Consumption Of Psychoactive Substances Research Articles

Suicide attempts in Martinique and Reunion Island and appointments no-show

ObjectivesStudies on suicidal behaviors in the French overseas territories remain rare. Although mental health resources are limited, some patients identified as being at risk of suicide do not attend the specialist consultations scheduled after identification or screening. Thus, the objective of our study was, firstly to provide a descriptive profile of patients followed up for a suicide attempt in Martinique and Reunion Island, and secondly to explore the risk factors associated with appointments no-show during follow-up. MethodsWe conducted an ancillary retrospective cross-sectional study using data from the APSOM study. Data were collected on 255 patients aged at least 16, admitted to hospital emergency departments after a suicide attempt and followed up in ambulatory care, including 137 in Martinique and 118 in Reunion Island. The characteristics of the sample were described by means [min, max] and proportions [95% confidence intervals]. Differences according to the presence of appointments no-show or not were analyzed using comparison tests of means and percentages (Chi2, Fisher and Wilcoxon). Factors associated with appointments no-show were analyzed using a bootstrapped multivariate logistic regression model. ResultsThe mean age of patients was 35 years [16–84 years]. Women were predominant with a sex ratio of 2.4:1 (71% women). Unemployment affected 37% [28%, 46%] of patients in Martinique and 49% [40%, 59%] in Reunion Island. Psychoactive substances consumption at the time of the suicidal act was observed in 36% [27%, 45%] of patients in Martinique and 34% [26%, 44%] in Reunion Island. The average number of suicide attempts was two per patient [1–20]. Finally, we found no significant association with appointments no-show except for center. Patients from Reunion Island were associated with better compliance than patients from Martinique (OR: 0.20 [0.05–0.65], P<0.012). ConclusionOur study provides a description of suicide attempts admitted to hospital and followed up in ambulatory care in two French overseas territories and suggests interesting approaches for adapting prevention strategies to the socioeconomic context and cultural realities of these territories, particularly outreach interventions for the most vulnerable patients.

Development, Content Validation and Usability of a Chatbot for Disseminating Scientific Information About Cannabis Among Young Adults

ABSTRACT Despite the high prevalence of cannabis consumption, there is limited information about cannabis based on scientific evidence available and targeted toward young adults, especially considering accessible language and ease of access. The present study aimed to develop the proof of concept of a chatbot for the dissemination of evidence and scientific information about cannabis, focused on a young adult audience. The proof of concept involved stages of literature review, conversation flow development, content evaluation through a panel of experts (n = 10) and usability analysis using a sample of potential users (young adults, n = 10). The chatbot developed presents information on epidemiology, toxicology, acute and chronic effects of cannabis use, information on cannabis use disorder, and the use of cannabinoids for medicinal purposes. The content evaluation through the Health Education Content Validation Instrument concluded that the tool was considered to have a good structure and content (Content Validity Index > 0,78; overall score = 9.0/10.0). The tool also proved to be functional and highly usable according to the analysis with the System Usability Scale (overall usability score = 9.2/10.0). Digital strategies such as chatbots can help in health education and scientific communication within stigmatized areas, such as the consumption of psychoactive substances.

The effect of functional asymmetry of the brain on the consumption of psychoactive substances by adolescents in South Siberian regions: prevention strategies

Introduction. It is assumed that the functional asymmetry of the brain must be taken into account in a complex of other predisposing factors that influence the tendency to various kinds of deviations in adolescents, in particular, the consumption of psychoactive substances.Purpose setting. The aim of the study was to study the relationship between functional asymmetry of the brain and the consumption of psychoactive substances (alcohol, nicotine) in adolescents of the South Siberian regions (Tuva, Altai).Methodology and methods of the study. 2 559 adolescents aged 14–17 years, students of educational institutions were examined. All students completed a specially designed questionnaire on their substance use. Motor, sensory and mental asymmetry have been studied. The test «Self-assessment of mental states of personality» was applied for adolescence by G. Aizenk in the interpretation of O. V. Zikeeva. The statistical analysis was carried out in the SPSS-26 program.Results. It has been shown that right-hemisphere adolescents have significantly more pronounced anxiety, frustration and rigidity, indicating a violation of social adaptation and predisposing to the consumption of psychoactive substances, which indirectly confirms the influence of functional asymmetry of the brain. Right- brain adolescents are more vulnerable to nicotine and alcohol. Conclusion. The results obtained allow us to substantiate prevention strategies that should take into account the functional asymmetry of the target audience’s brain.

Factores de riesgo y protección para la ideación e intento de suicidio en adolescentes y jóvenes latinoamericanos: revisión sistemática

Suicidal behavior is constituted as a public health problem, and the literature is recognized extensively for enunciating risk and protection factors associated with the attempt of suicide. The evaluation of the methodological quality of the primary studies is required by systematic reviews, thus guiding decision-making regarding the design of interventions from the risk approach. The identification of the risk and protective factors associated with suicidal ideation and attempts in adolescents and young people in Latin America studies and the evaluation of the methodological quality of the included studies were the objectives of this systematic review. The databases CUIDEN, LILACS, Pubmed, Scielo, Science Direct, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and Medline were consulted, with the results being restricted to articles in the last 10 years.A total of 3,642 documents were obtained, from which 19 studies were included. Of the studies, 52.63% (n=10) were found to have a medium internal validity level, and 57.89% (n=11) were determined to have a medium global quality level. The most frequently reported family risk factors were family dysfunction and suicide background, with other factors including the presence of mental disorder, psychoactive substances consumption, physical violence, sexual violence, and the social factor.On the other hand, the study of protective factors was found to be limited, with family functionality and support being the most frequently reported evidence.

Behavioural patterns and dangers: a mixed-methods exploration of simultaneous polysubstance use and intervention strategies among Swiss adolescents.

Recent trends in Switzerland indicate a concerning rise in simultaneous polysubstance use among adolescents, a practice marked by the concurrent or sequential consumption of multiple psychoactive substances, notably alcohol and cannabis, alongside prescription medications (e.g. benzodiazepines) and illicit drugs, resulting in dozens of fatal outcomes. However, data on simultaneous polysubstance use and evidence-based approaches to effective prevention is lacking. The study aimed to explore and gain insights into use patterns, use settings, use motives, harm-reduction strategies, concerns associated with substance use, and support and counselling services from the point of view of adolescents practicing simultaneous polysubstance use in Switzerland. An exploratory study was conducted via an online survey (n = 116) and two focus group discussions with affected Swiss adolescents aged 14 to 20. A mixed-methods approach was applied to gain insights and better understand the phenomenon of simultaneous polysubstance use among Swiss adolescents. Quantitative survey data obtained between November 2021 and March 2023 by means of convenience sampling - organised by distributing flyers (in three national languages) among several project partners, on the internet, over social media and by word of mouth - was analysed descriptively, whereas qualitative survey data and focus group data were thematically explored. A concurrent nested design was employed, utilising quantitative findings as a core foundation for addressing research questions, while qualitative findings were instrumental in validating and providing contextual depth to the results. Our findings reveal a preference of the sample for combining alcohol with cannabis and/or other substances (e.g. benzodiazepines or hard drugs) in social settings, driven by diverse motives, including enhancement of experiences and partly maladaptive coping mechanisms leading to self-medication. Despite some awareness of the potential harms, there is a significant reliance on peer-shared strategies for harm reduction, highlighting a gap in formal support and counselling services, some of which are perceived by adolescents as lacking empathy and relevance. This study underscores the urgency of developing targeted, youth-centred interventions that resonate with the lived realities of adolescents, aiming not only to reduce substance use but also to address the broader psychosocial factors contributing to simultaneous polysubstance use. By shedding light on the complex dynamics of adolescent polysubstance use, our research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on effective prevention strategies, advocating for a holistic approach encompassing education, policy reform and community support to tackle this multifaceted public health challenge.

The role of the tutor in the consumption of psychoactive substances in times of pandemic within technological universities

At the end of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a scenario is observed that leaves repercussions in the Universities, among them it affected the students both in their performance, as well as in the social field, to cover these deficiencies, the role of the professor and the tutors was decisive. Therefore, the objective of this article is to describe the influence of the communication and motivation of the tutor on the consumption of psychoactive substances in times of pandemic. The research was quantitative, non-experimental, longitudinal, a data collection instrument with a Likert scale was used through digital media to students of the system of technological universities in Mexico. A descriptive evaluation was carried out and the Spearman test was applied to determine the correlation between communication and motivation on drug use, as results it was possible to define that both have a very strong positive correlation (r=0.83).

The Epidemiological, Clinical, and Therapeutic Profile of Bipolar Patients in Eastern Morocco.

Bipolar disorder is a severe psychiatric disorder. The objective of our study is to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic profile of patients followed for bipolar disorder in this hospital. This is a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted over a period of two yearswithin the mental health and psychiatric diseases department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Oujda,Morocco, including 206 patients followed for bipolar disorder on an outpatient basis or hospitalized in one of the departments of the hospital. We included in our study 206 patients with an average age of 37.34+/-12.53 and a male predominance. About 17% of our patients reported a personal medical history and 18.4%, a personal surgical history. Regarding the family history, 40.3% have a medical and surgical history and 63.1%, a psychiatric family history. The consumption of psychoactive substances is present in 49.5% of our patients. About 26.7%reported psychological trauma during childhood. Our patients have reported a history of suicide attempts with a prevalence of 26.6% in several settings: depressive (15%), delusional (5.8%), hallucinatory (3.9%), and anxious (1.9%). Several means were used during these suicide attempts, in particular, defenestration (40%), drug ingestion (36.4%), caustic ingestion (16.4%), strangulation (16.4%), and hanging (10.9%). It is important to develop a personalized approach to the patient wherever possible and, if necessary, to involve other specialists in diagnosis and treatment.

The Impact of Poverty on Children's Well-Being and Health Behavior Based on the Results of Research Conducted in One of Hungary's Most Disadvantaged Micro-Regions.

This empirical research on children's poverty and the accompanying risk behavior was conducted in the Baktalórántháza micro-region, in one of the most disadvantaged micro-regions of Hungary. The study, completed in 2023, was conducted utilizing three methods, a questionnaire for families, interviews, and focus group interviews with social professionals working in the settlements. The region is one of the ten micro-regions with the highest poverty rate in the country. The majority of the population only has an elementary education, and the proportion of graduates is much lower than the national average. The proportion of households with three or more children is higher than the national average and the proportion of unemployed people in households with children is twice as high as the national average. Based on the experience of social workers working in the area, in addition to smoking and drinking alcohol, the consumption of psychoactive and psychotropic substances has increased among adolescents and young adults. Based on various indicators, children regularly consume illegal drugs. The origin and composition of these drugs are typically unknown. According to the reports by drug users, everyday life is easier, and they can escape from problems when under the influence of drugs. Based on the observations of experts, the consumption of various psychoactive substances has harmful effects on behavior, health, learning, and family life. School performance and the ability to think and learn decrease. Drug users are dissatisfied with their lives, have problems with social relationships, engage in partner violence, and may develop antisocial behavior in their lives.

Association between the consumption of psychoactive substances and suicidal thoughts in school-age adolescents in Colombia 2016

ABSTRACT Background: Suicidal thoughts are a frequent problem in adolescents and young people. They have been associated with psychoactive substances’ consumption.Objective: To determine the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and its association with the psychoactive substances’ consumption during the last 12 months, in school adolescents in Colombia, in 2016 Materials andMethods: A secondary analysis of the information obtained from the 2016 National Study on Consumption of Psychoactive Substances in Colombian. For this, data from 80,018 adolescents, between 12 and 18 years of age were analyzed. Sociodemographic characteristics, suicidal thoughts’ frequency, and consumption of 12 psychoactive substances were examined. Generalized linear models were used to estimate the association between suicidal thought and different psychoactive substance consumption.Results: The prevalence of suicidal thoughts was 15.7%. All psychoactive substances showed association with suicidal thoughts. The association of greater magnitude was registered with the use of non-prescription tranquilizers (OR 3.66 95%CI 3.06 – 4.31), inhalants (OR 3.65 95%CI 3.08 – 4.33), basuco (OR 3.39 95%CI 2.49 – 4.61), cigarettes (OR 2.70 95%CI 2.49 – 2.93), marijuana (OR 2.34 95%CI 2.11 – 2.59), and alcohol (OR 2.29 95%CI 2.13 – 2.48).Conclusions: Suicidal thoughts show association with all psychoactive substances’ consumption, additionally, polydrug use was found to increase the magnitude of the association.

Prevalence of Psychoactive Substance Use During Pregnancy in Argentine Women: A Pilot Study Testing Maternal Hair.

The use of psychoactive substances (PSs) during pregnancy is a major public health concern because of their increasing prevalence worldwide. This study examined the understudied issue of gestational PS consumption in a cohort of Argentine delivering mothers. A cross-sectional pilot study involving 51 women receiving delivery care was conducted at the Santa Rosa Hospital in La Pampa, Argentina. Information on maternal sociodemographic characteristics, pregnancy history, and drug use was obtained through standardized interviews. Maternal hair samples were analyzed for alcohol, tobacco, licit, illicit, and prescription substance biomarkers using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry and gas chromatography mass spectrometry. During pregnancy, 49.0% of participants reported alcohol consumption, 25.5% reported tobacco use, and 23.5% reported cannabis use. Hair samples from 56.9% of the women were positive for illicit PSs, with the most frequent being cocaine (41.2%) and cannabis (15.7%). Among the women, 47.1% consumed alcohol during pregnancy. Of the 24 women with hair ethyl glucuronide ≥5 pg/mg, 33.3% drank until the end of gestation and 58.3% started a social drinking habit in the second half. The analysis also detected prescription substances (anticonvulsants, antidepressants, methadone, opioids, antihistamines, antiemetics, and analgesics), caffeine (70.6%), lidocaine, and levamisole, some of which were cocaine or opioid adulterants. This is the first study to objectively assess the consumption of licit and illicit PSs during pregnancy in Argentina. In contrast to most nearby countries, cocaine was the most detected illicit PS in this cohort of Argentine delivering women. This finding highlights the importance of regular monitoring of local trends in PS use during pregnancy.

Sociodemographic and clinical profile of immigrants hospitalized in psychiatric facilities in Tunisia

IntroductionIn an increasingly interconnected world, migration has become a defining characteristic of the 21st century. While immigration offers new beginnings and prospects, it also presents unique challenges, particularly concerning mental health.The experience of migrating can exert pressure on mental health through factors such as acculturation stress, discrimination, and economic hardships. These challenges can, in turn, contribute to the development of mental health issues.ObjectivesTo study the socio-demographic and clinical profile of immigrants hospitalized in the “C” psychiatry department, Hedi Chaker Hospital, in Sfax, Tunisia.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective descriptive study of immigrants hospitalized in the psychiatry department “C”, Hedi Chaker Hospital, Sfax Tunisia from 2011 to 2023. Socioeconomic data and clinical profiles of immigrants were collected from archived files.ResultsThe total number of immigrants hospitalized during these 12 years was 32, with an average age of 28.81 years ±7.8 years, all of them were males, as the psychiatric department “C” only hospitalizes men. All were of African origin, of whom 21.9% (n=7) had Libyan nationality, 15.6% (n=5) had Somali nationality and 12.5% (n=4) had Sudanese nationality. Communication with them was possible in 87.5% of cases, primarily through the native Arabic language in 56.3% of instances. Illegal immigration was the most prevalent form, accounting for 75% of cases. During the immigration process, 18.8% of individuals reported experiencing violence.”The majority of hospitalized immigrants were single (71.9%), had a primary school education (37.5%), a low socio-economic level (81.3%), and no profession (59.4%). 21.9% of them had received social assistance, and 59.4% lived in a refugee camp. Psychoactive substance consumption was reported by 53.1% of our study population.Regarding the clinical profile of the population, 21.9% had a history of somatic conditions, 43.8% had a psychiatric history, including 9.4% who had attempted suicide, and 34.4% who had experienced traumatic events since arriving in Tunisia. The primary reason for hospitalization was behavioral disorders in 71.9% of cases and suicide attempts in 15.6%. The most prevalent diagnoses were schizophrenia (50%), and bipolar disorder (18.8%). Upon discharge, 15.6% encountered administrative issues.ConclusionsHospitalized immigrants exhibit diverse socio-demographic and clinical profiles. These findings underscore the significance of acquiring a deeper understanding of the mental health needs and existing barriers to healthcare within various immigrant communities. This is particularly crucial as immigration continues to be a central focus in Tunisia’s public policies and discussions.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Breaking the Taboo: Unveiling the Prevalence and Predictors of Female Sexual Dysfunction in Tunisia

Introduction Female sexuality is a complex and multifactorial domain that can be influenced by a variety of psychological, biological, relational, and sociocultural factors. However, sexual dysfunctions in women remain a taboo subject in many cultures and are often underestimated, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. In Tunisia, few studies have been conducted to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in women and their predictive factors.Objectivesto determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in a group of Tunisian women and to identify the predictive factors of these dysfunctions.Methods This is a cross-sectional, descriptive, and analytical study, over a period of three months, from September to December 2022, conducted online via a pre-established questionnaire to collect various sociodemographic data, personal history, psychoactive substance consumption, weight, and height. We used the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scale to evaluate sexual functioning in participants. We recruited sexually active Tunisian women over 18 years of age who agreed to anonymously respond to the questionnaire. The form was disseminated on social networks, in groups that focus on women, with a rate of three publications per week.ResultsWe collected data from 90 women with a mean age of 35 ± 12.84 years.More than half of our population (60%, n=54) had at least one sexual dysfunction.The most common sexual dysfunctions reported were arousal disorders (31.3%), followed by desire disorders (26.8%) orgasm disorders (12.4%).We found that several factors were significantly associated with sexual dysfunctions : Women over 45 years of âge (p&lt;10-3), who are divorced (p=0,02), have a low socioeconomic status (p=0,04), and report having experienced traumatic romantic/sexual expériences (p&lt;10-3) were found to have a higher prevalence of sexual dysfunctions. According to our results, cannabis consumption had a negative impact on lubrication (p&lt;10-3) and orgasm (p=0.003) among our study respondents. Personal psychiatric history also had a negative influence on arousal (p=0.02) and sexual satisfaction (p=0.01).ConclusionsBy identifying sexual dysfunctions early and treating them effectively, we can improve the quality of life of those affected and avoid serious consequences on their physical and mental health. It is therefore crucial to promote a proactive approach to sexual health and encourage healthcare professionals to approach sexuality openly and comprehensively.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients on Methadone followed at Ar Razi hospital in Morocco

IntroductionOpioid substitution treatments, notably methadone, now represent the standard treatment in the management of opioid dependence, making it possible to reduce illicit opioid consumption, crime, infections linked to administration practices and improve socio-professional integrationObjectives Determine the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients Evaluate the quality of life of these patientsMethodsA cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study was conducted with 60 patients receiving methadone followed at Ar-Razi Hospital in Salé between 01 june 2023 and 30 august 2023. A questionnaire was used to assess the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients. Quality of life was assessed using the 36-item Short Form Health Survey SF-36 scaleResultsThe average age of our patients was 34 years with a male predominance Most of our patients were single and unemployed Somatic disorders were found in 15% of the sample The majority of them had an associated depressive disorder The main types of new psychoactive substances consumed were benzodiazepines (62.3%) and cannabis. Quality of life was impaired in 60% of patients treated with methadoneConclusionsThe population using methadone is precarious and presents somatic and psychiatric vulnerability. Forms of misuse and associated consumption of other psychoactive substances and illicit drugs are recorded, hence the need for early detection in order to improve careDisclosure of InterestNone Declared

A man stitches his mouth in the context of a personality disorder

IntroductionA 28 year old patient will be presented. This paramilitary man was brought to the Emergency Room due to an autolytic attempt with Benzodiazepines, along with a mouth suture, in the context of a soon to be resolved problematic ankle osteosynthesis procedure. The patient claimed to be suffering pain, furthermore struggling due to the fact he could not be working due to his ankle issue. Language barrier was a problem during the interview.ObjectivesThe objetives of this case is to try to explain the issues that may arise in patients with personality disorders in the context of an autolytic attemptMethodsThis patient will be presented, along with systematic bibliography review of the topic.ResultsThe following results were extracted upon the attention given to this patient which was admitted to the Psychiatric Unit.First of all, the mouth stitches were removed, along with a petition for toxicological analysis. The results gave positive for cannabis and benzodiazepines. The patient was also brought previously this year with another autolytic attempt, this time on cocaine consumption too. Furthermore, a thorough review was made of the other autolytic attempts, including those which happened in his country of origin. The patient has hundreds of small cuts among his arms, from previews cuts made in the past. Furthermore, subcutaneous wounds were auto inflicted in the ER, with a small blade.Among the whole interview, it was clear he had a personality disorder, with high impulsivity levels and lack of control once the situation overflows.We also tried to understand the outcome of suturing his mouth. The patient referred his acts of impulsiveness due to his overwhelming situation of both having no job at this moment and the pain he was suffering due to his ankle procedure.The patient was admitted to our Unit due to the high risk he could repeat this act. Upon arrival, the same day he was admitted, the patient asked if he had to stay at the unit. When explaining the following already told event, furthermore insisting in the possibility of been evaluated by the Traumatology team, he proceeded to try and hang himself with his medical-hospital clothing.The patient was treated with antipsychotics. Along with Lormetazepam at night. At the end of the hospitalization, and after been evaluated by the Psychiatrist of this Unit, the patient was also treated with Lithium due to its effectiveness in the treatment of autolytic attempts.ConclusionsPersonality disorders are one of the psychiatric pathologies that prevail with greater frequency in autolytic attempts 1. Additionally, it should be taken into account the possible ongoing consumption of psychoactive drugs that could also derive in psychopathological decompensation. On top of the following, the use of antipsychotic treatment is indicated for the managing of conduction altercations 2, besides Lithium being a great option in managing suicidal temptations 3.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Сточные воды как перспективный источник информации о потреблении и производстве наркотиков

Purpose: To review the prospect of monitoring population consumption of psychoactive substances using a new approach — monitoring of psychoactive substances in wastewater. Research method: the review is based on information from online databases using Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and eLibrary. Conclusion: the capabilities of the method in detecting drug labs and new psychoactive compounds are evaluated as promising and deserving of further study and implementation. Scientific and practical significance: the accepted definitions and characteristics of this method are given, the most well-known examples of the use of this method in Asian, American and European countries are described, the possibilities of the method in obtaining objective information on the consumption of psychoactive substances in different populations (places of detention, educational institutions, at sporting events, etc.), which can be scaled up to settlements and entire regions, are considered.

The association between the consumption of psychoactive substances and psychiatric disorders in polyconsumers at the Puebla Juvenile Integration Center

The association between the consumption of psychoactive substances and psychiatric disorders in polyconsumers at the Puebla Juvenile Integration Center

Psychoactive substances: consumption among workers from the mobile urgency care system

Objective: To evaluate the consumption of psychoactive substances by health workers from the Mobile Urgency Care Service. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at a Public Health service located in a city in Piauí. Data collection took place from January to March 2019 by applying the following instruments in personal interviews: one with occupational, sociodemographic and economic characteristics; and the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST). The data were organized and processed in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 19.0). Results: Of the 68 health professionals, 42 were male, with a mean age of 49.8 years old. Among them, 44 were married and 48 were Catholics. The most prevalent professional category was Nursing Technician, accounting for 46.2%. Among these workers, alcohol was the most used psychoactive substance (54 professionals), followed by tobacco consumption (25) and hypnotics (8). It is noted that tobacco was the substance most commonly used on a daily basis. Conclusion: Consumption of psychoactive substances among health professionals was evident and can be related to the pressure resulting from these positions. Attention is drawn to the importance of expanding this debate and addressing health workers' mental health.

Socio-emotional Skills in consumers of psychoactive substances

Nowadays people increasingly deal with stress in their day-to-day and the way they adapt involves intrapersonal (emotional relationship), interpersonal and environmental factors, when this adaptation develops in a negative way it can lead to the consumption of psychoactive substances, hence the relevance of the study's theme. The objective of this investigation is to know the profile of emotional competence in consumers of psychoactive substances, making use of an anonymous and confidential questionnaire applied to consumers of psychoactive substances, divided in two parts: the first part, considering variables of sociodemographic and professional character and one second part consisting of the "Veiga Scale of Emotional Competence" (EVCE) (Veiga-Branco, 2005, 2011, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018). The sample is made up of 78 consumers of psychotic substances, of whom 48 were female, most of the respondents are over 30 years old, are single, have no children, have higher education, live with the family and have a social life. The results obtained reveal that there is no influence of sociodemographic variables nor on the characteristics of substance use on the profile of emotional competence or on the dimensions of the same of consumers of psychoactive substances.

Consequences of COVid-19 in Latin American dentists in the first year of the pandemic, the period prior to vaccination campaigns

ObjectivesThe aim of this investigation was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentists in Latin America during the initial year of the outbreak, specifically within the timeframe preceding vaccination campaigns. This study determined the various facets in which dentists were affected and exactly what proportion of them was harmed. MethodsA comprehensive 33 question survey was distributed across 19 Latin American countries after the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic's presence in the region. ResultsThere was an absence of statistically significant differences in responses among the surveyed countries in Latin America, with the exception of four questions out of the total 33. Some relevant findings of Latin American were: one in three dental professionals experienced discrimination based on their occupation. Concurrently, three out of four dentists reported initiating new activities to lessen discomfort. Notably, 8.63 % of respondents sought assistance from a psychologist or psychiatrist, while 17.71 % resorted to the consumption of psychoactive substances within the first year of the pandemic.Furthermore, 7.28 % of the professionals indicated that they still had not obtained all the necessary personal protective equipment for their work and 92.05 % disclosing that they personally financed these essential resources. A certain percentage of dentists stated that the quality of care decreased due to the implementation of the new safety measures (40.03 %) or due to their own feelings during patient interactions (23.11 %). Lastly, 38.85 % of dentists contemplated leaving the profession. ConclusionsThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dentists was decidedly adverse, manifesting both in personal and professional fields, despite the diverse measures undertaken by these professionals to mitigate its effects.

Use of psychoactive substances among university students from 2019 to 2020: A systematic review

Psychoactive substances act on the central nervous system producing changes in mental processes, such as perception, consciousness, cognition or mood and emotions. The present study aims to identify: (i) the most used psychoactive substances, (ii) how psychoactive substances are acquired, (iii) and possible reasons for the use of psychoactive substances amongst university students. A literature search was carried out without language restrictions and included articles published between 2019 and 2020 in journals indexed in the electronic databases of Pubmed and Scielo. The inclusion criteria considered were: (i) original articles, (ii) studies carried out with university students, (iii) providing data on the use of psychoactive substances. 15 studies were included in this review, of which: 4 studies addressed possible reasons that lead to use of psychoactive substances, 10 studies reported usage profile and demographic data, and 1 study addressed how students acquire psychoactive substances. Reasons that led to the consumption of psychoactive substances include: feelings of loneliness after moving away from family; difficulty making new friends; poor academic performance and susceptible environment to acquisition of these substances. In the selected studies, alcohol was identified as the main drug used. In light of the findings reported in this review, new prevention and harm reduction measures can be formulated, based mainly on the reasons that lead to the use of psychoactive drugs, consumption patterns and how the drugs were acquired by university students.