Impact Of Event Scale-Revised Research Articles

Assessment of the impact of COVID-19 and political instability on mental health of university students in Sudan

Background: The mental health of students plays a crucial role in their learning and performance. The COVID-19 pandemic, the political turmoil and a coup in Sudan has exacerbated stress and anxiety among university students in Sudan due to uncertainty about their academic activities. Aim: To assess post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurrence and coping strategies adopted by university students in Sudan. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2022. It used the Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (Brief-COPE) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) questionnaires to assess the occurrence of PTSD and coping strategies among 596 university students in Sudan. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the frequency and percentage, Student's t test was used to compare the means of 2 groups and one-way analysis of variance to compare the means of ≥ 3 groups. Results: There was a high prevalence of PTSD among the students, with a score of 31.2 (SD 16.4). The total score of PTSD was higher among female students. Around 36% of the students had a PTSD score > 37, which is considered high enough to suppress immune function. The most widely adopted coping strategies were religion and acceptance of the situation, while substance use was the least. Students who had COVID-19 infection during the pandemic differed significantly from uninfected students in the application of coping strategies. In contrast, students whose family members or friends had COVID-19 were not significantly different from students with uninfected family members or friends in the application of the coping strategies, such as self-blame, denial, substance use, and behavioural disengagement. Conclusion: We recommend the initiation and implementation of psychological counselling programmes for university students in Sudan onsite or remotely. Further research should be carried out to assess the long-term effects of the pandemic and the political conflicts so as to design and implement appropriate and efficient interventions

Which Factors Are Associated With Comorbid Psychiatric Conditions in Patients Affected by Substance Use Disorders? The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Dual-Diagnosis Subjects

Objective: To investigate demographic/cinical variables associated to dual diagnosis and the psychological reaction of dual-diagnosis patients to COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Information was collected at the Addiction Service of Monza, Italy. The Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), a self-report questionnaire measuring the subjective response to a traumatic event, was administered. Univariate analyses and binary logistic regression were performed. IES-R scores were compared between groups defined by qualitative variables through one-way analyses of variance (ANOVA). Results: 118 outpatients were included, 48.3% with dual diagnosis. Alcohol use disorder and being female were associated to dual diagnosis. IES-R scores were significantly higher in the dual-diagnosis group, especially for personality disorders (PDs). IES-R scores were higher in patients taking treatment for substance use disorder (SUD). Conclusions: Females and alcohol abusers were at-risk subjects for dual diagnosis. Patients with SUD and PDs may benefit from additional support, especially when traumatic life events occur. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04694482

The Influence of the Teacher’s Psycho-Physiological States on the Development of Professional Competencies in the Course of the Military Aggression

The aim of the article is to determine the specifics of the impact of the correctional programme of psycho-physiological conditions on the development of the professional competence of general secondary school teachers. The Diagnostics of Mental States of the National Academy of Sciences and the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-R) were used to obtain reliable data on the psycho-physiological state of the individual. A specialized online test for teachers was used to obtain data on the teachers’ competence aimed at determining informational competence, testing to determine the teacher’s subject methodical competence, observation of communicative competence. A formative experiment was planned and conducted. It was established that average indicators of psycho-physiological state prevail among teachers. The positive impact of the developed corrective programme on the teachers’ activity and mood was proved. It was concluded that the change in the psycho-physiological states of “invasion” and “avoidance” significantly depends on current social conditions, in particular, on the stability of the safety component. It was found that the correctional programme levelled the connections between the teachers’ subject methodical competence and the current psycho-physiological state. It was established that the teachers’ communicative competence continues to correlate after the completion of the programme with psycho-physiological comfort and general emotional background. In general, we can talk about the relative effectiveness of the developed corrective programme. The obtained results can be used to optimize programmes of continuous postgraduate education in the context of the development of resistance to the stresses of wartime. The prospects for further research are expanding the arsenal of methods for studying the teachers’ psycho-physiological state and clarifying gender differences in the teachers’ experience of stress. Received: 2 February 2024 / Accepted: 25 April 2024 / Published: 5 May 2024

Mental Health Disorders in Healthcare Workers Exposed to COVID-19, Mashhad, Iran: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Healthcare workers (HCWs) who are directly involved in the management of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection are at higher risk of psychological disorders. Objective: In this study, we evaluated the risk factors related to mental health disorders in HCWs active in the management of the COVID-19 pandemic in Mashhad, Iran. Methods: This was a cross-sectional investigation performed between April 2020 and May 2020 at five referral centers in Mashhad, Iran. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Impact of Event Scale–Revised (IESR), and VAS (for fear from COVID-19) to assess depression, anxiety, insomnia, distress and fear related to COVID-19 were filled. Risk factors were evaluated by the regression model. Results: Mean ± SD age of participants was 33.84 ± 7.03 years. Most were females (64.2%). Of 360 participants, 252 had some degree of an anxiety disorder (70%), 63.8% had depression, 55.8% had insomnia, and 72.8% had distress. Work experiences (OR: 0.94, 95% CI = 0.901- 0.983, p = 0.007), exposure to COVID-19 patients (OR: 2.54, 95% CI = 1.37-4.69, p < 0.001), and job status (OR: 1.40, 95% CI = 1.19 -1.54, p < 0.001) were significant predictors of anxiety. Age (OR: 1.15, 95% CI = 1.05-1.27, p = 0.002), exposure to COVID-19 patients (OR: 1.95, 95% CI = 1.04-3.64, p = 0.037), work experience (OR: 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78-0.93, p < 0.001), having children (OR: 0.58, 95% CI = 0.39- 0.87, p = 0.008), and being infected with COVID-19 (OR: 9.95, 95% CI = 1.92-51.64, p < 0.001) were the significant independent factors for depression in participants. Conclusion: COVID-19 could significantly affect HCWs mental health status, specifically depression. By targeting these predictors, health policymakers can reduce the burden of psychological disorders in HCWs.

Psychological impact and associated factors of the COVID-19 pandemic among pregnant women in Fafan Zone health institutions, Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia, 2021

BackgroundDespite pregnant women's vulnerability to respiratory illnesses and pregnancy complications during the COVID-19 pandemic, research on its psychological impact in the study area, is limited.ObjectiveThis study aims to fill this gap by examining the prevalence and factors linked to the psychological impact among pregnant women in the Fafan zone, Somali region of Ethiopia.MethodsA cross-sectional study conducted from April 1st to April 30th, 2021, randomly selected health facilities for inclusion. The Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) assessed psychological impact, and data were analyzed using SPSS V 22. Variables with a p-value ≤ 0.25 in bivariate analysis were considered for multivariate analysis via multiple logistic regressions with the backward elimination method.ResultsThe study involved 294 pregnant women, constituting 73% of the respondents. The prevalence of psychological impact attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic was 27.2%. Factors such as being in the first trimester of pregnancy (AOR: 5.32), travel history to infected areas (AOR: 3.71), obtaining COVID-19 information from television (AOR: 4.81), and using social media for 1 to 2 hours daily for updates (AOR: 1.35) were significantly associated with this impact.ConclusionWhile the psychological impact among pregnant women in this study was relatively lower compared to other research, factors such as gestational age, TV media exposure, travel history, and social media usage for COVID-19 updates were strongly linked to this impact, highlighting the necessity for psychological support services for pregnant women during challenging times.

Social support, distress, stress, anxiety, and depression as predictors of suicidal thoughts among selected university students in Bangladesh.

This study examines the association of perceived social support with suicidal thoughts among a young adult sample of university students and estimates the degree to which perceived stress, distress, anxiety, and depression may explain the association. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to September 2022 among 642 students, selected using the probability proportional to size procedure, at a large university in Bangladesh. We used the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) to measure support. The Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD-7) scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) were used to assess distress, stress, anxiety, and depression. The association between social support and suicidal thoughts was examined using multivariable logistic regression models. Mediation analyses were carried out using the Karlson, Holm, and Breen (KHB) method. We found that perceived social support was associated with lower odds of suicidal thoughts after controlling for other variables (adjusted odds ratio = 0.94; 95% confidence interval = 0.92-0.96). Mediation analysis showed that, after adjusting for potential confounders, the mediating effects among the total effect of perceived social support on suicidal thoughts were 56.1%, 20.8%, 22.5%, 38.8%, and 50.9% for all mental disorders together and four specific adverse mental health outcomes, i.e., perceived distress, stress, anxiety, and depression, respectively. This study demonstrates that perceived social support reduces the likelihood of suicidal thoughts among university students, and mental disorders have a partial mediating effect on the association. Suicide prevention and mental health promotion efforts among university students should consider encouraging students to build and strengthen a strong social support network.

Mental health in times of pandemic from the perspective of professors and students

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic brought profound societal changes and disruptions, including in the education system, which underwent swift modifications. It presented unique challenges for both professors and students, contributing to an increase in the prevalence of mental health-related symptoms.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of mental health disorders symptoms, coping strategies, and concerns among students (≥18 years) and professors at different times during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsThis was an online cross-sectional study (Student: N = 6,609; Phase 1 = 3,325; Phase 2 = 1,402; Phase 3 = 1,882; Professor: N = 9,096; Phase 1 = 3,924; Phase 2 = 2,223; Phase 3 = 2,949). Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), Impact of Event Scale-revised (IES-R), and BriefCOPE inventory were used. The probability of presenting the symptoms was calculated by multiple logistic regression and odds ratio (OR).ResultsThe prevalence of depression, anxiety, stress, and distress symptoms among students and professors was high (≥59.5% and ≥ 33.5%, respectively). Students, women, and those diagnosed with a mental disorder were more likely to have symptoms or distress. In the face of the pandemic, professors used more adaptive coping strategies than students. Health was the focus of professors’ concerns, while for students, future and labor market uncertainty were concerns derived from the health core.ConclusionThe results point to the need to strengthen psychosocial support for both professors and students.

Investigating harms of testing for ovarian cancer - psychological outcomes and cancer conversion rates in women with symptoms of ovarian cancer: A cohort study embedded in the multicentre ROCkeTS prospective diagnostic study.

To investigate psychological correlates in women referred with suspected ovarian cancer via the fast-track pathway, explore how anxiety and distress levels change at 12 months post-testing, and report cancer conversion rates by age and referral pathway. Single-arm prospective cohort study. Multicentre. Secondary care including outpatient clinics and emergency admissions. A cohort of 2596 newly presenting symptomatic women with a raised CA125 level, abnormal imaging or both. Women completed anxiety and distress questionnaires at recruitment and at 12 months for those who had not undergone surgery or a biopsy within 3 months of recruitment. Anxiety and distress levels measured using a six-item short form of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-6) and the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-r) questionnaire. Ovarian cancer (OC) conversion rates by age, menopausal status and referral pathway. Overall, 1355/2596 (52.1%) and 1781/2596 (68.6%) experienced moderate-to-severe distress and anxiety, respectively, at recruitment. Younger age and emergency presentations had higher distress levels. The clinical category for anxiety and distress remained unchanged/worsened in 76% of respondents at 12 months, despite a non-cancer diagnosis. The OC rates by age were 1.6% (95% CI 0.5%-5.9%) for age <40 years and 10.9% (95% CI 8.7%-13.6%) for age ≥40 years. In women referred through fast-track pathways, 3.3% (95% CI 1.9%-5.7%) of pre- and 18.5% (95% CI 16.1%-21.0%) of postmenopausal women were diagnosed with OC. Women undergoing diagnostic testing display severe anxiety and distress. Younger women are especially vulnerable and should be targeted for support. Women under the age of 40 years have low conversion rates and we advocate reducing testing in this group to reduce the harms of testing.

Fluctuations of stress and resilience in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: Insights and recommendations

BackgroundHealthcare workers (HCW) have faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19, with significant impact on their well-being. We aimed to monitor stress-related symptoms and resilience in HCW over time in relation to various factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsBetween June 2020 and May 2022, data was collected among HCW of Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC) through a digital self-monitoring application. The application included a 14-items self-monitoring tool (i.e., 7-items on Supporting factors, 7-items on Stressful burden), and a set of validated questionnaires (i.e., the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), Impact of Event Scale – Revised (IES-R), Resilience Evaluation Scale (RES), and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). ResultsThe self-monitoring tool and validated questionnaires were completed by 1070 and 413 participants respectively. Mean stress-related symptom scores (as measured by the self-monitoring, CBI, IES-R, and DASS-21) exhibited significant changes over time (all p’s < 0.001), which correlated with the waves of COVID-19 patients admitted and the national COVID-19 mortality rate (all p’s < 0.005). Resilience, as measured by the RES, showed a significant decrease from the start of data collection onwards (p = 0.001), whereas supporting factors showed significant decreases the first few months, followed by fluctuations after January 2021 (p = 0.02). LimitationsSelection bias may have arisen as those participating may have been more concerned with the burden on mental wellbeing. ConclusionsThe current study underscores the need for active psychosocial support for all HCW particularly during periods of increased admissions due to pandemics.

Psychological Impact of COVID-19 on Speech and Language Therapists Working with Adults in Dysphagia.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed unprecedented challenges on healthcare systems worldwide, with significant attention to the mental health of healthcare workers. Speech and Language Pathologists (SLPs) working with dysphagia patients represent a unique subgroup, whose psychological well-being during the pandemic has been less explored. Understanding the psychological impact on these professionals is crucial for developing targeted support mechanisms. Objective: This study aims to investigate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SLPs working with adult dysphagia patients in Punjab, Pakistan, identifying key factors influencing their mental health and providing insights into their experiences and perceptions regarding the pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing a non-probability convenience sampling technique to recruit 87 SLPs from various hospitals and rehabilitation centers across Punjab. Participants completed an online survey, which included demographic questions and standardized instruments: the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0, focusing on descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The majority of respondents were female (81.6%), with a significant proportion aged between 23 to 29 years. Qualifications predominantly were MS SLP (43.7%), and experience ranged mostly between 1 to 2 years (26.4%). The DASS-21 results indicated mean scores of 6.67 (SD=4.02) for depression, 7.71 (SD=3.4) for anxiety, and 7.87 (SD=4.4) for stress, suggesting elevated levels of psychological distress among participants, particularly regarding anxiety and stress. Conclusion: The findings highlight the substantial psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on SLPs working with dysphagia patients, emphasizing the need for comprehensive mental health support for these professionals. Enhancing support mechanisms can contribute to the resilience and effectiveness of SLPs in managing dysphagia patients during and beyond the pandemic.

Patient characteristics associated with posttraumatic stress symptoms in intensive care unit survivors during a one-year follow-up: A multicenter study

BackgroundIntensive care unit (ICU) patients are at risk of suffering from posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) after ICU survival. ObjectivesTo describe the prevalence of high levels of PTSS the first year after ICU admission. Further, to identify specific combinations of patient characteristics (latent classes based on pre-ICU data, demographics, and clinical characteristics), and to investigate possible associations among these classes and PTSS at 3, 6, and 12 months after ICU admission. MethodsSelf-reported PTSS were measured with Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). PTSS and possible predictive factors (pre-ICU data, demographics, and clinical characteristics) were analyzed using descriptive statistics, latent class analysis, and linear mixed model for repeated measures. ResultsHigh PTSS levels (IES-R ≥ 33) were reported by 14.9 % (95 % confidence interval [CI] [10.0; 21.1]), 16.7 % (95 % CI [11.5; 23.1]), and 18.4 % (95 % CI [12.9; 25.0]) of patients (sample 1, n = 174) at 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Three latent classes were identified (sample 2, n = 417). PTSS were significantly associated with class 2 (male with longer hospital stay) at 6 months and class 3 (age≥70, lower level of education, higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score, being mechanically ventilated) at all three measurement times. ConclusionsThe prevalence of high levels of PTSS is the greatest 12 months after ICU admission. Health professionals can use this information to be aware of specific groups of ICU patients reporting PTSS during the first year and follow up on these.

Healthcare Workers’ General Health and Its Relation with Anxiety, Anger, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder during COVID-19 Outbreak in Southeast Iran

Background. Healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic played an effective role in providing preventive and curative measures. Scientific evidence confirmed that the outbreak of this disease has caused numerous psychological problems such as pre- and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and anger at a global level. This study is aimed at investigating the general health of healthcare workers and its relationship with anxiety, anger, and posttraumatic stress disorder during the outbreak of COVID-19. Methods. This research was a cross-sectional study conducted on 455 healthcare workers of four teaching hospitals in Kerman, southeast of Iran. The convenience sampling method was used. The research tools included the 12-Item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), the trait anxiety section of State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the trait anger section of Trait-State Anger Expression Inventory 2 (STAXI-2). Data analysis was done in IBM SPSS Statistics version 25 and using Pearson’s correlation tests, independent t-test, ANOVA, and multivariate linear regression. Results. 28.1% (n=128) of the participants had mental health disorders. The mean score of anxiety was 43.99±9.24 which was at moderate to high level of anxiety. The mean score of anger was 18.65±5.72 which was at the moderate level. The mean score of PTSD was 34.77±15.24 which was less than the midpoint of the questionnaire, i.e., the score of 44. The results of the multiple linear regression model that showed anxiety, anger, gender, and hospital were predictors of mental health (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion. The results of the present study showed that about a quarter of the healthcare workers faced with the COVID-19 pandemic had mental health disorders and suffered from moderate to high anxiety, moderate anger, and PTSD. It was also observed in this study that there was a weak to moderate significant correlation between general health and anxiety, anger, and PTSD in healthcare workers. So, healthcare workers need a lot of social and psychological support.

The transmission of intergenerational trauma and protective factors in survivors of the lebanese civil war and their adult offspring

BackgroundThe aim of the study was to examine the transmission of intergenerational trauma in survivors of the Lebanese civil war and their adult offspring. To examine potential mechanisms, it was hypothesized that the relationship between parental war exposure and offspring psychopathology was statistically mediated by (i) parental psychopathology and (ii) offspring exposure to adverse childhood experiences (ACE). Finally, it was predicted that spirituality and social support might buffer against the effects of adversity and therefore moderate the association between trauma exposure and psychopathology. MethodAn online questionnaire-based study was conducted, recruiting 110 dyads of parents who had lived through the Lebanese civil war and their post-war born adult offspring. Parental war exposure and trauma symptoms [with the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire (HTQ)] and offspring adverse childhood experiences and trauma symptoms [with Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ) and Impact of Events Scale Revised (IES-R)] were assessed. Both parents and offspring’s distress [with Beirut Distress Scale (BDS-10)], depression and anxiety symptoms [with Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21)], perceived social support [with Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS)], and perceived spirituality [with Spiritual Well-Being Scale (SWBS)] were measured. ResultsParental war exposure and offspring psychopathology were statistically mediated by parental psychopathology, but not ACE exposure. Offspring of parents with (vs without) high levels of psychopathology had 3.72 times higher odds of reporting high levels of psychopathology themselves. Findings showed that the correlation between trauma exposure and psychopathology was moderated by perceived social support and spirituality. However, the correlation was only significant for higher levels of social support and spirituality. DiscussionThese results suggest that the presence of the proximal risk factor "low social support” may affect psychopathology negatively no matter the amount of adverse experiences consistent with a recency model of adversity. If social support is at least moderate, the distal risk factor “adverse experiences/ war trauma” impacts psychopathology. Overall, these findings highlight the need for trauma-informed mental health support for people fleeing from or residing in countries with ongoing or recent armed conflicts.

Posttraumatic stress disorder 2 months after cesarean delivery: a multicenter prospective study

BackgroundThe prevalence and risk factors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after cesarean delivery, outside high-risk contexts, remain unclear ObjectiveTo assess posttraumatic stress disorder prevalence and risk factors at 2 months postpartum among a general population of women with cesarean delivery. Study designProspective ancillary cohort study of the Tranexamic Acid for Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage after Cesarean Delivery (TRAAP2) trial, conducted in 27 French hospitals in 2018-2020 and enrolling women expected to undergo cesarean delivery before or during labor at 34 or more weeks of gestation. After randomization, characteristics of the cesarean delivery and postpartum blood loss were prospectively collected. Two months after childbirth, posttraumatic stress disorder profile (presence of PTSD symptoms) and provisional diagnosis (positive screening for diagnosis consistent with a PTSD) were assessed by 2 self-administered questionnaires (Impact of Event Scale Revised (IESR) and Traumatic of Event Scale (TES)). The corrected posttraumatic stress disorder prevalence was estimated with inverse probability weighting to take nonresponse into account. Associations between potential risk factors and posttraumatic stress disorder were analyzed by multivariate logistic or linear regression modeling according to the type of dependent variable. ResultsIn all, 2785 of 4431 women returned the IES-R questionnaire and 2792 the TES (response rates of 62.9% and 63.0%). The prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder profile was 9.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 7.8-10.3%) and of provisional diagnosis 1.7% (95%CI 1.2-2.4%). Characteristics associated with a higher risk of posttraumatic stress disorder profile were prepregnancy vulnerability factors - young age, high BMI and Africa-born migrant – and cesarean-related obstetric factors - cesarean delivery after induced labor (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.81, 95%CI 1.14-2.87), postpartum hemorrhage (aOR 1.61, 95%CI 1.04-2.46) and high intensity pain during the postpartum stay (aOR 1.90, 95%CI 1.17-3.11). Women who had immediate skin-to-skin contact with their newborn were at lower risk of posttraumatic stress disorder (aOR 0.66, 95%CI 0.46-0.98), and women with bad memories of delivery on day 2 postpartum at higher risk (aOR 3.20, 95%CI 1.97-5.12). The IES-R and the TES scales yielded consistent results ConclusionsAround one in 11 women with cesarean deliveries had posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms at 2 months postpartum. Some obstetric interventions and components of cesarean management may influence this risk

Caring for patients in the Covid era: Are the quality of life the same for doctors and nursing staff?

BackgroundThe Covid-19 pandemic has represented one of the most stressful events of recent times and has placed enormous psychological pressure on doctors and nurses. AimsThe objective of this work is to evaluate the psychological impact of the Covid-19 outbreak on Spanish nurses and doctors, and to identify factors related to their mental health. MethodsThe study is a descriptive study and examined 812 doctors and 768 nurses. The dependent variables were health-related quality of life, anxiety, depression, perceived stress and insomnia. Participants completed the Health-related Quality of Life-Questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item-Scale, the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, the Impact Event Scale-Revised, and the Insomnia Severity Index. Sociodemographic and Covid-related data were also recorded. Descriptive statistics, univariable analysis and multivariable linear regression models were used. ResultsA greater proportion of nurses than doctors suffered clinical anxiety, depression and insomnia (56.84 % vs 45.81 p-value<0.0001, 64.67 % vs 53.39 p-value<0.0001, and 23.04 % vs 18.02 p-value 0.01, respectively). Although in our study nurses were more likely to suffer clinical anxiety, stress and insomnia than doctors, our results nevertheless showed that there were no differences in terms of quality of life. Different factors related to mental health were identified for doctors and nurses. Nurses working in care homes or geriatric services (OR = 4.13, IC95% 1.71–9.99, p-value 0.002), and in services with greatest contact with Covid-19 patients (OR = 1.71,IC95% 1.10–2.68, p-value 0.02) were more likely to suffer depression. ConclusionsOur study confirms that doctors and nurses are at high risk of clinical anxiety, depression, stress or insomnia during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The effect of nurse-initiated diary intervention on posttraumatic stress disorder and recall of memories in ICU survivors: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPatients’ recall of memories from the ICU plays an important role in the occurrence of post-traumatic stress disorder. This study aimed to determine the effect of nurse-initiated diary intervention on post-traumatic stress disorder and recall of memories in ICU survivors.MethodsThis RCT study included all patients admitted to two trauma ICUs in Southeast of Iran. Thirty patients considered in control and intervention groups. Data collection tools included the Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R), and the ICU Memory Tool (ICU-MT). The researcher wrote daily diaries of the intervention and control groups during the first 72 h of their admissions. SPSS25 was used to analyze the data.ResultsThe total mean PTSD score in the intervention group was significantly lower than that in the control group (p > 0.0001, z = -3.75). The number of those in the intervention group who clearly recalled their admission to hospital, their hospital stay before being admitted to the ICU and all memories from the ICU stay, was more than those in the control group; this difference was statistically significant (p > 0.0001).ConclusionThe results showed that the nurse-initiated diary was effective on the PTSD and recall clear memories of patients admitted to the ICU. We suggest medical and educational centers to use this intervention in order to reduce the posttraumatic stress disorder in these patients. As nurse-initiated diary intervention had no significant difference in the recall of different types of memories from the ICU, we require further studies in this field.

Perinatal mental health and Covid-19-related distress: the role of personality traits.

Perinatal mental health is a topic of growing interest, that could affect mothers in a period of high vulnerability, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic is an important factor to consider in this field. The aim of our study is to study the correlations between five dimensions of personality and subjective Covid-19-related distress in a sample of women in the perinatal period. The study included 114 Italian women in the perinatal period. Subjects were asked to complete the Big Five Inventory (BIG-5) and a version of the Impact of Event Scale - Revised (IES-R) anchored to Covid-19-related distress. When the BIG-5 personality traits and several confounding variables were included in a regression model with IES-R total score as criterion, neuroticism subscale of BIG-5 inventory was the only variable independently associated with higher IES-R total score (p<0.001). Our study highlights the importance of considering the personality vulnerability factors that can worsen psychopathological symptoms of women in the perinatal period, especially in periods of high psychological stress.

Prevalence and determinants of post-traumatic stress disorder five months after the 2019 huge flooding in Iran

BackgroundDespite the high occurrence of floods in Iran, its psychological consequences have been less discussed. The present paper addresses the prevalence of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its determinants among the affected adults by the huge flood of 2019.MethodsAn analytical cross-sectional study was conducted through household face-to-face surveys in August and September 2019. Individuals who were affected by floods and were at least 16 years old were randomly selected from three provinces in Iran: Lorestan and Khuzestan in the west and southwest, and Golestan in the northeast. The questionnaire of demographic and flood related variables in addition to the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) were utilized to collect the data. We applied a complex sample analysis to describe the prevalence of PTSD and logistic regression analyses to find its determinants.ResultsOut of the 2,305 individuals approached for surveys, 1,671 (72.5%) adults affected by the floods participated in the study. The majority of participants were housewives, married, had either no formal education or primary education, and resided in rural areas. The prevalence of PTSD in the participants was 24.8% (CI 95%: 20.7–28.8%) and was significantly higher in Lorestan province (39.7%, P < 0.001). Determinants of PTSD, were unemployment (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.53, CI 95%: 1.38-9.00), primary (AOR = 2.44, CI 95%: 1.10–5.41) or high school (AOR = 2.35, CI 95%: 1.25–4.40) education (vs. university), a history of mental disorders (AOR = 2.36, CI 95%: 1.22–4.58), high damage to assets (AOR = 2.29, CI 95%: 1.40–3.75), limited access to health care services after the flood (AOR = 1.95, CI 95%: 1.20–3.19), not receiving compensation for flood damage (AOR = 1.94, CI 95%: 1.01–3.83), high wealth index (AOR = 1.90, CI 95%: 1.23–2.93), and flooded house with a height of more than one meter (AOR = 1.66, CI 95%: 1.02–2.76).ConclusionResults show a notable prevalence of PTSD, especially in Lorestan province, among adults affected by floods. Determinants of PTSD include unemployment, lower education, psychiatric history, extensive property damage, limited post-flood healthcare access, lack of compensation, and increased flood exposure. We recommend adopting an inclusive screening approach for high-risk groups and developing appropriate therapeutic and supportive interventions.

Post-traumatic Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Women With Ovarian Cancer 3-6 Months After Diagnosis.

The potentially traumatic role of severe life-threatening medical conditions is still debated in psychiatry and not yet recognized, particularly among post-traumatic stress disorders. However, increasing evidence suggests the psychopathological impact of severe medical conditions related to their poor prognosis, high lethality, treatments heaviness and invasiveness. Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the malignancies with the highest mortality and the aim of this study was to investigate post-traumatic stress and depressive symptoms in women 3 to 6 months after diagnosis. A sample of 83 women diagnosed with OC at different stages (from AI to IV) was recruited and assessed by means of the: Structural Clinical Interview for Mental Disorders according to DSM-5 (SCID-5), Trauma and Loss Spectrum Self-Report (TALS-SR), Impact Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), Mood Spectrum-Self Report (MOOD-SR), Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS). Full data on the psychiatric assessments were available for 45 patients: 13 (28.9%) patients reported a diagnosis of PTSD. Patients with PTSD reported statistically significant higher depressive symptoms and more severe impact on work and social functioning compared to those without PTSD. Our results highlight the need to carefully assess the potentially traumatic burden of a diagnosis of OC and its association with depressive symptoms for their impact on patients' global functioning, in order to provide appropriate preventive and therapeutic interventions.

Risk and prediction of job burnout in responding nurses to public health emergencies

BackgroundIn public health emergencies, nurses are vulnerable to adverse reactions, especially job burnout. It is critical to identify nurses at risk of burnout early and implement interventions as early as possible.MethodsA cross-sectional survey of the hospitals in Xiangyang City was conducted in January, 2023 using stratified cluster sampling. Anonymized data were collected from 1584 working nurses. The Impact of Events Scale-Revised (IES-R) and the Chinese version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-General Survey (MBI-GS) were used to evaluate the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and burnout of nurses in public health emergencies. Logistic regression analysis was established to screen for risk factors of burnout, and a nomogram was developed to predict the risk of burnout. A calibration curve and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to validate the nomogram internally.ResultsThis study showed that only 3.7% of nurses were completely free of PTSD during a public health emergency. We found that PTSD varied by age, marital status, procreation status, length of service, employee status, and whether working in the ICU. The nurses aged 30 ~ 40 years old, single, married without children, non-regular employees, worked for less than three years or worked in the ICU had higher levels of PTSD. Regarding the prevalence of burnout, 27.4%, 48.5%, and 18.6% of nurses had a high level of emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and diminished personal accomplishment (PA), respectively. There, 31.1% of nurses had more than two types of job burnout. The number of night shifts, the type of hospital, marital status, and the severity of PTSD were all associated with higher rates of exhaustion among nurses. As a graphical representation of the model, a nomogram was created and demonstrated excellent calibration and discrimination in both sets (AUC = 0.787).ConclusionsThis study confirmed the PTSD and burnout are common problems for in-service nurses during public health emergencies and screened out the high-risk groups of job burnout. It is necessary to pay more attention nurses who are single and working in general hospitals with many night shifts, especially nurses with severe PTSD. Hospitals can set up nurses’ personal health records to give timely warnings to nurses with health problems, and carry out support interventions to relieve occupational stress.