve as an accessible and affordable medium of stress reduction for students and young adults. Larger sample sizes, and a greater number of included studies, may be required in future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joy Xu
- David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Areej Khanotia
- Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Shmuel Juni
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Josephine Ku
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Hana Sami
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Vallen Lin
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Evelyn Payne
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Helen Jo
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wells SA, Fleury-Steiner RE, Miller SL, Camphausen LC, Horney JA. Impacts of the COVID-19 Response on the Domestic Violence Workforce. J Interpers Violence 2024; 39:1190-1205. [PMID: 37799057 DOI: 10.1177/08862605231203610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Many frontline and essential workers faced increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicide ideation during the pandemic response. These and other factors led to burnout, shifts into non-patient or client-facing roles, or leaving an occupation altogether. Domestic violence advocates experienced increases in many types of stressors as they continued to provide essential services to victims and survivors during the pandemic. However, in most cases they did so without protections offered to essential workers, like priority access to personal protective equipment (PPE) or vaccines. Executive directors of U.S. State and Territorial Domestic Violence Coalitions were identified using the National Network to End Domestic Violence website and contacted via email to schedule key informant interviews. Interviews were conducted, recorded, and transcribed using Zoom. Themes were identified using both inductive and deductive coding. Twenty-five of 56 (45%) coalition executive directors completed an interview. Three main themes related to workforce were identified, including an accelerated rate of job turnover among both leadership and staff; a lack of essential worker status for domestic violence advocates; and unsustainable levels of stress, fear, and exhaustion. While familiar challenges drove these outcomes for this predominantly female, low-wage workforce, such as a lack of access to childcare, other factors, including the lack of access to PPE, training, and hazard pay for those working in person, highlighted inequities facing the domestic violence workforce. The factors identified as impacting the domestic violence workforce-turnover, low status, and high levels of stress, fear, and exhaustion-made the already challenging provision of advocacy and services more difficult. Domestic violence advocates are essential first responders and must be supported in ways that increase the resilience of empowerment-based services for victims and survivors.
Collapse
|
7
|
Ngoc NB, Tuan NV. Stress among nursing students in Vietnam: Prevalence and associated factors. Int Nurs Rev 2024; 71:28-34. [PMID: 36696254 DOI: 10.1111/inr.12831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM To describe stress and analyze its associated factors among nursing students. INTRODUCTION Stress is a common mental health problem among medical students, especially nursing students. Therefore, understanding stress and its associated factors is necessary to improve stress in students. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 nursing students using the stratified sampling method. This study used questionnaires such as demographic form, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale 21, and the Stressors in Nursing Students scale. The STROBE checklist was used for reporting this study. RESULTS Results showed that nearly half of the nursing students were stressed at various levels. Students experienced stress the most due to financial stressors, followed by education, clinical, and confidence stressors. Most of the factors in the four groups-clinical, education, confidence, and finance-increased the risk of stress in nursing students. There was a close relationship between personal problems other than health and the students' risk of stress (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This study indicated that stress in nursing students was at a high level. Determining the prevalence and associated factors of stress in nursing students will help schools, families, and society take measures to reduce stress among students. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING AND HEALTH POLICY Educational administrators need to develop policies to support nursing students, such as reviewing the academic load of nursing students, improving the design of curricula, and supporting finance for students with difficult situations. Support services should be organized and make it easier for students to access mental health counseling services.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Bich Ngoc
- Faculty of Nursing, Hai Phong Medical College, Hai Phong, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Van Tuan
- Dean of the Psychiatry Department, Hanoi Medical University, and a Director of National Institute of Mental Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Donat Almagro L, Moutinho I, Mendes de Oliveira V, Ferreira Gonçalves G. Impact of stress on the tear production of healthy cats. J Feline Med Surg 2024; 26:1098612X241233116. [PMID: 38546181 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x241233116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the impact of acute stress on tear production in companion cats to provide a basis for minimizing stress-inducing stimuli during ophthalmic evaluations. METHODS A total of 24 healthy owned cats (12 males, 12 females) of mixed breed, aged 8 months to 7 years, with no history of ocular diseases, were selected for the study. The cats were housed in individual cages under controlled conditions for 6 days. The Schirmer tear test-1 (STT-1) was performed in the morning (between 9:00 am and 11:00 am) using test strips from the same batch. The first test (without stress) was conducted on the fifth day of acclimation, and the second test (with stress) on the sixth day. The stress stimulus consisted of recordings of barking dogs, cats fighting and the murmuring of people. For both tests, the heart rate was assessed with a stethoscope before, during and after the tests, and the environmental stress level was also evaluated. Results are presented as mean ± SD and 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS The study found that STT-1 values were significantly higher (P = 0.009) with stress (22.2 ± 6.0 mm/min [95% CI 19.9-24.6]) than without stress (17.5 ± 6.9 mm/min [95% CI 14.8-20.2]). Similarly, the heart rate was significantly higher (P = 0.028) in stress vs non-stress conditions (213.4 ± 37.5 beats per minute [bpm] [95% CI 198.7-228.1] vs 171.5 ± 28.6 bpm [95% CI 160.3-182.7], respectively), and the environmental stress score was significantly higher (P <0.001) in stress vs non-stress conditions (3.3 ± 0.5 [95% CI 3.1-3.5] vs 1.2 ± 0.4 [95% CI 1.1-1.4], respectively). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Stress increased tear production in cats. Although the mean STT-1 value obtained under stress conditions was within the normal range, stress can influence the test results. The use of cat friendly handling techniques facilitates execution of the STT-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Donat Almagro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Realeza, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Izabelle Moutinho
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Realeza, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Muysewinkel E, Vesentini L, Van Deynse H, Vanclooster S, Bilsen J, Van Overmeire R. A day in the life: psychological impact on emergency responders during the 22 March 2016 terrorist attacks. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1353130. [PMID: 38410678 PMCID: PMC10894950 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1353130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Terrorist attacks can cause severe long-term mental health issues that need treatment. However, in the case of emergency responders, research is often vague on the type of stressors that emergency responders encounter. For example, in addition to the threat that they work under, studies have shown that ill-preparation adds to the stress experienced by emergency responders. However, few studies have looked into the experience of emergency responders. In this study, we looked at the experience of emergency responders during the 22 March 2016 terrorist attacks in Belgium. Methods We used a qualitative design, in which we interviewed different types of emergency responders. Police officers, nurses, soldiers, firefighters, and Red Cross volunteers were included. Interviews were coded by two researchers and analyzed using a thematic approach. Results Four large themes were developed: constant threat and chaos, frustrations with lack of preparedness and training, ethical decisions, and debriefings. In addition, although emergency responders encountered constant threat, they often felt that they were ill-prepared for such attacks. One specific example was their lack of training in tourniquet usage. Furthermore, in a disaster setting, the emergency responders had to make life-and-death decisions for which they were not always prepared. Finally, debriefings were conducted in the aftermath of the attacks. Whereas most were perceived as positive, the debriefings among police officers were viewed as insufficient. Conclusions Emergency responding to terrorist attacks has many different dimensions of events that can cause stress. Our study revealed that preparation is key, not only in terms of material but also in terms of ethics and debriefings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Muysewinkel
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
- Department of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Lara Vesentini
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Helena Van Deynse
- Department of Public Health, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Stephanie Vanclooster
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Johan Bilsen
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| | - Roel Van Overmeire
- Mental Health and Wellbeing Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussel, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ndiaye SM, Dembélé DS, Lo M, Fané A, Diagne FM, Dembélé KK, Fall K, Djiba MN, Ndiaye S, Diallo TS. Military affected by the first wave of COVID-19 in Senegal: stress and resilience factors during care. Pan Afr Med J 2024; 47:53. [PMID: 38646131 PMCID: PMC11032076 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2024.47.53.36263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 had a psychological impact on the population, particularly those affected. Our objective was to investigate stress and resilience factors in the Senegalese soldiers affected during the first wave of COVID-19. Our retrospective and qualitative study included military personnel listed as contacts, suspects, or positive cases and supported by the Armed Forces Psychological Support Program during the period of isolation. The stress factors were health-related, sociological, and occupational. The conditions and the experience of isolation, stigmatization, and suspension of their professional projects were concerns for the soldiers. They had relied on personal, familial, and professional resources to cultivate resilience during the quarantine. Isolation during the pandemic showed psychological consequences, the foundations of which have been found in our study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serigne Modou Ndiaye
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Diambéré Séga Dembélé
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Moustapha Lo
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Adama Fané
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | | | - Khadim Fall
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| | | | | | - Tabara Sylla Diallo
- Psychiatric Service, Army Training Hospital, Hôpital Principal de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Alsaleem SA, Al-Qahtani AH, Al-Qahtani EH, AlKhaldi YM. Stressors and coping strategies among secondary school male students in Abha City, Saudi Arabia. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1303721. [PMID: 38390407 PMCID: PMC10882712 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1303721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Stress is a biological process in which exposure to stressors is associated with bad health effects, decreased ability of disease management, and a higher likelihood for disease-related complications and comorbidities. Stress has been considered the main factor in the etiology of many diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cardiac diseases, and body aches for centuries. Students meet many stressful situations such as the need for success, academic demands, homesickness, and lack of social support. Coping with stress can be a leading cause in preventing psychological distress and a serious illness. Methods A correlational cross-sectional approach was applied to the current research. The research targeted all secondary school male students in Abha city. A multistage cluster sample was applied by selecting schools and students from the Directorate of Education in Abha. Self-administered questionnaire sheets were distributed to students in their classes. The questionnaire covered students' sociodemographic data such as age, grades, parents' education and work, living conditions, and comorbidities. Stressors to which the students were exposed were also enumerated with the degree of stress for each. Stress was assessed using the Holmes-Rahe Stress Inventory for youth. Coping skills were measured using the abbreviated version of the COPE Inventory. Results The study included 324 students whose ages ranged from 15 to 20 years old with a mean age of 17 ± 0.9 years old. Approximately 33% of the students were in first grade; 44.4% of the students had no or minimal level of stress while major stress was recorded among 26.5% of the students. In total, 77.8% of the students had moderate coping and none had high coping ability. Conclusion The study revealed that more than half of the students had significant levels of stress and one out of each four had major stress. The most common stressors were due to the school environment and future planning. Young age, low socioeconomic status, parents' separation, and having chronic health problems were the most important determinants of stress among the students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Safar Abadi Alsaleem
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Yahia Mater AlKhaldi
- Department of Research and Studies, Health Affairs, Aseer Region, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
ABSTRACT Knowledge of stress management strategies is helpful to NPs in clinical practice, as they frequently encounter patients or patients' family members who require assistance in managing acute stress. Patients or patients' family members may experience a high level of stress due to health factors such as pain, life-changing diagnoses, treatment options viewed as undesirable, and/or poor medical prognoses. In addition, healthcare visits, hospitalization, diagnostic tests, surgical procedures, and other treatments can cause stress for some patients. NPs should therefore be well informed about stress management strategies to be able to effectively educate and provide compassionate care for their patients. This article reviews four strategies designed to assist patients and/or their family members in reducing stress to allow for a more positive experience during a healthcare visit or hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise R Felsenstein
- Denise R. Felsenstein is a continuing education manager at Wolters Kluwer Health, an adjunct lecturer for the Health and Exercise Physiology Department at Ursinus College, and is the owner/founder of Teach the Nurse, LLC
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kegelaers J, Trotter MG, Watson M, Pedraza-Ramirez I, Bonilla I, Wylleman P, Mairesse O, Van Heel M. Promoting mental health in esports. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1342220. [PMID: 38312393 PMCID: PMC10836213 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1342220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
There is growing recognition of the demands and health challenges experienced by esports athletes. The purpose of this perspective paper is to draw specific attention to the mental health of competitive gamers and spur on both future research and applied initiatives focussing on this important but under-addressed topic. We will briefly discuss the prevalence of mental health concerns, domain-specific stressors, and the need for comprehensive mental health support systems tailored to the esports context. It is our hope that, with this perspective paper, we can help set a new research agenda addressing mental health in esports.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Iván Bonilla
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bidi SB, Alapati V, Jenifer Dmello V, Weesie E, Gil MT, Shenoy SS, Kurian S, Rajendran A. Prevalence of stress and its relevance on psychological well-being of the teaching profession: A scoping review. F1000Res 2024; 12:424. [PMID: 38666265 PMCID: PMC11043664 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.131894.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Well-being among teachers contributes toward quality work and better student support. Teachers' well-being persists to be a concern in school settings; there is a lacuna in understanding the concept of well-being among them. This scoping review identifies the stress factors and map their association with the psychological well-being of teachers employed in schools. Additionally, to identify the methodology and the interventions used in reducing teachers' stress and their relevance on their psychological well-being. Methods First, Pubmed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for eligible studies with MeSH terms for stress factors, well-being, and teachers from 2010 to 2022. Identified studies were screened thoroughly and excluded or included based on prior established criteria. Data from the included studies were extracted and summarized according to the study protocol. Results Among the 60 studies that met our inclusion criteria, the majority were quantitative, with cross-sectional studies. Several studies focused on emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment aspect among teachers. Almost half of the included studies focused on organizational and social pressures such as administration workload, classroom management issues, lack of supervisor and team support, students' behaviour, and pressure from parents. The most used interventions to overcome stress were coping strategies and mindfulness training intervention tools. Conclusions The findings from the current scoping review will reveal the different stressors which impact psychological well-being. Focus on the most used interventions to overcome stress among schoolteachers. This will also provide recommendations to regulators and management to identify the factors causing stress among teachers and their relevance to their psychological well-being, overcome employee turnover and absenteeism issues. Also, different alternatives available to reduce the stress may benefit the stakeholders and policymakers to confirm a suitable intervention that will benefit the teaching profession.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Badrinath Bidi
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Varalakshmi Alapati
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Venisha Jenifer Dmello
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Edwin Weesie
- Lectorate Finance Economic Innovation, University of Applied Sciences,, Heidelberglaan 15, 3584 CS, Utrecht, Heidelberglaan, 85029 – 3508, Netherlands Antilles
| | - Mathew Thomas Gil
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Sandeep S Shenoy
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| | - Simmy Kurian
- Management studies, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Kochi campus, Kerala, India
| | - Ambigai Rajendran
- Department of Commerce, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, 576104, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ivcevic Z, Shen S, Lin S, Cheng D, Probasco R, Silbermann B, Zhang F, Lin X, Brackett M. Daily positive and negative affect during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2024; 14:1239123. [PMID: 38259529 PMCID: PMC10800618 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1239123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic influenced emotional experiences globally. We examined daily positive and negative affect between May/June 2020 and February 2021 (N = 151,049; 3,509,982 observations) using a convenience sample from a national mobile application-based survey that asked for daily affect reports. Four questions were examined: (1) How did people in the United States feel from May/June 2020 to February 2021?; (2) What demographic variables are related to positive and negative affect?; (3) What is the relationship between experienced stressors and daily affect?; and (4) What is the relationship between daily affect and preventive behavior? Positive affect increased, and negative decreased over time. Demographic differences mirrored those from before the pandemic (e.g., younger participants reported more negative and less positive affect). Stressors such as feeling unwell, experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, exposure to COVID-19, and lack of sleep were associated with less positive and more negative affect. Exercising protective behaviors predicted future affect, and affect also predicted future protective behaviors (e.g., less protective behavior when happy but more when grateful and thoughtful). The implications for public health communication were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zorana Ivcevic
- Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Shuting Shen
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Shengjie Lin
- Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - David Cheng
- The How We Feel Project, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Ryan Probasco
- The How We Feel Project, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Ben Silbermann
- The How We Feel Project, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Feng Zhang
- The How We Feel Project, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Biological Engineering, McGovern Institute for Brain Research and Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Chevy Chase, MD, United States
| | - Xihong Lin
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
- The How We Feel Project, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Statistics, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Marc Brackett
- Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, New Haven, CT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
James DG. Monarch Butterflies in Western North America: A Holistic Review of Population Trends, Ecology, Stressors, Resilience and Adaptation. Insects 2024; 15:40. [PMID: 38249046 PMCID: PMC10817040 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Monarch butterfly populations in western North America suffered a substantial decline, from millions of butterflies overwintering in California in the 1980s to less than 400,000 at the beginning of the 21st century. The introduction of neonicotinoid insecticides in the mid-1990s and their subsequent widespread use appears to be the most likely major factor behind this sudden decline. Habitat loss and unfavorable climates (high temperatures, aridity, and winter storms) have also played important and ongoing roles. These factors kept overwintering populations stable but below 300,000 during 2001-2017. Late winter storm mortality and consequent poor spring reproduction drove winter populations to less than 30,000 butterflies during 2018-2019. Record high temperatures in California during the fall of 2020 appeared to prematurely terminate monarch migration, resulting in the lowest overwintering population (1899) ever recorded. Many migrants formed winter-breeding populations in urban areas. Normal seasonal temperatures in the autumns of 2021 and 2022 enabled overwintering populations to return to around the 300,000 level, characteristic of the previous two decades. Natural enemies (predators, parasitoids, parasites, and pathogens) may be important regional or local drivers at times but they are a consistent and fundamental part of monarch ecology. Human interference (capture, rearing) likely has the least impact on monarch populations. The rearing of monarch caterpillars, particularly by children, is an important human link to nature that has positive ramifications for insect conservation beyond monarch butterflies and should be encouraged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David G James
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center, Prosser, WA 99350, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sellitto T, Fraser-Thomas J, Bassett-Gunter RL, Lee V, Lunsky Y, Balogh R, Weiss JA. The role of thriving in mental health among people with intellectual and developmental disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil 2024; 37:e13177. [PMID: 37987194 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the mental health of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Numerous pandemic-related stressors experienced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities may have impacted their ability to thrive, which has been linked to mental health outcomes. The current study examined the associations among COVID-19 stressors, thriving, and mental health problems among youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. METHOD Caregivers of 159 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities between 12 and 35 years of age from Canada completed an online questionnaire. RESULTS A mediation analysis revealed that COVID-19 stressors were positively associated with mental health problems, and that thriving partially mediated this association. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that experiences of thriving may be an important target for mental health support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Sellitto
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Vivian Lee
- Department of Psychology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yona Lunsky
- Azrieli Adult Neurodevelopmental Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert Balogh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan A Weiss
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Khan A, Dignos PN, Papadopoulos A, Nowrouzi-Kia B, Sivanthan M, Gohar B. Unmasking the Unrecognized: Exploring Registered Pharmacy Technicians' Stressors During COVID-19 Through a Demands-Resources Inquiry and Looking Ahead. Inquiry 2024; 61:469580241241391. [PMID: 38523405 PMCID: PMC10962027 DOI: 10.1177/00469580241241391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024]
Abstract
Canadian registered pharmacy technicians (RPTs) were vital in supporting pharmacy operations during the pandemic. However, they have received little attention during or pre-pandemic. This study aimed to identify and understand the stressors experienced by Canadian RPTs during the pandemic and gain insights on lessons learned to help improve the profession. Through a descriptive qualitative design, virtual semi-structured focus groups were conducted with RPTs who were recruited through various sampling methods across Canada. Data were inductively analyzed and then deductively; themes were categorized using the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. We reached data saturation after 4 focus group sessions with a total of 16 participants. As per the JD-R model, job demands included: (1) increased work volume and hours to meet patient demand; (2) drug shortages and managing prescriptions increased due to influx of orders coinciding with restricted access to medications; (3) fear of the unknown nature of COVID-19 met with frequent change in practices due to protocol changes and ineffective communication; and, (4) the pandemic introduced several factors leading to increased staff shortages. Themes pertaining to resources included: (1) poor incentives and limited access to well-being resources; (2) limited personal protective equipment delaying work operations; (3) and a general lack of knowledge or appreciation of the profession impacting work morale. Lessons learned from the pandemic were also provided. Overall, our findings revealed an imbalance where RPTs experienced high job demands with limited resources. Improved leadership within pharmacies, including improved communication between team members, is required. Furthermore, efforts to highlight and recognize the work of RPTs to the public is important to help improve enrollment, especially with their recent scope of practice expansion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Behdin Nowrouzi-Kia
- University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | | | - Basem Gohar
- University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Carreira C, Joyce PWS, Morán XAG, Carvalho S, Falkenberg L, Lønborg C. Too hot to handle? An urgent need to understand climate change impacts on the biogeochemistry of tropical coastal waters. Glob Chang Biol 2024; 30:e17074. [PMID: 38273545 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.17074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Tropical regions contain ecologically and socio-economically important habitats, and are home to about 3.8 billion people, many of which directly depend on tropical coastal waters for their well-being. At the basis of these ecosystems are biogeochemical processes. Climate change is expected to have a greater impact in the tropics compared to temperate regions because of the relatively stable environmental conditions found there. However, it was surprising to find only 660 research articles published focusing on the impact of climate change on the biogeochemistry of coastal tropical waters compared to 4823 for temperate waters. In this perspective, we highlight important topics in need of further research. Specifically, we suggest that in tropical regions compared to temperate counterparts climate change stressors will be experienced differently, that organisms have a lower acclimation capacity, and that long-term baseline biogeochemical datasets useful for quantifying future changes are lacking. The low number of research papers on the impacts of climate change in coastal tropical regions is likely due to a mix of reasons including limited resources for research and limited number of long time series in many developing tropical countries. Finally, we propose some action points that we hope will stimulate more studies in tropical coastal waters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Carreira
- Centre for Environmental and Marine studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Patrick W S Joyce
- Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science & Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Xosé Anxelu G Morán
- Marine Science Program, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
- Centro Oceanográfico de Gijón/Xixón (IEO-CSIC), Gijón/Xixón, Spain
| | - Susana Carvalho
- Marine Science Program, Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laura Falkenberg
- Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- UniSA STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, Australia
| | - Christian Lønborg
- Department of Ecoscience, Section for Marine Diversity and Experimental Ecology, Aarhus University, Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Novotný JS, Gonzalez-Rivas JP, Kunzová Š, Skladaná M, Pospíšilová A, Polcrová A, Vassilaki M, Medina-Inojosa JR, Lopez-Jimenez F, Geda YE, Stokin GB. The long-term effects of consecutive COVID-19 waves on mental health. BJPsych Open 2023; 10:e15. [PMID: 38111960 PMCID: PMC10755548 DOI: 10.1192/bjo.2023.620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several studies have documented the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, the long-term effects remain unclear. AIMS To examine longitudinal changes in mental health before and during the consecutive COVID-19 waves in a well-established probability sample. METHOD An online survey was completed by the participants of the COVID-19 add-on study at four time points: pre-COVID-19 period (2014-2015, n = 1823), first COVID-19 wave (April to May 2020, n = 788), second COVID-19 wave (August to October 2020, n = 532) and third COVID-19 wave (March to April 2021, n = 383). Data were collected via a set of validated instruments, and analysed with latent growth models. RESULTS During the pandemic, we observed a significant increase in stress levels (standardised β = 0.473, P < 0.001) and depressive symptoms (standardised β = 1.284, P < 0.001). The rate of increase in depressive symptoms (std. covariance = 0.784, P = 0.014), but not in stress levels (std. covariance = 0.057, P = 0.743), was associated with the pre-pandemic mental health status of the participants. Further analysis showed that secondary stressors played a predominant role in the increase in mental health difficulties. The main secondary stressors were loneliness, negative emotionality associated with the perception of COVID-19 disease, lack of resilience, female gender and younger age. CONCLUSIONS The surge in stress levels and depressive symptoms persisted across all three consecutive COVID-19 waves. This persistence is attributable to the effects of secondary stressors, and particularly to the status of mental health before the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings reveal mechanisms underlying the surge in mental health difficulties during the COVID-19 waves, with direct implications for strategies promoting mental health during pandemics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jan Sebastian Novotný
- Institute for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Juan Pablo Gonzalez-Rivas
- International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Czech Republic; and Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, USA
| | - Šárka Kunzová
- International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Mária Skladaná
- International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Czech Republic; and Second Department of Internal Medicine, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno and Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Pospíšilová
- International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Polcrová
- International Clinical Research Centre, St. Anne's University Hospital Brno, Czech Republic; and Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Maria Vassilaki
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jose Ramon Medina-Inojosa
- Division of Preventive Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA; and Marriot Heart Disease Research Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Francisco Lopez-Jimenez
- Division of Preventive Cardiology, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Yonas Endale Geda
- Department of Neurology, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA; and Franke Global Neuroscience Education Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Gorazd Bernard Stokin
- Institute for Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic; and Department of Neurology, Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Gloucester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Fichardt AE, Janse Van Vuuren C, van der Merwe L. Psychological well-being, stressors, coping strategies and support of undergraduate healthcare students amid COVID-19. Health SA 2023; 28:2340. [PMID: 38204860 PMCID: PMC10778374 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v28i0.2340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Students function better academically when psychologically well. The COVID-19 pandemic proved a new challenge to the mental wellness of undergraduate healthcare students. Students were not only faced with academic changes but also had to complete clinical practice in healthcare facilities amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Aim This study investigated the psychological well-being, stressors, coping strategies and support of undergraduate healthcare students amid COVID-19. Setting A South African university's faculty of health sciences. Methods A survey design through a cross-sectional descriptive approach was used to collect data from the population of 1529 undergraduate healthcare students. One hundred and ninety-six (n = 196) students responded to the online survey. Results Participants reported a variety of stressors influencing their psychological well-being. Participants chose mostly adaptive coping strategies to deal with stressors. They gave feedback on the support they received from the faculty and institution. Most of the participants indicated they prefer weekly online communication from the higher education institution. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic influenced the psychological well-being of undergraduate healthcare students. The psychological well-being of these students is a collective responsibility between students and higher education institutions to enable academic success and positive patient outcomes. Contribution This study found that undergraduate healthcare students had academic, psychological, financial and other stressors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Higher education institutions, especially those involved in training undergraduate healthcare professionals, in collaboration with students, need to provide students with targeted continued support and training to use healthy coping behaviours to manage various stressors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annali E Fichardt
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Corlia Janse Van Vuuren
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Lynette van der Merwe
- Division Health Sciences Education, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Moran L, Foster K, Bayes S. What is known about midwives' well-being and resilience? An integrative review of the international literature. Birth 2023; 50:672-688. [PMID: 37551623 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, the midwifery workforce is facing a professional crisis due to numerous organizational and individual factors that have led to midwives leaving the profession. These factors include high levels of workplace stress, systemic barriers to providing woman and person-centered care, trauma, and burnout. The COVID-19 pandemic magnified these pre-existing stressors and adversities and has further disrupted midwives' ability to practice within their professional norms. In order to understand how midwives can be better supported, there is a need to understand what contributes to and detracts from their well-being and resilience. AIM To investigate and synthesize the extant international knowledge on midwives' well-being and resilience in the context of workplace stress and adversity. METHOD Integrative review of the literature published in peer-reviewed journals. RESULTS Thematic analysis of the literature resulted in three core themes: (1) risk factors and adversity; (2) protective factors and resilience; and (3) sustaining factors and well-being in midwifery. Findings from this integrated review highlight that several factors associated with workplace adversity can also be sources of protection depending on their presence or absence. Within the included studies, there exists a broad use of concepts and definitions that are applied to well-being and resilience, resulting in a lack of uniformity and cohesion. CONCLUSIONS In this review, we identified a high level of workplace adversity and the subsequent impacts on midwives' well-being and resilience. A series of protective factors and strategies that can be used to improve the well-being of midwives and support resilience within the profession were also identified; however, further research of the population is required. In addition, the development of cohesive well-being and resilience concepts specific to midwifery is recommended, as is the development and application of uniform terminologies and definitions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynnelle Moran
- Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kim Foster
- Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sara Bayes
- Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Rudenstine S, McNeal K, Schulder T, Ettman CK, Hernandez M, Gvozdieva K, Galea S. Education is protective against depressive symptoms in the context of COVID-19. J Am Coll Health 2023; 71:2869-2875. [PMID: 34871526 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.2002338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study assessed current education stage (ie, undergraduate, graduate) as protective against depressive symptoms among a low socioeconomic status (SES) student population in a public university, in the context of COVID-19-related stressors. PARTICIPANTS Participants were students at The City University of New York (CUNY) during the Spring 2020. METHODS Demographic data, symptom severity, and current educational stage were collected via an online university-wide survey between April 8, 2020 and May 2, 2020. RESULTS The prevalence of probable depression was lower amongst persons who reported being currently in a more advanced educational stage compared to people currently in a lower educational stage. COVID-19-related stressor exposure was the largest predictor of depressive symptoms, followed by demographics and current education stage. CONCLUSIONS Current education stage is related to depressive symptoms during COVID-19. Pandemic-related educational disruptions and shifts to remote learning may limit educational achievement for low-SES student populations creating further threats to these students' health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sasha Rudenstine
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kat McNeal
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Talia Schulder
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Michelle Hernandez
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kseniia Gvozdieva
- Department of Psychology, City College of New York, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sandro Galea
- School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ford JD, Seedat S. On the path to recovery: traumatic stress research during the COVID-19 pandemic 2021-2023. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2023; 14:2281988. [PMID: 38038964 PMCID: PMC10990445 DOI: 10.1080/20008066.2023.2281988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This Special Issue of the European Journal of Psychotraumatology (EJPT) presents 51 articles published between 2021 and 2023 and follows the Special Issue on pandemic-related traumatic stress research published in 2021 (O'Donnell, M. L., & Greene, T. [2021]. Understanding the mental health impacts of COVID-19 through a trauma lens. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 12(1), 1982502). Research on traumatic stress during the pandemic has cast the spotlight on vulnerable populations and groups, notably front-line healthcare workers; people faced with major losses including the deaths of loved ones; those who personally survived debilitating and often life-threatening viral infection; and students who were isolated and experienced profound delays in their education, relationships, and emerging independence. The papers in this collection underscore the associations between COVID-19 related stressors and a plethora of adverse mental health sequelae, including posttraumatic stress reactions, and draw attention to the ubiquity of grief and moral injury and their wide-ranging and detrimental impact. Currently, there is a paucity of evidence on interventions to enhance resources, self-efficacy, and hope for affected groups and individuals through societal, organisational, and healthcare systems; however early research on the prevention of COVID-related traumatic stress disorders provides a basis for both hope and preparedness for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian D. Ford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Soraya Seedat
- South African Medical Research Council Unit on the Genomics of Brain Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Li X, Xu K. Coping with depression: a narrative study of an online depression community in China. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2268379. [PMID: 37847860 PMCID: PMC10583619 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2268379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The goal of this study was to explore the coping strategies of depression sufferers that have worked for them based on the study of an online depression community. METHODS We conducted a thematic narrative analysis of 120 stories posted by the members in the largest online depression community in China. MaxQDA version 18 was used to code the data, and the analytic approach was consistent with the category-centred approach of grounded theory. RESULTS The study found that the coping strategies mainly include self-reconciliation (e.g., perceiving/accepting feelings, accepting the present self, and holding hope for the future), actions (recreational activities, physical exercise, and engaging in volunteer work), addressing the stressors and symptoms (e.g., staying away from stressors, seeing the doctor), and seeking interpersonal support (e.g., seeking support from family, friends, and peers). CONCLUSION The findings revealed the coping strategies that were helpful and examined how they functioned for the affected members, which make up for the lack of attention to the individual experiences of depression sufferers in coping research. The findings also have practical implications for the related education and consultation, providing useful insights for doctors and patients. These ways of coping are based on depression sufferer' anonymous narratives, which can be convincing to clients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- College of Communication Science and Art, Chengdu University of Technology, Chengdu, China
| | - Kaibin Xu
- Foreign Studies College, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Bottenheft C, Groen EL, Mol D, Valk PJL, Houben MMJ, Kingma BRM, van Erp JBF. Effects of heat load and hypobaric hypoxia on cognitive performance: a combined stressor approach. Ergonomics 2023; 66:2148-2164. [PMID: 36916391 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2190062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates how cognitive performance is affected by the combination of two stressors that are operationally relevant for helicopter pilots: heat load and hypobaric hypoxia. Fifteen participants were exposed to (1) no stressors, (2) heat load, (3) hypobaric hypoxia, and (4) combined heat load and hypobaric hypoxia. Hypobaric hypoxia (13,000 ft) was achieved in a hypobaric chamber. Heat load was induced by increasing ambient temperature to ∼28 °C. Cognitive performance was measured using two multitasks, and a vigilance task. Subjective and physiological data (oxygen saturation, heart rate, core- and skin temperature) were also collected. Mainly heat load caused cognitive performance decline. This can be explained by high subjective heat load and increased skin temperature, which takes away cognitive resources from the tasks. Only the arithmetic subtask was sensitive to hypobaric hypoxia, whereby hypobaric hypoxia caused a further performance decline in addition to the decline caused by heat load.Practitioner summary: Little is known about how multiple environmental stressors interact. This study investigates the combined effects of heat load and hypobaric hypoxia on cognitive performance. An additive effect of heat load and hypobaric hypoxia was found on a arithmetic task, which may be attributed to independent underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charelle Bottenheft
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
- Human Media Interaction, Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Eric L Groen
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| | - Douwe Mol
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| | - Pierre J L Valk
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| | - Mark M J Houben
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| | - Boris R M Kingma
- Department of Human Performance, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| | - Jan B F van Erp
- Human Media Interaction, Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
- Department of Human Machine Teaming, Unit Defence, Safety and Security, Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Soesterberg, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhang Y, Zhou H, Bai Y, Chen Z, Wang Y, Hu Q, Yang M, Wei W, Ding L, Ma F. Families under pressure: A qualitative study of stressors in families of children with congenital heart disease. Stress Health 2023; 39:989-999. [PMID: 36809656 DOI: 10.1002/smi.3240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to better understand the stressors in families of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) to assist with formulating targeted stress management plans for such families. A descriptive qualitative study was undertaken at a tertiary referral hospital in China. Following purposeful sampling, interviews were conducted with 21 parents of children with CHD regarding the stressors in their families. Following content analysis, 11 themes were generated from the data and categorised into six main domains: the initial stressor and associated hardships, normative transitions, prior strains, the consequences of family efforts to cope, intrafamily and social ambiguity, and sociocultural values. The 11 themes include confusion regarding the disease, hardships encountered during treatment, the heavy financial burden, the unusual growth track of the child due to the disease, normal events becoming abnormal for the family, impaired family functioning, family vulnerability, family resilience, family boundary ambiguity induced by role alteration, a lack of knowledge about community support and family stigma. Various and complex stressors exist for families of children with CHD. Medical personnel should fully evaluate the stressors and take targeted measures before implementing family stress management practices. It is also necessary to focus on the posttraumatic growth of families of children with CHD and strengthen resilience. Moreover, family boundary ambiguity and a lack of knowledge about community support should not be ignored, and further research is needed to explore these variables. Most importantly, policymakers and healthcare providers should adopt a range of strategies to address the stigma of being in a family of a child with CHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Psychiatric Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yangjuan Bai
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhisong Chen
- Cardiology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yanjiao Wang
- Psychiatric Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Qiulan Hu
- ICU in Geriatric Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Mingfang Yang
- Urology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Neurosurgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Lan Ding
- General Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Fang Ma
- Department of Nursing, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Schwartz JA, Granger DA, Calvi JL, Jodis CA, Steiner B. The Implications of Stress Among Correctional Officers: A Summary of the Risks and Promising Intervention Strategies. Int J Offender Ther Comp Criminol 2023:306624X231213316. [PMID: 38124325 DOI: 10.1177/0306624x231213316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides a detailed summary and discussion of the concept of stress and how it relates to the health, wellbeing, and performance of corrections officers. In line with these objectives, we focus on three areas: (1) providing a more detailed definition of the concept of stress; (2) a discussion of the ways that increased exposure to stress may impact corrections officers' physical and mental health; and (3) a summary of prevention and intervention strategies that are relevant for corrections officers and have shown promise in dampening the consequences of increased stress exposure. More in-depth knowledge of the concept of stress and the underlying processes that link stress to negative outcomes will provide policy makers and corrections departments with an understanding of the characteristics of prevention and intervention strategies that are expected to be most effective in limiting the consequences of stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas A Granger
- The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of California, Irvine, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Matarèse BFE, Rusin A, Seymour C, Mothersill C. Quantum Biology and the Potential Role of Entanglement and Tunneling in Non-Targeted Effects of Ionizing Radiation: A Review and Proposed Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16464. [PMID: 38003655 PMCID: PMC10671017 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
It is well established that cells, tissues, and organisms exposed to low doses of ionizing radiation can induce effects in non-irradiated neighbors (non-targeted effects or NTE), but the mechanisms remain unclear. This is especially true of the initial steps leading to the release of signaling molecules contained in exosomes. Voltage-gated ion channels, photon emissions, and calcium fluxes are all involved but the precise sequence of events is not yet known. We identified what may be a quantum entanglement type of effect and this prompted us to consider whether aspects of quantum biology such as tunneling and entanglement may underlie the initial events leading to NTE. We review the field where it may be relevant to ionizing radiation processes. These include NTE, low-dose hyper-radiosensitivity, hormesis, and the adaptive response. Finally, we present a possible quantum biological-based model for NTE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno F. E. Matarèse
- Department of Haematology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK;
- Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
| | - Andrej Rusin
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (A.R.); (C.S.)
| | - Colin Seymour
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (A.R.); (C.S.)
| | - Carmel Mothersill
- Department of Biology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada; (A.R.); (C.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Haffejee F, Maharajh R, Sibiya MN. Exploring the Lived Experiences of Vulnerable Females from a Low-Resource Setting during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:7040. [PMID: 37998271 PMCID: PMC10671480 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20227040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The onset of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has affected the mental health and well-being of women in vulnerable settings. Currently, there is limited evidence that explores the wellness of elderly women under the associated restrictions. This study explores the lived experiences of elderly women in a vulnerable community in Durban, South Africa. A face-to-face, in-depth qualitative approach was implemented to interview 12 women aged 50 years and over. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings suggest that social interactions, the effect of a high death rate, and financial strain predominantly affect stress and anxiety levels. Despite the women being in receipt of pensions and/or other grants, their supplementary income was reduced. This, together with the additional expenses incurred during the lockdown, resulted in anxiety over finances. The lack of social interaction, with limits on visiting family and other loved ones when they were ill, along with the limit on the number of people attending the funerals of loved ones were also stressful. This study also reports on the resulting coping mechanisms, which included using hobbies such as baking and sewing as a means of self-care. Religious beliefs also relieved stress while home remedies were used as preventative measures during the lockdown restrictions due to COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Firoza Haffejee
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa;
| | - Rivesh Maharajh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa;
| | - Maureen Nokuthula Sibiya
- Division of Research, Innovation and Engagement, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Umlazi 4031, South Africa;
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Thomas NA, Owen B, Ersig AL, Bratzke LC. Pathways and processes to the embodiment of historical trauma secondary to settler colonialism. J Adv Nurs 2023; 79:4218-4227. [PMID: 37553851 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
AIM(S) This discursive article aims to examine how systemic factors of settler colonialism influence health outcomes among Indigenous peoples in the United States through pathways and processes that may lead to the embodiment of historical trauma. DESIGN Discursive paper. METHODS We completed a comprehensive search of empirical and grey literature between September 2022 and January 2023 in PubMed, CINAHL and Google Scholar. Using these articles as a foundation, we explored factors related to the pathways and processes leading to the embodiment of historical trauma rooted in settler colonialism. RESULTS A conceptual framework of the pathways and processes of the embodiment of historical trauma secondary to settler colonialism was developed, and is presented. CONCLUSION The societal and historical context for Indigenous peoples includes harmful settler colonial structures and ideologies, resulting in stressors and historical trauma that impact health outcomes and disparities through the phenomenon of the process of embodiment. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING To provide holistic nursing care, nurses must be aware of settler colonialism as a determinant of health. They must be attuned to the pathways and processes through which settler colonial exposures may impact health among Indigenous peoples. Nurses must challenge existing structural inequities to advance health equity and social justice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Thomas
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Brenda Owen
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Anne L Ersig
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Lisa C Bratzke
- School of Nursing, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Richie FJ, Langhinrichsen-Rohling J, Hoadley-Clausen R, Dillon-Owens C, Peterman A, Sadler RC. Neighborhood disadvantage, household chaos, and personal stressors: exploring early-life contextual factors and current mental health symptoms in college students. J Am Coll Health 2023; 71:2426-2435. [PMID: 34469700 DOI: 10.1080/07448481.2021.1970564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Using Bronfenbrenner's socio-ecological model as a frame, we explored the impact of neighborhood disadvantage, household chaos, and personal stressors on current mental health symptoms in college students. PARTICIPANTS 144 students at a large, public university in the southern U.S. METHODS Participants completed measures of demographics, family-of-origin household chaos, stressors, anxiety, and depression, and provided their childhood home ZIP code. Using U.S. Census Data, four structural indicators of neighborhood disadvantage were extracted and appended to each participant's ZIP code. RESULTS Hierarchical regression revealed that all three variables predicted anxiety symptoms. However, only household chaos and personal stressors predicted current depressive symptoms. Unexpectedly, greater neighborhood disadvantage predicted lower levels of current anxiety. Mediation analyses demonstrated that personal stressors partially mediated the relationships between household chaos and mental health symptoms. CONCLUSIONS College administration and counseling centers may wish to consider pre-college factors that influence college students' current anxious and depressive symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fallon J Richie
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | | | | | - Cody Dillon-Owens
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Amy Peterman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Richard C Sadler
- Division of Public Health, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Flint, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bakhsh LS, AlHazmi A, BaMohammed A, Binishaq E, Abdullah G, Bajal R, Al Ramamneh I. Emotions, Perceived Stressors, and Coping Strategies Among Nursing Staff in Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cureus 2023; 15:e48284. [PMID: 38058321 PMCID: PMC10696279 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in heightened stress for nurses and other healthcare workers, particularly during the initial phase of the crisis. Despite the adoption of various coping strategies, psychological distress persisted, affecting nurses' well-being and jeopardizing the overall resilience of the healthcare system. This study assessed the emotional response, perceived stressors, and coping strategies among nurses' staff who worked during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional study was carried out among nurses who worked during the initial phase of the COVID-19 crisis (June - August 2020), at a tertiary care center in Western Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire explored five main sections. The first section (15 items) assessed emotions experienced during the initial wave of COVID-19, capturing both positive and negative sentiments, such as "joy" or "fear." The second section (20 items) examined the presence of stressors, like "lack of protective equipment" or "fear of infection." The third section (14 items) evaluated the perceived effectiveness of certain stress-reducing factors, including "peer support" or "training." In the fourth section (13 items), participants rated their usage frequency of various coping strategies, such as "meditation" or "seeking advice." Lastly, the fifth section assessed the hypothetical impact of 10 incentives, like "financial bonuses" or "additional training," in motivating nurses' involvement in future epidemic responses. The questionnaire was completed with demographic and professional data. A convenience sampling method was employed, and 315 nurses participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were carried out using SPSS version 24 for Windows (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Result The most commonly experienced emotion was a feeling of responsibility and ethical duty, reported by 97.5% of the participants, followed by nervousness and fear (83.8%), anger (73.3%), and stigma (70.2%). On the other hand, 86.7% were expecting a financial compensation. The most common stressors were related to the nurses' own safety, or the safety of their families and colleagues, reported by 92.4-95.2% of the participants. The perceived uncontrollability of COVID-19 was also a significant stressor. The improvement of the health status of infected colleagues (98.1%) or patients (97.5%) were the most common factors associated with the reduction in nurses' stress. Among the coping strategies, five were almost systematically deployed by the nurses (>95%), all consisting of cognitive and behavioral mechanisms to enhance own knowledge and safety and avoid being infected. The most crucial determinants for commitment in future pandemics are the availability of a cure or vaccine (93.3%), family support (91.4%), adequate personal protective equipment from the hospital (90.8%), and exemption from overtime (90.2%). Conclusion The first wave of COVID-19 exerted a tremendous psychological stress on nurses, due to concerns about safety, disease uncertainties, and social isolation. Analyzing these impacts offers insights for enhancing institutional and national crisis strategies, emphasizing staff safety and psychological well-being, especially for first responders like nurses. Policy implications include prioritizing mental health support and preparedness in future crisis plans. Additionally, ensuring continuous training and strategic workload management is crucial for maintaining frontline commitment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lamees S Bakhsh
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Abeer AlHazmi
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Alla BaMohammed
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Eiman Binishaq
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ghadah Abdullah
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Razaz Bajal
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ibrahim Al Ramamneh
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Halbert CH. Social Drivers of Cancer Risk and Outcomes Among African American Men. Cancer J 2023; 29:293-296. [PMID: 37963361 PMCID: PMC10914063 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0000000000000681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Social risk factors play an important role in minority health and cancer health disparities. Exposure to stress and stress responses are important social factors that are now included in conceptual models of cancer health disparities. This report summarizes results from studies that examined stress exposure and responses among African Americans. Data from studies that were conducted as part of a transdisciplinary and translational research center are also presented to provide additional insight about the nature of racial differences in specific stressors among African American and White prostate cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chanita Hughes Halbert
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA 90089
- Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mirzaei A, Jamshidian S, Movahedi M, Haghani F. Identifying and prioritizing the stressors of obstetrics and gynecology residents. J Educ Health Promot 2023; 12:373. [PMID: 38144005 PMCID: PMC10743927 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_145_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that the obstetrics and gynecology residents face severe burnout and a large number of stressors, and excessive stress could adversely affect performance and quality of patient care. Thus, the current study attempts to identify and prioritize the stressors of obstetrics and gynecology residents at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted on 62 residents and faculty members in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2022. Respondents were selected by census method. The stressors of obstetrics and gynecology residents were investigated using a researcher-made, 37-item questionnaire. The questionnaire was prepared based on a literature review and respondents' opinions, then its validity and reliability were confirmed. Collected data were analyzed using the SPSS 20, non-parametric Friedman's test, and descriptive statistics methods. RESULT This study included 46 respondents (74%), 16 faculty members, and 30 residents, who were asked to rate each stressor of the given questionnaire. The residents and their teachers believed that the main stressors were heavy workloads, lack of personal time, long shifts, financial problems, sleep deprivation, and compassion fatigue. Insufficient study time, study workload, and inappropriate assessment systems for residents were among the high-priority stressors, according to the residents. However, the faculty members reported medical errors, unreasonable expectations from residents, and residents' multiple responsibilities as high-priority stressors. According to the Friedman's test, there was a significant difference in rates received from both the faculty members and medical residents (P value <0/001). CONCLUSION The stressors due to the nature of obstetrics and gynecology, medical care, residency training, and medical resident assessment are the highest priority. The findings of this study could be beneficial to the officials in residency training programs to take the necessary corrective actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Education, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sepide Jamshidian
- Department of Medical Education, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Minoo Movahedi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Fariba Haghani
- Department of Medical Education, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kegelaers J. Are we really studying resilience in sport? A critical review of adopted methodologies. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1270887. [PMID: 37954183 PMCID: PMC10637379 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1270887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychological resilience has gained considerable attention in sport. Nevertheless, the construct often remains poorly understood and multiple conceptual and methodological issues pervade the literature. The purpose of the present article is to provide a critical review of the commonly adopted methodologies to study resilience in sport. This review is divided into four sections. The first section will briefly discuss opposing conceptualizations of resilience as a static trait or a dynamic process. The second section will then discuss key methodological implications relating to the conceptualization of resilience as a dynamic process. In the third section, common methodologies to study resilience in sport are presented and critically reviewed. These methodologies are broadly divided into: (i) self-report resilience measures, (ii) qualitative research, and (iii) direct assessment of functioning in relation to observed adversity. In the final section, some avenues for future research are offered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jolan Kegelaers
- Brussels University Consultation Center, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Sport Psychology and Mental Support, Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education and Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Tsubono K, Mitoku S. Public school teachers' occupational stress across different school types: a nationwide survey during the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic in Japan. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1287893. [PMID: 37927853 PMCID: PMC10620961 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1287893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives School teaching is regarded as one of the most stressful professions worldwide. To maintain schoolteachers' mental health, the factors influencing occupational stress among schoolteachers must be clarified. This study aimed to investigate public school teachers' work-related stress considering the differences in school types using data from a large-scale nationwide survey conducted during the prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in Japan. Methods Data from a nationwide survey of public school teachers performed between June 2019 and December 2022 were analyzed. The dataset consisted of repeated cross-sectional data. The total number of participants was 270,777 in 2019, 296,599 in 2020, 299,237 in 2021, and 307,866 in 2022. Information on working hours, job demands, workplace support, stress response, and perceived main stressors were assessed for each type of public school. Results Regardless of school type, quantitative workload and long working hours were the most significant factors affecting teachers' stress responses. However, stress-related factors among teachers varied significantly between school types. The percentage of junior high school teachers who perceived "extra-curricular club activities" as their main stressor was the highest among all school types. The highest proportion of elementary school teachers perceived "dealing with difficult students" as their main stressor. Meanwhile, interpersonal conflict scores were the highest among special needs school teachers. Teachers' workload and stress levels significantly increased in the third year of the COVID-19 pandemic (2022) compared to the pre-pandemic year (2019) in all school types despite the marginally small score differences. Conclusions This study highlighted the importance of reducing teachers' workload for their mental health regardless of school types. Meanwhile, perceived work-related stress among teachers differed significantly between school types. Given the possible prolonged impacts of the pandemic on teachers' occupational stress, teachers' stress levels must be monitored throughout and after the pandemic. The results suggest that increasing the number of schoolteachers and support staff and providing adequate organizational support are necessary to prevent teachers' sick leave due to mental disorders. In addition, taking comprehensive countermeasures against teachers' occupational stress, considering the differences in school types, is crucial for safeguarding schoolteachers' mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenjiro Tsubono
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Tokai Central Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| | - Sachiko Mitoku
- Department of Health Management, Tokai Central Hospital, Gifu, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Dignos PN, Khan A, Gardiner-Davis M, Papadopoulos A, Nowrouzi-Kia B, Sivanthan M, Gohar B. Hidden and Understaffed: Exploring Canadian Medical Laboratory Technologists' Pandemic Stressors and Lessons Learned. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2736. [PMID: 37893810 PMCID: PMC10606905 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) in the healthcare system. Little is known about the challenges MLTs faced in keeping up with the unprecedented demands posed by the pandemic, which contributed to the notable staff shortage in the profession. This study aims to identify and understand the stressors of MLTs in Canada and the lessons learned through their lived experiences during the pandemic. (2) Methods: In this descriptive qualitative study, we conducted five semi-structured focus groups with MLTs working during the pandemic. The focus group sessions were audio-recorded and then transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to inductively code data and identify themes. (3) Results: A total of 27 MLTs across Canada participated in the study. Findings highlighted four key themes: (i) unexpected challenges navigating through the uncertainties of an ever-evolving pandemic; (ii) implications of staff shortage for the well-being of MLTs and quality of patient care; (iii) revealing the realities of the hidden, yet indispensable role of MLTs in predominantly non-patient-facing roles; and (iv) leveraging insights from the COVID-19 pandemic to enhance healthcare practices and preparedness. (4) Conclusion: The study provides in-depth insight into the experiences of MLTs across Canada during the pandemic. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations to enhance the sustainability of the laboratory workforce and ensure preparedness and resiliency among MLTs for future public health emergencies, as well as considerations as to combating the critical staff shortage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha Khan
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | | | - Andrew Papadopoulos
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Behdin Nowrouzi-Kia
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1V7, Canada
- Centre for Research in Occupational Safety & Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
| | - Myuri Sivanthan
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Basem Gohar
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
- Centre for Research in Occupational Safety & Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON P3E 2C6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Mora-Guerrero G, Herrera-González F, Constanzo-Belmar J, Alveal-Álamos C, Viscardi S. Uncovering the Work-Family Interface: The Impact of Facilitators and Stressors on the Health of Farm Women. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2726. [PMID: 37893799 PMCID: PMC10606727 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Work-family interface (WFI) theory has identified many stressors that influence work-family dynamics from the standpoint of employees. However, work-family facilitators, as well as the effects of gender differences and the impact of sociocultural environments that differ from a formal employment situation, have received much less attention. Our research aimed to fill these theoretical gaps by analyzing the facilitators and stressors involved in work-family dynamics and determining their consequences for farm women's physical, psychological, and social health. We used a qualitative method with a grounded theory design to collect data via semi-structured interviews with 46 farm women from the region of Araucanía in Chile. Our results explain how facilitators, stressors, and outcomes take place in a process of work-family balance that, paradoxically, implies exhausting journeys, a gender-based overload, a risk of diffuse body pain and distress, and a lack of time for personal healthcare and productive autonomy. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach involving improved healthcare infrastructure and services focused on changing the pressures that the farming WFI exerts on rural women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Mora-Guerrero
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus San Francisco, Manuel Montt 056, Temuco 4813302, Chile
- Núcleo de Estudios Interculturales e Interétnicos, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus San Francisco, Manuel Montt 056, Temuco 4813302, Chile
- Instituto Interdisciplinario del Agua-Rukako, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Rudecindo Ortega 02950, Temuco 4813302, Chile
| | - Fernanda Herrera-González
- Programa de Doctorado en Planificación Territorial y Sustentabilidad, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus Luis Rivas del Canto, Rudecindo Ortega 03694, Temuco 4813302, Chile
| | - Jorge Constanzo-Belmar
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus San Francisco, Manuel Montt 056, Temuco 4813302, Chile
| | - Carolina Alveal-Álamos
- Departamento de Psicología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus San Francisco, Manuel Montt 056, Temuco 4813302, Chile
| | - Sharon Viscardi
- Instituto Interdisciplinario del Agua-Rukako, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Rudecindo Ortega 02950, Temuco 4813302, Chile
- Laboratorio de Investigación Interdisciplinaria en Microbiología Aplicada, Departamento de Procesos Diagnósticos y Evaluación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Campus San Francisco, Manuel Montt 56, Temuco 4813302, Chile
- Núcleo de Investigación en Producción Alimentaria, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Rudecindo Ortega 02950, Temuco 4813302, Chile
- Biotechnology of Functional Foods Laboratory, Camino Sanquilco, Parcela 18, La Araucanía, Padre Las Casas 4850827, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
D'Onofrio F, Schirone M, Krasteva I, Tittarelli M, Iannetti L, Pomilio F, Torresi M, Paparella A, D'Alterio N, Luciani M. A comprehensive investigation of protein expression profiles in L. monocytogenes exposed to thermal abuse, mild acid, and salt stress conditions. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1271787. [PMID: 37876777 PMCID: PMC10591339 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1271787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Preventing L. monocytogenes infection is crucial for food safety, considering its widespread presence in the environment and its association with contaminated RTE foods. The pathogen's ability to persist under adverse conditions, for example, in food processing facilities, is linked to virulence and resistance mechanisms, including biofilm formation. In this study, the protein expression patterns of two L. monocytogenes 1/2a strains, grown under environmental stressors (mild acidic pH, thermal abuse, and high concentration of NaCl), were investigated. Protein identification and prediction were performed by nLC-ESI-MS/MS and nine different bioinformatic software programs, respectively. Gene enrichment analysis was carried out by STRING v11.05. A total of 1,215 proteins were identified, of which 335 were non-cytosolic proteins and 265 were immunogenic proteins. Proteomic analysis revealed differences in protein expression between L. monocytogenes strains in stressful conditions. The two strains exhibited unique protein expression profiles linked to stress response, virulence, and pathogenesis. Studying the proteomic profiles of such microorganisms provides information about adaptation and potential treatments, highlighting their genetic diversity and demonstrating the utility of bioinformatics and proteomics for a broader analysis of pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica D'Onofrio
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Maria Schirone
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Ivanka Krasteva
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Manuela Tittarelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Luigi Iannetti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Francesco Pomilio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marina Torresi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Antonello Paparella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola D'Alterio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mirella Luciani
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Schmidt-Stiedenroth K, Guthardt L, Genrich M, Köhne M, Stiawa M, Erschens R, Junne F, Maatouk I, Gündel H, Angerer P, Müller A. What helps hospital staff in times of crisis: qualitative results of a survey on psychosocial resources and stressors in German hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1260079. [PMID: 37869202 PMCID: PMC10585258 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1260079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital workers faced a tremendous workload. The pandemic led to different and additional strain that negatively affected the well-being of employees. This study aims to explore psychosocial resources and strategies that were used by hospital staff. Methods In the context of an intervention study, employees of three German hospitals were questioned in writing in summer and fall 2020. Five open-ended questions about the pandemic were asked to capture corresponding effects on daily work routine. Answers of 303 participants were evaluated using structuring qualitative content analysis. Results Significant stressors and resources were identified in the areas of work content and task, social relations at work, organization of work, work environment and individual aspects. Stressors included, for example, emotional demands, conflicts, an increased workload, time and performance pressure. Important resources mentioned were, among others, the exchange with colleagues and mutual support. Sound information exchange, clear processes and guidelines and a positive work atmosphere were also important. In addition, the private environment and a positive mindset were perceived as helpful. Conclusion This study contributes to a differentiated understanding of existing psychosocial resources of hospital staff in times of crisis. Identifying and strengthening these resources could reduce stress and improve well-being, making hospital staff better prepared for both normal operations and further crisis situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kira Schmidt-Stiedenroth
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lisa Guthardt
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Melanie Genrich
- Institute of Psychology, Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Mara Köhne
- Institute of Psychology, Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Maja Stiawa
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Rebecca Erschens
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Florian Junne
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- University Hospital for Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Imad Maatouk
- Department of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine II, University Hospital Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Harald Gündel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Peter Angerer
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andreas Müller
- Institute of Psychology, Work and Organizational Psychology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Duisburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Isei MO, Girardi PA, Rodwell-Bullock J, Nehrke K, Johnson GVW. Site-specific phosphorylation of tau impacts mitochondrial function and response to stressors. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.15975. [PMID: 37787052 PMCID: PMC10987400 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorylation of tau at sites associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) likely plays a role in the disease progression. Mitochondrial impairment, correlating with increased presence of phosphorylated tau, has been identified as a contributing factor to neurodegenerative processes in AD. However, how tau phosphorylated at specific sites impacts mitochondrial function has not been fully defined. We examined how AD-relevant phosphomimetics of tau impact selected aspects of mitochondrial biology. To mimic phosphorylation at AD-associated sites, the serine/threonine (Ser/Thr) sites in wild-type green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged tau (T4) were converted to glutamic acid (E) to make pseudo-phosphorylated GFP-tagged Ser-396/404 (2EC) and GFP-tagged Thr-231/Ser-235 (2EM) constructs. These constructs were expressed in immortalized mouse hippocampal neuronal cell lines, and their impact on specific mitochondrial functions and responses to stressors were measured. Phosphomimetic tau altered mitochondrial distribution. Specifically, mitochondria accumulated in the soma of cells expressing either 2EC or 2EM and neurite-like extensions in 2EC cells were shorter. Additionally, adenosine triphosphate levels were reduced in both 2EC- and 2EM-expressing cells, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production increased in 2EC cells during oxidation of succinate when compared to T4-expressing cells. Thapsigargin reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and increased ROS production in both 2EC and 2EM cells relative to T4 cells, with no significant difference in the effects of rotenone. These results show that tau phosphorylation at specific AD-relevant epitopes negatively affects mitochondria, with the extent of dysfunction and stress response varying according to the sites of phosphorylation. Altogether, these findings show that phosphorylated tau increases mitochondrial susceptibility to stressors and extend our understanding of potential mechanisms whereby phosphorylated tau promotes mitochondria dysfunction in tauopathies, including AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael O Isei
- University of Rochester, Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Peter A Girardi
- University of Rochester, Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Joel Rodwell-Bullock
- University of Rochester, Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Keith Nehrke
- University of Rochester, Department of Medicine, Nephrology Division, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Gail VW Johnson
- University of Rochester, Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, Rochester, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Brennan PL. Stressors and Pain across the Late-Life Span: Findings from Two Parent Longitudinal Studies of Aging and Health. J Aging Health 2023; 35:677-687. [PMID: 35658697 PMCID: PMC10478334 DOI: 10.1177/08982643221104369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective is to determine associations between stressors and pain across the late-life span. METHOD Multilevel linear modeling was applied separately to harmonized repeated measures data from the Longitudinal Late-Life Health study (LLLH; n = 342; 13-year interval) and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS; n = 2959; 8-year interval). RESULTS In both the LLLH and HRS samples, independent of age, gender, and race, participants with higher average stressor levels experienced more numerous painful conditions and higher pain severity over the study intervals. In the HRS sample, they also experienced higher levels of pain interference. In general, participants' stressor levels did not influence rates of increase in their pain. Gender and race had few moderating effects on associations between stressors and pain. DISCUSSION Stressors and pain are associated across the late-life span. Future research should focus on the mediating mechanisms that account for this association and the moderating factors that affect its strength.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penny L. Brennan
- Institute for Health & Aging, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sharma S, Sharma S, Gunchan P, Parshotam GL, Bansal N, Singh G, Kaur A. Coping strategies and emotional responses adopted by health care workers during COVID-19 pandemic-braving the storm. J Anaesthesiol Clin Pharmacol 2023; 39:628-636. [PMID: 38269173 PMCID: PMC10805205 DOI: 10.4103/joacp.joacp_196_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Health care workers (HCWs) are caught in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic storm and are exposed to a large degree of physical and emotional stress. This study was planned to describe the stressors, stress levels, emotional responses, and coping strategies adopted by HCWs amidst this pandemic. Material and Methods This cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted after ethics approval, using a structured performa incorporating standardized stress (PSS-10 C), emotional responses (PANAS-10), and coping strategy (Brief COPE) scales. The snowball sampling technique was used to conduct the study and collect data. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 version (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) statistical software. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results Out of 402 participants (65% doctors and 35% nurses), 87% perceived moderate stress levels, and nearly half of the participants were interns, residents, and medical officers. Infection to self or family members (77.1%), survival of sick patients (75.6%), aggression by patients and relatives (70.3%), and long duty hours (67%) were some of the major stressors as reported by HCWs. The most common positive emotion felt was being alert (19.17 ± 5.57) and negative emotion perceived was being upset (15.6 ± 6.06). Many participants adopted emotion and problem-focused coping strategies such as planning and strategization (68%) and positive reframing (67.6%), whereas dysfunctional coping strategies such as venting and denial were adopted less commonly. Conclusion Moderate stress levels perceived by HCWs are a cause for concern. Emotional responses of HCWs to stress vary; however, appropriate coping strategies including emotional and problem-focused coping strategies are the need of the hour to tackle pandemic-related stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Sharma
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Sarit Sharma
- Department of Community Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Paul Gunchan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Gautam Lal Parshotam
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Namita Bansal
- Department of Biostatistics, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Gurwinder Singh
- Department of MBBS Final Year Students, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Arshdeep Kaur
- Department of MBBS Final Year Students, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Ramachandran S, Soheilipour S, Ford NL, Brondani MA. Exploring stressors and coping strategies among dental students during COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia. J Dent Educ 2023; 87:1427-1436. [PMID: 37429731 DOI: 10.1002/jdd.13312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The COVID-19 pandemic has caused stress among undergraduate dental students; coping mechanisms might be employed to deal with such stress. A cross-sectional study was conducted to explore the coping strategies employed by dental students at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in response to their self-perceived stressors during the pandemic. METHODS An anonymous 35-item survey was distributed to all four cohorts of UBC undergraduate dental students enrolled in the 2021-2022 academic year, 229 students in total. The survey gathered sociodemographic information, self-perceived COVID-19-related stressor, and coping strategies via the Brief Cope Inventory. Adaptive and maladaptive coping were compared among the years of study, self-perceived stressors, sex, ethnicity, and living situations. RESULTS Of the 229 eligible students, 182 (79.5%) responded to the survey. Of the 171 students that reported a major self-perceived stressor, 99 (57.9%) of them were stressed about clinical skill deficit due to the pandemic; fear of contraction was reported by 27 (15.8%). Acceptance, self-distraction, and positive reframing were the most used coping strategies among all students. The one-way ANOVA test revealed a significant difference in the adaptive coping scores among the four student cohorts (p = 0.001). Living alone was found to be a significant predictor for maladaptive coping (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The main cause of stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic for dental students at UBC is their clinical skills being negatively affected. Coping strategies including acceptance and self-distraction were identified. Continued mitigation efforts should be made to address students' mental health concerns and create a supportive learning environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Swathi Ramachandran
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Shimae Soheilipour
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Dental Research Institute and Department of Dental Public Health, School of Dentistry, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nancy L Ford
- Department of Oral Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mario A Brondani
- Department of Oral Health Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Opitz A, Vogel L, Lux U, Liel C, Löchner J. Psychosocial Stressors and Resources in Parents Using Home-Visiting Programs in Early Childhood: A Study Protocol. Prax Kinderpsychol Kinderpsychiatr 2023; 72:515-528. [PMID: 37830890 DOI: 10.13109/prkk.2023.72.6.515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Psychosocial stressors and resources present in the early life of a child play a crucial part in determining outcomes later in life. Preventive early childhood intervention services aim to reduce negative and increase positive outcomes. Home-visiting programs are an example for preventive services that are common in many countries.The present study focusses on a wide spread home-visiting program in Germany and has three main objectives: First, to characterize the professionals that conduct and the families who participate in the program. Second, to study relations between a broad range of resources and stressors. Third, to analyse potential outcome variables for future efficacy studies on early childhood intervention services. The goal is to recruit 130 professionals and 500 families from 20 cities and municipalities in Germany. For families with two caregivers, both are invited to participate. Questionnaire topics for professionals and families include a range of stressors and resources, need for support, and the work focus of the professionals. Statistical analyses will mainly be descriptive, exploring the complex interplay of stressors and resources in vulnerable families.These results will not only provide insights into how the program is currently conducted and whom it serves, but might also help to further accelerate the program and the training of professionals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ansgar Opitz
- National Centre for Early Prevention, German Youth Institute Germany
| | - Lea Vogel
- National Centre for Early Prevention, German Youth Institute Germany
| | | | - Christoph Liel
- National Centre for Early Prevention, German Youth Institute Germany
- Department of Family Welfare and Child Protection, German Youth Institute, Munich Germany
| | - Johanna Löchner
- National Centre for Early Prevention, German Youth Institute Germany
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, UniversityHospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen Germany
- DZPG (German Center of Mental Health), Tübingen, Germany Germany
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Gray HM, Moran RN, Elder E, Wilkerson A, Chaney E, Gilmore-Childress G, Wallace J. Grit, Athlete Burnout, and Well-Being in Female Collegiate Student-Athletes. J Athl Train 2023; 58:796-802. [PMID: 37347144 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0121.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Collegiate student-athletes are faced with significant athletic and academic demands, causing a substantial amount of stress, which can lead to athlete burnout. Problematically, little research has been done to find ways to prevent or mitigate the effect of athlete burnout in collegiate student-athletes. Grit is one characteristic that they could use as a coping mechanism to reduce the effects of burnout and to improve overall well-being. OBJECTIVE To determine if grit had a main or buffering effect on well-being and athlete burnout in female collegiate student-athletes. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING National Collegiate Athletics Association Division I institution. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS A total of 174 female collegiate student-athletes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The Grit Scale, Athlete Burnout Questionnaire, and Warwick Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale were used to assess grit, athlete burnout, and well-being. RESULTS Grit was a significant negative predictor for physical and emotional exhaustion (F1,172 = 28.25, P < .001), a reduced sense of accomplishment (F1,172 = 20.40, P < .001), and sport devaluation (F1,172 = 40.32, P < .001). Additionally, grit was a significant positive predictor of well-being (F1,172 = 29.68, P < .001). The moderated regression with grit did not reveal significant results. CONCLUSIONS We provide new information on considerations for reducing athlete burnout and improving well-being in female collegiate student-athletes. Athletic trainers and sports medicine stakeholders should consider intervention strategies for improving grit to mitigate athlete burnout and diminished well-being while continuing to explore their effectiveness.
Collapse
|
48
|
Hogan LM, Björklund Carlstedt A, Wagman P. Occupational therapy and stress-related exhaustion - a scoping review. Scand J Occup Ther 2023; 30:1047-1063. [PMID: 37289185 DOI: 10.1080/11038128.2023.2207802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sick leave due to long-term stress is increasing in Finland and other Western countries. Occupational therapists might contribute to the prevention of and/or recovery from stress-related exhaustion. AIMS/OBJECTIVES To describe what is known about occupational therapy for stress-related exhaustion. MATERIAL AND METHODS A five-step scoping review included papers published in six databases from 2000 to 2022. Extracted data was summarized to show the occupational therapy contribution within the literature. RESULTS There were 29 papers meeting the inclusion criteria, of which a limited number described preventive interventions. Most articles described recovery-oriented occupational therapy with group interventions. The occupational therapists contributed with prevention measures, mostly targeting recovery in multi-professional interventions in terms of stress reduction or return-to-work. CONCLUSIONS Occupational therapy involving stress management both prevents stress and supports recovery from stress-related exhaustion. Occupational therapists internationally use craft, nature activities or gardening as stress management measures. SIGNIFICANCE Occupational therapy appears to be a potential treatment option for stress-related exhaustion internationally in conditions that could also work in Finland, for example in occupational healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita Björklund Carlstedt
- School of Health and Welfare, Department of Rehabilitation, A.D.U.L.T research group, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Petra Wagman
- School of Health and Welfare, Department of Rehabilitation, A.D.U.L.T research group, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Ramírez-Ortiz D, Ward MK, Sheehan DM, Fernandez SB, Jean-Gilles M, Ladner R, Trepka MJ. Increased alcohol use during the COVID-19 pandemic among people with HIV from racial/ethnic minority groups in South Florida. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2023:1-12. [PMID: 37729468 PMCID: PMC10950834 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2023.2259340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
People with HIV (PWH) from racial/ethnic minority groups may be particularly vulnerable to the effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Exacerbated COVID-19-related stressors may lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms such as increased alcohol use. This study examined socioeconomic and psychosocial predictors of increased alcohol use during the first year of the COVID-19 Pandemic among PWH from racial/ethnic minority groups in South Florida. Data were collected from Ryan White Program clients during October 2020-January 2021 using a cross-sectional phone survey, and were analyzed using logistic regression modeling. Among 139 participants, 20% reported increased alcohol use. Findings showed that being unable to buy needed food (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.37; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-11.31) and spending more time caring for children (aOR: 5.22, 95% CI: 1.61-16.88) was associated with increased alcohol use during the Pandemic. Providing support to alleviate food insecurity and manage caregiving burden during public health crises like the COVID-19 Pandemic might help prevent increases in alcohol use among PWH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daisy Ramírez-Ortiz
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Miami, Florida, USA
- Florida International University, Research Center for Minority Institutions, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Melissa K. Ward
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Miami, Florida, USA
- Florida International University, Research Center for Minority Institutions, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Diana M. Sheehan
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Miami, Florida, USA
- Florida International University, Research Center for Minority Institutions, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Sofia B. Fernandez
- Florida International University, Research Center for Minority Institutions, Miami, Florida, USA
- Florida International University, School of Social Work, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Michele Jean-Gilles
- Florida International University, Department of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Robert Ladner
- Behavioral Science Research Corporation, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Mary Jo Trepka
- Florida International University, Department of Epidemiology, Miami, Florida, USA
- Florida International University, Research Center for Minority Institutions, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Hummel S, Michelsen I, Zafar A, Moritz S, Benoy C, Lemogne C, Almeida R, Losada R, Ribeiro O, Frisardi V, Tarricone I, Ferrari S, Dechent F, Huber CG, Weidt S, Mayer G, Schultz JH. Unmet Psychosocial Needs of Health Care Professionals in Europe During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Approach. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e45664. [PMID: 37672320 PMCID: PMC10484324 DOI: 10.2196/45664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected everyday life and working conditions for most Europeans, particularly health care professionals (HCPs). Over the past 3 years, various policies have been implemented in various European countries. Studies have reported on the worsening of mental health, work-related stress, and helpful coping strategies. However, having a closer look is still necessary to gain more information on the psychosocial stressors and unmet needs of HCPs as well as nonmedical staff. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to obtain quantitative information on job-related stressors of physicians and nurses and the coping strategies of HCPs and nonmedical staff at 2 periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. By further analyzing qualitative comments, we wanted to gain more information on the psychosocial stressors and unmet needs of HCPs as well as nonmedical staff on different levels of experience. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted at 2 time points during the COVID-19 pandemic in several European countries. The first study period (T1) lasted between April 1 and June 20, 2020, and the second study period (T2) lasted between November 25, 2021, and February 28, 2022. On a quantitative level, we used a questionnaire on stressors for physicians and nurses and a questionnaire on coping strategies for HCPs and nonmedical staff. Quantitative data were descriptively analyzed for mean values and differences in stressors and coping strategies. Qualitative data of free-text boxes of HCPs and nonmedical staff were analyzed via thematic analysis to explore the experiences of the individuals. RESULTS T1 comprised 609 participants, and T2 comprised 1398 participants. Overall, 296 participants made 438 qualitative comments. The uncertainty about when the pandemic would be controlled (T1: mean 2.28, SD 0.85; T2: mean 2.08, SD 0.90) and the fear of infecting the family (T1: mean 2.26, SD 0.98; T2: mean 2.02, SD 1.02) were the most severe stressors identified by physicians and nurses in both periods. Overall, the use of protective measures (T1: mean 2.66, SD 0.60; T2: mean 2.66, SD 0.60) and acquiring information about COVID-19 (T1: mean 2.29, SD 0.82; T2: mean 1.99, SD 0.89) were identified as the most common coping strategies for the entire study population. Using thematic analysis, we identified 8 themes of personal experiences on the micro, meso, and macro levels. Measures, working conditions, feelings and emotions, and social climate were frequently mentioned topics of the participants. In T1, feelings of isolation and uncertainty were prominent. In T2, feelings of exhaustion were expressed and vaccination was frequently discussed. Moreover, unmet psychosocial needs were identified. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for improvement in pandemic preparedness. Targeted vocational education measures and setting up of web-based mental health support could be useful to bridge gaps in psychosocial support needs in future crises.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Hummel
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ina Michelsen
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ali Zafar
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Moritz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Charles Benoy
- Centre Hospitalier Neuro-Psychiatrique Luxembourg, Ettelbrück, Luxembourg
| | - Cédric Lemogne
- Université Paris Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, INRAE, Center for Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Service de Psychiatrie de l'adulte, AP-HP, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Rosa Almeida
- INTRAS Research, Innovation and Knowledge Unit, Intras Foundation, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Raquel Losada
- INTRAS Research, Innovation and Knowledge Unit, Intras Foundation, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Oscar Ribeiro
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS) at the Associate Laboratory RISE - Health Research Network, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vincenza Frisardi
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS-AOU BO, Policlinico San't Orsola, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tarricone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Frieder Dechent
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian G Huber
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Steffi Weidt
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gwendolyn Mayer
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jobst-Hendrik Schultz
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|