Mental Health Consequences Research Articles

A randomized controlled clinical trial of a Wim Hof Method intervention in women with high depressive symptoms

ObjectiveStress is a driver of depression, and people with depression often struggle to cope with stress and anxiety. This study directly compares the mental health effects of a Wim Hof Method intervention to an active control condition (slow breathing) in women with high stress and high depressive symptoms. MethodsWe randomized 84 healthy midlife women with high stress and high depressive symptoms to either: 1) the hormetic stress condition based on the Wim Hof Method (WHM) involving a breathing technique designed to induce intermittent hypoxia and cold showers (n = 41) or 2) an active comparison condition involving slow-paced breathing and warm showers (n = 43). We provided participants with daily audio instructions (15 min) for three weeks during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021). Our primary outcomes were depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress collected at pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 3 months later. We also assessed daily stress rumination and affect with daily diary during the intervention, and participants completed a laboratory stressor, the Trier Social Stress Test, before and after the intervention, and provided samples for salivary cortisol reactivity. ResultsParticipants in the active control condition perceived the intervention to be more credible and expected greater mental wellbeing benefits compared to those in the Wim Hof Method condition. Differential attrition was observed with six participants (7 %) dropping out -- all from WHM condition. Among the participants who completed the intervention, both groups improved on mental health outcomes immediately after the intervention with a 24 % reduction in depressive symptoms, a 27 % reduction in anxiety symptoms, and 20 % reduction in perceived stress. Improvements were maintained at the 3-month follow-up with 46 % of the sample reporting mild or no depressive symptoms. Participants in the WHM condition had significant reductions in rumination after daily stressful events compared to those in the active control group. Both conditions had reduced daily negative affect across the intervention and lower peak cortisol reactivity to the lab stressor post-intervention. ConclusionsCounter to the preregistered predictions, and despite participants’ differing expectations, the interventions led to equivalent reductions in depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress, which were sustained at three months. They also produced comparable reductions in cortisol reactivity and daily negative affect. However, the WHM condition was associated with greater reduction in reported rumination after daily stressful events than the active control, a finding that needs replication with larger and more diverse samples.

The Understanding America Study (UAS)

PurposeThe Understanding America Study (UAS) is a probability-based Internet panel housed at the Center for Economic and Social Research at the University of Southern California (USC). The UAS serves as...

Assessing Disease Control in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis by Using the Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool in Daily Practice

Plain Language SummaryAtopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic skin disease that affects up to 10% of adults. The burden of AD is not only limited to skin symptoms but also sleep disturbances, mental health effects, declined work productivity, which leads to a general decrease in quality of life. Recently, the Atopic Dermatitis Control Tool (ADCT) was recommended for comprehensively assessing disease control in adults with AD. However, little is known about the use of ADCT in daily practice. In this study, by sending questionnaires to 2,066 adult patients with previously physician-diagnosed AD, we evaluated disease control in adult AD patients using the ADCT in daily practice and assessed its association with age, sex, disease severity, quality of life, itch, and treatment. It was found that around 60% of the patients perceived their AD as controlled. Uncontrolled AD was associated with more severe AD, worse quality of life, increased itchiness, and was more likely to be treated with topical anti-inflammatory agents only. Females were more likely to report uncontrolled AD than males, probably due to their limited use of systemic treatments. Additionally, the ADCT could contribute to switching patients with uncontrolled AD from topical to systemic treatment.

Progressing "Positive epidemiology": A cross-national analysis of adolescents' positive mental health and outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Positive epidemiology" emphasizes strengths and assets that protect the health of populations. Positive mental health refers to a range of social and emotional capabilities that may support adaptation to challenging circumstances. We examine the role of positive mental health in promoting adolescent health during the crisis phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. We used four long-running Australian and UK longitudinal cohorts: Childhood to Adolescence Transition Study (CATS; analyzed N=809; Australia); Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (LSAC) - Baby (analyzed N=1,534) and Kindergarten (analyzed N=1,300) cohorts; Millennium Cohort Study (MCS; analyzed N=2,490; UK). Measures included: (Pre-pandemic exposure): Positive mental health (parent-reported, 13-15 years) including regulating emotions, interacting well with peers, and caring for others; and pandemic outcomes: psychological distress, life satisfaction, and sleep and alcohol use outside of recommendations (16-21 years; 2020). We used two-stage meta-analysis to estimate associations between positive mental health and outcomes across cohorts, accounting for potential confounders. Estimates suggest meaningful effects of positive mental health on psychosocial outcomes during the pandemic, including lower risk of psychological distress (Risk Ratio [RR]=0.83 95%CI=0.71, 0.97) and higher life satisfaction (RR=1.1, 95%CI=1.0, 1.2). The estimated effects for health behaviors were smaller in magnitude (sleep: RR=0.95, 95%CI=0.86, 1.1; alcohol use: RR=0.97, 95%CI=0.85, 1.1). Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that adolescents' positive mental health supports better psychosocial outcomes during challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, but relevance for health behaviors is less clear. These findings reinforce the value of extending evidence to include positive health states and assets.

O IMPACTO DA VIOLÊNCIA OBSTÉTRICA NA SAÚDE MENTAL DAS MULHERES: UMA ANÁLISE DAS CONSEQUÊNCIAS PSICOLÓGICAS

Introduction: This paper addresses obstetric violence, a phenomenon that compromises not only the physical health but also the mental health of women during childbirth. The practice of obstetric violence is reflected in disrespect, negligence, and violations of the rights of parturient women, affecting their birthing experience and recovery. Objective: The objective of this study is to analyze the forms of obstetric violence, explore its impact on women's mental health, and discuss the relevance of nursing care in promoting the humanization of care. Methodology: This research adopted a quantitative approach, with article searches conducted in databases such as SCIELO and REVISTA COFEN. Articles that presented statistical data on women's experiences during childbirth, as well as their implications for physical and mental health, were included. Data collection was carried out based on information extracted from the selected articles, and analysis was performed using descriptive statistical techniques to identify patterns and trends. This approach allowed for an in-depth understanding of obstetric violence, contributing to the discussion of intervention strategies and the promotion of humanized care in obstetric practices. Results: The results indicate that obstetric violence manifests in various forms, such as misinformation, verbal abuse, and invasive procedures without consent. These experiences lead to significant consequences for women's mental health, including anxiety, depression, and trauma. Discussion: The discussion highlights the importance of training healthcare professionals in practices that promote respect and dignity for parturient women. Humanizing care is essential to preventing obstetric violence and improving the chidbirth experience. Final Considerations: The final considerations emphasize the need for respectful and welcoming care, as well as continuous work in nursing professional training. Promoting humanized care is crucial to ensuring the mental health and well-being of women in the obstetric context.Keywords: obstetric violence, mental health, nursing care, humanization of care.

Social Media Exposure and Other Correlates of Increased e-Cigarette Use Among Adolescents During Remote Schooling: Cross-Sectional Study.

Little is known about the role of exposure to e-cigarette-related digital content, behavioral and mental health factors, and social environment on the change in adolescent e-cigarette use during COVID-19 shelter-in-place orders and remote schooling. The aim of the study was to examine changes in adolescent e-cigarette use during shelter-in-place and remote schooling in association with exposure to e-cigarette-related digital content and other correlates: stronger e-cigarette dependence, feeling lonely, inability to socialize, e-cigarette use to cope with shelter-in-place, and the number of family members aware of participants' e-cigarette use. A cross-sectional survey conducted between August 2020 and March 2021 included 85 California adolescents (mean age 16.7, SD 1.2 years; 39/85, 46% identified as female and 37/85, 44% as Hispanic) who reported e-cigarette use in the past 30 days. Multivariable penalized logistic regressions determined associations adjusted for age, race and ethnicity, and mother's education. The outcome of increased e-cigarette use was defined as more frequent use of e-cigarettes of the same or stronger nicotine or tetrahydrocannabinol concentration. Almost all respondents (83/85, 98%) reported using social media more since shelter-in-place, and 74% (63/85) reported seeing e-cigarette digital content. More than half (46/85, 54%) reported increased e-cigarette use during shelter-in-place. Most individuals who increased use were exposed to e-cigarette digital content (38/46, 83%) compared to those who did not increase e-cigarette use (25/39, 64%), but the association was nonsignificant after adjusting for demographics (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.34, 95% CI 0.71-8.46). Respondents who felt lonely (AOR 3.33, 95% CI 1.27-9.42), used e-cigarettes to cope with shelter-in-place (AOR 4.06, 95% CI 1.39-13.41), or had ≥2 family members aware of participants' e-cigarette use (AOR 6.42, 95% CI 1.29-39.49) were more likely to report increased e-cigarette use. Almost all participants reported using social media more during shelter-in-place, with many respondents reporting increased e-cigarette use, and significant associations with loneliness and use to cope with shelter-in-place. Future interventions should consider leveraging digital platforms for e-cigarette use prevention and cessation and address the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The mental health effects of the tenure track system in China.

The mental health effects of the tenure track system in China.

Developing the ‘Life Threads’ approach to support families after traumatic brain injury in UK community settings: protocol for a qualitative prefeasibility study

IntroductionTraumatic brain injury (TBI) brings about inevitable and significant changes for family members. Mental health effects for family members are well documented but there are significant gaps in support options...

Digital Health Innovations for Screening and Mitigating Mental Health Impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences: Narrative Review.

Exposures to both negative and positive experiences in childhood have proven to influence cardiovascular, immune, metabolic, and neurologic function throughout an individual's life. As such, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) could have severe consequences on health and well-being into adulthood. This study presents a narrative review of the use of digital health technologies (DHTs) and artificial intelligence to screen and mitigate risks and mental health consequences associated with ACEs among children and youth. Several databases were searched for studies published from August 2017 to August 2022. Selected studies (1) explored the relationship between digital health interventions and mitigation of negative health outcomes associated with mental health in childhood and adolescence and (2) examined prevention of ACE occurrence associated with mental illness in childhood and adolescence. A total of 18 search papers were selected, according to our inclusion and exclusion criteria, to evaluate and identify means by which existing digital solutions may be useful in mitigating the mental health consequences associated with the occurrence of ACEs in childhood and adolescence and preventing ACE occurrence due to mental health consequences. We also highlighted a few knowledge gaps or barriers to DHT implementation and usability. Findings from the search suggest that the incorporation of DHTs, if implemented successfully, has the potential to improve the quality of related care provisions for the management of mental health consequences of adverse or traumatic events in childhood, including posttraumatic stress disorder, suicidal behavior or ideation, anxiety or depression, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The use of DHTs, machine learning tools, natural learning processing, and artificial intelligence can positively help in mitigating ACEs and associated risk factors. Under proper legal regulations, security, privacy, and confidentiality assurances, digital technologies could also assist in promoting positive childhood experiences in children and young adults, bolstering resilience, and providing reliable public health resources to serve populations in need.

Exploring the effects of yoga on dysmenorrhea: A narrative review

ABSTRACT Dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual pain, is characterized by painful uterine cramps during menstruation and significantly impacts a woman’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Elevated prostaglandin levels cause dysrhythmic uterine contractions, reducing blood flow, leading to uterine hypoxia, and producing anaerobic metabolites that activate pain receptors. This study aims to review the effectiveness of yoga as an alternative treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. A search of English-language literature published from 2010 to 2023 was conducted across Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar using keywords “Yoga” AND “Menstrual Pain” OR “Dysmenorrhea.” The inclusion criteria were limited to randomized controlled trials examining the impact of yoga on dysmenorrhea symptoms. From 111 identified studies, 6 met the selection criteria and were included in the review. The review investigates yoga’s potential to alleviate primary dysmenorrhea’s physical and mental health effects. The literature indicates that yoga, including asanas, pranayama, and Yoga Nidra, is effective in reducing dysmenorrhea symptoms. Findings suggest that various yoga practices can significantly reduce menstrual pain and discomfort, improving overall health outcomes. However, the reviewed studies have limitations, such as small sample sizes and variations in study design. To establish yoga as an evidence-based solution for menstrual health issues, further research with rigorous scientific methods and larger sample sizes is needed. More high-quality trials focusing on a yogic approach are necessary to confirm yoga’s effectiveness as a primary management option for women with primary dysmenorrhea.

The Impact of Allyship on Minoritized Patients and Providers in Palliative Practice.

Many minoritized patients experience discrimination in health care. The same is true for minoritized health care clinicians, including the advanced practice registered nurse (APRN). Specifically, Black Americans have historically and disproportionally been privy to both structural racism and interpersonal racial discrimination (J Subst Abuse Treat 2022;133:108551). For patients, such exposure is associated with physical and mental health consequences, including hypertension, obesity, depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and mortality (Health Serv Res 2019;54 suppl 2(suppl 2):1399-1408). For minoritized clinicians, the subsequent result of discrimination additionally includes poor job satisfaction, decreased productivity, and high turnover (JAMA Health Forum 2023;4(12):e235249). Allyship, the act of supporting minoritized individuals while not being a member of that group, is potentially useful in improving the practice experience of minoritized APRNs, as well as positively impacting minoritized patients' outcomes. This article aims to provide actionable and practical skills for the APRN to create safe spaces for minoritized patients and partners in palliative practice. Explicitly, the role of the palliative care APRN as an ally will be reviewed as well as guidance on how to implement changes that will affect the health care experience for both patients and clinicians.

On (Possible) Traumatic Language of Video Games - Adults' Perspective

This study explores adults' perspectives on the potential traumatic language encountered in video games. It follows a prior investigation into the gamers' viewpoints on aggressive language within gaming environments. The research identifies aggressive language as a significant phenomenon that can distress users, particularly those without adequate coping mechanisms. Despite the negative aspects, video games are acknowledged for their entertainment value and contribution to social and communicative skill development, provided these environments are properly regulated. The current study addresses the escalating issue of video game addiction, especially among teenagers, signalling the associated behavioural, mental health, and social consequences. It delves into the elements that contribute to gaming addiction, such as escapism, reward systems, and social interactions within games. The research employs a questionnaire distributed to 54 adults, including parents, teachers, and psychologists, to measure their views on the impact of aggressive language in video games on children's development. Findings indicate that while many adults recognise the developmental benefits of video games, there is significant concern over the aggressive language children are exposed to, which can influence their real-life behaviour and language use. The study highlights the importance of parental monitoring and proactive engagement to mitigate the harmful effects of aggressive language in video games. It calls for comprehensive strategies, including stricter regulatory measures and educational interventions, to foster a safer and more beneficial gaming environment for young players.

The impact of climate change-related disasters on mental health and epigenetics: a narrative review

Climate change has contributed to an increase in the frequency and intensity of natural disasters such as droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, and floods, leading to both immediate physical harm and long-term mental health consequences. Survivors often experience psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as a result of these traumatic events. This narrative review explores the intersection of climate change-related disasters, mental health outcomes, and epigenetic modifications. Specifically, we summarize recent findings on how environmental stressors influence both mental health and epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms, particularly DNA methylation, could mediate the effects of climate change-related stress on mental health, potentially contributing to the onset of mental disorders like depression, panic disorder, autism spectrum disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. We also discuss other epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone modifications and non-coding RNAs, and emphasize the importance of longitudinal studies to capture the dynamic nature of epigenetic changes over time. Finally, we propose future research directions to deepen our understanding of the complex relationships between climate change-related disasters, mental health outcomes, and epigenetic mechanisms, which will pave the way for more effective mental health interventions and policy integration.

Depression, anxiety, psychological distress, and perceived social support among Ugandan palliative care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

To identify the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and psychosocial distress among Ugandan palliative care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic, measure providers' perceived levels of social support, and identify factors affecting a provider's likelihood of being depressed, anxious, distressed, or perceiving various levels of social support. Data was collected from 123 palliative care providers using an online survey. Depression, anxiety, and psychological distress were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire, respectively. Information on perceived level of social support was gathered through the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support. The survey also asked about mental health resources available to providers at their place of work and what resources are still needed. Participants ranged in age, gender, religion, marital status, clinical position, and years of experience in palliative care. Results indicate that 20% of respondents show signs of moderate to severe depression, 14% show signs of moderate to severe anxiety, and 33% show signs of psychological distress. Additionally, 50% of respondents reported a low total level of social support. Depression, anxiety, and psychological distress scores were all negatively correlated with perceived social support scores. Over 50% expressed a desire for additional mental health resources at their place of work. In 2021-2022, the severity of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress varied among palliative care providers in Uganda, with some experiencing moderate to severe mental health effects. Higher degrees of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress were correlated with lower levels of perceived social support, highlighting the importance of social support during times of crisis. The results highlight a desire for improved access to mental health resources and will help providers and organizations provide better support and better prepare for future crises.

White matter alterations associated with chronic cannabis use disorder: a structural network and fixel-based analysis

Cannabis use disorder (CUD) is associated with adverse mental health effects, as well as social and cognitive impairment. Given prevalence rates of CUD are increasing, there is considerable efforts, and need, to identify prognostic markers which may aid in minimising any harm associated with this condition. Previous neuroimaging studies have revealed changes in white matter (WM) organization in people with CUD, though, the findings are mixed. In this study, we applied MRI-based analysis techniques that offer complimentary mechanistic insights, i.e., a connectome approach and fixel-based analysis (FBA) to investigate properties of individual WM fibre populations and their microstructure across the entire brain, providing a highly sensitive approach to detect subtle changes and overcome limitations of previous diffusion models. We compared 56 individuals with CUD (median age 25 years) to a sample of 38 healthy individuals (median age 31.5 years). Compared to controls, those with CUD had significantly increased structural connectivity strength (FDR corrected) across 9 edges between the right parietal cortex and several cortical and subcortical regions, including left orbitofrontal, left temporal pole, and left hippocampus and putamen. Utilizing FBA, WM density was significantly higher in those with CUD (FWE-corrected) across the splenium of the corpus callosum, and lower in the bilateral cingulum and right cerebellum. We observed significant correlation between cannabis use over the past month and connectivity strength of the frontoparietal edge, and between age of regular use and WM density of the bilateral cingulum and right cerebellum. Our findings enhance the understanding of WM architecture alterations associated with CUD.

Chronic Physiological Dysregulation and Changes in Depressive Symptoms: Testing Sex and Race as Vulnerability Factors.

Depression is a growing public health concern that affects approximately 5% of adults in their lifetime (WHO in Depression, 2021). Understanding the biological correlates of depression is imperative for advancing treatment. Of particular interest is allostatic load, a multisystem indicator of chronic physiological dysregulation (McEwen and Seemanin,Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1999). The current longitudinal study examined the association between allostatic load, depressive symptoms, and the moderating roles of sex and race. Participants consisted of 150 young adults (Mage = 18.81) who reported their demographics and depressive symptoms at T1 and T2, a year and a half later. Allostatic load was computed using indicators of metabolic, cardiovascular, and neuroendocrine functioning. Allostatic load was found to predict changes in depressive symptoms. Moreover, interaction effects models revealed that the associations between allostatic load and depressive symptoms at follow-up were further influenced by sex, such that the relationship was significant for males, with pronounced effects for Black males in particular. Black males may be particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of biological dysregulation.

Hormonal contraceptives and women’s mental health – A long-term perspective

Hormonal contraceptives and women’s mental health – A long-term perspective Belinda Pletzer of the University of Salzburg discusses the importance of researching the mental health effects of hormonal contraceptives and the need to identify women at risk for adverse mood reactions before they start hormonal contraception. The mental health effects of hormonal contraceptives have received much media attention over the last decade, resulting in increased skepticism towards hormonal treatments and a reduction in hormonal contraceptive use. Recognizing hormonal contraceptives as a potential trigger of mood symptoms was a crucial and empowering step for women’s mental health research and care. However, we still need to find a balance in weighing the reproductive – and probably also mental – health benefits of hormonal contraceptives against the risks of adverse reactions. Information is key to achieving that goal. Thus, research into the mental health effects of hormonal contraceptives is of utmost importance.

Exploring Screen Time and Its Effects on Children's Mental Health: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The increasing prevalence of screen-based activities among children has raised concerns about potential mental health effects. This study investigates the relationship between screen time and mental health outcomes in children aged 6 to 14 years in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, focusing on emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer problems, and depressive symptoms. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 670 children recruited through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using self-reported questionnaires and parental surveys from January to June 2024. Screen time was assessed across four activities: TV viewing, smartphone usage, computer/tablet use, and video game playing, recorded separately for weekdays and weekends. Mental health was evaluated using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI). Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to analyze the data. Results Participants reported a mean total screen time of 7.25 ± 2.4 hours on weekdays and 8.4 ± 2.65 hours on weekends. Smartphone usage (2.75 ± 1.3 hours/day) was the most common activity. Emotional symptoms, conduct problems and depressive symptoms were significantly correlated with both weekday and weekend total screen time (weekday r = 0.43, r = 0.31, and r = 0.49, respectively, p < 0.001; weekend r = 0.47, r = 0.33, and r = 0.54, respectively, p < 0.001). Smartphone usage had the strongest association with depressive symptoms (r = 0.46, p < 0.001). Conclusion This study identifies a significant positive correlation between increased screen time and adverse mental health outcomes in children, particularly emotional symptoms and depressive symptoms. The findings emphasize the need for public health strategies to manage screen time and promote healthier digital habits to mitigate the potential negative effects on children's mental health.

Global Climate Change, Mental Health, and Socio-Economic Stressors: Toward Sustainable Interventions across Regions

Global climate change’s pervasive impacts extend beyond the environment, significantly affecting mental health across diverse regions. This study offers a comprehensive multi-regional analysis spanning Asia, Africa, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas, addressing three critical gaps in existing research: (i) the necessity of a global scope given climate change’s widespread impact, (ii) the under-researched mental health dimension compared to general health effects, and (iii) the integration of climate and mental health data. Using data from 1970 to 2020, we found a strong correlation between climate change and rising mental disorders globally. Regional patterns emerged, with Asia, Africa, and Oceania showing broader associations with various mental health issues, while Europe and the Americas saw increases in anxiety and depression. This study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness between climate change, mental health, and sustainability. By addressing the mental health impacts of climate change, we can identify sustainable solutions that promote both environmental well-being and human well-being. Our findings highlight the urgent need for global action to mitigate climate change’s mental health effects and provide insights for tailored interventions and public health strategies. Additionally, socio-economic factors like unemployment, urbanisation, GDP growth, and globalisation are incorporated to explore the intricate interplay between climate change, mental health, and societal contexts, offering a clearer understanding of the mechanisms at play.

Depression, anxiety and coping mechanisms among mental healthcare practitioners during COVID-19.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has placed the psychological functioning of mental healthcare practitioners under severe strain. Coping methods may affect mental health outcomes. The study examined the relationship between depression, anxiety, stress, and coping styles utilised by mental healthcare practitioners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three private and one public mental healthcare facility in Bloemfontein, South Africa. Respondents completed the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief-COPE) inventories. An ordinal regression model was used to assess the relationship between coping styles, anxiety and depression. A total of 212 practitioners were included in the analysis. According to DASS-21 measures, approximately 41% and 28% of respondents had moderate to severe depressive and anxiety symptoms, respectively, with the highest prevalence among younger female respondents and nurses. The association between stress severity, anxiety and depression was significant. Avoidant coping methods and two approach coping strategies (planning and acceptance) were associated with depression and anxiety. Anxiety was linked to an increased likelihood of transitioning to higher avoidant categories, while participants with depression were less likely to move to higher avoidant or approach categories. Mental healthcare practitioners, especially nurses, experienced significant COVID-19-related psychological distress during the pandemic. Avoidant coping mechanisms may increase the risk of poor mental health outcomes. This study added data on the mental health effects of COVID-19 on mental healthcare practitioners, as well as psychological methods used to cope during the pandemic.