Support Interventions Research Articles

Prehabilitative/rehabilitative exercise, nutrition, and psychological support for bladder cancer: A scoping review of randomized clinical trials.

The study of prehabilitation and rehabilitation ([p]rehabilitation) to alleviate the sequelae of bladder cancer and its treatment has generated numerous opportunities to improve the quality of life of bladder cancer survivors. The authors conducted a scoping review of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to identify knowledge gaps in and research directions for (p)rehabilitative support for those affected by bladder cancer. The authors systematically searched six databases and synthesized key findings from RCTs conducted from January 1, 2004, through March 15, 2022, that enrolled participants with bladder cancer, survivors, or caregivers in outpatient (p)rehabilitative programs (e.g., exercise, nutrition, or psychological support). Outcomes were characterized according to eight prespecified, clinically relevant categories. The search retrieved 10,968 records, 27 of which met the inclusion criteria, and 24 described unique RCTs with 2471 enrolled participants. Of 24 interventions, 17 (71%) yielded statistically significant results for the outcome of interest. Only one RCT included a cost-effectiveness analysis, and only two characterized the efficacy of interventions for caregivers. Of 11 RCTs involving psychological support, eight yielded statistically significant results, as did nine of 11 RCTs with physical exercise interventions, three of four RCTs with educational interventions, three of four RCTs with nutritional support interventions, one of two RCTs with pharmacologic medications, and zero of one RCT with physical therapy. The most promising interventions for inclusion in multimodal, personalized (p)rehabilitation programs included exercise, stress management training, cognitive training, smoking and alcohol cessation counseling, immunonutrition, stoma education, and penile rehabilitation. Further studies of the cost effectiveness and efficacy for caregivers of such interventions are needed. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: In a scoping review of all randomized clinical trials involving prehabilitative or rehabilitative diet, exercise, and psychological support interventions for patients with bladder cancer, survivors, and their caregivers, 17 of 24 (71%) interventions yielded statistically significant improvements in the outcome of interest. Clinicians should consider implementing such interventions for those affected by bladder cancer.

Incidence, diagnostics, therapeutic management and outcomes of paediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction in the Netherlands: A 20-year retrospective cohort study.

To describe incidence, clinical course, diagnostic and therapeutic management and long-term follow-up of paediatric intestinal pseudo-obstruction (PIPO) in the Netherlands between 2000 and 2020. Multicenter, national, retrospective, observational study including patients aged <18 years diagnosed with PIPO and treated between 2000 and 2020 in Dutch academic medical centres. Outcomes included demographics, incidence, symptoms, diagnostic- and treatment methods used during follow-up, number of hospital admissions and mortality. Between 2000 and 2020, 43 children (median age 120 months, range 13 - 301, 54% female) were diagnosed with PIPO in the Netherlands. Mean incidence was 0.008/100,000/years (range 0/100 000-0.029/100 000). Twenty-six patients developed PIPO in the neonatal period. Initial symptoms were vomiting (n = 21/35, 60%) and abdominal distension (n = 14/35, 40%). Diagnostic strategies included imaging, manometry, histopathology, metabolic- and genetic screening, endoscopy and exploratory surgery. Treatment was divided in nutritional support, pharmacotherapy, colonic irrigation and surgical interventions, of which nutrition and surgery were the cornerstones for care. During the observed study period, the median number of hospital admissions was 22.5 (range 1-176) with a median of 157.5 days (range 3-840) during 20-year follow-up. Two patients (6%) died: one from sepsis and one due to a severe underlying neurological disease. Heterogeneity in diagnostic- en treatment methods existed between patients. PIPO is a rare, long-lasting complex disease requiring a high number of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions and hospital admissions. However, mortality rate is relatively low. Based on our results, we recommend centralization and standardization of care for this complex rare disease.

Stop procrastinating, start renovating! Exploring the decision-making process for household energy efficiency renovations

A tricky contributor to the “energy efficiency gap” is homeowners who fail to finalize a planned Energy Efficiency Renovation (EER) project, even after having received an offer from a contractor. However, there is a lack of evidence on drivers and barriers of homeowners' EER in the final stage of the decision process, including the role of the energy consultation and homeowners' perceptions of barriers and impediments that can potentially lead to procrastination, that is, to the postponement of tasks. This study contributes to filling this gap based on a survey of 609 Danish homeowners in the final stage of an EER decision-making processes. Through a comparative analysis of adopters and non-adopters, we find that procrastination is a common reason for non-adoption. First, we identify potential predictors that differ between adopters and non-adopters. Next, these variables are included in a structural equation path model (SEM) to estimate their direct and indirect effects on EER adoption. We find that homeowners' final implementation of EER decisions is complex and far from a simple weighing of monetary costs and benefits. Psychological factors such as expected hassle and interpersonal aspects of the consultation, as well as perceived difficulties and impediments, specifically related to how easy an EER offer is to understand and ultimately accept, are identified as core antecedents of EER adoption or procrastination. Implications for interventions to reduce procrastination in EER decisions are discussed, including financial support measures and interventions designed to make it easier for homeowners to implement their EER decisions.

Financial insecurity and mental well-being: experiences of parents amid the lebanese economic crisis

BackgroundThis study investigates the impact of financial insecurity on the mental well-being and stress levels of parents in Lebanon amid the country’s severe economic crisis. The context of Lebanon’s economic collapse, coupled with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Beirut port explosion, has exacerbated financial and psychological distress among the population. This research aims to understand the correlation between financial instability and parental stress, identifying key factors contributing to mental health challenges in this demographic.MethodsEmploying a quantitative research approach, data was collected through an online survey from 785 parents from different backgrounds in Lebanon. The survey incorporated sociodemographic questions, the InCharge Financial Distress/Financial Well-Being Scale (IFDFW), and the Arabic version of the Parental Stress Scale (PSS). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25.ResultsFindings showed significant correlations between high levels of parental stress and factors such as age (r = 0.071, p = 0.047) and lower education levels. Notably, refugees residing in Lebanon exhibited higher stress levels compared to Lebanese parents (mean stress score: 51.73 vs. 45.71, p < 0.001). Similarly, employed participants exhibited higher stress levels compared to the nonworking (mean stress score: 46.75 vs. 44.60, p = 0.003). A significant inverse association was found between financial well-being and parental stress (r=-0.216, p < 0.001), emphasizing the profound impact of economic instability on mental health.ConclusionsThis study highlights the adverse effects of financial insecurity on parents’ mental health, primarily during a period of economic instability, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted support interventions. These findings contribute to the literature on economic crises and mental health, providing a basis for future research and policy development in similar contexts.

Supporting Learners with Mild Intellectual Developmental Disorders with Career Development in Mainstream Schools

Many learners with mild intellectual developmental disorders (IDD) in mainstream primary schools in the Free State Province of South Africa require support to maximise their learning potential and prepare them for work post-school. In this study, a qualitative approach and Critical Disability Theory were used to explore the experiences of education stakeholders (teachers, parents, and principals) in how schools support the career development of learners with mild IDD in mainstream schools. There were 25 participants in this study, and data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, and demographic questionnaires. The findings indicated that teachers were optimistic that learners with intellectual developmental disorders could thrive if identified early and provided with specialised support services. The findings also showed that teachers had low self-efficacy regarding their training on inclusive education practices and had limited knowledge about career development services. All the participants were optimistic that learners with mild IDD could participate in the labour market if they were taught work-related skills at an early age. It is recommended that stronger collaborative partnerships should be developed between stakeholders to promote inclusive support interventions, transform teaching approaches, and equip mainstream teachers with the required skills.

Implementation of Itinerant Classrooms as an Educational Strategy for Pedagogical Knowledge Recovery in Basic Education Students

The global COVID-19 pandemic resulted in academic setbacks due to the loss of learning, the effects of which began to become evident during the progressive return to in-person classes, highlighting the need to work on re-education processes. This study examines the effectiveness of itinerant classrooms in facilitating learning recovery among Basic Education students following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A pedagogical support intervention was implemented for 304 students across educational institutions nationwide. A quasi-experimental design with a quantitative approach was employed, utilizing pre-test and post-test assessments to evaluate mathematics performance. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in student grades after the intervention, with the complete elimination of scores in the lower range. These findings underscore the effectiveness of itinerant classrooms as a mobile educational strategy that addresses the needs of students in marginalized communities. The research highlights the importance of an inclusive approach to pedagogical recovery, promoting collaboration among educators, psychologists, and families to comprehensively address academic underachievement.

Qualitative Exploration of Abdominal Transplant Surgeon Perception of Retirement.

For many surgeons, retirement is an emotionally evocative subject, tied to a sense of loss. With minimal guidelines to facilitate a smooth transition, physicians tend to be inadequately prepared. There are few qualitative studies exploring surgeons' perspectives and none focused on transplant surgeons, a population with arguably unique challenges. We set out to define an "ideal" retirement for transplant surgeons, and identify behavioral and cognitive patterns associated with optimism towards retirement. We conducted 60-minute semi-structured interviews with 30 division chiefs of transplant surgery to explore their perceptions of retirement. Thematic analysis using a framework approach was performed to identify key themes. The cohort was predominantly male (80.0%) and White (76.7%), with 24.8 years in practice on average (range 12-40 years). Participants expressed desires to retire at the peak of their career trajectory and maintain autonomy in this transition. However, when naming signs of impending retirement, they often cited indicators of burnout. Attributes separating those who were optimistic from others included 1) well-rounded sense of identity, 2) holistic attitude towards one's health and well-being, 3) belief in the ability to exert autonomy over retirement process through long-range planning, 4) community centered mindset, and 5) multifaceted and evolving view of career identity. While surgeons aspire to "go out on top," many envision working until they can no longer endure it. This discrepancy highlights the need for normalizing discussions around retirement. With their unique insights, we have the opportunity to develop supportive interventions, such that transplant surgeons retire in a manner which preserves dignity and celebrates their legacy.

EDUCAÇÃO EM SAÚDE E PREVENÇÃO DA DEPRESSÃO PÓS-PARTO: O papel da enfermagem obstétrica

The research addresses the importance of health education and prevention of postpartum depression in the context of obstetric care, highlighting the role of nursing in the care of pregnant and postpartum women. Postpartum depression is a condition that affects many women and can have serious consequences for the mother and the development of the baby. The general objective of the study was to investigate the impact of health education actionscarried out by obstetric nurses in the prevention and management of postpartum depression, focusing on detection strategies, emotional support and educational interventions. The methodology used was a literature review, covering scientific articles published between 2019 and 2024, resulting in 12 articles addressing the role of obstetric nursing in health education and prevention of postpartum depression, in which the inclusion criteria were articles published in Portuguese, and the Inclusion Criterion with the DeCS: Depression. Obstetric Nursing. Health Education. Studies in Portuguese that specifically addressed the role of these professionals in this context were included. The research was conducted through electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus and VHL, using descriptors related to mental health, childbirth and health education. The results indicate that obstetric nurses play an essential role in raising awareness and supporting women, promoting preventive practices that reduce the incidence of postpartum depression. The implementation of educational and welcoming strategies in the prenatal and postpartum period, associated with continuous emotional support, proved to be effective in improving the mental health of pregnant and postpartum women.

Systematic review of burden&amp;quality of life in caregivers of children with schizophrenia (SyREN)

Abstract Background Schizophrenia is a chronic, disabling disorder that affects 23.6 million people worldwide, with patients often needing extensive assistance and care. Main caregivers are frequently family members who may present a reduced quality of life (QoL) due to the high-level burden of care. Literature mostly focuses on the burden caused by other mental disorders or by schizophrenia in both the adult and child population. We aim to assess the burden and QoL in caregivers of children and adolescents with schizophrenia. Methods We conducted a Systematic Review of articles published between 2013 and 2023 on MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, APA PsycARTICLES, CINAHL. We included studies in which a validated instrument was used to measure the burden of caregiving and QoL for adult caregivers of children and adolescent schizophrenic patients. The results were reported following the PRISMA guidelines. Results We identified 1388 studies. We removed 610 duplicates. After screening 788 studies on title and abstract and 52 for full-text, we included one cross-sectional study in China based on the STROBE Checklist. Significant correlations between burden of care and schizophrenia severity, children’s age, period of care, education, sex, residence, and income were reported. Additionally, we screened 7 qualitative studies. Social stigma and struggle were the most frequently reported feelings, and financial burden was the most common external factor associated with a worse quality of life. Conclusions This review revealed a significant research gap in this field. This lack of focused research underscores the urgent need for targeted investigations into the experiences of caregivers of children and adolescents with schizophrenia. Addressing these knowledge gaps will improve support systems and interventions tailored to the unique needs of this population, such as disease-specific advisory, mental health services, social and financial support, and self-help groups. Key messages • We identified a research gap for burden and quality of life in informal caregivers of children with schizophrenia. Education, sex and income of caregivers relate to the burden of care. • Further research is needed to develop strategies to improve support systems and interventions tailored to the unique needs of this population.

Self-rated health in preadolescents as a predictor for prescription redemption and hospital contacts

Abstract Background The decline in self-rated health among children and adolescents raises concerns for their overall well-being and future health outcomes. We examined whether self-rated health in preadolescence predicts both psychiatric and somatic prescription redemption and hospital contacts in later adolescence. Methods This cohort study is part of the Danish National Birth Cohort and focuses on children born between 1996 and 2003. A survey was distributed to 96,382 preadolescents aged 11, who were then followed from 2010 to 2018 (average follow-up of 6.9 years). Data on prescriptions and hospital contacts were obtained from Danish registries. Negative binomial regression was employed to calculate the incidence rate ratio (IRR), comparing preadolescent children who rated their health as poor (‘Not So Good’/’Poor’) to those who rated it as good (‘Excellent’/’Good’). Results Of the 47,365 (49.1%) 11-year-old preadolescents who participated in this study, 5.3% reported experiencing poor self-rated health. Overall, adjusted analyses revealed higher rates of prescription redemptions (IRR 1.63 [95% CI: 1.53; 1.73]) and hospital contacts (IRR 1.86 [95% CI: 1.74; 1.99]) in these children. Poor self-rated health in preadolescence was associated with more somatic (IRR 1.51 [95% CI: 1.40; 1.62]) and psychiatric (IRR 3.04 [95% CI: 2.59; 3.57]) prescriptions, as well as somatic (IRR 1.61 [95% CI: 1.51; 1.72]) and psychiatric (IRR 2.80 [95% CI: 2.42; 3.25]) hospital contacts in adolescence, with similar associations across sexes. Conclusions Poor self-rated health in preadolescence is associated with higher rates of prescription redemption and hospital visits in adolescence, suggesting that perceptions of health in early life influence long-term well-being, especially regarding psychiatric health. This straightforward self-rated health measure offers healthcare professionals valuable insights for identifying children who may require support and early intervention. Key messages • Poor self-rated health in preadolescence predicts higher prescription redemption and hospital visits in adolescence, especially regarding psychiatric health. • Simple self-assessment of health in childhood may have the potential to help identify those needing support and early intervention for long-term well-being.

Socioeconomic background and childhood cancer survival in Germany – A nationwide register study

Abstract Introduction Evidence is accumulating that not all children with cancer have benefitted equally from diagnostic and therapeutic improvements and that socioeconomic conditions are also associated with prognosis - even in high-income countries where equal access to healthcare is presumed. We investigated the association between area-based socioeconomic background and childhood cancer survival in Germany with the ultimate aim to identify groups of children that may benefit from supportive interventions. Methods We identified all children with a first cancer diagnosis before the age of 15 years in 1997-2016 from the German Childhood Cancer Registry (N = 35,443). Based on individual residential address information (at diagnosis) we applied the German Index of Socioeconomic Deprivation as measure of area-based socioeconomic background. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we assessed the association between absolute area-based socioeconomic deprivation (AASD) and ten-year overall survival (OS) to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results The Cox analysis (adjusted for diagnostic year, birth year and place of residence) revealed a null association for AASD and OS from all cancers combined (HR = 1.00, 95% CI 0.97; 1.03). Among children diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and germ cell tumors, a higher AASD (implying more severe levels of deprivation) was associated with worse survival, particularly pronounced in boys (HR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.01; 1.37; HR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.13; 2.45, respectively). The opposite was observed for childhood CNS tumours, yielding worse survival by decreasing AASD (HR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.88; 0.98) for both malignant and non-malignant CNS tumours. Conclusions Contrary to reports from other European countries, we found little evidence for pronounced social inequalities in childhood cancer survival in Germany based on a composite score, with inconsistent patterns across cancer types and age at diagnosis. Key messages • We found little evidence for pronounced social inequalities in childhood cancer survival in Germany on the area-based level. • Our findings indicated inconsistent patterns of social inequalities across cancer types and age at diagnosis.and age at diagnosis.

Impact of Digitally Enabled Peer Support Interventions on Diabetes Distress and Depressive Symptoms in People Living with Type 1 Diabetes: A Systematic Review.

To explore the impact of digitally-enabled peer support interventions on diabetes distress and depression for individuals living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). We synthesized the results of nine key studies from a review of 3,623 English-language articles published between January 2012 and January 2024. Three studies demonstrated significant reductions in diabetes distress, and two studies reported reductions in depression. Data were analyzed using a narrative approach, including thematic synthesis. This process was structured around the Behavior Change Wheel framework Effective interventions shared several common features such as (1) involved participatory development approaches, (2) included diabetes education, (3) lasted over a longer time, (4) designed with a psychological framework, and (5) utilized peer mentors. Studies showed that digitally-enabled peer support has the potential to improve diabetes distress and depression among people living with T1D despite heterogeneity in intervention approaches. Moreover, designing interventions with certain features may enhance key psychosocial outcomes.

Peer support interventions improve disease self-management after coronary heart disease diagnosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) diagnoses often experience impacts on patient-reported outcomes (quality of life, depression, disease self-management and self-efficacy) at a time when secondary prevention is required. Peer support has proven benefits for these issues in many chronic conditions but synthesis of the evidence in CHD populations has not been undertaken. Purpose In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to explore the impact of peer support interventions on health-related quality of life, depression, anxiety, self-management and self-efficacy in CHD. Methods Electronic databases were searched from inception to November 2023 (MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed [non-MEDLINE], Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating peer support interventions (that enable experience sharing and/or support by others with the same condition) in populations with diagnosed CHD were eligible for inclusion. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Meta-analyses were undertaken in RevMan Version: 7.4.0 using the inverse variance method and a random effects model. Results In total, 16 papers reporting 14 unique RCTs were included. The total sample (n=1793) was 65% male with a mean age of 54.5±13.0 years. The diagnosis of the samples varied between studies, including coronary artery bypass graft(s), first time or newly diagnosed myocardial infarction and percutaneous coronary intervention. By 6-months follow-up, peer support interventions demonstrated no statistically significant improvements in health-related quality of life (SMD -0.38, 95% CI -1.84, 1.08), depression (SMD -0.09, 95% CI -0.26, 0.08) and anxiety (SMD -0.85, 95% CI -1.83, 0.14). Whereas, improvements occurred in disease self-management (SMD 1.49, 95% CI 0.66, 2.32) and self-efficacy in both short term (by 6-months, SMD 0.57, 95% CI 0.37, 0.77) and longer term (6-12 months, SMD 0.67, 95% CI 0.29, 1.05). Peer support interventions varied widely in format and several studies were of poor quality. Conclusion Peer support interventions benefit patient-reported outcomes of disease self-management and self-efficacy up to 6 and 12 months, but not for other patient reported outcomes after CHD diagnosis. More exploration is needed of content, delivery and focus of peer support interventions to maximise effectiveness for CHD secondary prevention.

Help! I Have Been Thinking to Do It Lately: Workplace Mistreatment and Suicidal Ideation Among Internship Students in Klang Valley

Workplace mistreatment, such as bullying, abusive supervision, and interpersonal conflict, is increasingly conceded as a critical issue affecting the mental health of junior professionals, particularly interns. Due to their momentary status, high expectations, and lack of support, interns are highly susceptible to negative workplace interactions that can lead to severe psychological outcomes such as including suicidal ideation. Drawing on the Fluid Vulnerability Theory, this study aims to examine the prevalence and impact of various forms of workplace mistreatment on suicidal ideation among internship students in Malaysia, providing insights for effective intervention strategies. The study used a cross-sectional research design and involved 247 internship students from the Faculty of Business and Management at UiTM Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Data were collected through a structured online questionnaire assessing experiences of workplace bullying, abusive supervision, interpersonal conflict, and suicidal ideation. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis, were employed to examine the relationships between the variables. The analysis revealed significant correlations between workplace bullying, abusive supervision, and interpersonal conflict with suicidal ideation. Regression models indicated that workplace bullying and interpersonal conflict were significant predictors of suicidal ideation, accentuating the critical need for targeted interventions in educational and professional environments. The findings suggest that workplace mistreatment significantly contributes to suicidal ideation among interns, highlighting the importance of developing supportive interventions and policies. Addressing workplace mistreatment through targeted programs can improve mental health outcomes for young professionals and foster healthier work environments.

Being a nurse during an earthquake that affected ten provinces: A qualitative study on experiences and expectations.

This study was conducted to determine the professional experiences and future expectations of nurses working in the most damaged areas during the first two weeks of the 2023 Turkey earthquake. The increase in the frequency and severity of disasters in recent years has strongly shown that nurses must be prepared to respond to all disasters. To prepare for disasters that require a multifaceted approach, the experiences of nurses serving in disasters should not be ignored. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used in this research. The study included 18 nurses who worked in the first two weeks of the disaster. Data were collected through semistructured in-depth interviews between April and May 2023. Four themes were identified from the analysis of the data: (1) personal challenges, (2) organizational challenges, (3) nursing during the disaster, and (4) expectations. The results showed that nurses needed psychosocial support intervention skills in disasters and that their psychological preparation and knowledge levels for disasters were insufficient. In addition, the study revealed that organizational preparation was inadequate and that all these factors affected nursing care. The knowledge and skills that nurses need for professional disaster management can be provided by updating undergraduate education, in-service training procedures, and related policies. Considering that ideal disaster management is possible with a multidisciplinary team, it is recommended that national disaster policies be reviewed.

Workplace violence against healthcare workers in Türkiye: Experiences, opinions, and suggestions

Workplace violence against healthcare workers is a complex issue with significant implications for the safety and wellbeing of professionals in the healthcare sector. Drawing on data from 136 participants across Türkiye, this study explores the prevalence, forms, impacts, and management strategies of workplace violence in healthcare settings. The demographic characteristics of the participants reveal a diverse composition of healthcare workers affected by workplace violence, highlighting the universal nature of the issue. Verbal abuse emerges as a predominant form of violence, ranging from insults and threats to humiliation, while instances of physical violence pose grave risks to healthcare professionals. The study also underscores the inadequacy of support systems within healthcare institutions and the legal system, exacerbating the distress experienced by healthcare workers. Strategies for managing workplace violence include internal coping mechanisms, peer support, and institutional intervention, underscoring the need for comprehensive training programs and enhanced institutional protocols. Recommendations for prevention encompass a multifaceted approach involving enhanced security measures, support systems, and policy reforms at various levels. The study concludes with a call to action for concerted efforts to address workplace violence against healthcare workers, emphasizing the importance of targeted interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of professionals in their workplace. These findings provide valuable insights into the complexities of workplace violence in healthcare settings and highlight the urgent need for action to address this pressing issue.

Role of Social Support in Improving Quality of Life among Myanmar Women Migrant Workers in Central and Northern Thailand: Implications for Community Nursing

Background: Social support and quality of life (QoL) are crucial for the well-being of individuals. Myanmar women migrant workers in Thailand represent a vulnerable population, yet there are limited studies on social support and QoL among these migrants. Methods: This cross-sectional study investigated associations between social support and QoL among Myanmar women migrant workers in central and northern Thailandthrough multistage sampling using a structured questionnaire. Social support was measured using the Medical Outcome Study Social Support Survey, and QoL was assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF. Multiple linear regression was analysed to find the association between social support and QoL, adjusting for sociodemographic variables. Results: Among 575 participants, they had an average overall social support score of 61.73 ± 16.47, with low support = 24.35%, moderate support = 46.43%, and high support = 29.22%. The average overall QoL score was 90.54 ± 13.23. Higher social support was positively associated with QoL (B = 4.781 for moderate support and B = 9.721 for high support, p &lt; 0.01). Higher education and easier access to emergency finances were also positively associated with QoL. Conclusion: Tailored social support interventions are recommended to enhance QoL among Myanmar women migrant workers in Thailand. Community nurses play a critical role in these interventions by providing education, facilitating access to resources, and fostering supportive networks.

Supportive interventions for family caregivers of adults with mental illness: An integrative review

Supportive interventions for family caregivers of adults with mental illness: An integrative review

Opportunities and Challenges on Natural Farming

Natural Farming, an ecological and sustainable agricultural practice, emphasizes minimal human intervention and the use of natural resources for crop cultivation. Unlike conventional farming, which relies heavily on chemical inputs, Natural Farming integrates practices such as minimal tillage and organic inputs like cow dung and plant-based preparations. This case study explores Natural Farming practices among farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on their experiences, opportunities, and challenges. The study includes detailed case studies of three farmers in Coimbatore District and each farmer employing different natural farming techniques and facing unique obstacles. The findings reveal that Natural Farming offers significant benefits, including reduced farming costs, improved soil health, and enhanced market opportunities for organic produce. Farmers reported that these practices lead to better crop resilience and higher-quality produce, often fetching premium prices. However, challenges persist, including difficulties in weed control, pest and disease management, labor shortages, and delay in certification, which can affect market access and profitability. The study underscores the potential of Natural Farming to transform agricultural practices by promoting sustainability and reducing dependence on chemical inputs. It also highlights the need for supportive interventions, such as enhanced market access, comprehensive farmer training, and government support to address the identified challenges and maximize the benefits of Natural Farming. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of Natural Farming's role in sustainable agriculture and its implications for farmers in Tamil Nadu.

Peer support groups and care burden in hemodialysis caregivers: a RCT in an Iranian healthcare setting

BackgroundChronic renal failure poses a significant global health challenge, exerting a substantial burden on both patients and their caregivers. Hemodialysis, a common treatment for end-stage renal disease, imposes extensive physical, emotional, and financial pressures on caregivers, often leading to a high care burden. This study uniquely examines the impact of peer support groups on reducing the care burden among caregivers of patients receiving hemodialysis in an Iranian healthcare setting, an aspect that has not been extensively explored before.MethodsA parallel-controlled clinical trial was conducted involving 60 caregivers, divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group participated in an 8-session peer support program tailored to their identified needs, including coping with stress, social isolation, and financial challenges. The Zarit Care Burden Interview Scale was used to measure care burden before and after the intervention.ResultsThe study revealed statistically significant reductions in care burden, particularly in physical, social, and emotional dimensions, among caregivers in the intervention group compared to the control group. The total care burden score showed a marked decrease, indicating the effectiveness of the peer support intervention. While economic challenges remained a concern, the intervention had a limited impact in this domain.ConclusionThis study demonstrates that peer support groups significantly alleviate the care burden experienced by caregivers of patients receiving hemodialysis, improving their well-being across several dimensions. The findings highlight the importance of integrating peer support strategies into healthcare programs for chronic disease management and underscore the need for supplementary economic support measures to comprehensively address caregivers’ needs. Future research should explore the scalability and long-term sustainability of such interventions and address the unique economic challenges faced by these caregivers.Trial registrationThis study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT) under the registration number IRCT20220724055540N1 on 11/08/2022.