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  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 2
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.269
Toward sustainable well-being in higher education: mental health status, attitudes, social support, and service utilization among college students
  • Jul 26, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Rica Rose May Rubio + 4 more

Introduction: College students worldwide face increasing mental health challenges. In the Philippines, there is limited understanding of how mental health status, attitudes toward mental health services, and perceived social support influence service utilization in higher education settings. Purpose: This study examined the mental health status, attitudes toward mental health services, levels of social support, and actual utilization and barriers to service use among college students at a university in Zamboanga City, Philippines. It also explored whether mental health status, attitudes, and social support were associated with service utilization. Methodology: An institution-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 332 randomly selected students using stratified sampling. Data were collected from July to November 2024 using validated tools: the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21), Attitudes Toward Mental Health Services Scale (ATMHSS), Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS), and questions on service utilization. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and logistic regression via SPSS. Results: A high prevalence of mental health concerns was found: 86% of respondents reported symptoms of depression, 80% anxiety, and 35% stress. However, only 12% accessed campus-based mental health services, and 9% sought external support. While most students expressed moderately positive attitudes toward seeking help and showed low concern for stigma, only 10% reported strong social support. Notably, social support significantly predicted service use, especially in reducing stigma and enhancing help-seeking attitudes. Major barriers to service use included reluctance and uncertainty about where to seek help. Conclusion: Despite widespread mental health concerns, service utilization remains low. Social support plays a critical role in promoting help-seeking behaviour. Higher education institutions should strengthen support systems, improve mental health awareness, train faculty to respond to student needs, and engage families and communities to build a more supportive mental health environment.

  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.288
The Mental Burden of COVID-19 in Pulmonary Patients: An Investigation of Fear, Anxiety, and Quality of Life
  • Jul 22, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Maria Saridi + 6 more

Introduction: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted various aspects of life, particularly mental health and quality of life. Purpose: This study aims to assess the levels of anxiety and fear experienced during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, examine how these factors vary according to sociodemographic and individual characteristics, and explore their impact on the quality of life of individuals attending private pulmonology clinics. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 112 patients who visited a private pulmonology clinic in Greece during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected via a questionnaire that included six sections, covering demographics, stigma, fear, quality of life, coping strategies, and mental health. Statistical analysis was performed via SPSS 25. Results: The survey revealed high rates of COVID-19-related stigma, especially for foreigners (50.9%) and health workers (29.5%), with half of the participants believing that people were ill due to irresponsible behaviour. Fear of COVID-19 appears to be significantly high (m = 15.7), with gender (women) being among the determinants of the highest levels of fear. Anxiety occurs at normal levels (m = 5.6), although higher levels of fear have been shown to lead to higher levels of anxiety. Finally, both fear (p = 0.000) and anxiety (p = 0.003) are negatively correlated with most dimensions of quality of life. Conclusions: The present research highlights the stigma created by COVID-19, especially for specific groups of people. In addition, increased levels of fear and anxiety affect the quality of life of individuals.

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  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.266
Homeopathic Management for Children with Oppositional Defiant Disorder: A Clinical Study
  • Jul 16, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Dr Jayakumar M + 1 more

Introduction: Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) is a disruptive behavioural disorder, characterized by enduring patterns of negativistic, disobedient, and hostile behaviour toward authority figures, as well as an inability to take responsibility for mistakes, leading to placing blame on others. Children frequently argue with adults and become easily annoyed by others, leading to anger, resentment and may have difficulty in the class room. It significantly affects the mental health and increasing the risk of developing other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders.ODD is a rising concern in paediatric mental health. There is a growing global demand for non-drug, integrative approaches that are safe, effective, and culturally acceptable. This study addresses that gap by evaluating individualized homeopathy in a clinical settingPurpose: This study aims to investigate the behavioural changes in children and its impact on the mental health in the context of managing of the oppositional defiant disorder on complementary medicine through homeopathy medicines.Methodology: 45 children were diagnosed with Oppositional defiant disorder with the age between 5 to 15 years. Three children dropped out, resulting in a total of 42 children completing the study. Pre and Post Assessment was done using Vanderbilt Assessment Scale. Post assessment was done at 6th, 12th and 18th month.Results: Out of 42 cases, 6 (14.28%) cases with mild improvement, 22 (52.38%) cases with moderate improvement, 10 (23.80%) cases with marked improvement and 4 (9.52%) cases showed no improvement.Conclusion: Individualized homeopathic treatment has shown a positive role for the management and treatment of disruptive behavioural disorder. Further research through randomized, placebo-controlled trials is necessary to confirm efficacy and to guide clinical application more robustly. Trail Registration: Clinical Trial Registry India (CTRI/2022/09/046020).

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  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 2
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.243
Mental Health Impacts on protestors and victims’ families of the July Movement-2024 in Bangladesh
  • Jul 9, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Minhazur Rahman Rezvi + 3 more

Introduction: The July Uprising 2024 in Bangladesh inflicted enormous psychological trauma on the victims. During the July movement of 2024, over 1400 civilians, predominantly youth, were killed, and more than 13539 individuals sustained injuries due to the Hasina government. Purpose: This study aims to explore the mental health status of protestors and victims’ families during the July Uprising 2024 in Bangladesh; and suggest policy recommendations to protect the victims of July Uprising 2024 based on the findings. Methodology: This study used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to analyze the mental health status of July’s protestors. The study collected data from secondary sources, and also used 3 studies which collected from secondary sources. Results: The analysis showed that a significant number of injured protestors are hospitalized, and their families have lost all of their savings in order to continue the treatment. Depression, anxiety, distress, and sleep disruption are frequent experiences among those family members. The protestors continue to experience trauma five to six months post-incident. Conclusion: The Government of Bangladesh must provide accessible mental health treatments, counseling, awareness campaigns, and financial support for victims and families impacted by the July 2024 movement through public-private partnerships

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  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 1
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.282
Student Veterans in Ukrainian Higher Education: Reintegration, Psychosocial Support, and International Perspectives
  • Jul 6, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Mariana Shkoliar + 3 more

Introduction: The reintegration of military personnel into civilian life and society presents one of the most pressing challenges for Ukraine amidst full-scale war. This article offers an analysis of the needs and problems faced by student veterans in the higher education system, drawing on significant international experience, primarily from the United States, and the results of a comprehensive original empirical study conducted in the Ukrainian context. Purpose: This study aims to comprehensively analyze the challenges and needs of student veterans within Ukraine's higher education system and to develop practical recommendations for their effective reintegration and support, based on a comparative analysis of international best practices and original empirical data from Ukraine. Methodology: The research includes a quantitative survey component of student veterans and a qualitative analysis of transcripts from two focus groups with instructors who had varying experiences interacting with this category of students. Results: Typical challenges identified, such as psychological adaptation difficulties, academic barriers, social isolation, and financial issues, are meticulously compared with international data. Based on the findings and considering the specifics of martial law, practical recommendations have been developed for a comprehensive adaptation of the Ukrainian higher education system. These recommendations encompass the creation of specialized support centers, psychological assistance, academic flexibility, and systemic training for teaching staff. Conclusions: The study highlights the critical need for tailored support systems, emphasizing the importance of dedicated veteran resource centers, faculty training, flexible academic approaches, and peer support networks. The findings underscore that while international experience provides a valuable framework, its application in Ukraine requires careful adaptation to the unique realities of ongoing conflict and national socio-cultural nuances. This research contributes to developing a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for Ukrainian student veterans, facilitating their successful reintegration and academic achievement.

  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.267
Anxiety, Depression, and Psychological Distress in Vietnamese University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
  • Jul 5, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Lam Minh + 1 more

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of university students. Vietnamese students face unique challenges due to financial instability, academic pressures, and cultural barriers to seeking mental health support. Purpose: This study aims to assess the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress among Vietnamese university students and examine the influence of demographic factors such as financial support and academic year. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to October 2023, involving 508 university students. Data were collected using validated instruments: the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire Anxiety and Depression Scale (PHQ-ADS). Results: Depression and anxiety were prevalent and significantly influenced by financial support (p < 0.05) and academic year (p < 0.05). However, gender differences were not statistically significant. Freshmen and financially independent students reported higher levels of distress. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted mental health interventions addressing financial and academic challenges to support student well-being

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  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.280
Parental Involvement and the Psycho-Emotional Development of Children in Crisis Conditions: Findings from the Third Wave of Multilevel Monitoring
  • Jun 25, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Olga Kosenchuk + 2 more

Introduction: This article presents the findings of the third wave of monitoring conducted within the framework of the project "Improving Access to Early Childhood Education Services in Emergency Situations." The study explores the impact of parenting practices on the development of emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and stress resilience in children aged 3 to 6 under crisis conditions. Purpose: To examine the impact of parenting practices on the development of emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and stress resilience in children under crisis conditions; to identify factors contributing to emotional safety and areas of vulnerability; and to develop approaches for supporting mental health. Methodology: The third wave of monitoring the development of children aged 3 to 6 in crisis conditions employed a mixed-methods approach (quantitative and qualitative) to analyze the influence of parenting practices on emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and stress resilience. The study covered 70 indicators across five developmental domains. A total of 3,820 parents from eight regions participated in the survey (April 2025), accompanied by five months of observations, activity analysis, and expert evaluations. Data were processed using Google Sheets, and a development index was calculated on a 0–1 scale. The ontogenetic approach ensured the validity of assessments. Ethical standards were upheld throughout the study. Results: The results of the study showed that parental emotional involvement is a key factor in the formation of emotional intelligence and support for children's mental health. Both positive trends (empathetic upbringing, support for self-esteem, development of emotional understanding) and areas of vulnerability (low level of use of bodily, play, verbal practices; difficulties in communicating about fears; emotional burnout of parents) were identified. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of assessing the psycho-emotional development of preschool children under crisis conditions and demonstrates the pivotal role of parental emotional involvement. A positive dynamic in children’s self-regulation, self-esteem, and stress resilience was confirmed in the presence of stable adult support. At the same time, the limited use of play-based and body-oriented practices (reported by fewer than 30% of families) points to a risk area. The monitoring confirmed the effectiveness of the “2 by 2” model and highlighted the need to strengthen parental education initiatives focused on fostering children's emotional intelligence through everyday interactions

  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.265
The association between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. A Care Plan Perspective
  • Jun 25, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Nida Khubaib

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that shares clinical features with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a condition affecting the neurological and immune systems. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between the two conditions, including shared genetics and neuropathology. However, there is a paucity of data and lack of conclusive evidence to draw any definite associations.Purpose: This review aims to gather available evidence to determine whether an association exists between autism and CFS and to report on published findings.Methodology: The search was conducted on databases PUBMED, MEDLINE and Google Scholar. Eligibility criteria included studies examining the association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Exclusion criteria included 1) studies that reported on autism and chronic fatigue syndrome separately 2) studies that evaluated the association of autism with conditions other than CFS and 3) and studies that looked at the association of CFS with conditions other than autism. Non-English language studies were excluded.Results: A total of eight articles were reviewed for the study and the reported findings indicates the complex relationship between autism and co-morbid physical health conditions.Conclusion: This study highlights the need for enhanced awareness among mental health practitioners regarding the complex interplay between autism and co-occurring physical health conditions like CFS presenting in children and young people and appropriate management of physical health symptoms as part of the overall care plan.

  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • Cite Count Icon 1
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.274
Leveraging Communities of Practice to Sustain Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Crisis Contexts
  • Jun 19, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Mariana Shkoliar + 1 more

Introduction: Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) services are critically important in times of social and humanitarian crisis, ensuring public health and social stability. Despite their significance, access to MHPSS globally, especially in resource-limited countries, remains insufficient, hindering long-term community recovery. International guidelines (IASC, WHO) call for systemic and integrated approaches, as providing sustainable psychosocial support is a global priority. Purpose: This article aims to demonstrate how Communities of Practice (CoPs) can ensure the continuity and sustainability of MHPSS services at the community level. We seek to bridge the gap between the development of effective psychosocial interventions and their widespread practical application. Specifically, we explore how MHPSS professionals and community members can acquire the necessary skills for localized support and how to create sustainable spaces for continuous learning and knowledge exchange. Approach: This work employs a review-based approach, combining the analysis of scholarly sources and practical examples to develop a conceptual model. We examined reports and recommendations from international organizations (IASC, WHO) and academic publications to identify barriers and opportunities for scaling up MHPSS. CoPs are viewed as a flexible infrastructure for service continuity. The proposed model for implementing MHPSS programs through CoP development covers stages from initial analysis to supervision. The practical application of the model and its effectiveness in service decentralization are illustrated with examples from Ukraine (Resilience Centres) and Poland (WHO mhGAP initiative). Results: The MHPSS Program Implementation Model based on CoP Development, which we propose, comprises eleven stages – from adapting international programs to their integration into state policy, focusing on continuous learning and effective coordination. Conclusion: The effective scaling of psychosocial support is a complex process that requires conscious strategic planning, engagement of all stakeholders, and, most importantly, political will for the institutionalization of these services at the state level. The fundamental importance of continuous psychosocial support necessitates not just isolated interventions but a holistic, interconnected network of services operating at various levels to meet diverse population needs. This requires both horizontal integration (intersectoral cooperation: health, education, social protection, volunteer, and community organizations) and vertical integration (multi-level approach from primary to specialized care). Close coordination among state institutions, international partners, and civil society is indispensable for ensuring the continuity and consistency of MHPSS and prioritizing mental health at the national level.

  • Open Access Icon
  • Research Article
  • 10.56508/mhgcj.v8i1.254
The Climate Crisis and Indigenous Youths’ Mental Health: The Pilot Project
  • May 12, 2025
  • Mental Health: Global Challenges Journal
  • Ethsi Stewart + 2 more

Introduction: The climate crisis significantly and disproportionately impacts Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island, and worldwide. Some major issues faced are threats to reserve lands, food sovereignty, and traditional employment. The harms caused by climate change have been uniquely placed on Indigenous youth as both the future and current caretakers and land defenders of Turtle Island, impacting the mental health of our youth. Yet, their perspectives are rarely included in scholarly literature, research, or decision-making on environmental policy.Purpose: This article outlines findings from initial pilot phases of a climate crisis research project regarding the perspectives of Indigenous youth on the impacts of the climate crisis on their mental health and recommendations for service providers.Methodology: The findings outline themes and perspectives from Talking Circles with youth and Elders, as well as the development of a play created and performed in collaboration with an Indigenous theatre expert and our community partner, 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations, in Toronto. Additionally, a quantitative survey was conducted to gather audience feedback on the performance.Results: 4 qualitative themes emerged: anxiety, fear and powerlessness; finding voice & using voice; autonomy & decolonization in government; education, educating & training youth. Audience feedback was mainly positive, impactful and inspiring. 6 main recommendations for policy and service delivery shifts were also acquired.Conclusion: This research responds to the emergent need for the inclusion and empowerment of Indigenous youth voices on the ongoing climate crisis and investigates its impacts on Indigenous youth mental health. Overall, the study had a positive impact on Indigenous youth mental health, with future research underway. Recommendations for programming and policy changes provided to continue supporting positive Indigenous youth mental health and wellness.