Community Support Networks Research Articles

Shaping caring cities: A study of community-based mutual support networks in post-pandemic Madrid

ABSTRACT This study examines the role of community-based mutual support networks in shaping caring cities. Taking four neighborhoods in Madrid as a case study, we investigate the dynamics, organization, and impact of these networks in addressing vulnerabilities and fostering resilience within the city. In Madrid, community support networks, herein also referred to as “care networks,” emerged as key actors in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on vulnerable populations. We document how they establish relations with the existing social services to show that public-common partnerships may be a way to tackle future crises. Politicizing care at the level of the commons helps ensure better attention is paid to vulnerability, understood as both a human condition and a political issue that must be addressed collectively. Their repertory of action, part of a micro-local geopolitics of care which ought to be care-fully described, contributes to the development of a theory of urban care in the commons.

What is known about suicide prevention gatekeeper training and directions for future research.

Suicide prevention training that teaches skills to support a person experiencing thoughts of suicide and create community support networks, often termed, "gatekeeper" training (GKT), has been a longstanding pillar of international, national, and local suicide prevention efforts. GKT aims to improve knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy in identifying individuals at risk for suicide, hopefully enhancing one's willingness and ability to intervene with a person experiencing a crisis. However, little is known about GKT's effectiveness in creating the essential behavior change (e.g., increase in intervening behaviors) it sets out to accomplish. This paper explores the history and theoretical background of GKT, reviews the current state of research on GKT, and provides framing and recommendations for next steps to advance research and practice around GKT. Through positioning GKT appropriately within the field of suicide prevention, we argue that the field of suicide prevention needs more rigorous research around GKT that includes long-term follow-up data on usage of skills learned during training, data on outcomes of those who have received an intervention from a trained gatekeeper, and the integration of implementation science to further our understanding of which trainings are appropriate for which helpers.

Applying the Panarchy Framework to Examining Post-Pandemic Adaptation in the Undergraduate Medical Education Environment: A Qualitative Study

Phenomenon: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated an abrupt shift to online medical education, disrupting learning across knowledge, skills, and social connections. Post-pandemic, medical schools must evaluate how these disruptions shaped student experiences to optimize the return to in-person learning. Approach: This cross-sectional qualitative study explored medical students’ perceptions of their learning environment during the post-pandemic reintegration period in Oman. Fifty-four preclinical and clinical students participated in six focus group interviews. Content analysis identified key topics characterizing students’ perceptions of change and change processes in the post-pandemic learning environment. The panarchy framework, developed to characterize complex adaptive systems in nature, was used to frame the results. Findings: The return to in-person environments presented a mix of renewed connectivity, involving collaborative benefits alongside transitional adjustment strains. Five major topics characterizing student perceptions of change and change processes in their post-pandemic learning environment were identified: learning skills, developing clinical competence, faculty interactions, physical atmosphere, and social connections. Managing academic schedules and cognitive load as the learning environment opened challenged students’ learning skills. Learners valued a renewed opportunity for interactive application of knowledge through collaboration, patient contact, and empathy skill-building to feel prepared for future practice. Returning to in-person instruction renewed a sense of community and peer support networks disrupted by pandemic isolation. Some students continued to struggle with study-life imbalance and felt ill-equipped to handle post-pandemic demands. Improved access to student support and wellness services was emphasized to ease transitional stresses. Students defined an ideal learning climate as supportive, active, personalized, relevant, challenging, accessible, and collaborative. Insights: While pandemic disruptions posed challenges, they provide opportunities to strengthen the educational system’s resilience moving forward. Our findings highlight an opportunity for medical educators and learners to capitalize on the innovations that emerged during this period, integrating technology with interactive learning activities and reconnecting students with the core values of the medical profession. Applying the panarchy framework to frame this adaptive process could enable the tracking of multi-level interactions within the medical education environment and the evaluation of interventions targeted at identified areas of concern. Further exploration to achieve complete mapping of specific environmental domains onto the panarchical cycles merits future investigation to build integrated resilience frameworks.

Liderazgo del Personal de Enfermería en Unidades de Primer Nivel de Atención en Comunidades Indígenas

Leadership is one of the functions of the nursing professional, which equips nurses with the necessary qualities to manage resources, make decisions, and lead a team. When these functions are conducted in primary care units within Indigenous populations, nursing staff may face specific sociocultural and geographical barriers. Aim: to identify the leadership functions applied by nursing staff in health units in Indigenous populations. Methods: community case study following an ethnographic approach through semi-structured interviews with nursing staff and users, participant observation, and the use of field diaries. Results: specific leadership functions performed by nursing staff were identified, as well as some of the barriers they face, such as inadequate communication related to the native language, lack of community support networks, gender role gaps, and geographical barriers. Conclusions: the role of the nursing professional as a leader in primary care units is crucial; however, there are sociocultural and geographical barriers that limit these functions, making it essential to develop strategies to reduce these barriers.

Prevalence of Unwanted Loneliness and Associated Factors in People over 65 Years of Age in a Health Area of the Region of Murcia, Spain: HELPeN Project.

Background/Objectives: Population aging poses many challenges to public health, highlighting loneliness and social isolation as severe problems that affect the physical and mental health of older adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these became aggravated. The objective of the present study was to assess the prevalence of loneliness and its relationship with social isolation, depression, cognitive deterioration, sleep quality, and the level of physical mobility and functioning of older adults in Health Area 3 of the Region of Murcia. Methods: A descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study was performed. The inclusion criteria were age ≥ 65, living in Health Area 3 of the Region of Murcia, and not being institutionalized. The following variables were evaluated: sociodemographic variables, loneliness (UCLA scale), social isolation (DUFSS), depression (GDS), cognitive deterioration (Pfeiffer), sleep quality (PSQI), and mobility (Barthel index). A univariate and multivariate regression model was created to examine how the dependent variable was related to the independent variables. Results: A total of 102 older adults participated in the study. Of these, 31.4% perceived unwanted loneliness and 14.7% low social support. The multivariate regression analysis showed that social isolation, geriatric depression, and cognitive deterioration were significant predictors of loneliness. Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of developing multifaceted interventions that address not only social isolation but also other interrelated factors such as depression, cognitive deterioration, and sleep quality. The strategies should be centered on community programs and support networks. It is fundamental to perform longitudinal studies to better understand the causal relationships between these variables.

Issues of Adaptation and Ethnic Struggle of Southeast Asian Migrant Workers in a Foreign Land - Taking Migrant Workers in Taiwan as an Example

This study aims to explore the adaptation process of Southeast Asian migrant workers in Taiwan and the ethnic struggles they face. Utilizing social science observational methods and literature analysis, the research focuses on the complex interactions between migrant workers and the local society, particularly the conflicts and collaborations among different ethnic groups. The findings indicate that Southeast Asian migrant workers, while living in a foreign land, must not only overcome cultural differences and language barriers but also face structural discrimination and exclusion from the local society. These phenomena can be understood through the theoretical frameworks of nationalism and racism. Nationalism emphasizes the impact of national identity on social integration, while racism reveals the existing power inequalities and exclusion mechanisms within society. Additionally, the theory of multicultural formation provides insights into how different ethnic groups interact and coexist in shared spaces. Despite these challenges, migrant workers demonstrate strong adaptive abilities, gradually achieving social integration by establishing community support networks and actively participating in local economic activities. This study aims to provide empirical recommendations for migrant worker policies and social integration strategies to promote the coexistence and development of multiculturalism, as well as to offer a theoretical foundation for future related research. Finally, this paper summarizes the following conclusions and follow-up suggestions: first, "cross-cultural conflict" will make the physical and mental conditions of foreign migrant workers unhealthy, and management measures should be based on "human rights issues" to allow foreign migrant workers to have a certain degree of freedom and development in their right to work and socialize, so enterprises should formulate relevant measures to allow foreign migrant workers to get physical and mental adjustment in a foreign land. to promote more effective communication and cooperation.

PERSEPSI PEREMPUAN GENERASI MILENIAL TERHADAP KEHADIRAN ANAK: KAJIAN PENDAHULUAN

The presence of children is interpreted as the hope of the family, the successor of offspring, the bearer of happiness and blessings. But along with the times, many married couples choose not to have children, this is certainly contrary to the construction of Indonesian society related to the concept of the ideal family. This can be seen from the decline in Total Fertility Rate in Indonesia. This study used descriptive quantitative methods with purposive sampling techniques based on criteria, namely women aged 27-35 years who belonged to the millennial generation a total of 50 respondents. Primary data sources through online penelitians. This study uses Schmitt & Schmitt's theory of direct and constructive perception to see the influence of internal and external factors in the formation of perception. The results show that individual internal and external factors influence millennial women's perceptions of the presence of children in marriage. Then, the millennial generation who prioritizes maturity, stability and readiness from various factors, interprets the presence of children in the family is not a necessity and does not make children the only source of happiness even though it is undeniable that children become a complement to the family. Further studies are needed to obtain more comprehensive data. In addition, premarital education and counseling programs, gender equality campaigns, and community support and social networks can be used as recommendations. Keywords: perception, millennial, child, marriage

Strength in silence: the journey of mothers raising children with hydrocephalus.

Raising a child with hydrocephalus can be very challenging, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Pakistan, mothers being the primary caregivers for their hydrocephalic children are under tremendous stress. This study explores the challenges faced by Pakistani mothers raising children with hydrocephalus, employing a qualitative methodology through focus group discussions comprising ten mothers of hydrocephalic babies at Tertiary Care Hospital in Pakistan. The findings highlight three main themes: emotional toll, social isolation, and financial strain. Mothers experience significant emotional stress due to societal stigma and a lack of support, particularly from their husbands and family. Social isolation is prevalent, as mothers fear sharing their burdens and face physical confinement due to their children's needs. Financial strain is another major issue, with high medical costs adding to their economic difficulties. The study emphasizes improved access to specialized care, awareness campaigns to reduce stigma, financial assistance, and stronger community support networks to support these mothers better. Addressing these unmet needs is crucial for empowering Pakistani mothers in their caregiving roles and improving the quality of life for their children with hydrocephalus.

Investigating the Efficacy of a Community Support Network Rehabilitation Intervention for Improving Resiliency, Quality of Life, and Neurocognitive Function in Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence-Caused Brain Injury: Protocol for a Feasibility Study.

Globally, approximately 1 in 3 women experience intimate partner violence (IPV) in their lifetime. Brain injury (BI) is a common, yet often unrecognized, consequence of IPV. BIs caused by IPV tend to be mild, occur repetitively over the course of months or years, are remote in time, and result in chronic symptoms. Similar to BI from other causes, therapeutic treatment for women with IPV-caused BI (IPV-BI) is crucial to help resolve any physical or cognitive impairments, enhance the quality of life (QoL), and minimize longer-term neurodegeneration. This study aims to investigate the feasibility and efficacy of a community support network (CSN) rehabilitation intervention regarding its impact on resiliency, QoL, and neurocognitive function. In this pre- and postexperimental design, women (aged 18 to 50 years) who are survivors of IPV and IPV-BI will be recruited from various community organizations serving survivors of IPV. Exclusion criteria will include current pregnancy and any diagnosed neurological disorder known to affect cerebrovascular, neurocognitive, or sensorimotor function. A CSN rehabilitation intervention that includes aerobic exercise, cognitive training, mindfulness meditation, and counseling will be administered. A trauma-informed approach will be integrated into the design and implementation of the program. Furthermore, the program will include a participant navigator who will provide trauma- and violence-informed advocacy and systems navigation support to participants, in addition to facilitating a monthly peer support group. The intervention will be provided for 2.5 hours a day and 2 days a week for 3 months. Participants will complete psychological assessments and provide clinic-demographic information in the first assessment. In the second (before intervention), third (after intervention), and fourth (at follow-up) sessions, they will complete tests of resiliency, QoL, and neurocognition. The estimated sample size is 100. The objective of this study will be accomplished by quantitatively measuring resiliency, QoL, and neurocognition before and immediately after the intervention. A follow-up assessment will occur 3 months after the completion of the intervention to evaluate the maintenance of any improvements in function. One-way ANOVAs will be used to evaluate the intervention outcome across the testing times. Relationships among various variables will be explored using regression analysis. We anticipate that the CSN rehabilitation intervention will be effective in improving resiliency, QoL, and neurocognitive function in women who have experienced IPV-BI. Furthermore, we anticipate that this intervention will be feasible in terms of study recruitment, adherence, and retention. The CSN rehabilitation intervention will have a positive impact on resiliency, QoL, and neurocognitive functions in survivors of IPV-BI. Subsequently, a comparative study will be conducted by recruiting a control group receiving usual care. PRR1-10.2196/54605.

Family Participation in The Integrated Management of Childhood Illness Implementation Process: Systematic Literature Review

This study aims to analyze the role and contribution of families in the implementation of Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) and the impact of family participation on child health outcomes. In addition, this study also identified factors that support or hinder family participation in the IMCI program. The method used was a systematic literature review of various published studies. The method used is a systematic literature review with the main data source of 15 previous studies on the theme to be examined in this study so that the data makes a new finding. The main findings of this study show that family education, social and community support, health policies, and family experiences and perceptions of IMCI are important themes that influence the successful implementation of IMCI. Effective education of families improves their understanding and skills in managing childhood illnesses, while support from health workers and the community can increase family participation in IMCI programs. Supportive health policies and appropriate interventions also play an important role in ensuring the program's effectiveness. However, lack of motivation and adequate information from health workers can be barriers to family participation. This study confirms the importance of active family participation in IMCI implementation to improve child health outcomes. Recommendations for further research include evaluation of the most effective educational methods, the influence of technology in supporting IMCI, and longitudinal studies to monitor the long-term impact of family participation. From a health policy perspective, improved training for health workers, strengthened social and community support networks, and improved accessibility of health information through various media are suggested to support better implementation of IMCI programs.

The Experiences of Refugees in Host Communities

Purpose: This study sought to examine the experiences of refugees in host communities. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the experiences of refugees in host communities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that refugees encountered multifaceted challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to education and employment opportunities, shaping their integration experiences. Positive host community attitudes and inclusive government policies were found to facilitate integration, while negative attitudes hindered social inclusion. Community support networks played a crucial role in fostering refugees' sense of belonging and social cohesion. Overall, the study highlighted the importance of a holistic and rights-based approach to refugee integration, emphasizing collaboration between stakeholders to promote empathy, understanding, and cooperation among host community members and refugees, thus fostering inclusive and resilient societies. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Identity theory, Acculturation theory and Ecological Systems theory may be used to anchor future studies the experiences of refugees in host communities. The study provided valuable recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field of refugee studies. It recommended further theoretical development to understand refugee experiences better and emphasized community-based initiatives for fostering positive interactions between refugees and host community members. Additionally, the study called for comprehensive integration policies, targeted interventions for vulnerable subgroups, and research-informed policymaking and practice. These recommendations aimed to create inclusive environments and promote the long-term integration and well-being of refugees in host communities.

Culturally sensitive patient-centered healthcare: a focus on health behavior modification in low and middle-income nations-insights from Indonesia.

Patient-centered, culturally sensitive healthcare acknowledges the profound impact of cultural beliefs on health behaviors and outcomes, particularly vital in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Within Indonesia, distinct cultural factors are pivotal in empowering patients, necessitating their integration into healthcare practices. For example, the cultural concept of gotong royong, emphasizing communal collaboration, presents an opportunity to foster community support networks among patients. Moreover, honoring familial ties and involving family members in decision-making enhances patient empowerment. Acknowledging and incorporating spiritual and religious beliefs, which are deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, into healthcare interventions further augments patient empowerment and well-being. In LMICs, including Indonesia, achieving patient empowerment demands implementing critical strategies. Community-based interventions harness local resources and engage the community to drive health behavior change. Culturally sensitive communication bridges the gap between healthcare providers and patients, respecting language nuances and cultural norms. Patient education fosters a comprehensive understanding of health conditions, thereby encouraging active involvement in decision-making. Tailored behavior modification techniques, aligned with cultural beliefs and practices, support the adoption of healthier behaviors among patients. This review emphasizes the pivotal role of patient-centered, culturally sensitive healthcare in LMICs, particularly in Indonesia. It delves into strategies to promote health behavior change within these unique contexts, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and patient-centered care. The discourse also explores the cultural landscape impacting healthcare, acknowledging the challenges faced in delivering comprehensive healthcare services within these diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, it outlines innovative approaches and success stories in implementing patient-centered care, highlighting how cultural factors intersect with healthcare outcomes. By advocating for integrating culture-specific patient empowerment practices into healthcare methodologies, this article underscores the potential for improved health outcomes, heightened patient engagement, and the delivery of culturally relevant services within LMICs.

Enhancing mental strength support for refugees through social principal: A comprehensive review

Refugees experience physical problems and extreme psychological as well as emotional stress as a result of the trauma of relocation, loss and the uncertainty of their future. Neglecting refugees' mental strength and social assistance needs can have long-term consequences for the individuals and the host communities. This highlights the need for comprehensive assistance programs that include basic requirements along with mental health treatment, education, skill training and chances for social inclusion. For this vulnerable category, we have limited information regarding social principle interventions at the individual and community levels that support mental health with little scientific data about the effectiveness of such interventions. This systematic review examines 536 publications on social-principle-based treatments for improving the mental health of refugees, 14 of which were chosen for examination. The material from these 14 publications assessed the studies, considering qualifying circumstances. The research results concentrate on many major issues, including mental health measurements, which provide insight into the assessment and evaluation instruments used to evaluate refugees' mental well-being. In addition, we discuss the difficulties that refugees encounter in obtaining appropriate mental health care, the amount of monitoring and its influence on their mental health outcomes. The study emphasizes the significance of tailored treatment options since customizing treatments to individual refugee needs is critical for effective mental health assistance. Finally, we explore the relevance of community-based therapeutic options, highlighting the importance of community engagement and support networks in boosting refugee mental health and well-being.

Cultural Influences on Maternal and Child Health Practices. Insights from Juang Tribal Community of Odisha

Inside the Juang tribal group, complex interaction exists between cultural influences and the methods that are used to preserve mother and child health. Because of its location in a distant and culturally diverse region, the Juang community has developed its own distinctive customs, beliefs, and practices, all of which have a substantial influence on the health and happiness of mothers and children. This study provides light on the cultural determinants that influence mother and child health outcomes by conducting an in-depth investigation with the community. An investigation of the traditional birth customs, nutritional habits, and indigenous beliefs toward healthcare, and superstitions that are widespread in the Juang tribal group is presented in this research. The availability of contemporary medical services and their usage, and the part that extended families and community support networks play in the provision of maternal and child care assistance. The usage of traditional medications and herbal cures is also investigated, which offers vital insights into the dynamic relationship that exists between traditional and modern approaches to healthcare.

DINAMIKA DALAM PRAKTIK PERNIKAHAN: TAWARAN UNTUK MENGURANGI PREVALENSI POLIGAMI DI ERA KONTEMPORER

This research addresses the complex debate regarding the practice of polygamy, which is a hot and controversial topic in various social, religious, legal, and personal contexts around the world. This research focuses on the history, relevance, and solutions of polygamy practices in the contemporary era. This study, conducted through qualitative research, details the history of polygamous practices from historical, cultural, and religious perspectives. The research questions raised include aspects of how the practice of polygamy developed, whether it is considered a necessity or a lifestyle in the contemporary era, and how solutions can be applied to overcome the negative impacts of the practice. The results show that the practice of polygamy has a long and complex history relating to historical, cultural, and religious factors. In the contemporary era, polygamy is still debated with a multifaceted approach. The research proposes solutions involving public education on gender equality and human rights, strengthening laws and policies that support monogamy, promoting intercultural and interfaith dialogue, women's economic empowerment, and developing socialisation programmes. Psychological support, public policies in favour of monogamous families, and the building of community support networks are also considered important in curbing the practice of polygamy. This research contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of polygamous practices by combining historical analyses, contemporary studies, and relevant solutions. The results reflect the complexity of interactions between religion, culture, law, and individual choice in the contexts where polygamy is practised. Efforts to reduce the prevalence of polygamy not only rely on enforcing social norms but also involve building solid foundations for healthy and egalitarian relationships and families in the contemporary era.

Shattered hierarchy: how the Gaza conflict demolished Maslow’s pyramid of needs

Conflicts and wars have a profound impact on human needs, as vividly illustrated by the ongoing crisis in Gaza. This paper aims to systematically examine how these crises affect individuals’ ability to meet their basic and higher-order needs, as conceptualized by Maslow’s hierarchy. By employing Maslow’s framework, this paper seeks to uncover the specific ways in which conflict disrupts the fulfillment of essential human needs and to identify targeted interventions that can mitigate these effects. Through this focused lens, I hope to contribute to a deeper understanding that supports efforts to end the war. In this paper, a methodical approach that integrates a review of online news, media reports, published official reports from international organizations, and academic publications was adopted to identify the current challenges in Gaza impacting the different levels of need. An exploration through the framework of Maslow’s hierarchy revealed the extensive humanitarian challenges stemming from the blockade and military actions since 2008. There are significant disruptions across all levels of Maslow’s hierarchy. Despite the severe compromise in basic needs like safety and physiological sustenance, there is a notable resilience in the pursuit of transcendence needs among the residents by transcending personal suffering through acts of solidarity, altruism, and community engagement and exhibiting a deeper sense of spirituality and faith that provide solace and a sense of connection to a larger purpose. There is an urgent need to end the conflict, facilitate unrestricted aid, and address the multifaceted needs of Gaza’s population. Strategies that support both immediate survival and long-term personal and communal growth in the face of adversity are critically needed. Essential initiatives include establishing community support networks for critical needs like food, shelter, and healthcare, alongside promoting economic stability through livelihood projects. Additionally, the development of online education programs offering vocational training and digital literacy, in partnership with international institutions, is crucial. These initiatives, tailored to Gaza’s context and aimed at overcoming siege-related barriers, are vital for empowering residents with the skills for community rebuilding, economic self-sufficiency, and enhanced social cohesion. Such strategies are indispensable for addressing immediate adversities while laying a foundation for sustainable future growth.

'You Can Get That Person on ART but You Can't Give Them Back Their Social System': A Qualitative Analysis of Voluntary Assisted Partner Notification for HIV for Marginalised and Vulnerable Populations.

Little is known about Voluntary Assisted Partner Notification (VAPN) in groups in sub-Saharan Africa that experience marginalisation, and whether its use is suitable for referral to HIV care pathways. We conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with purposively selected medical and health professionals (N = 15) regarding their perspectives and experiences with VAPN policy and its implementation. Data were analysed following a Reflexive Thematic Analysis approach. Respondents highlighted the flexibility in VAPN policy implementation and described adjustments made by health workers. Women were seen as vulnerable and lacked access to support against gender-based violence. Men who have sex with men could face exclusion from important social networks. Age-appropriate VAPN assistance was also considered unavailable for sexually active children. Embedding understandings of identity, belonging, and safety into VAPN could address individual priorities and needs. Community support networks, tailored care for children, and family-orientated approaches to HIV notification may overcome issues relating to vulnerability and marginalisation.

Experiences of food insecurity in the Roma population before and during the COVID-19 lockdown in Spain.

To explore the food insecurity experienced by the Roma population of the Valencian Community (Spain) and the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown. Quantitative, cross-sectional exploratory study using a questionnaire that collected information on socioeconomic status and situations of food insecurity experienced before and during lockdown, based on the Food Insecurity Experience Scale of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. The questionnaire was applied by health workers from the Roma community with people over 18 years of age. A descriptive analysis was carried out stratifying by sex, calculating Chi-square test to identify differences in the variables of the experiences of food insecurity. 468 people participated (57.1% women/42.9% men) who expressed: worry about a lack of food (67.3%); eating the same type of food (37.2%); not being able to eat healthy foods (34.4%); feeling hungry and not being able to eat (9.6%). Around 2.1 percent stated that they could not eat for a whole day, and 65 percent reported that they had to ask for or provide help to be able to eat. When stratifying by sex, it was found that women had more experiences of food insecurity. Except in the case of having stopped eating for a full day, where the percentage remained constant, an increase was observed in the other experiences of food insecurity during lockdown. A large part of the Roma population studied, especially women, experienced situations of food insecurity before COVID-19 that were aggravated during lockdown. This situation was compensated for by community support networks.

Maternal Perinatal-Provoked Psychological Disorders: Adverse Impact on School-Age Children, Neurodevelopment, Education, and Intervention Strategies

This review explores the relationship between maternal psychological disorders and their impact on a child’s academic performance. Maternal conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can disrupt neurodevelopmental processes during pregnancy, affecting the formation of crucial neural circuits for cognitive functions. The consequences extend into early childhood, with compromised maternal-infant interactions leading to challenges in forming secure attachments and, subsequently, cognitive and attentional difficulties.As children enter formal education, the repercussions intensify, with an increased risk of academic underachievement, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Genetic predispositions and environmental factors, including inconsistent routines and limited parental involvement, further exacerbate academic challenges. Interventions, including early identification and multidisciplinary collaboration, emerge as crucial strategies.Psychoeducation programs aimed at reducing stigma and enhancing awareness can foster a supportive community for early intervention.The review also addresses the prevalence and impact of psychological disorders during pregnancy, emphasizing depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Biological and psychosocial factors contribute to their development, affecting maternal health, fetal development, and prenatal care. The impact extends to the child, manifesting in neonatal and developmental effects. Resources and treatment options, including counseling and psychotherapy, are discussed, along with the limitations and challenges in current practices.Diagnosis of psychological disorders during pregnancy involves recognizing clinical indications, utilizing screening tools, and integrating mental health assessments into prenatal care. The role of healthcare providers, educators, and community support networks is highlighted, emphasizing a collaborative approach. Limitations, challenges, and considerations for future research are explored, advocating for improved access to mental health resources and addressing socioeconomic and cultural disparities. The conclusion underscores the urgency of addressing maternal psychological disorders, urging comprehensive, evidence-based interventions and collaborative efforts for better outcomes in maternal mental healthcare.

Psychiatric Home-Visiting Nurses' Views on the Care Information Required of Psychiatric Hospital Nurses.

The "construction of a community-based comprehensive care system for mental disorders" has been promoted in Japan. However, nurses in psychiatric hospitals do not intervene with community resources and support networks in Japan. This study aimed to determine the care information required by home visit nurses from psychiatric hospital nurses. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine psychiatric home-visiting nurses, and content analysis was performed to analyze the data. Findings revealed 319 narratives about the information that psychiatric home-visiting nurses seek from psychiatric hospital nurses, which were classified into six main categories. Information needed for home-visiting nurses to provide care includes the following : 1) to build trust with home-visiting service users, 2) to help home-visiting service users live according to their wishes, 3) to help home-visiting service users continue treatment in the community, 4) to perform symptom management, 5) to provide family care, and 6) to protect the safety of home visiting nurses during home visits. Nurses in psychiatric hospitals should communicate this information to nurses who provide psychiatric home care. This will improve the quality of continuing care for home care users and support their recovery in community living. J. Med. Invest. 71 : 162-168, February, 2024.