Higher Levels Of Depression Research Articles

Mental health and cannabidiol: an initial test

ABSTRACT Objective Cannabidiol (CBD) is a specific cannabinoid found in cannabis that has become increasingly popular in the United States and worldwide. Anecdotally, many CBD users report using it to help address negative emotional symptoms like anxiety and depression. However, little empirical research has, in fact, been conducted to understand the mental health characteristics of persons who use CBD compared to those who do not. To address this limitation, the current study examined differences in depression and anxiety among adults who currently use CBD compared with those that do not use CBD. Methods Participants were 1,116 adults (68.9% female, Mage = 21.4 years, SD = 3.6). Results Compared to individuals who do not use CBD, individuals who used CBD reported higher depression (p = 0.020, ηp 2=.006) and anxiety (p = 0.009, ηp 2=.007); however, the group differences were small in magnitude. Conclusion Overall, the current findings suggest that current CBD use is associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety, but these effects are small. Future prospective research is needed to explicate the interrelations between CBD use and depression and anxiety as well as other negative emotional states to better understand the time pattern and interplay between these factors.

Mental health and its wider determinants in young people in the UK during 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic: repeated cross-sectional representative survey.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed an unprecedented global challenge, with past evidence suggesting negative psychological effects with the additional concern that social and physical restrictions might disproportionately affect adolescents. To explore mental health and its wider determinants in young people in the UK during 1 year of the COVID-19 pandemic (August 2020-August 2021). A representative sample of 11 898 participants (48.7% female) aged between 13 and 19 years (mean = 16.1) participated in five waves of data collection. Using validated self-reported questionnaires for loneliness, anxiety and depression, this survey measured the extent and nature of the mental health impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and help-seeking behaviours, and changes over time. Young people experienced higher levels of anxiety during the summer and fall 2020, followed by higher levels of depression during the winter 2020-2021, with loneliness gradually increasing then peaking during the spring and summer of 2021. Young people who were older, female, with pre-existing mental-health issues and experiencing financial difficulties were at higher risk of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Help-seeking behaviours reduced the risk of depression and loneliness. The COVID-19 pandemic had substantial impact on young people, whether on their mental health, their social contacts and interactions or their perspective on what the future holds for them. Young people strongly advocated for better teacher training, and a better integration of mental health services, particularly within their schools.

Trends and factors associated with depression among adults in the United States

<b>Purpose</b>: Examine the trends and risk factors of depression among adults in the USA.<br /> <b>Methods: </b>The national health interview survey (NHIS) data were analyzed. NHIS early release data provided the prevalence of depression from 2019 to 2022. We assessed depression covariates using SPSS 29.<br /> <b>Results: </b>The prevalence of depression decreased from 4.7% in 2019 to 4.5% in 2020, before rising to 5% in 2022. Of 31,536 participants in 2022 NHIS, 51.7% were female and 40% were 26 to 49 years old. Logistic regression showed that being female, obese and having diabetes and lower level of education as well as smoking cigarettes were significantly associated with higher levels of depression. Conversely, being married and aged 60 years<sup>+</sup> were significantly associated with lower likelihood of depression.<br /> <b>Conclusion: </b>The decrease trends of depression at the onset the pandemic underscores the needs for further study. Targeted public health strategies and collaborative efforts are essential to mitigate depression’s impact and improve mental health outcomes.

A structural equation modelling to explore the determinants of mental health disorders among reproductive-aged women in Nepal: a nation-wide cross-sectional survey

BackgroundSimilar to other countries, reproductive-age women in Nepal frequently encounter diverse mental disorders, yet they receive inadequate screening and attention. This research seeks to address this gap by conducting a comprehensive examination of the prevalence and factors associated with mental disorders of reproductive-age women in Nepal.MethodsThis study used the nationally representative Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2022 dataset to examine the association between mental disorders and potential confounders. Screening tools for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were employed, and descriptive and inferential statistics, including linear regression and structural equation modeling, were utilized in the analysis.ResultsThe study found that 22% of Nepalese women aged 15 to 49 reported anxiety symptoms, while 5% reported depressive symptoms. The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) reveals that anxiety had the most significant positive effect on depression (β = 0.683, p < 0.001), followed by emotional violence (β = 0.139, p < 0.001). Marital status (β = 0.072, p < 0.001) and the presence of genital discharge (β = 0.084, p < 0.001) or ulcer (β = 0.058, p < 0.001) in the last 12 months were also associated with higher levels of depression. Conversely, self-rated health status (β=-0.121, p < 0.001) was negatively associated with depression, indicating that better-perceived health was linked to lower levels of depression.ConclusionAlthough the prevalence of anxiety symptoms is higher than that of depression, there is a positive relationship between these two. Consequently, it is crucial to address the identified factors contributing to anxiety and depression in this population group through behavioral and policy interventions to enhance the mental well-being of reproductive-age women.

Effects of depression and stress on oral self-care among perinatal women in Appalachia: A longitudinal study.

Oral health during the perinatal period and beyond affects the health and well-being of women and their offspring. Oral self-care behaviours can maintain or improve oral health; depression or stress during the perinatal period may compromise these behaviours. The aim of the study was to investigate the independent and combined effects of depression and stress on oral self-care behaviours of perinatal women in Appalachia, given the high burden of oral disease in this region. A total of 1172 women in the first or second trimester of pregnancy were enrolled in the Center for Oral Health Research in Appalachia, cohort 2 (COHRA2) in West Virginia or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Participants completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, Perceived Stress Scale-10, and self-report items about oral self-care behaviours (i.e. toothbrushing and flossing) during pregnancy and five times in the 2+ years following birth. A Generalized Estimating Equation approach was used to analyse the longitudinal data. Maternal depression and stress were independently negatively related to toothbrushing and flossing frequency. These findings for toothbrushing were more pronounced in those with high levels of depression and high levels of stress, so there were both independent and combined effects. Frequency of toothbrushing and flossing stayed constant over time, so time was not associated with outcomes. About three-fourths of the sample reported toothbrushing levels that are consistent with established guidelines (i.e. two times daily), but almost half of the participants had very low levels of flossing (i.e. once or less a week). Interventions targeting stress and depression throughout the perinatal period might be helpful in improving oral self-care behaviours and oral health among women in Appalachia, in addition to the benefit of decreasing emotional distress.

Psychological interventions for family members of people with psychological disorders with emotional dysregulation: Introduction to special section.

Clinicians working with people suffering from psychological disorders involving emotional dysregulation often focus on treating the patient. To some extent, this is logical given the urgency and severity of the patient's problems. However, caregivers of these patients experience high levels of burden, depression, and other types of distress. Therefore, not caring for family members means first, neglecting these people who are also suffering, and secondly missing the opportunity to help patients from other perspectives focused on the context around them that can be very helpful. Currently, there is growing interest in studying interventions to help relatives of people with severe mental disorders. This special section presents some studies that analyze several variables that may influence the course of treatment, such as the influence of personality traits of parents of people with eating disorders and affective disorders or the family alliance for therapeutic change, and the level of hopelessness in family members of people with borderline personality disorders. Second, empirically supported interventions are presented for psychological disorders involving emotional dysregulation, for example, in relatives of people with borderline personality disorder and eating disorders. It is essential to make progress in the psychological care of people with psychological disorders and we think a good way to do this is to integrate into our clinical practice the possibility of offering skills training and psychoeducation to family members. So far, good results have been obtained, and we believe it is essential to disseminate these interventions among clinicians and researchers.

Sensitivity of the hospital anxiety and depression scale HADS in stroke patients

Introduction. The validated Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale HADS is recommended for screening symptoms of anxiety and depression in the routine practice of somatic doctors; it is also recommended by experts for use in rehabilitation medicine and frequently used in scientific research to assess the emotional state of stroke patients. At the same time, the literature provides various contradictory data on the sensitivity of this scale for stroke patients. Aim. To evaluate the detectability of emotional disorders in stroke patients using the HADS scale in comparison with the author’s computer program for studying the actual emotional state of the patient. Materials and methods. 60 stroke patients underwent inpatient rehabilitation in the National Medical Research Center for Rehabilitation and Balneology were randomly divided into 2 groups. 30 patients of Group 1 received a basic rehabilitation complex (aimed at correcting motor disorders); 30 patients of Group 2 received a basic rehabilitation complex in combination with a course of cognitive behavioral psychotherapy (CBT). To assess the emotional state at the beginning and at the end of rehabilitation, the HADS scale and the author’s computer program were used to study the actual emotional state of the patient. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Statistica-10 program. Results. The study groups were comparable in gender, age and clinical parameters. Initially, in patients of both groups, the median values of anxiety and depression on the HADS Scale corresponded to the norm, while the median values of the author’s methodology corresponded to a low level of comfort, the presence of fatigue, high levels of anxiety and depression. At the end of rehabilitation, according to the HADS Scale, significant positive dynamics was revealed in both groups, both for depression and anxiety (p 0.05), without significant intergroup differences. Whereas with the help of the author’s methodology, significant intergroup differences (p 0.05) were revealed, indicating a better positive dynamics of the emotional state in group 2, additionally receiving CBT. Conclusion. In comparison with the author’s program in stroke patients, the HADS scale is significantly less sensitive in the diagnosis of anxiety and depression, and does not reflect the established intergroup difference in the dynamics of emotional state after the use of the basic complex and its combination with CBT.

Psycho Ophthalmology: The Interface Between Psychiatry and Ophthalmology

Background: Psycho-ophthalmology is an interdisciplinary field examining the connections between psychiatric and ocular health. This study investigates the prevalence of ocular symptoms in psychiatric patients, ocular side effects from psychotropic medications, and the psychological impact of chronic eye conditions. Methods: A sample of 100 patients with coexisting psychiatric and ophthalmologic conditions was studied over one year at ESIC Medical College &amp; Hospital, Bihta, Patna. Data collection included psychiatric evaluations, ophthalmologic examinations, and medication reviews. Results: Seventy percent of patients with depression and 60% with anxiety experienced ophthalmologic symptoms, primarily dry eye and blurred vision. Fifty percent of patients on antipsychotics reported side effects, including increased intraocular pressure. Patients with age-related macular degeneration (80%) and diabetic retinopathy (70%) had significant psychological impacts, reporting high levels of depression and anxiety. Conclusion: Findings support a strong bidirectional relationship between mental and visual health, underscoring the need for integrated care. Patients with psychiatric conditions and chronic ocular diseases benefit from interdisciplinary approaches, enhancing outcomes and quality of life. Keywords: Psycho-ophthalmology, psychiatry, ophthalmology, interdisciplinary care

Exploring the relationships between chronotypes, attachment styles, and mental health in flight attendants

ABSTRACT Circadian rhythm-related individual differences such as chronotypes (morningness/eveningness) are associated with mental health though not elucidated in circadian-disrupted populations such as flight attendants. International flight attendants (n = 288) aged 21 to 55 (70.8% female, 76.4% white) completed an online survey assessing chronotypes, attachment, depression, and anxiety to investigate the associations between these variables. Results showed a prevalence of intermediate (41.6%) and evening types (40.6%). Evening chronotype was associated with and significantly predicted depression but not anxiety. Individuals who scored higher in attachment anxiety or avoidance had higher levels of depression and anxiety. Exploratory mediation showed that attachment avoidance partially mediated the relationship between anxiety and depression. Overall, chronotypes and attachment are implied as transdiagnostic factors for mental health outcomes and highlighted using a Chrono-Attachment Health Model. Further research is needed to confirm these findings among flight attendants and shift workers.

The Transmission Mechanisms of War Trauma in Early Mother–Child Interactions, Observed Through the Coding Interactive Behaviour Scale

ABSTRACT Background This study examines the transmission of trauma from mother to infant in war trauma contexts. We investigated how maternal exposure to war trauma affects mental health and its association with mother–child interaction quality. We hypothesise that maternal trauma negatively influences these interactions, reducing sensitivity and leading to increased emotional withdrawal and negative emotional states in children. Method Participants were twenty-four mother–infant dyads from Central Africa, Chad, and Cameroon. Mothers were exposed to war trauma before the birth or without direct exposure of the child. Children were aged between 1.5 and 30 months. Maternal mental health problems were indicated by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale and the Impact of Event Scale—Revised. Mother–infant interaction quality by the Coding Interactive Behaviour tool. Results The exposure to war trauma was associated with high levels of poor maternal mental health. Mothers showed high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression, as scored on different scales. This seems to influence the mother–baby interactions which obtain less than optimal scores following the observation and evaluation with the CIB (Maternal sensitivity M 2.7 SD 0.2; Maternal intrusiveness M 2.4, SD 0.1; Dyadic reciprocity M 2.7 SD 0.2; Negative emotional state of the baby M 1.9, SD 0.1; Negative state of the dyad M 2.1, SD 0.1; Baby social engagement M 2.6, SD 0.1). Conclusion The results suggest that maternal exposure to war trauma may impact interaction quality and maternal availability. Inferential statistics indicating low social engagement and negative emotional states in infants suggest potential trauma transmission through interactions with mothers affected by trauma. However, resilience factors may offer some protective effects against this transmission.

QUALITY OF LIFE OF ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS: PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL ASPECTS OF CANCER

Cancer has a profound impact on patients’ lives, requiring approaches that go beyond physical treatment to include psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. This narrative review explores how these aspects influence the quality of life of cancer patients, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary and humanized approach. Studies indicate that cancer diagnosis and treatment often generate high levels of anxiety and depression, aggravated by bodily changes and stigmas, affecting self-esteem and social interaction. Social and family support are identified as essential for coping, while spirituality offers comfort and resilience, promoting adaptation and acceptance. The review also emphasizes the need for public policies that ensure access to comprehensive and humanized support, such as home care programs and training of professionals for emotional and spiritual care. It is concluded that comprehensive cancer care is essential for a full quality of life and for healthy coping with cancer.

Comparison of volumetric brain analysis in subjects with rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are two autoimmune diseases where patients report high levels of fatigue, pain, and depression. The effect of systemic inflammation from these diseases is likely affecting the brain, however, it is unknown whether there are measurable neuroanatomical changes and whether these are a contributing factor to these central symptoms. We included 258 RA patients with 774 age and sex matched controls and 249 UC patients with 747 age and sex matched controls in a case control study utilizing the UK Biobank dataset. We used imaging derived phenotypes (IDPs) to determine whether there were differences in (1) hippocampal volume and (2) additional subcortical brain volumes between patients compared to controls and if there were common regions affected between these two diseases. Patients with UC had moderately smaller hippocampi compared to age and sex matched controls (difference: 134.15 mm3, SD ± 64.76, p = 0.035). This result was not seen in RA patients. RA patients had a significantly smaller amygdala volume than age and sex matched controls (difference: 91.27 mm3, SD ± 30.85, p = 0.0021, adjusted p = 0.012). This result was not seen in UC patients. All other subcortical structures analyzed were comparable between the patients and control groups. These results indicate there are subcortical brain differences between UC, RA and controls but different regions of the limbic system are preferentially affected by UC and RA. This study may provide evidence for different neurodegenerative mechanisms in distinct autoimmune diseases.

CarersCanADAPT: Study protocol of a stepped care pathway and hybrid type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial of an online cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) program for cancer carers with anxiety and depression

BackgroundFamily or friend carers of people with cancer report high levels of depression, anxiety, caregiving strain, and unmet needs. Limited strategies for identification and management of distress have been established among cancer carers. This paper describes the protocol of two linked studies: Study 1a, a distress screening and stepped care pathway feasibility study and Study 1b, a hybrid implementation-effectiveness Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) to assess the benefit of a comprehensive, carer-centred online Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) program for carers with anxiety and depression. MethodsFor Study 1a, 300 cancer carers will be screened for distress. Carers with low distress will be referred to publicly available carer resources. Carers scoring 4 and higher on the distress thermometer will complete depression and anxiety measures. Carers with high anxiety/depression will be recommended psychological therapy. Carers with mild/moderate anxiety and/or depression will be allocated to the Carers iCBT Program, evaluated via a RCT with waitlist control group (Study 1b). For Study 1b, intervention group carers will receive access to a 6-lesson self-directed online iCBT program. Waitlist-controls will access the intervention at 14 weeks. Intervention and control groups will complete baseline, 6 week, and 14 week self-report measures; controls will complete additional measures at 20 and 28 weeks. A sample size of n = 166 carers in the iCBT RCT is needed. ConclusionsIf acceptable, feasible and effective, this pathway and iCBT intervention could offer a sustainable, scalable and low-cost approach to identifying and managing distress in carers, and potentially improving patient and carer outcomes.Trial Registration: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry number: ACTRN12623001341617p.

Chasing among older-aged gamblers: the role of mentalizing and psychological distress.

Despite the increasing proportion of older-aged individuals suffering from problematic gambling, research on gambling among this specific age cohort is still in its infancy. Chasing is a pathognomonic feature of disordered gambling and is considered one of the key risk factors in the transition from recreational to disordered gambling. Despite the increased research on chasing over the past decade, no previous study has ever examined the psychological determinants of chasing behavior among old-aged gamblers. Given the importance of chasing in facilitating and maintaining problem gambling, and the paucity of research examining gambling among older individuals, the present study is the first to empirically investigate the joint role of chasing behavior, negative affectivity, and mentalizing among older-aged gamblers. The sample comprised 116 older-aged gamblers who were administered the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Reflective Functioning Questionnaire (RFQ-8) to assess gambling severity, psychological distress, and mentalizing, respectively. Participants also performed the ChasIT, a computerized task that assesses chasing behavior, in which participants were randomly assigned to three different experimental conditions: loss, control, and win. No effect of the experimental conditions of ChasIT on chasing behavior was observed. Regression analyses indicated that heightened levels of gambling severity and lower levels of certainty about mental states (i.e., hypermentalizing) predicted both the decision to chase and chasing frequency. Along with problem gambling and hypermentalizing, chasing frequency was also predicted by high levels of depression. The present study demonstrated the association between disordered gambling, depression, and hypermentalizing in chasing behavior among older-aged gamblers. The findings make an important contribution to providing insight regarding variables that are associated with chasing among older-aged gamblers, one of the least represented populations of gamblers in the literature. The results suggest that specific training on mentalizing abilities could help gamblers to reflect on their own behaviors in terms of mental states, rather than following the impulse to gamble in order to ameliorate poor mood.

Depression, anxiety, and help-seeking among Slovenian postsecondary students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has faced students with many challenges, contributing to their mental distress. This article explores the role of demographic characteristics, psychological status, year of study, and social support during the COVID-19 pandemic in explaining Slovenian university students' mental health problems and help-seeking behavior. In February and March 2021, data were collected on 5,234 full-time Slovenian postsecondary students who were enrolled in public and concessionary independent higher education institutions. Participants completed a questionnaire, which included The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Disorder questionnaire (GAD-7), Oslo Social Support Scale (OSSS-3), and items measuring psychological status, help-seeking behavior and demographics. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and hypothesis testing for differences. Factors, such as gender, age, psychological status and social support, contributed to experiencing anxiety and depression among Slovenian students during the COVID-19 pandemic, with year of study additionally contributing to experiencing depression. Similarly, gender, age, psychological status and social support contributed to help-seeking behavior. Higher levels of depression and anxiety were reported by female students, students with prior mental disorders, and students with lower social support levels. Female students and students with lower social support levels reported more frequent help-seeking behaviors. The results provide insight into the mental state of the Slovenian student population in the context of imposed public health measures at the end of the second COVID-19 wave in Slovenia. The findings can help identify vulnerable groups within the student population to whom we must be particularly attentive in times of crisis.

Anxiety and depression in people with epilepsy during andone year after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Compare the prevalence and severity of anxiety and depression among people with epilepsy (PWE) evaluated by telemedicine during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic and follow up on their status 15 months later. We conducted a prospective, observational, and analytical study at the Epilepsy Clinic of the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery (NINN) in Mexico City during the COVID-19 pandemic. HADS-A and HADS-D instruments were administered to adult patients diagnosed with epilepsy, initially through telemedicine and later through in-person visits or phone calls after one year. A sample of 115 patients was obtained, with 62.5% being women. The mean age of the patients was 33.6 years (± 12), and the mean age of epilepsy onset was 16.82 years (± 13.82). The majority of patients had focal epilepsy (78.3%), and only 42% reported being seizure-free. The results from the HADS-A scale showed that 48.69% of the patients had anxiety. On the HADS-D scale, 29.56% of the patients were found to have depression. At follow-up, the HADS-A results indicated that 50.64% of the patients had anxiety, and the HADS-D results showed that 36.36% had depression. An analysis of associations between sociodemographic or clinical variables and the presence of anxiety and/or depression in PWE revealed no statistically significant results, except for the clinical variable of patients taking anxiolytic or antidepressant medications during the assessment. These patients had lower HADS-A and HADS-D scores, with a statistically significant p-value of 0.0001. Comparing these findings with a previously published paper by our group showed a significant increase in both depression and anxiety, which were already prevalent in the earlier study. In conclusion, PWE exhibited high levels of anxiety and depression during and one year after the pandemic, despite receiving appropriate treatment. These symptoms, present before the pandemic, have been further exacerbated and continue to persist. This study examined anxiety and depression in patients with epilepsy (PWE) during the COVID-19 pandemic at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery in Mexico. Using the HADS-A and HADS-D scales, 115 patients were assessed over a year. Results showed that 48.69% had anxiety and 29.56% had depression, with both increasing to 50.64% and 36.36%, respectively, after one year. The only significant finding was that patients on anxiolytic or antidepressant medication had lower scores for anxiety and depression. The study concludes that anxiety and depression in PWE worsened during the pandemic and persisted despite treatment.

Abstract 4134962: Association between Chronotype and Psychological Health in South Korean Adolescents

Background: Chronotype influences general health, with late chronotypes often linked to psychological problems. However, longitudinal studies on this topic are limited. This study assessed the association between chronotype and adolescent mental health, focusing on depression and somatic symptoms through cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Methods: This longitudinal study used data from the Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey (KCYPS), targeting middle school students aged 13. Participants were assessed annually over four years (2018-2021). Chronotype was determined by analyzing sleep onset and wake times. Depression and somatic symptoms were evaluated using preexisting questionnaires like the SCL-90. Multilevel linear regression analyses were conducted both concurrently and prospectively, with gender stratification. Covariates included sleep quality, physical activity, smartphone usage, breakfast and friendship. Results: The study included 1,882 students who completed all follow-ups. Students with a late chronotype, short sleep duration, and low sleep quality reported more mental health symptoms. Late chronotype was associated with higher levels of depression (β=0.062, p&lt;.001) and somatic symptoms (β=0.056, p=.018) within the same year, and predicted somatic symptoms one year later (β=0.055, p=.019). For males, insufficient sleep worsened the effects of late chronotype on depression one year later (β=0.100, p=.042), and late chronotype predicted somatic symptoms one year later (β=0.072, p=.024). In females, late chronotype was associated with depression (β=0.061, p=.025) and somatic symptoms (β=0.075, p=.005) within the same year but did not predict future symptoms. Conclusions: Late chronotype negatively impacted depression and somatic symptoms and predicted future somatic symptoms. In females, late chronotype was related only to current mental health issues, whereas in males, it predicted future mental health problems, especially when combined with insufficient sleep. These findings highlight the impact of chronotype on adolescent mental health and suggest that its negative effects can be moderated by factors like sleep duration.

Characteristic of mental health app usage: a cross-sectional survey in the general population

BackgroundMental health apps (MHA) have gained popularity in recent years. Most freely available apps are of low quality and lack evidence for effectiveness. Yet, download rates indicate high usage. MHA are potentially beneficial for individuals with no/low symptom severity as prevention, or as an option to reach underserviced populations. However, currently very little is known about the characteristics of MHA users in the general population, about the kind of MHA used, or the motivation behind MHA usage.MethodsWe collected survey-data from N = 1,247 individuals from the general population to investigate MHA usage.ResultsDescriptive statistics revealed that 41% had used MHA in the past 12 months; prescription app-use however was low (1.5% of MHA users). Mindfulness, moodtracking, and relaxation were the most popular categories of MHA. Perceived helpfulness, fun, and availability were the top reasons for MHA usage. Non-users reported distrust, lack of perceived need, and data security concerns as usage barriers. MHA users and non-users did not differ regarding sociodemographic variables. Multiple regression analyses revealed that sub-threshold symptoms of psychological disorders as well as higher levels of anxiety and stress were linked to higher probability of MHA usage. Higher levels of depression were associated with lower likelihood of MHA usage in general, but increased likelihood of usage of self-help apps specifically for depression.ConclusionsIt follows that MHA use is common in the general population independent of sociodemographic characteristics. MHA can reach people who might benefit, but more awareness and better structure of the market is needed to reduce distrust, increase usage of high-quality MHA, and improve the fit between app and user.

Experiences and psychological issues affecting parents of children born with atypical genitalia in India.

Parents of children with differences of sex development (DSD) are known to suffer from psychological distress at the time of diagnosis and thereafter. We analyzed the prevalence of anxiety and depression in Indian parents of children with DSD and its associated risk factors, as well as their experiences, perceptions and expectations from the healthcare system. This cross-sectional study included parents of children aged ≤6 years with atypical genitalia. Data was collected through face-to-face semi-structured interview using specially designed questionnaire. Depression and anxiety have been assessed using PHQ9 (Patient health questionnaire) and GAD-7 (Generalized anxiety disorder scale), respectively. The current mean age of the 43 children (46,XY=26, 46,XX=16 and chromosomal DSD=1) was 36.5±21.4months with a median age of diagnosis of 5months (range- 0-60months). 68 parents (35 mothers and 33 fathers) were interviewed. The score was above the cut-off for clinically significant depression in 27.2 and 25.7 % of the fathers and mothers, respectively; and for clinically significant anxiety in 15.1 and 28.6 % of the fathers and mothers, respectively. The most significant factor associated with psychological distress was rearing a boy with lower EMS in fathers and lower literacy levels (with higher perception of stigma) in mothers. Absence of family support was associated with high levels of distress in both parents. There is a high level of depression and anxiety amongst Indian parents of children born with atypical genitalia and requirement for psychological support and counseling.

The Influence of Faith on the Mental Health of Ukrainian Forced Migrants During the Russian-Ukrainian War: An Exploratory Study via Social Media.

War is a significant, high-intensity stressor that forces millions of people to seek refuge in safer areas, resulting in profound physical and mental health challenges. Following the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, millions of Ukrainians became refugees in Europe. This exploratory study examines the influence of faith on the mental health of Ukrainian forced migrants during the war. The results indicate that two years after the start of the full-scale war, Ukrainian forced migrants suffer from PTSD symptoms, high levels of depression, moderate anxiety, frustration, rigidity, aggressiveness, and loneliness. This exploratory study provides insights into the role of faith in the mental health of forced migrants and underscores the importance of support services for this vulnerable population.