Health Distress Research Articles

Spiritual Health and Psychological Distress Among Hong Kong Community Lay Leaders

Community lay leaders are critical in connecting professional services and general populations in communities. However, limited studies have explored the potential protective factors for psychological health among this group of people. In addition, based on the complex nature of spiritual health, the inconsistent findings of previous studies also suggested that different domains of spiritual health may shape psychological health differently in different contexts and among different socio-demographic groups. Therefore, we assessed the psychological health of Hong Kong community lay leaders after COVID-19 and examined the effects of different domains of spiritual health on psychological distress after controlling for age and gender. Cross-sectional data from 234 Hong Kong community lay leaders aged 18 to 84 were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results showed that most Hong Kong community lay leaders reported moderate anxiety. In addition, personal and communal (one domain) and transcendental domains of spiritual health were negatively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress, and the environmental domain of spiritual health was positively associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. These findings imply the importance of considering both the positive and negative effects of spiritual health on psychological distress.

Abstract 4126895: Bridging the Gap in San Joaquin Valley LGBTQ+ Cardiovascular Disease and Mental Health Disparities

Introduction: LGBTQ+ adults experience discrimination and violence that lead to stressors in daily life. Homophobia affects the mental health of the growing San Joaquin Valley (SJV) LGBTQ+ community leading to psychological distress and mental health concerns which can further lead to High Blood Pressure (HBP) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). SJV has a growing rate of LGBTQ+ migrants from the Bay Area who may be at risk for psychological distress and CVD. With a diverse community of low income and minority groups, the lack of physicians do not represent the workforce of SJV. Objectives: Trainees conducted Kessler psychological distress tests, HBP and CVD screenings across college campuses and community events to reduce the risk of CVD and spread awareness about mental health, CVD and its implications in the LGBTQ+ population due to environmental racism in the most underserved region for health care, SJV. Methods: I trained and provided mentorship to medically ambitious diverse low-income high school to instill a passion in them to come back after their medical education to practice medicine and promote LGBTQ+ health equity in SJV. Students conducted weekly Kessler psychological distress tests, HBP screenings and serve as a health technology coach. Each student monitored 2 hypertensive and psychological distressed patients. Kessler psychological distress tests and CVD screenings were conducted at college campuses to spread awareness about LGBTQ+ mental health and heart health and track psychological distress and HBP in the LGBTQ+ community. Findings: -About 88% (98 of 112) experienced some form of discrimination from a health care professional -About 57% (64 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are at risk for CVD -About 14% (16 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are Stage 1 hypertensive -About 76% (83 of 112) of SJV LGBTQ+ population are at risk for hypertension and are psychologically distressed Direct Outcomes: -Youth learned the value of empathy and service to disadvantaged LGBTQ+ communities through the program and volunteering -LGBTQ+ empowerment and students are determined to pursue medicine and address community concerns -Awareness, education among LGBTQ+ community for better heart and mental health -Better understanding in how to manage and seek referral for mental health and health systems concerns -Students learned about SJV health disparities and applied precision medicine to their own health inequity projects in SJV -Improved LGBTQ+ patient provider trust

COVID-19 pandemic: mental health (distress as depression) in orthodontists

ABSTRACT Objectives For health professionals, pandemic conditions impacted all societal aspects, including economic, wellness, and mental health. This study analysed sociodemographic factors, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms (PTSD), and depression levels caused by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in orthodontists. Materials and Methods A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Impact of Event Scale (IES), and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used. Following data collection, multiple statistical analyses were applied: scores were compared using the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests, followed by Dunnett's multiple comparisons. The association between variables was verified using Chi-square or likelihood ratio tests. Multiple logistic regression models were estimated after bivariate logistic regression tests (p < 0.10). The final models using the Stepwise backward selection method were assessed for variables at 5%. Results Of the respondents, 69.3% were women, and their mental health questionnaire scores were significantly higher (p < 0.001). The IES avoidance and PHQ-9 scores were statistically different between the age groups (p = 0.040 and p < 0.001, respectively). Subjective distress was associated with years of practice, monthly income, fear of contracting COVID-19 during dental care, transmitting COVID-19 to patients, and thinking about the future (p < 0.05). Depression was significantly associated with orthodontic practice type, self-confidence in providing dental care, pandemic impact on dental practice, remote care, monthly income, changes in financial expenses, fear of contracting COVID-19 and thinking about the future (p < 0.05). Conclusion Over half of the orthodontists experienced moderate-to-severe mental distress, and the same number suffered from mild-to-severe depression during the pandemic. Registration: Ethics and Research Committee (CEP) of the Faculty of Dentistry of the University of São Paulo (FOUSP): CAAE: 34223720.1.0000.0075 Protocol: 4.191.353

A Longitudinal Multi-Method Inquiry of Educational Workers’ Use of Interventions for Positive Mental Wellbeing

Background and Objectives: Compassion fatigue and burnout are two distinct forms of mental health distress faced by educational workers. Researchers have shown a high level of both phenomena across the field of education; however, a better understanding of what educational workers already do for positive mental and emotional health is needed. Methods: This research study examined three years of data, collected via survey, inquiring into the various interventions, namely supports and resources, that educational workers use to support positive mental health. Results: Quantitative data analysis via descriptive and inferential statistics revealed that educational workers relied heavily on their personal support network followed distantly by medical professionals and other interventions, revealing a gap that needs to be addressed by employers. Qualitative thematic analysis revealed a trend towards increased use of environmental interventions to promote positive mental wellbeing. Conclusions: The data analysis suggested areas of focus required to ensure workplace wellbeing, and that programs too focused on individual or self-directed interventions would not be well received by educators. Suggestions for other interventions that might be helpful for leaders and policy-makers are provided.

The Internal Causes of Pressure and Anxiety in the Living Environment of K-pop Idols

K-pop idols play a crucial role in South Korea’s cultural and economic development, with numerous new groups emerging annually. They present a polished image that promotes the country, but behind this facade lies significant mental health distress. This paper aims to analyze the long-term mental health issues faced by K-pop idols, highlighting the need for increased awareness and intervention to address these challenges. The study employs case analysis to investigate this issue. Reviewing historical materials and news reports identifies numerous instances of extreme behavior by idols suffering from mental illness. The paper focuses on a particularly representative case, detailing how intense industry pressures and personal struggles culminated in the idol’s suicide. Further analysis of various cases reveals two primary causes of mental health issues among K-pop idols. This study aims to shed light on the harsh realities faced by K-pop idols and advocates for greater attention to their mental health, hoping to mitigate the severe consequences of this ongoing issue.

The impacts of UK coronavirus virus job retention (furlough) scheme on mental health

Abstract Background In March 2020, the UK government introduced the pandemic-induced job retention scheme, known as furlough. The scheme provided grants to employers, to retain their workforce by subsidizing up to 80% of wages. While the scheme was aimed at preventing unemployment during lockdowns, it also came with wage loss, with implications for mental health for affected workers, although evidence is limited. Therefore, we aimed to explore the impact of the furlough scheme on mental health in the UK Methods We explored longitudinal data from the UK’s Understanding Society Survey between 2019 and 2021, including nine COVID waves. We matched a sample of furloughed and non-furloughed workers using various covariates. Mental health was measured using General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12, scored 0-36). We estimated difference-in-differences models to explore the heterogeneous causal effects on mental health of workers participation and exit from the furlough scheme. We further considered the effects of being furloughed contrasted with becoming unemployed during the pandemic Results The estimated average treatment effect (-0.53 [95% CI: -0.91 - -0.16]) suggests that being furloughed had significant positive impact on mental health, while exiting from furlough due to changes requiring workers to work minimum hours increased the incidence of poor mental health 0.41 [95% CI: -0.11 - 0.92]. However, compared to becoming unemployed, being furloughed improved mental health by around -0.42 [95% CI: -0.75 - -0.09] GHQ points. Conclusions Policies that mitigate the economic impact of the pandemic also had psychological effects on the population. Even though there were mixed effects of coronavirus-induced social restrictions and lockdowns. Furlough reduced the psychological risks associated with the pandemic job loss, while exiting the scheme increased the incidence of poor mental health. This could be explained by substantial decline in the generosity of the scheme by up to 40%. Key messages • Job loss during the pandemic had deteriorating mental health effects. • Government contribution to furloughed workers’ wages minimizes the incidence of mental health distress.

Implementing mental health quality practices for vulnerable populations in five EU countries

Abstract Issue Mental ill-health has been a leading cause of disability in Europe for many years, with the COVID-19 pandemic increasing incidences of both poor mental health and mental disorders. Vulnerable groups such as children, migrants, individuals with existing mental health issues, and healthcare workers are particularly affected but often lack tailored mental health support. Description of the problem The MENTALITY project aims to alleviate mental health distress worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic focusing on vulnerable groups. It also involves developing capacity-building tools and disseminating research results to increase awareness and knowledge sharing. Five EU countries are currently piloting four distinct good practices to address mental health issues among vulnerable populations. Specifically, Poland is aiming to support migrants (including Ukrainian and Spanish-speaking populations), Latvia is focusing on the healthcare workforce, and Romania and Slovakia are concentrating on users and community services. Meanwhile, Greece and Slovakia are implementing initiatives for children. The implementation phase began in January 2024 with a duration of 6 months. Results By consulting with relevant stakeholders, a Situation Analysis and Needs Assessment framework has been conducted, allowing for informed decisions regarding the elements to be pilot. Partners have developed country specific piloting plans and external evaluators are leading a common framework for monitoring and evaluation, ensuring regular assessment of the project’s progress. Lessons The innovative MENTALITY project aspires to enhance community-based mental health systems and promote improved mental health services across EU Member States during crises by adopting a preventative approach. Preliminary results show that the initiatives within the project were much needed and have already begun to demonstrate promising outcomes in addressing mental health challenges at both individual and community levels. Key messages • The MENTALITY project aims to address mental health distress of vulnerable populations in times of crisis. • The project seeks to advance equality in health and social rights for all individuals living in the EU.

Exploring the Challenges of Context in Accessing Mental Health Support in Rural New Zealand: A Case Study Approach.

This paper explores the complexities that impact access to mental health services in rural New Zealand. Historical, cultural, social and political factors will be examined against the philosophical positioning of Foucault and Fairclough. This research is a single-embedded case study design exploring participants' discourses in the context of a rural, bounded geographical area of New Zealand. The results show that mental health support that addresses people's actual needs rather than the needs that governments map against ever-changing policy is required and that an awareness of context within case study research is important. The process of case study design is described, including building upon a rationale for selecting the case, collecting data and conducting case analysis and interpretation. This study examines factors influencing the real-life rural context of accessing mental health support. This article demonstrates that case-study research can be valuable for navigating context complexity and developing nuanced understandings of complex phenomena. The paper highlights how the multifaceted case study context is more than mapping discourses against a rural backdrop. It is necessary to consider the power dynamics that shape experiences and their impact on service creation and its consequent delivery. Rather than services being created that are complex and not meeting people's needs, there is a need to listen to the people who have experienced mental health distress and provide services and support in locations other than clinical settings.

Prevalence of psychological distress: a scientific approach towards the mental health and wellbeing of population during the SARS-COV-2 outbreak

Background The global challenge of the novel coronavirus has led to an unprecedented downturn, adversely affecting the health and mental wellbeing of communities worldwide. The objective of this study is to assess mental health and psychological distress levels within the general population of Peshawar, Pakistan amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 715 residents of Peshawar, Pakistan. The questionnaire collected data on demographics, socioeconomic status, and residential area. The Modified K10 Kessler Psychological Distress Scale was used to measure mental well-being. Descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, were calculated, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS (IBM, USA, version 22). Results A total of 715 responses were collected. The comprehensive psychological distress score was identified as 25.55, signifying moderate stress levels. Among the respondents, 53.3% were females, 46.7% had completed a bachelor’s degree, 41% were employed, 78.7% were single, 93.1% were non-smokers, and 69.4% resided in urban areas. The study revealed that both gender (p=0.001) employment status (p=0.018) were linked to a more pronounced psychological impact of the outbreak. Conclusions This study highlights age, gender, employment status, and urbanization as influential factors contributing to psychological distress during the COVID-19 outbreak. As we face the challenges of the new normal, it is essential for policymakers to address these mental health concerns through targeted support and interventions, ensuring that mental health resources are accessible and responsive to the needs of affected populations.

Developing a cyberchondria severity scale to promote self-care among university students during COVID-19

Cyberchondria is a hybrid term signifying a state in which individuals compulsively search for health-related information online because of health distress or anxiety, further aggravating their worries. This study develops a Cyberchondria Severity Scale (CSS) to assess the current situation of university students. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted using 145 valid questionnaires. Subsequently, a nationwide survey was conducted at various universities in Taiwan, and 802 questionnaires were used for confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The EFA led to the development of a CSS for college students with four constructs: increased anxiety (α = 0.91), obsessive-compulsive hypochondria (α = 0.87), perceived controllability (α = 0.88), and online physician-patient interaction (α = 0.86), with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.92 and variance of 66.81%. The CFA indicated that item reliability ranged from 0.50 to 0.86, factor loadings ranged from 0.71 to 0.93, and the composite reliability for latent variables ranged from 0.83 to 0.90 (p < .001). The extracted average variance ranged from 0.46 to 0.60. There were significant differences in various dimensions: perceived controllability had the highest score and obsessive-compulsive hypochondria had the lowest (F3,2403=256.26, p < .001). Therefore, CSS has emerged as a reliable and valid measure. Future studies should explore the factors that influence cyberchondria, promote online health information searches, and enhance reading comprehension skills.

Profiles of cardiometabolic risk and acculturation indicators among South Asians in the US: latent class analysis of the MASALA study.

South Asians (SA) represent the fastest growing US immigrant group, and previous studies have indicated that they face disproportionately high burden of cardiometabolic disease. Cardiometabolic disease manifests as a syndemic or synergistic epidemic encompassing multiple disease clusters influenced by biological, social, and psychological factors stemming from the acculturative process. This process may exacerbate morbidity within immigrant subgroups. Our aim was to identify cardiometabolic risk profiles among SA using indicators of acculturation. We conducted a latent class analysis on data from the Mediators of Atherosclerosis in South Asians Living in America study (N=771). A composite cardiometabolic disease outcome was constructed using prevalent hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and body mass index. Acculturation indicators included years living in the US, English language proficiency, dietary behaviors, preservation of cultural traditions, social and neighborhood support, maintenance of social relationships (i.e., friendships), and experiences of discrimination, along with proxies of acculturative stress (i.e., depressive symptomology, trait anxiety and anger). Social and environmental determinants of health, health behaviors, religiosity and spirituality served as covariates to further assess latent class membership. Four cardiometabolic risk profiles emerged: (1) lowest risk [73.8% of sample] characterized by high integration into both SA and US cultures; (2) the modest risk [13.4% of sample], exhibiting elevated levels of mental health distress and experiences of discrimination, and distancing themselves from both cultures; and the (3) moderate risk [8.9% of sample] and (4) highest risk [3.9% of sample], demonstrating greater assimilation into US culture. Compared to the lowest risk profile: the modest risk profile was associated with low-income and conflicting attitudes about religion/spirituality, while the moderate risk profile was characterized by lower income and educational attainment with positive behaviors and attitudes toward religion/spirituality. Findings expand our understanding of immigrant cardiometabolic health as a syndemic issue wherein multiple co-occurring and interacting processes synergize to produce negative outcomes in already at-risk subpopulations. Furthermore, acculturation emerges as a crucial factor in understanding health disparities among immigrant and refugee groups in the US.

Sociodemographic and Health Determinants of Loneliness in Older Immigrants in Canada: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The COVID pandemic brought to light the pressing issues of social isolation and loneliness for older adults. Immigrant older adults' experience of loneliness is even more exacerbated by factors, such as, language barriers, and the loss of cultural community. Key determinants of loneliness in older immigrants are not clear in the literature. A cross-sectional study was conducted in nine cities across Canada to: describe the experience of emotional, social and overall loneliness; and examine the determinants of loneliness among Punjabi, Mandarin, and Arabic-speaking older immigrants. A total of 647 older immigrants participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to describe their experience of loneliness, and multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the determinants of loneliness. Most participants had a post-secondary education, were married, and had been in Canada for about 16 years. On average, the participants reported good physical and mental health, and moderate levels of emotional, social, and overall loneliness. Ethnocultural group, emotional wellbeing, and depression were associated with emotional loneliness. Social loneliness was associated with education, depression, psychological distress, age, and ethnocultural group. Determinants of overall loneliness were age, gender, ethnocultural group, self-rated mental health, emotional wellbeing, depression, and psychological distress. Community based interventions that target these key factors must be designed to address loneliness experienced by older immigrants.

Profiles of knowledge, self-efficacy, psychological and physical health in type 2 diabetes and its association with outcomes

BackgroundSelf-management is impacted by knowledge, self-efficacy, psychological health (general mental health and diabetes-related distress) and physical health (KSPP), and variations in KSPP contribute to heterogeneity in diabetes self-management education (DSME) program outcomes. This study aimed to identify unique KSPP profiles, and their associations with self-management behaviors. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in 518 participants with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes knowledge, self-efficacy, diabetes-related distress, mental and physical health, self-care, medication adherence and social support were assessed. A mixed-model latent profile analysis was conducted on eight KSPP variables, and sociodemographic, self-care (diet, physical activity, and medication adherence), and glycemic levels were compared across profiles. ResultsFour unique KSPP profiles were identified: profile 1 (untroubled), profile 2 (distressed: diabetes-specific), profile 3 (distressed: global) and profile 4 (activated). Profile 3 was associated with the lowest self-care, highest glycemic and lowest social support levels. Profile 4 was associated with the highest self-care, lowest glycemic and highest social support levels. ConclusionsOur study identified novel KSPP profiles, which were associated with differential self-management behaviors and metabolic profiles. Practice ImplicationsIdentifying KSPP profiles might improve self-management support through identifying clustering of care needs, and support more targeted DSME development.

The ties that bind: Understanding the mental health consequences of the Windrush Scandal and hostile immigration policies on survivors in the UK

The Home Office Windrush Scandal of 2018 has had major implications for the wellbeing of survivors and is thought to have affected more than 15,000 individuals. The Government led compensation scheme to provide retribution to those impacted has been consistently argued as insufficient, in part linked to under appreciation of mental health consequences of the scandal. However, there is limited evidence which documents the nature of mental health issues that survivors and families have faced. This need for further evidence intersects with the need to protect a highly vulnerable community from further traumatisation. Our study contributes to this gap through a content analysis of survivor testimonies (n= 96) published in publicly available media sources between 2018 and 2023. Analysis explored both pathways to the development of mental health distress and experiences of potential mental health consequences (conditions). Our analysis was informed by a complex trauma and racial trauma framework. Findings demonstrate that the scandal disrupted numerous social domains linked to livelihoods and positive wellbeing, driving survivors into homelessness, and experiences of dehumanisation within state systems. This shaped survivors’ experiences of emotional distress, resulting in symptoms linked to depression, chronic stress, and anxiety disorders. Our work illuminates new details about the nature of trauma faced by survivors. Findings support calls for support survivors systems that provide targeted mental health supports and address the disrupted social areas of individuals lives and if they are to fully respond to the harms created by the scandal.

We are a spider’s web: Friendship in times of mental health crisis

Community responses to those experiencing mental health crisis and distress are important. However, in Australia and many other colonised countries, responses to distress have become highly medicalised, punitive, individual and privatised. Exploring friendship responses to mental health crisis may increase the possibilities for building on community connectedness and local support networks. The work described in this paper aimed to make visible the acts of care, solidarity, friendship and mutuality that friends and members of the community have taken up in response to someone close to them experiencing distress. The work was guided by intentional peer support and narrative practices including re-authoring, collective documentation and outsider witnessing.

Sparks of Light, Sparks of Life

This article examines the critical issue of Indigenous mental health in Canada, focusing on First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. It underscores the urgency in addressing Indigenous mental wellness challenges, particularly the high rates of suicide, amid their rapid population growth. The study centers on the role of frontline responders in managing mental health and suicidal distress in these communities, and their work to promote life and mental wellness. Through a synthesis of psychological, critical, and Indigenous perspectives, the article reviews Canadian literature on Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention. The article then highlights reflexive insights derived from a knowledge-sharing event with 33 Indigenous mental health professionals, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in this field and the importance of life-affirming dialogues in suicide prevention. The article aims to integrate these insights into broader discussions on Indigenous mental wellness, health, and life promotion systems, proposing enhanced wellness and suicide prevention strategies and frameworks tailored to the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities.

Mental Health Distress and Suicide Risk among Older Adults Who Receive Nutrition Services Programming: Implications for Licensed Professional Counselors.

Mental Health Distress and Suicide Risk among Older Adults Who Receive Nutrition Services Programming: Implications for Licensed Professional Counselors.

Yoyo Dieting, Post-Obesity Weight Loss, and Their Relationship with Gut Health.

Excessive body weight is associated with many chronic metabolic diseases and weight loss, so far, remains the gold standard treatment. However, despite tremendous efforts exploring optimal treatments for obesity, many individuals find losing weight and maintaining a healthy body weight difficult. Weight loss is often not sustainable resulting in weight regain and subsequent efforts to lose weight. This cyclic pattern of weight loss and regain is termed "yoyo dieting" and predisposes individuals to obesity and metabolic comorbidities. How yoyo dieting might worsen obesity complications during the weight recurrence phase remains unclear. In particular, there is limited data on the role of the gut microbiome in yoyo dieting. Gut health distress, especially gut inflammation and microbiome perturbation, is strongly associated with metabolic dysfunction and disturbance of energy homeostasis in obesity. In this review, we summarise current evidence of the crosstalk between the gastrointestinal system and energy balance, and the effects of yoyo dieting on gut inflammation and gut microbiota reshaping. Finally, we focus on the potential effects of post-dieting weight loss in improving gut health and identify current knowledge gaps within the field, including gut-derived peptide hormones and their potential suitability as targets to combat weight regain, and how yoyo dieting and associated changes in the microbiome affect the gut barrier and the enteric nervous system, which largely remain to be determined.

Mixed evidence concerning the effects of the hopeful mindset among mother and child in low-income families in Singapore

Having a hopeful mindset is believed to enable adaptation but much of the pertinent research was cross-sectional, focused on convenient samples, and examined normal circumstances. It is unclear whether hope can predict beneficial outcomes over time among people living in challenging life conditions, such as those in low-income families with protracted financial insecurity. We report a longitudinal study where hope and several psychological outcomes – reported health, self-esteem, and emotional distress – were measured three times across 12 months in mothers and their children in families on financial assistance in Singapore. The results were mixed as to hope’s adaptation effectiveness. Hope positively predicted reported health and self-esteem but not emotional distress over time among the children. It did not predict any outcome among the mothers. Hence, hope can be a resource that could enable children in these families to thrive, but its longer-term benefits for mothers appear less straightforward.

Mental distress and nutrition of family physicians, a European based cross-sectional study.

Family physicians are a pillar of the primary healthcare system, and their own mental well-being is integral to their performance. However, many studies have suggested a high prevalence of mental distress. The contributing factors include the emotional demands of the profession, work overload, budgetary constraints, loss of autonomy, and erosion of professional values. Outbreaks such as the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbate distress due to a greater risk of exposure to the virus, increased working hours, and fear of infecting families. Thus, it is crucial to assess risks and provide preventive measures. This study aimed to evaluate the association between the dietary patterns of family physicians and their mood. This study used a cross-sectional descriptive method and a validated Food-Mood Questionnaire (FMQ), shared via social networks across 10 European countries, to collect data from family physicians. Permission to use the FMQ was obtained. The breakfast-pattern subscale had the highest mean score (14.670 ± 4.305). The other subscale mean scores were as follows: health pattern (13.317 ± 5.388), mental distress pattern (11.184 ± 3.824), and western diet pattern (9.827 ± 3.604). According to Pearson correlation test there was a positive correlation between breakfast and Western diet patterns and between breakfast and health patterns. There was a negative correlation between health and mental distress pattern. Evidence suggests that mental distress may arise from different dietary deficiencies. Physicians' nutritional patterns have an impact on health indicators and are distributed in relation to sociodemographic factors, especially the regions they live in. Diet assessment is becoming a vital modifiable risk factor for mental health, but further research in this field is needed.